Gunung Mulu National Park
A UNESCO World Heritage site in Borneo, famed for its colossal caves, razor-sharp limestone pinnacles, and lush rainforest canopy.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Witness the bat exodus
Gunung Mulu National Park
Best Time
Witness the bat exodus
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A UNESCO World Heritage site in Borneo, famed for its colossal caves, razor-sharp limestone pinnacles, and lush rainforest canopy.
"An absolute must-visit if you’re in Borneo, fascinating not only by the nature but also by the park’s management and infrastructure."
Book cave tours in advance
Essential for popular caves like Deer and Clearwater. Guides are mandatory for cave exploration. :admission_tickets:
Wear sturdy hiking shoes
Trails can be slippery and uneven, especially in the caves and on the Pinnacles hike. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Deer Cave & Bat Exodus
Deer Cave
Witness millions of bats spiral out of this enormous cave at dusk. A truly mesmerizing natural spectacle.
+1Canopy Skywalk
Rainforest Canopy
Walk among the treetops on the world's longest canopy walkway, offering a unique perspective of the rainforest.
Mulu Pinnacles Hike
Pinnacles Trail
A challenging trek to razor-sharp limestone peaks. Rewarding for the adventurous, but not for the faint-hearted.
+1Clearwater Cave
Clearwater Cave
Explore one of the longest caves in Southeast Asia, featuring stunning formations and crystal-clear underground waters.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Accommodations Early
Prepare for Remote Travel
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book cave tours in advance
Essential for popular caves like Deer and Clearwater. Guides are mandatory for cave exploration. :admission_tickets:
Wear sturdy hiking shoes
Trails can be slippery and uneven, especially in the caves and on the Pinnacles hike.
Bring insect repellent
The rainforest is teeming with insects, so protection is key for a comfortable experience. :bug:
Download offline maps
Internet is very weak in the park. Essential for navigation and information. :iphone:
Tips
from all over the internet
Book cave tours in advance
Essential for popular caves like Deer and Clearwater. Guides are mandatory for cave exploration. :admission_tickets:
Wear sturdy hiking shoes
Trails can be slippery and uneven, especially in the caves and on the Pinnacles hike.
Bring insect repellent
The rainforest is teeming with insects, so protection is key for a comfortable experience. :bug:
Download offline maps
Internet is very weak in the park. Essential for navigation and information. :iphone:
Stay hydrated
Free water stations are available at the park center, but bring your own bottle. :droplet:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Gunung Mulu National Park's stunning natural beauty, from its colossal caves to the dramatic Pinnacles and lush rainforest. The park's excellent organization, clean facilities, and friendly staff are frequently praised, making it a highly recommended destination for nature lovers and adventurers. Some find the on-site restaurant overpriced with average food.
"This is truly a treasure and I am so glad I came here for a visit recently. The park is well run and everyone at the park office were warm and welcoming. The guides were a friendly bunch. There are so many options here catering to a wide variety of interests and visitors of all ages. I tried to do as many as I can but there are definitely some activities which requires a more lengthier stay. The park amenities were quite good and despite travelling solo, I felt quite safe. I see visitors from all over the world here enjoying our country's natural beauty. The accommodations here seems pretty amazing and the cabins looked so well maintained and clean but alas, it was all fully booked and I didnt get the chance to try them at all. Staying here whilst visiting the park would have been truly immersive."
gevs
"Mulu National Park is an absolute must-visit if you’re in Borneo (or a reason to come Here).
I was fascinated not only by the nature but also by the park’s management and infrastructure.
Let me break it down 🙂
I stayed there for 3 days and 2 nights. The accommodation is just a 15-minute walk from the airport. The internet signal is very weak (which isn’t a bad thing 😊).
I completed most of the trails and caves:
🌿 Deer Cave: A fascinating, enormous cave where 3 million Tadarida bats spiral out every evening at 5 PM, creating formations that look like smoke from afar.
🌿 Lang’s Cave: Features incredible pearly-white stalactites and stalagmites that resemble whipped cream cakes.
🌿 Wind Cave: Its entrance was used by ancient inhabitants for burials over 3,000 years ago
🌿 Clearwater Cave: A stunning cave system with crystal-clear waters.
