Bako National Park

Photo provided by Tourism Malaysia
Bako National Park showing signage, forest scenes and a park
Bako National Park showing general coastal views, landscape views and tropical scenes
Bako National Park which includes zoo animals, a park and animals
Bako National Park showing boating, a bay or harbour and a coastal town


Forests, mangroves and beaches teeming with bearded pigs, otters, proboscis monkeys and macaques await at this park, less than an hour’s drive from Kuching.

Immerse yourself in a wilderness that would be perfectly tranquil were it not for the chatter and calls of the abundant wildlife. Waterfalls, beaches, peat swamp forest, thick jungle and coastal mangrove habitats lend character to this park where almost every species of Borneo’s flora can be found. The diverse habitats offer the chance to see primates, mouse deer, long-nosed tarsier, bearded pigs, civets, otters, crabs, sea anemones and starfish.

From Sarawak’s capital city, Kuching, it takes about 40 minutes by bus to reach the Bako National Park office, where you need get a park permit, and pay a small entry fee. Head to the jetty to take a boat ride through scenic waters to the park itself. Early morning and evening are the best times to see Bako’s astounding array of creatures. For a more immersive overnight experience, book a rustic dorm bed or campsite, or a room with full amenities.  

Make sure to take your camera on your Bako adventure the animals here are quite used to humans. In fact, you’ll need to secure your tent and dorm room against the macaques as they will quite happily rummage through your things for food!

When you head out on the trails, keep an ear out for the crashing and hooting of the rare proboscis monkeys, which exist only in Borneo. Only about 300 of these large-nosed creatures live in Bako National Park, so ask the park ranger which trails they have most recently been spotted on to make sure you have an encounter with these strange looking monkeys. Trails range from short, easy walks to overnight hikes, so there’s something for every fitness level.

Popular places to visit


Top Bako National Park Hotel Deals

Cove 55

Cove 55

4 out of 5
Lot 55, Jalan Sultan Tengah, (Santubong/Damai Road), Santubong, Kuching, Sarawak
Cove 55
Hotel O Rb Homestay & Farms

Hotel O Rb Homestay & Farms

2 out of 5
No 170, Jalan Kuching-Santubong, Kuching, Sarawak
Hotel O Rb Homestay & Farms
Sheraton Kuching Hotel

Sheraton Kuching Hotel

3.5 out of 5
2, Jalan Padungan, Kuching
Sheraton Kuching Hotel
The Culvert

The Culvert

3 out of 5
Lot 285, Off Jalan Sultan Tengah, Block 2 Salak Land District, Kuching, Sarawak
The Culvert
Cocoon Resort Kuching

Cocoon Resort Kuching

3.5 out of 5
Off Jalan Sultan Tengah Block 2, Lot 293, Kuching, Sarawak
Cocoon Resort Kuching
The Village House

The Village House

3.5 out of 5
Pantai Puteri Santubong Village, Kuching, Sarawak
The Village House
Permai Rainforest Resort

Permai Rainforest Resort

3 out of 5
Jalan Sultan Tengah, Pantai Damai Santubong, Kuching, Sarawak
Permai Rainforest Resort
Damai Beach Resort

Damai Beach Resort

3.5 out of 5
Teluk Bandung, Santubong, Kuching, Sarawak
Damai Beach Resort
Hilton Kuching

Hilton Kuching

5 out of 5
1 Jln Tunku Abdul Rahman, Kuching, Sarawak
Hilton Kuching
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Bako National Park

When visiting Bako National Park, there are numerous activities to enjoy such as hiking scenic trails, embarking on guided tours, and experiencing thrilling safaris. You can explore various trekking options, camp under the stars, and immerse yourself in the rich wildlife experiences that the park offers. A day trip to this natural haven promises adventure and unforgettable encounters with nature.

Shopping

In Bako National Park, you can enjoy shopping at nearby Damai Central, located 17.7km away, offering a vibrant atmosphere. If you're up for a drive, visit Tun Jugah Shopping Center and Riverside Shopping Complex, located 13 and 22.5km away, respectively, both featuring diverse shopping and entertainment options.

