Jungle Trekking

Since you are in Borneo why not have a go at trekking amongst the sights and sounds of the jungle. Challenge yourself to survive amongst the insects and humidity, learn how to utilise the local resources provided by mother nature, get expert at putting up your shelter every night and trek miles away from civilisation. This is a real adventure, you, the jungle, your kit and a parang (this is what the locals use to chop and cut up trees, plants and animals and its all you need to survive in the jungle – apparently!!).

Your base camp during your time in the jungle is at a place called “Utan Paradise” – Utan means jungle and as such it is aptly named. It is a beautifully built traditional house with associated small out buildings nestled on the slopes of the Crocker Range National Park. The Crocker Range is a rugged backbone of mountainous jungle which runs north to south just in land from the west coast of Sabah. It is a sparsely populated area with only a handful of communities within the park itself. There are no roads joining these villages, just ancient paths which have been used for generations. Many years ago before roads started to criss cross Sabah, these ancient paths were used to carry salt out from the interior to the coast where it was exchanged for fish and other goods. Hence the paths have gained the name Salt Trails of which there are a number in the area.

On your first day at Utan Paradise you will learn how to use your parang and also how to construct a shelter as well as how to hunt and trap wildlife. They will also show you which local plants can be used for cooking or eating as well as how to live effectively in the jungle. During your trek you will be accompanied by a local guide and also a porter. The porter carries additional food supplies and is also there if there is an injury or emergency – he can run back to the village to collect help if required.

The terrain around Utan Paradise is extremely rugged and as with many jungle areas in Borneo is steeped in legend and folklore – your guide will tell you stories as you walk of the monsters and demons that dwell in the forest. The forest is full of mystery and there are certain ways of behaving there so as not to incur the wrath of the spirits. This includes not using your proper name or others names when speaking in case a demon is listening. The area is also extremely beautiful and cooler since it is at a higher altitude. You must keep to tracks in order to not disturb any of the flora and to minimise your impact. As well as the flora there is plenty of wildlife although it is difficult to see or get near due to the nature of the forest – but if you are lucky and quiet enough you may see one of the resident orangutans.

The area is criss crossed with a number of rivers which you will have to cross safely. This will be under the guidance of the local guide but you should be prepared to get your feet wet. There are some incredible waterfalls tucked away in the jungle including one which is only 30 minutes trek from your main camp.

Highlights

Experience the secluded jungle
Learn Survival Skills
Live wild for several days
Learn about local environmental project work
Integrate with the local community

Itinerary

Day 1 – Depart Kota Kinabalu after lunch for Utan Paradise via the town of Papar. Overnight in traditionally built accommodation.

Day 2 – Morning is spent learning basic jungle skills and knowledge. After lunch a short acclimatization trek to a nearby waterfall and other viewing points. Overnight in traditionally built accommodation

Day 3 – Trekking and overnight in jungle.

Day 4 – Trekking and return to accommodation to wash up and sleep.

Day 5 – Learn about local reforestation and environmental work and assist with some project work if necessary. After lunch, transfer back to Kota Kinabalu.

The trek can be shortened or lengthened dependant on your timetable. In addition there is a minimum booking of 2 pax for this trip.

Fitness

Although the trek is arduous in nature, you do not need to be super fit. The guides are very experienced at taking all levels of fitness and will adjust the trek according to your fitness and enthusiasm. You should however be prepared for some hardship and be able to walk over undulating ground carrying a rucksack.

Inclusions

Transfer from Kota Kinabalu to Utan Paradise (Return)
3 nights in traditionally built accommodation
All food for the duration of the trip (1st meal Dinner on day 1, last meal lunch on day 5)
Provision of hammock and tarpaulin for shelter
Provision of one guide as a minimum – if 4 or more pax then 2nd guide/porter will be provided
All entry and park fees

Price Does Not Include

Insurance
Personal equipment
Spending money
Drinks other than water
Tips
Purification tablets – you are advised to bring sufficient for 10 litres per day.

Travel Dates

This trip is available all year round although there may be occasional periods where access into the area is restricted due to heavy rain.

Prices

The cost for this trip is £225 per person.

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