🌿 Canopy Skywalk: The world’s longest tree canopy walkway (480 meters), offering views of the rainforest from 20 meters high.
🌿 Pako Trail and Waterfall: A self-guided trek through the jungle. The trails are excellently marked.
🌿 Nord observation Towera, Bring your own binoculars
🌿 Botanical Trail: Also self-guided. I wish this trail had a guide to explain more about the flora.
🌿Wildlife: Unfortunately, you won’t see many animals here. I spotted pygmy squirrel, beautifully colored butterflies, snails, stick insects, and a few birds.
Guides are very good.
The park center has two free water stations and restrooms are always clean and stocked with toilet paper.
Instructions (both verbal and written) are clear, and tour prices are reasonable.
The wooden walkways include innovative anti-slip features to prevent falls—fantastic!
My impression: Excellent, from organization to the business model.
The only downside is the overpriced restaurant with average food and small portions—though this isn’t the park’s fault.
Bravo! A shining example of great business and customer experience practice 💚"
Marina Kolar (Konekta)
"Stayed in park headquarters in a lodge. Comfortable bed and pillows, large spacious room with good air con and shower. The restaurant had very tasty food at very reasonable prices. We did several hikes and walks. The only one we skipped was the Pinnacles hike as it’s overnight. Excellent experience, really loved the park. Night walk is excellent for seeing wildlife. The bats nightly exodus from the caves for food is incredible to witness. Staff are very friendly. Would return here again, highly recommend it."
Kealan Walters
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The primary way to reach Gunung Mulu National Park is by flying into Mulu Airport (MZV). Direct flights are available from Kuching, Miri, and Kota Kinabalu. From the airport, it's a short 15-minute walk or a 5 MYR taxi ride to the park entrance.
No, Gunung Mulu National Park is not accessible by road. Flights are the only practical way to reach the park.
Most attractions are accessible via well-maintained wooden walkways and trails from the park headquarters. For longer distances or specific tours, park transport or guided tours are arranged.
While there isn't a formal shuttle service, taxis are available from the airport to the park entrance for a small fee. Within the park, walking is the main mode of transport.
Pack light, breathable clothing, rain gear, sturdy hiking shoes, insect repellent, sunscreen, a hat, and a reusable water bottle. A headlamp is useful for night walks.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, an entrance fee is required for Gunung Mulu National Park. You can purchase tickets at the park office. Guided tours for caves and other activities also have separate fees.
Entrance fees vary, but expect to pay around 35 MYR for basic cave tours like Deer and Lang's Cave. More adventurous tours or combinations can range from 65 MYR to 67 MYR.
It is highly recommended to book cave tours and popular activities in advance, especially during peak season, as they can sell out. You can inquire at the park office or through your accommodation.
The park is generally open year-round. Specific cave tour times vary, with the bat exodus typically occurring around 5 PM daily. Check with the park office for the most current schedule.
Information on discounts can vary. It's best to check directly with the Gunung Mulu National Park office or their official website for the most up-to-date pricing and concession policies.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The must-see caves include Deer Cave (famous for the bat exodus), Lang's Cave (stunning formations), Clearwater Cave (long cave system), and Wind Cave.
Yes, the Mulu Pinnacles hike is considered very challenging. It involves a steep 2.4km ascent with ladders and narrow ridges, requiring good physical fitness.
While wildlife sightings are not guaranteed, you might spot pygmy squirrels, butterflies, insects, and various birds. The bat exodus is a major wildlife event.
Yes, the park has excellent infrastructure with well-marked trails and wooden walkways, many with anti-slip features, making exploration safer and more enjoyable.
Yes, many trails and 'show caves' are suitable for children. The Pinnacles hike is not recommended for younger children due to its difficulty.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There is a restaurant and cafe within the park headquarters offering a la carte menus for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Food quality is generally considered average, and portions can be small.
Some visitors find the restaurant food to be overpriced for the quality and portion size. It's advisable to check prices before ordering.
While specific options may vary, most restaurants in tourist areas offer some variety. It's best to inquire directly at the restaurant about available choices for dietary needs.
Bringing some snacks and drinks is a good idea, especially for longer treks. However, be mindful of waste and dispose of it properly.
