Overview
Explore Sarawak, the “Land of the Hornbills,” starting from its charming capital Kuching. This 5-day escorted tour combines Kuching’s colonial heritage and vibrant markets with the untamed wilderness of Bako National Park — Sarawak’s oldest and most biodiverse national park. Trek through 16 sq km of pristine dipterocarp forest across 25 distinct vegetation zones, from mangrove swamps to cliff-top padang scrubland. Spot proboscis monkeys, silvered leaf monkeys, bearded pigs, and the park’s famous carnivorous pitcher plants.
Day 1: Arrive Kuching
Arrive at Kuching International Airport, where you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Kuching, meaning “cat” in Malay, is a riverside city blending old-world charm with modern vibrancy. Spend the afternoon at leisure exploring the Kuching Waterfront promenade, Chinatown, and the colorful Carpenter Street. Overnight at a 4-star hotel in Kuching. (No meals)
Day 2: Kuching City Tour — Sarawak Museum
After breakfast, embark on a guided tour of Kuching. Visit the newly rebuilt Sarawak Museum, one of the finest museums in Southeast Asia, showcasing Borneo’s indigenous cultures and natural history. See the iconic Astana (former White Rajah palace) across the river, the majestic State Mosque, and the ornate Chinese Tua Pek Kong Temple. Explore the Main Bazaar for Sarawak handicrafts, pepper, and antiques. Afternoon at leisure to visit the Cat Museum or sample Sarawak laksa at a local kopitiam. (Breakfast)
Day 3: Bako National Park Full-Day Trek
Early morning departure to Bako Village jetty (35-minute drive from Kuching), followed by a scenic 25-minute boat ride along the coastline to Bako National Park. The park encompasses an incredible range of ecosystems in just 16 sq km. Trek the popular Telok Paku trail through mixed dipterocarp forest leading to a pristine beach — keep an eye out for proboscis monkeys in the mangroves and silvered leaf monkeys along the trail. After the trek, board another boat to visit the famous sea stack rock formations. Picnic lunch in the park. Continue exploring the Lintang trail loop, which passes through all major vegetation types. Return to Kuching by late afternoon. (Breakfast, Lunch)
Day 4: Semenggoh Wildlife Centre — Longhouse Experience
Morning visit to Semenggoh Wildlife Centre, a semi-wild orangutan sanctuary where rehabilitated orangutans roam freely in a 740-hectare forest reserve. During feeding times, you may see these gentle red apes swing down from the canopy. Continue to Sri Aman division to visit an authentic Iban longhouse. Experience the warm hospitality of the Iban community, learn about their traditional way of life, and see demonstrations of weaving and blowpipe hunting. Enjoy a traditional Iban lunch. Return to Kuching in the evening. (Breakfast, Lunch)
Day 5: Depart Kuching
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel. Free time for last-minute shopping at the Sunday Market (if applicable) or along the waterfront. Transfer to Kuching International Airport for your flight. Hotel luggage storage available for evening departures after 7 PM. (Breakfast)
What’s Included
- 4 nights at a 4-star hotel in Kuching
- Daily breakfast, 2 lunches
- All entrance fees (Bako National Park, Semenggoh, Sarawak Museum)
- Boat transfers to/from Bako National Park
- Professional English-speaking local guide on all tours
- Return airport transfers
- Longhouse visit with Iban community
Important Notes
- Bako National Park may be substituted with Gunung Gading National Park during heavy monsoon (November-February)
- Moderate fitness recommended for Bako trekking trails
- Bring insect repellent, raincoat, and comfortable hiking shoes
- Best visiting months: March to October
- Semenggoh orangutan sightings are likely but not guaranteed
- Starting from US$1,190 per person
