
Clearwater Cave Mulu
Explore one of the world's longest cave systems, featuring a vast underground river and breathtaking natural formations.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cooler temps, less crowded

Clearwater Cave Mulu
Best Time
Cooler temps, less crowded

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore one of the world's longest cave systems, featuring a vast underground river and breathtaking natural formations.
"Stunning cave with an underground river, a must-visit in Borneo!"

Wear comfy shoes! :athletic_shoe:
Be prepared for ~200 steps uphill to the entrance. Comfortable footwear is essential for exploring the cave.
Bring swimwear for a dip :swimmer:
The underground river offers a chance to swim. Guides usually permit it if conditions are safe.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Underground River Lagoon
Inside Clearwater Cave
Swim in crystal-clear, pristine waters flowing through the cave. A truly magical experience surrounded by nature's grandeur.

Vast Cavern Chambers
Inside Clearwater Cave
Marvel at the immense size of the cave chambers, sculpted by millennia of erosion. The scale is breathtaking.

Monophyllaea Pendula
Cave Entrance
Spot the unique 'one-leaf plant' endemic to Sarawak, growing on stalactites and rocks at the cave entrance.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Prepare for Stairs & Boat Rides
Book Tours in Advance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear comfy shoes! :athletic_shoe:
Be prepared for ~200 steps uphill to the entrance. Comfortable footwear is essential for exploring the cave.
Bring swimwear for a dip :swimmer:
The underground river offers a chance to swim. Guides usually permit it if conditions are safe.
Capture the magic :camera_with_flash:
The cave's scale and formations are incredibly photogenic. Don't miss the unique 'one-leaf plant'.
Listen to your guide :microphone:
Guides share fascinating insights into the cave's geology and history. Their knowledge enhances the experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear comfy shoes! :athletic_shoe:
Be prepared for ~200 steps uphill to the entrance. Comfortable footwear is essential for exploring the cave.
Bring swimwear for a dip :swimmer:
The underground river offers a chance to swim. Guides usually permit it if conditions are safe.
Capture the magic :camera_with_flash:
The cave's scale and formations are incredibly photogenic. Don't miss the unique 'one-leaf plant'.
Listen to your guide :microphone:
Guides share fascinating insights into the cave's geology and history. Their knowledge enhances the experience.
Combine with Wind Cave :wind_blowing_face:
Often visited together, Wind Cave offers a different but equally impressive caving experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Clearwater Cave is overwhelmingly praised for its immense scale, stunning natural formations, and the magical experience of its underground river. Visitors are awestruck by the sheer size of the caverns and the pristine beauty of the water. While the climb up the steps is noted, the reward is considered well worth the effort.
"This was my second cave of the day and it is just a short boat ride from the Cave of the Winds. My guide informed me that this is cave is connected to the earlier cave. We hiked about 200 steps uphill to access the cave. Once there, I was blown away with the sheer size if thr cavern inside. It was huge! I navigated my way down and into the cave. Just follow the steps and the boardwalk. The most interesting aspect of this cave is the large river running inside here. As you near it, you can hear the roar of the rushing water dissappearing into the dark abyss. The are sinages displayed where they explained how the cave system is formed by erosion and water over a long period of time. It was cool and airy inside the cave with plenty of photogenic spots. After exiting the cave, there is a picnic spot at the jetty where visitors can take a.break and chill. You can swim in the river if the guide says it is OK. There are lavatories here as well and they are clean and well maintained. Many people took the opportunity stop here for quick bite and chill amongst the lush forest and river."
gevs
"One of the most stunning cave I ever visit! There have underground river where you can visit by doing Clearwater Connection or Clearwater revival. Cool, clear, pristine water for swimming inside the cave- but you can go there with park guide only.
The skylight and entrance is unbelievable beautiful! The cave chamber size is big and beautiful, with high humid it made the entrance looks foggy, mysterious all the time. Stunning! Highly recommend to visit when you are in mulu"
Nicki NB
"Clearwater cave. That is to describe the water inside the cave.
It’s quite a bit of steps to get to it, probably 200-ish. And once you get there, you’re welcomed by Monophyllaea pendula, a “one-leaf plant” (genus Monophyllaea) that’s found growing on the stalactites/rocks at the entrance, which is endemic to Sarawak.
Contours carved in stone, lines etched by time. Nature reveals Her wonders, asking only that we return Her kindness.
Having recently visited the Škocjan cave in Slovenia, which is another UNESCO certified cave, I’d say Clearwater is uniquely stunning on its own. Words could not describe. A must-visit in Borneo. I’ll let the pictures do the rest of the talking."
Sarah Fan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Access to Clearwater Cave Mulu typically involves a boat ride from the Mulu National Park jetty, followed by a walk along a boardwalk. Some visitors also mention hiking from Camp 5, which is a longer trek. The boat ride itself is part of the scenic experience through the rainforest.
Yes, Mulu National Park has parking facilities. From there, you'll typically arrange boat transfers to reach the cave entrance. It's advisable to check with your accommodation or the park office for the most current transport options.
The most common way to reach Mulu National Park is by flying into Mulu Airport (MZV) from major cities like Kuching or Miri in Sarawak. From the airport, you can arrange transport to the park headquarters.
Clearwater Cave is located within Mulu National Park, which is primarily accessed by air. While there are roads within the park, reaching the cave itself usually involves boat travel along the river.
The boat ride to Clearwater Cave is relatively short, usually just a few minutes from the park jetty or the Cave of the Winds landing area. It's a pleasant journey through the lush jungle scenery.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Mulu National Park requires a park permit. Specific tours for Clearwater Cave, including the boat ride and guided tour, have separate fees. It's best to check the official Mulu National Park website or inquire at the park headquarters for the latest pricing.
