Hard - You need to have a very good level of fitness to enjoy this tour, as there are long periods of walking and hill climbing involved.

This trip involves climbing to view the Pinnacles. The Pinnacles trek is very steep and also strenuous. A good level of fitness and preparation is recommended. We suggest preparation of at least 30 minutes of aerobic type exercise, 3 times a week for 2 months prior to the tour.  

This exciting trip packs a tremendous amount into nine days. We plug into Borneo's culture, talk to locals, explore the amazing landscapes, meet headhunters, take jungle walks and visit national park caves. The tour opens in Kuching, Sarawak's busy river capital. Discover its ancient Chinese temples, ethnological museum and colourful markets selling exotic spices. We visit the Orang Utan Sanctuary of Semengoh, before heading out to Bako National Park,  with its wonderful array of wildlife in their natural surroundings - particularly the silver leaf monkey, proboscis monkeys, long-tail macaques, wild boars, big monitor lizards, flying Lemur and numerous species of birds. We fly to Mulu National Park where we discover the largest caves on earth, explore dense rainforest by boat and by foot and take on a challenging day trip to the magnificent limestone pinnacles. We trek along the Headhunter Trail to find Iban longhouses and meet the Iban people. Then by boat and bus to Limbang, and from there by plane on to Kota Kinabalu where our tour ends.

Kuching – Semengoh Wildlife Centre – Bako National Park.  From our hotel we depart for the Semengoh Wildlife Centre located a short drive from the centre of Kuching. The wildlife centre is a temporary home for various endangered wildlife of Sarawak which have either been found injured in the forest, or have been kept as illegal pets. The centre houses a number of different species including rescued hornbills, honey bears, gibbons and porcupines, and of course Orang Utans.  After initial care, they are again taught to fend for themselves and when the wardens feel that the animal is fully rehabilitated, it is caught and then returned to the wild - usually deep in the forest or to one of Sarawak's National Parks or Wildlife Sanctuaries.

After visiting the centre, we then take a 35-minute drive to Bako Village, and from the village, take a 25-minute boat ride to the National park. Bako National Park is Sarawak’s oldest National Park and one of the best places in Sarawak to see wildlife in a natural surrounding. The park contains an amazing variety of plant and animal life, and almost every type of vegetation found in Borneo.

After check in at the park chalets, you have free time to do some hiking through jungle trails, swimming in the sea by secluded beaches, and enjoying the beautiful sunset. The park chalets all have mosquito screens and fans. Bathrooms are shared.

Lunch and dinner are included.

Mulu N.P - Mulu Deer and Lang Caves.  After an early breakfast we depart for the airport and our flight to Mulu. Upon arrival, we meet and then transfer to Park Headquarters of Mulu National Park for check-in to our Cabins.

Mulu National Park is Sarawak’s largest national park, and is a world heritage site that encompasses incredible caves and karst formations in a mountainous equatorial rainforest setting. The park is famous for its caves and the expeditions that have been mounted to explore them and their surrounding rainforest. We take a scenic 3 km plank walk through primary rainforest to the entrance of Deer Cave. Deer Cave has the world's largest cave entrance and is the largest single cave passage in the world - about 120m to 150m in diameter or it can fit St. Pauls’ Cathedral under its massive archway. The cave has a moon-like landscape and from one vantage point a perfect profile of President Lincoln can be observed. Most evenings at sundown, a spectacular exodus of about 2 million of bats can be observed as they leave the cave in search of food.

A short walk from Deer Cave is Lang’s Cave. The stalactites and stalagmites inside this cave are representative of the very best limestone formations in the park.

After exploring these amazing caves, we return to Park Headquarters by torchlight for dinner and overnight stay.

Pinnacles – Camp 5.  Following Breakfast, we embark on a full day trip to the Pinnacles. The Pinnacles are reached from Camp 5 and although the trail is only 2.4 kilometres, it is a trip that requires reasonable levels of fitness, as it rises in height over 1,200 metres. The climb usually takes 3-4 hours one way. The climb is well worthwhile though as it culminates in spectacular views of the pinnacle formations, some of which tower up to 40 metres high. The trail itself passes through some intriguing limestone forest and as you reach the higher altitudes includes some spectacular pitcher plants and sightings of rare orchids.

The pinnacle formations are spectacular examples of karst formations. The Pinnacles have been formed in tensional joints in the limestone bed at Mulu, which often occur at the edges of plateaux or valleys as pressure is released, as the rock above is eroded and the weight decreases. The reason for the spectacular nature of the formations at Mulu lies in the consistent nature of its limestone beds and the even joints that were formed as a result, and the high levels of rainfall that the area has experienced in geological time. Today the pinnacles tower above the surrounding landscape, some reaching heights of 40 to 50 metres. As water has continued to erode and dissolve the rock, the formations have taken on their razor-like appearance.

