Travel into the depths of the equatorial rainforest at Mulu National Park in the Malaysian state of Sarawak, and follow the ancient Headhunters’ Trail in the heart of Borneo to the traditional Longhouses of the Dayak tribe.
An ideal tour for sporty people and nature lovers that combines the exploration of the huge caves and the hike to the observation deck for a wonderful view of the majestic limestone pinnacles emerging from the jungle.
Please be informed that it’s possibile to reverse the order of the itinerary, starting from Limbang and ending up at the Mulu National Park HQ. Either way the trek offers an excellent introduction to the rivers and rainforest of Mulu and the added attraction of a longhouse visit.
The first stage (from Mulu Park to Camp 5) is a 1-2 hour boat trip along the Melinau River to Kuala Berar. If the water level is low, the boat has to be pushed over rocky sections so the trips takes longer. Base Camp 5 is relatively easy 7.8 km walk from Kuala Berar, following flat jungle terrain and taking 2-3 hours.
The trail to view the Pinnacles is only 2.4 km long but rises 1,200m and the last section is near vertical with ropes and ladders to climb. Fit, experienced trekkers may reach the top in 2–3 hours, the not so fit around 4–5 hours. For many, the descent is more difficult and can take 5 hours or more.
Upon arrival in Mulu (preferably arrive before noon) you will be met at the airport and transported to your hotel.
Depart for Mulu National Park for a 3 km walk to Deer Cave and Lang Cave. You will explore one of the largest cave passages in the world.
After visiting the caves, await the spectacular sight of millions of bats flying out of the caves in the evening.
Overnight at the Mulu Marriott Resort
After breakfast, take a morning longtail boat ride to visit Batu Bungan Penan Settlement where you are able to purchase the local handicraft made by the Penan tribe.
Continue by boat to the Cave of the Wind which has many impressive stalactites and stalagmites, then walk to the Clearwater Cave, the Asia’s longest cave, measuring some 107 km. Optional dip in the Clearwater pool before having the picnic lunch at the Pavilion.
After lunch, you will continue your journey by longboat to Kuala Berar or Long Litut. You will trek for 8 km through the beautiful rainforest and along the Litut River to Melinau Camp 5 – camp base of the Pinnacles. Settle in at the camp while your guide prepares dinner.
Overnight at the Camp 5. (basic hostel-style accommodation with shared toilets and cooking facilities)
BREAKFAST | LUNCH | DINNER
This morning you will rise early and begin the 2.4km steep trek to the Pinnacles viewpoint at 1750 m. Along this trail there are many wild orchids, pitcher plants and tiny tree shrews foraging for food. The Pinnacles consists of a series of 45 m high, razor-sharp limestone spikes that tower above the surrounding vegetation.
The hike to the viewpoint is a tough and challenging mountain climbing, however you will be rewarded with a spectacular view of a silver forest of stone, poking up through the surrounding jungle.
Return to Camp 5 for a refreshing swim and another overnight stay.
Overnight at the Camp 5. (basic hostel-style accommodation with shared toilets and cooking facilities)
BREAKFAST | LUNCH | DINNER
After breakfast, walk through lowland forest. The Headhunter’s Trail follows the route taken by the Dayak headhunting Kayan tribe who paddled up the Melinau River to the Melinau Gorge. They then dragged their longboats through the forest until they reached the banks of the Terikan River, where they launched headhunting raids against the people of the Limbang area.
Arrive at the Dayak Longhouse and chill out in the company of local tribes people, sampling the local firewater.
Overnight at the Longhouse (basic accommodation)
BREAKFAST | LUNCH | DINNER
After breakfast journey continues by boat downriver to Naga Medamit, then transfer to Limbang airport for your departure flight.
BREAKFAST