Breakfast is often included if you stay overnight in the park hostels or lodges. Confirm this when booking your accommodation.
📸 📸 Photography
The bat exodus from Deer Cave, the dramatic limestone pinnacles, the lush rainforest canopy from the skywalk, and the unique formations within the caves offer incredible photo opportunities.
Photography is generally allowed inside the show caves, but flash photography might be restricted to protect the cave formations and wildlife. Always check with your guide.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vastness of the caves and rainforest. A tripod can be useful for low-light conditions inside caves, but check if it's permitted.
Drone usage is typically restricted in national parks to protect wildlife and the natural environment. It's best to check the park's regulations before flying a drone.
The golden hour before sunset can be beautiful for rainforest shots. The bat exodus at dusk is a unique photographic event. For caves, midday light can sometimes be challenging due to low light.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the Mulu Pinnacles hike is too strenuous for most children, there are plenty of other self-guided trails like the Pako Trail and Botanical Trail that are suitable for family exploration.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
While the internet signal is weak, this can be a blessing for solo travelers looking to disconnect and immerse themselves in nature. The park's clear instructions and friendly staff ensure you can navigate and enjoy your stay with ease. Whether you're tackling challenging hikes or enjoying the natural wonders at a relaxed pace, Mulu offers a rewarding solo adventure.
🌿 Nature Enthusiasts & Hikers
Beyond the famous caves and canopy walk, numerous trails cater to different fitness levels, from easy nature walks to the demanding Mulu Pinnacles trek. +1The opportunity to witness the bat exodus from Deer Cave is a highlight for wildlife enthusiasts.
While large mammals are rare, the park is rich in insect life, butterflies, and bird species. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Mulu's Magnificent Caves
+1 Lang's Cave offers stunning stalactites and stalagmites, while Wind Cave and Clearwater Cave showcase unique geological formations and underground rivers. Beyond the show caves, Mulu offers more adventurous caving experiences for those seeking a thrill. These 'adventure caves' require a higher level of physical fitness and often involve crawling, climbing, and navigating through more challenging terrain. It's crucial to book these tours in advance and ensure you are adequately prepared physically. Guides are mandatory for all cave explorations, ensuring safety and providing valuable insights into the geological and ecological significance of these natural wonders.
When exploring Mulu's caves, remember to wear appropriate footwear with good grip, as surfaces can be wet and slippery. Bring a headlamp or torch, although guides will provide lighting. Photography is usually permitted, but flash use may be restricted to avoid disturbing the bats and other cave dwellers.
The Thrill of the Mulu Pinnacles
+1 The ascent is a demanding 2.4-kilometer climb, featuring steep inclines, narrow ridges, and numerous ladders that test your endurance and nerve. It's an experience that is definitely not for the faint-hearted. This hike typically requires an overnight stay, as it is a full-day endeavor. Hikers often start early in the morning to reach the summit and return by late afternoon. The views from the top are breathtaking, offering panoramic vistas of the surrounding rainforest and the unique geological formations.
+1 Due to its difficulty, it's essential to be in good physical condition and properly equipped with sturdy hiking boots and plenty of water. Many visitors consider the Mulu Pinnacles hike a highlight of their trip, despite the physical exertion. The sense of accomplishment and the unparalleled scenery make it a truly unforgettable adventure. Booking this trek in advance is highly recommended, as spots can be limited.
Immersing in the Rainforest Canopy
It allows visitors to wander through the upper layers of the jungle, offering a unique vantage point to observe the diverse flora and fauna that inhabit this ecosystem. Walking along the skywalk provides a sense of being immersed in the vibrant green canopy. You can spot different species of trees, epiphytes, and perhaps even some arboreal wildlife. The gentle sway of the walkway adds to the adventure, making you feel truly connected to the natural environment.
It's a fantastic opportunity for photographers and nature enthusiasts alike to capture the beauty of the rainforest from above. This activity is relatively accessible and suitable for most visitors, offering a less strenuous way to appreciate the scale and complexity of the Bornean rainforest. It's a perfect complement to exploring the caves and ground-level trails, providing a holistic experience of Gunung Mulu National Park's natural wonders.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit