Bako National Park, Sarawak’s oldest national park established in 1957, covers a modest 27 square kilometres and is located 37 kilometres from Kuching accessible by a 30-minute drive to Kampung Bako followed by a 25-minute boat ride. The erosion over millions of years, turned Bako into a picturesque coastline of steep cliffs, rocky head-lands and many stretches of sandy bays. The erosion caused by constant waves at the base of cliffs formed many of the rocks into sea arches and sea stacks. Beautiful sandstone formation featuring pink and iron patterns on cliff faces can be seen along most of the coastline.

Bako contains an incredible variety of plant species and vegetation types, and is one of the parks great attractions. Bako is home to approximately 275 rare proboscis monkeys, found only in Borneo. The best times for observing wildlife at Bako are just after dawn and just before dusk, when the animals are at their most active. Bako is a fascinating place for bird watching as over 150 species have been recorded here. Naturalists will be thrilled to find a wide range of flora and fauna including pitcher plants and wild orchids. The varieties found here include Park's mangrove forest, mixed dipterocarp forest, peat swamp forest and kerangas forest.

Bako’s extensive trail system is made up of 16 colour-coded jungle trails which offer a range of walking and hiking options. The fit and adventurous can opt for full-day jungle hikes or overnight camping expeditions, whilst those preferring an easy route can opt for a relaxing forest walk. Swimming, beach combing at low tide and sunset watching are also popular activities along the sandy bays of the Park.

For more information, visit www.sarawakforestry.com/htm/snp-np-bako.html