Danum Valley

Lowland Rainforest Habitat I Wildlife I Jungle Trails I Activities I Getting there

Nestled in the interior of Sabah, the Danum Valley Conservation Area is one of the last remaining preserves of primary lowland rainforest in Asia. The Danum Valley provides visitors with an umparalled ecological experience into the wilds and wonders of ancient tropical forests. Within its 438 square kilometers the rich diversity of animal and plant life display the complex interaction of a natural, dynamic ecosystem found only in rainforests.

The hot and humid jungle teems with a variety of towering tropical trees, lingering lianas, exotic orchids and overhanging epiphytes. There are few places on earth that can provide such an awe--inspiring spectacle of nature in its original, pristine state.

Danum Valley was formerly part of a 972,000 hectare forest concession assigned to the Sabah Foundation by the State Goverment. In May 1995, the area was declared a Class I (Protection) Forest Reserve by the Sabah Legislative Assembly, under the authority of the Sabah Forestry Department, which prohibits the issuance of timber and logging concessions.

Currently the Sabah Foundation works to make it a center for wildlife research, education and eco-tourism. The Foundation also provides infrastructural support in the form of road access, radio communication and manpower to assist the state authorities in conserving Danum and supporting the development of scientific and commercial establishments for research purposes which culminated in the opening of the Danum Valley Field Center in 1986.