Although physically challenging, most trekkers with reasonable levels of fitness are able to accomplish the climb to the Pinnacles and all find it a hugely rewarding experience. It is advisable that climbers take sufficient food and water (usually about three litres per person), as the conditions are generally hot and humid. Although it is unusual for it to rain in the mornings, if it is raining, the tours that day will be cancelled for safety reasons. Your local guide will also give you more specific instructions regarding the trek prior to beginning.

After this fantastic day, we descend back to Camp 5 for our overnight stay.

Packed lunch and dinner included.

Iban Longhouse - Limbang Town - Kota Kinabalu. We depart by boat to Nanga Medamit, the boat ride taking about 1 to 2 hours. We then proceed overland to Limbang Town. From here we catch a flight to Kota Kinabalu, and transfer to the hotel for check in.

The remainder of the day is at leisure.  

If you have extra time, we can book accommodation for you in Kota Kinabalu, and you can explore the city at your leisure.

Since 1946, Sabah's seat of government has been based at Kota Kinabalu, or KK as it's universally known. Although not pretty architecturally, it's got a unique buzz to it and is the liveliest city in Malaysia after Kuala Lumpur, with a plethora of markets, cafés and bars.

Downtown KK was almost obliterated by World War II bombs, and only in the North Eastern corner of the city centre - an area known as KK Lama, or old KK - are there even the faintest remains of its colonial past. Jalan Gaya in particular is an attractive street lined with colourful and popular Chinese ‘kedai kopis’ (local coffee shops). The most diverting of the waterfront markets is the Filipino Market, opposite blocks K and M of the Sinsuran Complex, which sells Sabahan ethnic wares as well as Filipino baskets, shells and trinkets. Next door is the dark and labyrinthine general market and, behind that, the manic waterfront fish market.

KK's most rewarding cultural experience, though, is the Sabah State Museum (Mon-Thurs 10am-6pm, Sat & Sun 9am-6pm; free), twenty minutes' walk west of the town centre along Jalan Tunkul Abdul Rahman (or take a bus from opposite the GPO), and housed in Murut- and Rungus-style longhouses. Its highlight is the ethnographic collection, which includes human skulls from Sabah's headhunting days, and totems. Photographs trace the development of Kota Kinabalu, and there's also a natural history section, an archeology gallery and an Islamic Civilization Gallery. Fronting the museum is an Ethnobotanic Garden (daily 6am-6pm), whose huge range of tropical plants is best experienced on one of the free-guided tours (9am & 2pm except Friday). Exquisitely crafted, traditional houses representing all Sabah's major tribes border the garden, in the Kampung Warisan.

Another option if you have another free day is a visit to Gaya Island.

Take a 30-minute boat ride from Kota Kinabalu to Gaya Island. The island is covered with undisturbed lowland dipterocarp rainforest with pockets of mangrove forest and beach flora along the coast. Take a 1½-hour walk on one of the trails that lead through coastal vegetation. Mudskippers can be seen from the boardwalk that runs through the mangrove forest. Takwe lunch at Sapi Island, an island lying adjacent to the South-Western tip of Gaya Island. In the afternoon there is time for swimming or snorkelling in the crystal clear waters before your return to Kota Kinabalu.

Please be aware that arrival times and the itinerary may change due to unforeseen delays or events such as festivals and public holidays. However, we shall endeavour to ensure all sites are visited and that your tour runs as smoothly as possible.

Be flexible, you will enjoy your tour much more. Kumuka makes a point of visiting the indigenous populations of each country you visit, in order to give a true reflection of the country; please treat the local people and their customs with respect.

This itinerary will be followed as closely as possible. However there may be times when it is necessary to change the route according to local conditions. There will be times travelling long hours as there will be days where we have to cover great distances. Weather patterns can change dramatically - high altitudes tend to be a lot cooler.

You are free not to participate in any of the included excursions. However, please note that there will be no refund for any excursions not taken.

Lastly, your tour leader is always conscious of everybody's views, but sometimes he/she will have to make an unpopular decision and your understanding will be appreciated in these circumstances.

Travel insurance is compulsory for all tours. All clients MUST be insured to cover personal accident, medical expenses, cancellation, curtailment, repatriation, etc. Also, be aware that many activities such as trekking, bungy jumping or white water rafting may not be covered on your insurance policy. If you plan on doing any of these activities please purchase additional insurance. We recommend that you have a photocopy of this document, which you keep separate from the original. If you have not already arranged your own travel insurance then Kumuka can do this for you. Please visit http://www.kumuka.com/Travel-Insurance.aspx  for more details or contact your nearest Kumuka office.

