Walking in Danum
Guided Treks and Trails
The trails at Danum Valley run deep into an ancient primary rainforest. They are hot, humid and root-choked and they offer a way of seeing the forest that a vehicle never can.
Trail network
Forest floor and ridges
2.5 hours from Lahad Datu, the 438-square-kilometre Class I Protection Forest Reserve offers a network of root-choked trails. Walking the paths lets you look for red giant flying squirrels and Bornean slow lorises in the forest branches. You will face high humidity and steep climbs, but you will value the close perspective of an ecosystem that has never been logged.
Mud, roots and humidity
Humidity rarely drops below 80 per cent. Tree roots choke the trails, which turn slick after downpours. Pace yourself and wear specialised leech socks for all ground-level trekking.
Clothing and camera gear
Wear lightweight, breathable clothing. For bird photography in Borneo, bring a fast lens, monopod, silica gel and dry bags. Travel and health insurance is advised; emergency evacuation cover is sensible.
Trail network
Plan your guided treks
Tell the team how long you wish to stay and how far you want to hike. They will build an itinerary that matches your fitness and arrange mandatory permits.