Cross challenging terrain to reach the legendary 7-tiered Maliau Falls. Wilderness camping at Nepenthes and Ginseng camps with additional exploration for adventurous trekkers.
There’s a place in Borneo where time stands still — a rainforest bowl ringed by cliffs, untouched by roads and rarely seen by human eyes. Welcome to Maliau Basin, also known as The Lost World of Sabah. Over four incredible days, you’ll hike through ancient jungle, sleep in remote forest camps, and witness some of the most dramatic waterfalls in Southeast Asia.
This is no ordinary trek. It’s an expedition into a realm of towering trees, cloud-draped trails, and the thunder of seven-tiered waterfalls echoing through the canopy. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a curious adventurer, this compact rainforest journey offers maximum immersion in minimal time.
Breathe the jungle air. Hear the forest sing. Come discover Borneo’s best-kept secret.
Why visit Maliau Basin?
Experience the majesty of Sabah’s most spectacular waterfall system, including the crown jewel, Maliau Falls.
Maliau Basin only allows a handful of visitors each day, helping to preserve the site for future generations.
Spot rare hornbills, various primate species, and nocturnal creepy crawlies with experienced rangers.
Explore the mysterious basin formation and rare mud volcanoes found nowhere else.
✅ Services Included
Our scheduled transfer (Pick up & drop off) available everyday upon request:
Pick up: from Tawau airport/ town to Maliau -11:00 am
Drop off: Maliau to Tawau airport/ town- 9:30 am (The shuttle transfer out departure at 9:30 AM is only
applicable for the Centre Package. For the Trekking Package, shuttle transfer timing will depend on your arrival
at the Centre from the trekking camp)
❌ Not Included
Your adventure begins at Maliau Gate, the entrance to this mysterious realm.
2:00 PM: Arrival and registration – enjoy a refreshing welcome drink at the Maliau Café
3:00 PM: Scenic 30-min transfer to Maliau Basin Studies Centre (MBSC)
3:30 PM: Settle in and explore the souvenir shop or take a short stroll nearby
5:00 PM: Visit the Nature Gallery for an inspiring intro to the Basin’s ecology and history
7:00 PM: Dinner at Dalit Dining Hall
8:00 PM: Orientation video at the AV Lounge – trek briefing and safety overview
8:30 PM: Optional: Night Safari Drive – a chance to spot nocturnal wildlife like civets and flying squirrels
10:30 PM: Lights out – recharge for the jungle journey ahead
Time to hit the trail. Prepare for steep ascents, towering trees, and the scent of wild orchids.
7:00 AM: Breakfast and final gear check
8:00 AM: Transfer to Agathis Camp – trailhead and ranger checkpoint
8:30 AM: Begin your 7.5 km jungle trek (4–6 hours) to Nepenthes Camp, gaining elevation through hill dipterocarp forest. The trail winds through mossy undergrowth, pitcher plants, and ancient trees
1:00 PM: Arrive at Nepenthes Camp (945m) – a peaceful base with forest views and cool mountain air
2:00 PM: Optional: Easy 3 km trek to Giluk Falls, a hidden cascade surrounded by lush green
4:30 PM: Return, rest and settle in
7:00 PM: Dinner at camp – enjoy the silence of the forest
10:00 PM: Lights out – dorm-style jungle lodge accommodation
This is the day you’ve been waiting for: a journey to the most iconic waterfall in Borneo.
7:00 AM: Early breakfast – pack your gear and energy
8:00 AM: Begin 10 km trek to Maliau Falls, the magnificent 7-tiered cascade hidden deep in the Basin
Terrain is moderate to challenging – expect stream crossings, root-laced trails, and steep sections
2:30 PM: Arrive at Maliau Falls – swim, explore, and soak in the grandeur of this jungle marvel
3:30 PM: Trek another 1.5 km to Ginseng Camp (bring headlamp – late arrivals common)
5:30 PM: Check in at Ginseng Camp – located near another secret gem: Ginseng Falls
7:00 PM: Dinner and campfire stories
10:00 PM: Rest under the canopy – dorm-style lodging with jungle sounds all around
Your final day begins with one last waterfall and a meaningful hike back to the edge of the Lost World.
7:00 AM: Breakfast
7:30 AM: Short walk (15 mins) to Ginseng Falls – a serene and photogenic spot
8:30 AM: Final group photo, pack-up, and start the 9 km return trek to Agathis Camp. Trail retraces your steps through the quiet, cool rainforest
1:00 PM: Arrive at Agathis and transfer to Maliau Gate
2:00 PM: End of tour – depart with new memories, muddy boots, and a deeper connection to the wild
2 nights in Jungle Camps / 1 night at the study centre
Learn more about our accomodation options here
💪 Fitness level
Moderate fitness required. Suitable for children 8+ with basic trekking experience.
☀️ Seasonal availability
Available year-round. Dry season (April-September) recommended for optimal family experience.
👉 Group size
Maximum 20 participants per trip ensures personalized attention.
🎒Must Bring Items:
Optional items:
💡 Tips:
Standard Resthouse
(Twin sharing, Min 2 pax)
3,010 MYR per person (children same rate)
Deluxe Resthouse
(Twin sharing, Min 2 pax)
3,040 MYR per person (children same rate)
Note:
Package includes:
Package excludes:
✨ Available Add-Ons
*Price upon request
Yes. All permits are arranged in advance as part of the tour.
Transfers from the nearest airport or your hotel can be arranged.
Yes. All hikes are guided; independent hiking is not permitted.
Tours are offered in three levels: Easy, Medium, and Advanced.
Short walking days at a relaxed pace, suitable for most visitors and families with children.
Up to 10 km per day with 300–400 m elevation gain, requiring good general fitness.
Visitors with good fitness and multi-day hiking experience, comfortable with longer and more demanding days.
Group sizes are kept small in line with conservation and permit requirements. Specialist group tours have a maximum of 20 participants.
Rainforest trails, uneven ground, and occasional river crossings
Year-round access is possible; trips are planned around seasonal conditions.
Exceptional birdlife and a chance to encounter mammals, reptiles, and amphibians.
Lodges, research facilities, or approved camps, depending on the itinerary.
A packing list is provided in advance, and we assist with preparation.
Yes. Travel insurance covering hiking activities, medical treatment, and emergency evacuation is required.
Yes, selected Easy and Medium programmes are designed with families in mind.
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