Please Note: You will not be permitted to join a Kumuka Tour without travel insurance.

It is important that you obtain the appropriate visas before you embark on your Asia trip. Country entry regulations change daily, www.kumuka.com  provides you with visa information. Please consult your relevant embassy for all details such as opening hours or costs. Certain visas cannot be obtained once you have started your tour, and during the peak summer months it can take longer than normal to get visas, please allow extra time to do this.

EACH CLIENT IS SOLELY RESPONSIBLE FOR OBTAINING ALL NECESSARY VISAS BEFORE JOINING A TOUR.

Kumuka does not accept responsibility for changes in regulations or requirements for visas. The information provided is given in good faith.

Vaccinations:

No vaccinations are compulsory in Asia, but we do recommend you are covered for *diphtheria & TB, hepatitis A, *hepatitis B, *malaria, typhoid, polio and tetanus.

NB* A Yellow fever certificate is required if arriving from infected areas. Vaccination requirements are subject to change and should be confirmed before departure.

You may need additional inoculations so please contact your G.P or a travel medical centre for further information. Please consult your doctor for up-to-date information and prescriptions for vaccinations, anti-malarial requirements and any reasonably foreseeable illnesses whilst travelling in Asia.

We also recommend:

- A dental check-up prior to travelling.
- That you know your blood group in case of emergency.
- That if you have any pre-existing medical conditions which might affect you on tour, you make these known to your tour leader and your agent/Kumuka at the time of your booking.

You can also visit www.kumuka.com for further details.

Medical Supplies:

We advise that all passengers bring along their own personal first aid kit. Below is a list of some recommended items:

Band Aids/Bandages, Laxatives, Upset stomach remedy, Anti-diarrhoea remedy, Panadol/Aspirin, Rehydration remedy, Antiseptic cream/powder, Sterile dressing, Any relevant course of medication such as contraceptive pills.

A complete Travellers Medical Pack can be purchased for approximately US$25 at most Vaccination Centres, Chemists and outdoor travel shops.

• Do not take unnecessary valuables with you.
• A money belt, or something similar, worn close to your body is the best way to carry passports, airline tickets and money.
• DO NOT leave any valuables in ANY hotel room in Asia, please use SAFETY DEPOSIT BOXES. Items are left at the individuals’ risk.
• Pickpockets operate everywhere, particularly in tourist areas and in crowded markets; you must always exercise care.
• Be aware that anything left lying around will also be liable to theft.

We suggest passengers budget for between US$15-30 per day for personal expenses, souvenirs, evenings out, alcoholic drinks etc. Be aware that some countries are more expensive than others and that if you are travelling through several your expenses will vary enormously. Similarly there will be some days when you spend nothing at all and others when you exceed your budget.

For security you are advised to carry most of your money in Traveller’s cheques - small denominations are preferable.

It is often a good idea to have a small amount of the currency of the country you are visiting prior to arrival. This will cover you for any initial expenses at or from the airport.

Banks are generally open Monday to Friday and some are open on Saturday morning. In the main cities travellers’ cheques can be exchanged at banks and some exchange bureaux, but this can be very difficult in small towns.

Some Hotels will also change money.

1. Light comfortable, clothes that dry easily, shorts are fine.
2. Comfortable walking boots that have no fear of jungle streams or muddy trails
3. Bathing suit (respect local modesty)
4. Thin towels (these dry easily)
5. Sun hat, sunblock and light long sleeve shirt.
6. Personal toiletries e.g. shampoo, soap, toothpaste etc.
7. Insect repellent
8. Plastic bag to keep clothes and cameras dry in case of rain
9. Water bottle and water purification tablets
10. Rain poncho (Can be bought cheaply in Kuching)

Mulu Additionals:

Things to do:
- Wrap all your clothes and belonging in plastic before packing.
- Ensure that your rain poncho and water bottle is always close at hand.
- Part of the journey will be in open boats where you will be exposed to
either rain or sun. Both require covering.

TRAVEL TIP: You might be tempted to buy a few souvenirs here and there, so leave a little room for those extra purchases!!

Sarawak Explored:

We strongly recommend that you do some fitness activity before joining the tour in order to enjoy your holiday more. However, this walk should be suitable for anyone with an average level of fitness and mobility - that is those who normally lead an active life. The Pinnacles Trek is fairly strenuous.

Malaysia is a multicultural society, with Malays, Chinese and Indians living side by side. The Malays are the largest community. They are Muslims, speak Bahasa and are largely responsible for the political fortunes of the country. The Chinese comprise about a third of the population. They are Buddhists and Taoists, speak Hokkein, Hakka and Cantonese, and are dominant in the business community. The Indians account for about 10% of the population and they are mainly Hindu Tamils from southern India, they speak Tamil, Malayalam, and some Hindi, and live mainly in the larger towns on the west coast of the peninsula. There is also a sizeable Sikh community. Eurasians and indigenous tribes make up the remaining population. Despite Bahasa Malaysia being the official language, when members of these different communities talk to each other, they generally speak English, which was recently reinstated as the language of instruction in higher education.

This language can be difficult for foreigners to grasp.  The same word can have 6 different meanings depending on the tone used to pronounce it.  However, we do try and encourage people to speak a few words of the local language, as the Malaysians will really appreciate the effort!  English is spoken in some of the places that we visit.

English will be spoken in the larger cities. You might like to take the time before your trip to read up on Malaysia and perhaps learn a few words of the language. Your effort will always be welcomed and it will make your trip all the more enjoyable.

Food is one of the highlights of any trip.

As in many South East Asian countries, rice is the staple food diet. This usually served with dried, salted fish, chicken, beef or pork.

It's not easy to find authentic Malay food in Malaysian restaurants, though you can take your pick of Chinese, Nyonya (a local variation on Chinese and Malay food - Chinese ingredients, local spices), Indian, Indonesian or (sometimes) Western cuisines. Satays (meat kebabs in spicy peanut sauce) are a Malaysian creation and they're found everywhere. Other dishes include fried soybean curd in peanut sauce, sour tamarind fish curry, fiery curry prawns and spiced curried meat in coconut marinade. Muslim Indian dishes have developed a distinctly Malaysian style. The variety of wonderful tropical fruits and fruit juices available is huge, and a strange sweet concoction includes endol (sugar syrup, coconut milk and green noodles) and is kacang (beans and jellies topped with shaved ice, syrups and condensed milk).

Vegetarians or those with special dietary needs can also be catered for however in some countries the type of food may be limited. Please let the Reservations team know your special requirements as soon as possible so we can do all possible to assist your needs.

The variety of food will differ, as you will be visiting a number of different countries. We try to ensure that you get the most experience from your Kumuka trip and one of the ways to do this is by trying local cuisine.

Pre-booked transfers - If you have booked an arrival transfer, please look for our representative who will be holding a sign with your name or Kumuka once you have cleared Customs and Immigration.

Making Your Own Way - The Meeting Point for your tour is advised at the beginning of this dossier. If you have not arranged for us to meet and transfer you on arrival and are therefore making your own way to the Meeting Point it is best upon arrival at to take a metered taxi. Drivers may want to negotiate a price before leaving the airport. Do not agree to this, insist that they switch on the meters and pay the amount that it displays when you arrive at your destination.

Kumuka endeavors to advertise a compliment of optional activities available locally during tours with selected ground handlers to make your tour more enjoyable. These ground handlers and activity partners are selected for their standards in quality, professional ability and reputation. Although Kumuka has developed a travel insurance policy to cover all activities offered during your journey, Kumuka cannot be held responsible for injuries or claims arising from adventurous activities by a third party.

Details and prices of optional activities will be advised by your tour leader.

Whilst on tour you will probably want to stay in touch with family and friends. There are several ways of doing this:

Mobile Phone – Before departing your home country check with your phone supplier to see if it compatible with the mobile phone networks in the countries that you are traveling to, and how much will it cost to use abroad.

Email – Internet Cafes are very cheap and popular, and you are sure to come across several during your tour. If you haven’t done so already, set up a free Google Mail, Hotmail, or Yahoo email account which you can then access from any computer. Internet Cafes will charge a nominal fee for using their computers. Within Europe some hotels charge a wifi connection fee and we cannot guarantee a wifi connection at all hotels we use.

Twitter – A method of communication that is rapidly gaining in popularity on the Internet especially amongst travelers. Twitter allows you to send short messages and update your friends and family with where you are on tour and what you are doing. Create your free account at http://twitter.com. Visit Kumuka’s page on Twitter at http://twitter.com/kumuka

Facebook – Very popular website that allows you to upload stories, get in touch with fellow travellers before and after your Kumuka tour, upload photos and videos to share with other travellers, your family and friends. To create a free account, go to www.facebook.com and then become a fan of Kumuka’s Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/pages/Kumuka-Worldwide/26617121087?ref=ts

Postcards – The good ol’ fashioned postcard. But you will probably get home before the postcard does!

KUMUKA WORLDWIDE

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www.kumuka.com

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