Recreation

At Sarawak Stadium, engage in invigorating sports activities surrounded by a vibrant atmosphere, just 19.3km from Bako National Park. Alternatively, indulge in the luxury of Damai Golf & Country Club, located 11.3km away, where you can relax and enjoy serene views while perfecting your swing.

Adventure

Bako National Park offers thrilling adventures with its diverse ecosystems. Explore rugged coastlines, trek through mangrove forests, and spot unique wildlife like proboscis monkeys. Experience exhilarating hikes along well-marked trails, leading to breathtaking viewpoints and hidden waterfalls, making it a perfect destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.

Nightlife

At Bako National Park, the Sultan Iskandar Planetarium offers a captivating nightlife experience, just 22.5km away. This planetarium boasts an enchanting atmosphere, perfect for stargazing and immersing yourself in the wonders of the universe while enjoying a unique blend of entertainment vibes.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Bako National Park

Bako National Park, located near Kuching, Sarawak, offers a stunning blend of beach, mountain, and bay experiences for travellers seeking outdoor adventure and scenic beauty. Explore the park's diverse attractions, including the picturesque beaches and lush landscapes. Consider staying in rooms at Bako or visiting the nearby Kampung Bako for a more immersive experience. This destination promises a memorable getaway for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.

  • Damai Beach: Located 17.7km from Bako National Park, Damai Beach offers a serene escape with soft sands and gentle waves. Enjoy beach vibes while lounging under the sun or indulging in water activities. It's perfect for relaxation and capturing stunning sunset views.
  • Teluk Pandan Besar: Just 1.6km away, Teluk Pandan Besar is a picturesque bay renowned for its stunning scenery and outdoor adventures. With its beautiful beach, it's ideal for swimming, picnicking, or simply soaking in the natural beauty.
  • Interpretation Centre: A mere 1.4km from the park, the Interpretation Centre immerses visitors in local culture. Discover exhibits showcasing Sarawak's rich heritage and biodiversity, enhancing your understanding of the region's unique environment.

Best time to go to Bako National Park

The best time to visit Bako National Park can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Bako National Park falls in May, when visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with moderate rain. The coolest average temperature around Bako National Park falls in January and February. February has slightly high visitor numbers and mostly cloudy weather.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January77.7°F (25.4°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
February77.7°F (25.4°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
March78.4°F (25.8°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
April79.3°F (26.3°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
May80.2°F (26.8°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
June79.9°F (26.6°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
July79.7°F (26.5°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
August80.1°F (26.7°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
September79.5°F (26.4°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudySlightly HighSlightly Low
October79.2°F (26.2°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
November78.6°F (25.9°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
December78.1°F (25.6°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudySlightly HighSlightly High

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Bako National Park

To save money on your trip to Bako National Park, consider visiting during the cheaper months of January, September, or November, and aim to book your stay on a Saturday for better rates. Use Expedia’s search tool to filter for budget-friendly accommodation, including eco-certified options. Additionally, look for holiday packages that bundle flights, hotel stays, and activities for greater savings. Public transport is a cost-effective way to navigate the area, and seeking out free activities, such as nature walks, can enhance your experience without breaking the bank.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Bako National Park are January, September and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to July to August and December, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Bako National Park is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay around Bako National Park is Wednesday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to specify your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can arrange your results to display prices from lowest to highest, helping you identify the most affordable hotels right away. Furthermore, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the “Eco-certified” filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly accommodations that are available for booking.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can enjoy significant savings by combining your hotel stay at Bako National Park with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

* Savings based on package bookings compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings not available on all packages. Book Flight + Lodging, save up to 100% of flight price - Savings based on flight + lodging package prices as compared to the price of the same components available for booking separately before all discounts and rewards applied. Your bundled savings cover up to 100% of your flight. Savings vary based on origin/destination, length of trip, stay dates and travel suppliers. Savings not available on all flight + lodging package bookings.