It is highly recommended to book your Mulu National Park permits and cave tour tickets in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to ensure availability. Many visitors opt for package deals that include multiple caves.
Clearwater Cave is typically open during daylight hours as part of guided tours. The exact timings can vary, so it's advisable to confirm the tour schedule with Mulu National Park or your tour operator.
While there are no strict age restrictions, the cave involves climbing stairs and walking. Visitors with mobility issues might find it challenging. It's always a good idea to consult with the park authorities if you have concerns.
No, visiting Clearwater Cave requires a licensed park guide. This ensures visitor safety and helps preserve the delicate cave environment. Guides provide valuable information about the cave's geology and history.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Wear comfortable, sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots as there are many steps involved. Lightweight, breathable clothing is recommended due to the humidity. Bring swimwear if you plan to swim in the underground river.
A typical guided tour of Clearwater Cave takes approximately one hour. This includes the boat ride, the walk to the entrance, exploring the cave, and time at the picnic spot afterwards.
Children can visit Clearwater Cave, but parents should be aware of the stairs and the walking involved. The unique environment can be fascinating for kids, but supervision is essential.
The temperature inside Clearwater Cave is consistently cool and airy, offering a welcome respite from the tropical heat outside. It's a refreshing environment to explore.
Yes, there are restrooms available at the boat landing area near Clearwater Cave. They are generally well-maintained and provide a convenient stop for visitors.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed inside Clearwater Cave, but it's important to be respectful of other visitors and the cave environment. Avoid using flash photography, as it can damage cave formations and disturb wildlife. Check with your guide for any specific restrictions.
The vast cavern chambers, the underground river, and the unique 'one-leaf plant' at the entrance are all excellent photo opportunities. The interplay of light and shadow within the cave creates dramatic scenes.
For casual visitor photography, no special permit is usually required. However, if you plan to conduct professional or commercial photography, it's advisable to contact Mulu National Park authorities in advance to inquire about permits and regulations.
Given the low light conditions, a tripod is highly recommended for sharper images. Experiment with wider apertures and higher ISO settings, but be mindful of noise. Capturing the scale of the caverns might require a wide-angle lens.
Drone usage is typically prohibited inside caves and national parks to protect the environment and ensure visitor safety. Always adhere to park regulations regarding drone operation.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a picnic spot located at the jetty near Clearwater Cave where visitors can enjoy a meal. Many visitors bring their own packed lunches to savor amidst the rainforest scenery.
Mulu National Park has a canteen or restaurant facility near the park headquarters where you can purchase meals and refreshments. It's advisable to check their operating hours.
The food options at Mulu National Park typically include local Malaysian cuisine. Some reviews mention enjoying meals prepared with ingredients unique to Borneo.
Bringing snacks and water is a good idea, especially if you plan to spend a significant amount of time exploring the park. The picnic spot near Clearwater Cave is perfect for a break.
While specific vegetarian options might vary, local cuisine often includes rice and vegetable dishes. It's best to inquire at the park's canteen or inform your tour guide about dietary preferences.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Adventure Seekers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Geology of Clearwater Cave
The cave's name, 'Clearwater,' comes from the exceptionally pure and clear water that flows through it, creating a serene and almost magical atmosphere. Visitors can witness the power of erosion firsthand as they navigate the cave, observing the smooth contours carved into the stone by the relentless flow of water. The presence of unique flora, like the endemic Monophyllaea pendula (one-leaf plant) found clinging to the cave walls, adds another layer of natural wonder.
Understanding the geological processes that shaped Clearwater Cave enhances the appreciation of its beauty. The cave is a living testament to the slow, persistent work of nature, offering a glimpse into the Earth's ancient history. The skylight and entrance areas are particularly striking, often appearing foggy and mysterious due to the high humidity, creating an otherworldly ambiance.
Experiencing the Underground River
For those seeking a truly unique experience, swimming in the crystal-clear lagoon formed by the river is highly recommended, provided the park guide deems it safe. Imagine cooling off in pristine waters surrounded by the ancient grandeur of the cave – it’s an unforgettable moment. This opportunity to interact so closely with the natural elements within the cave is a highlight for many visitors.
The river's journey through the cave is a significant part of its ecosystem. The water quality is exceptional, reflecting the pristine environment of Mulu National Park. The experience of being near or in this underground river is often described as magical and awe-inspiring, a true connection with the raw beauty of nature.
The Journey to Clearwater Cave
Upon arrival at the jetty, visitors are greeted by a flight of approximately 200 steps leading up to the cave entrance. While this might seem daunting, the climb is well worth the effort. The path is well-maintained, and the anticipation builds with every step. The surrounding jungle provides a beautiful backdrop, making the ascent more enjoyable.
Once inside, the cave unfolds with more stairways and boardwalks guiding visitors through its magnificent chambers. The journey through Clearwater Cave is a physical one, but it's also a journey through geological time, guided by the natural formations and the ever-present underground river.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit