Bako's Trail Network

Bako National Park maintains 16 colour-coded hiking trails totalling approximately 30 km of marked paths. Trails range from short, easy boardwalk strolls to demanding full-day treks across the kerangas plateau. All trails start from the park headquarters at Telok Assam.

Important: Always register at the park office before setting out. Carry the official trail map (available free at the park HQ). Never hike alone on longer trails.

Easy Trails (Suitable for All Fitness Levels)

Lintang Trail (5.5 km loop, 2–3 hours)

The park's most popular and rewarding trail. The Lintang loop traverses all seven major vegetation types found in Bako, including open kerangas heath, pitcher plant forest, and coastal cliff vegetation. Well-maintained boardwalk sections in the wetter areas. Excellent for wildlife and botanical photography.

Telok Assam / Mangrove Boardwalk (1.5 km, 45 minutes)

A flat, easy walk along the mangrove fringe — the best trail in the park for proboscis monkey sightings. The wooden boardwalk passes through nipah palm forest and offers views over the estuary. Recommended at dawn and dusk.

Telok Pandan Kecil (3 km return, 1.5 hours)

Leads to a secluded beach framed by sea-stack rock formations. The trail passes through kerangas forest and offers a challenging climb down to the beach. Rewarding swimming at the end.

Moderate Trails

Tanjung Rhu Trail (3.5 km, 2 hours)

A varied trail combining cliff-top views with forest and beach sections. Passes the famous 'Batu Boats' (Batu Kapal) sea-stack formations that are visible from the coast. Some sections require scrambling over rocks.

Telok Paku (6 km return, 3 hours)

A longer beach trail heading north along the coast. The route passes through mixed dipterocarp forest with good birdwatching. The destination beach is quieter and less visited than Telok Assam.

Challenging Trails

Bukit Gondol (3.8 km return, 3–4 hours)

The park's most demanding trail leads to the highest point in Bako at 262 m. The summit offers panoramic views over the Muara Tebas peninsula, the South China Sea, and on clear days, Santubong mountain. Steep, slippery sections; appropriate footwear essential.

Tajor Trail (7 km return, 4–5 hours)

A challenging half-day trek across the kerangas plateau to Tajor waterfall. The plateau section is exposed and can be very hot; start early. The waterfall offers a welcome cooling swim at the end.

Practical Notes

  • Trail conditions change rapidly after heavy rain — some trails are temporarily closed after storms
  • All trails must be started before 2:00 PM to ensure safe return before dark
  • Night walks are available with a park guide and must be booked at the HQ
  • Leeches are present year-round; salt or lighter deterrents are effective