Maliau Basin : Sabah's Lost World

Maliau Basin, popularly known as Southeast Asia's ‘Lost World’, is a remote and pristine rainforest in the southern portion of central Sabah, Malaysia. It is one of the world's most diversified ecosystems, covering nearly the same area as Singapore (588.4 square kilometres) and home to a large variety of flora and fauna. The basin is a self-contained natural wonder, drained by a single river, the Maliau River, which flows through a valley in the southeast before joining the Kinabatangan River, Sabah's largest and most significant waterway.

Photo credit : Sticky Rice Travel

Biodiversity and Adventure

The Maliau Basin is a biodiversity hotspot featuring over 1,800 species of vegetation, including six types of pitcher plants and more than 80 orchid species. Among its uncommon attractions are the Rafflesia tengku-adlinii, which can only be found in two locations in Sabah, as well as two brand new species to science, which are a tree and a moss. The basin's numerous forest types, which range from lower montane and heath forests to lowland and hill dipterocarp forests, are dominated by massive Agathis trees.

Photo credit : Sticky Rice Travel

This place was a well-kept secret amongst the indigenous Murut tribe until it was discovered in 1947 when a pilot nearly crashed into its mist-shrouded cliffs. Despite being designated as a conservation area, the basin remains virtually unspoiled, sustaining its mystery as the ‘Lost World of Sabah’.

For the adventurous, the seven-tiered Maliau Falls tucked deep in the bush is a must-see. During night drives, the basin provides excellent opportunities for jungle walking, bird viewing and wildlife spotting, with gorgeous waterfall pools serving as a soothing getaway.

Photo credit : Sticky Rice Travel

This tour is great for nature lovers, jungle trekkers and bird watchers since over 30 species of animals, 270 species of birds and more than 80 types of rare and endemic orchids have been discovered. Recent scientific missions have uncovered new species of flora and wildlife. Visitors can take a relaxing plunge in the gorgeous waterfall or go on a night drive to see wildlife. Tours to Maliau Basin are available for groups of two to twenty people.

Photo credit : Sticky Rice Travel

Travel Packages and Costs

It is recommended to check their official website and social media for the most up-to-date information on entrance fees, as these are subject to change.

Please note that the rates include the following:

Meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner).
Return transfer (overland – Tawau to Agathis Camp).
Conservation and user fees (campsites).
Rental of VHF radio.
A forest ranger cum radioman.
A guide.

Where to Rest and Recharge

Maliau Basin Studies Center

The Maliau Basin Studies Centre (MBSC) supports research, environmental education and training, whilst also protecting the Maliau Basin Conservation Area. Visitors may come across large groups participating in field courses and educational programs.

Accommodation at MBSC is categorised into five types:

Belian Camp (Camping Ground): Basic camping facilities.
Hostel: Simple, barracks-style rooms separated by gender, located a 10-15 minute walk from the dining hall.
Standard Resthouse: Basic but comfortable rooms with ceiling fans, attached bathrooms and twin beds. Located close to the dining hall.
Deluxe and VIP House: Higher standards of comfort, including air-conditioned Chalet rooms.

Further information:

Towels: Provided in Resthouse and Chalet rooms.
Dining: The dining hall is the primary food supply with self-catering kitchens at the hostel and camping areas.
Amenities: Basic; expect minimal luxury.
Power Supply: The centre has a generator (GENSET) that runs from 7:00AM to 12:00AM daily.
Emergency Communication: Instructions for emergency contact and communication beyond office hours can be found in the manual and on the guest board.

To Get To Maliau Basin

The trip to the Maliau Basin Conservation Area requires a four-wheel drive (4WD) vehicle and takes around five hours from Tawau or Keningau. The journey to its Security Gate via logging roads and oil palm estates takes approximately five hours, depending on the weather and road conditions.

Photo credit : Sticky Rice Travel

If you are leaving from Kota Kinabalu, you will first travel to the rural village of Keningau before continuing to the Maliau Basin Study Centre. Unfortunately, there is no easy way to reach Maliau Basin by road, yet, getting this far into Borneo's interior will make you feel as if you have stepped off the map.

Visitor Information

Maliau Basin access is restricted, and visitors must first acquire permission from Yayasan Sabah. For accurate information about permit fees, it’s best to visit their website or contact their customer service directly. Furthermore, all tours must be arranged through a licensed operator and accompanied by guides or rangers. The location is remote and isolated, with little access, communication and safety infrastructure.