Danum Valley

Danum Valley Conservation Area is an undisturbed land covering a sprawling area of 438 square kilometers. The area is located at a distance of 70 kilometers west of Lahad Datu in Sabah, Malaysia. It is a region of comparatively peaceful lowland dipterocarp forest. The area seems to be unique as before turning into a conservation area there were no human settlements within the area. So, ideally the area is completely undisturbed by the cruel touch of man. Logging, hunting, and other human interference was not practiced here. The valley is protected It for research, education, conservation, and habitat restoration training purposes. This conservation area houses one of the richest and most diverse conservation areas in the world. More than 200 species of tree per hectare are flourishing in this region.

The area is acknowledged as one of the most complex ecosystem in the world. Enormous endangered species of wildlife are located here in this valley. The variety includes Asian elephant, orang utan, Sumatran rhino, banteng, proboscis monkey, and clouded leopard. The area is completely detached from human habitat and almost unfamiliar to modern civilization. It transforms the Danum Valley Conservation Area to a naturalist paradise. Take a nature walk with knowledgeable naturalists through relaxing river vine and lowland dipterocarp forest. The Danum Valley Conservation Area is the home to striking rivers and waterfalls including Sungai Purut 7-tiered pools. It is one of the most impressive waterfalls and pools found in Danum Valley Conservation Area. There is an ancient Kadazandusun burial site around this place. Visitors can get the chance to visit this place. The burial site contains ceramic spirit jars, and belian coffins as well.

If you are fond of swimming, then take a dip in the Jacuzzi pool on the way down. The pool is leech-free and secured for swimming. Later in the evening, you can move out for a wildlife watching night drive in an open jeep. If you are lucky enough, then you can get a brilliant opportunity to capture some of the best snapshots of the mysterious and untamed inhabitants of the Danum Valley Conservation Area. If you are fond of wildlife photography, then you may have to wait for 2 to 3 days for capturing some of the best shots. A good number of rare species of mammals and birds are located in this lowland tropical rainforest. The inscrutable Spectacled Flowerpecker has been recorded here.