ADVENTURE TRAVEL
Jungle Trekking

The wilds of Malaysia are full of fascinating animals and amazing plants that take advantage of the competitive conditions of the rainforest. Rainforest wildlife conceal or camouflage themselves to avoid predators and to survive but towered hides and canopy walks aid those searching for a glimpse of the inhabitants.

Endau- Rompin in Johor is an unique collection of lowland and montane rain forest which is home to the largest population of endangered animals in the country. The Sumatran rhinoceros, tigers and elephants are among the protected species in Endau- Rompin.

Taman Negara in Pahang has many trails of which the Mat Kilau trail is the most popular due to the sightings of Fishing Eagles, gibbons, pheasants and tapir.

A visit to the jungle requires the full use of the one’s senses to discover all the creatures of the forest. Take time to spot the many insects and butterflies flitting about in the forests of Peninsular Malaysia. Marvel at the membrane wings of the Flying Lemur gliding tree from three in Endau Rompin. Listen to the swooshing wingbeats of colourful hornbills or the call of gibbons echoing at dawn in Danum Valley in Sabah.

From fungi to orchids, thousands of rainforest plants climb up, drape over or join together to form a vibrant and interconnected habitat. The observant trekker will notice how a strangler fig slowly surrounds and kills the host tree, leaving nothing but a hollow centre in its place.

National Parks in Malaysia provide many jungle camping sites. There are also many mountain and beach sites which are suited for camping. In picking your camp site, always take into consideration the weather conditions and the types of camping equipment you will need.

The rainy season during December to February renders some camp sites along the river trails of Taman Negara inaccessible. Always check with the relevant Park authorities before hand.

The lower altitudes of primary jungle like Taman Negara, Kenong Rimba Park in Pahang; Endau Rompin in Johor; Mulu and Lambir National Parks in Sarawak are humid, so your choice of tents should allow for good ventilation. Enclosed nylon tents with sewn – in groundsheets are not recommended as they tend to condense air on the inside. Cotton tents get heavy after absorbing water.

When camping locations such as Gunung Jerai in Kedah; Gunung Korbu in Perak, Gunung Tapis in Pahang, choose a site sheltered from the wind and avoid the higher peaks when thunderstorms occur. A self-contained tent with aluminum poles and stakes is best for mountain camping

Only a basic set up is needed when camping on the beaches of the marine parks in the country which includes Pulau Payar in Kedah; Port Dickson, Negeri Sembilan; Pulau Redang, Terengganu; Pulau Tioman and Cherating in Pahang and Tuanku Abdul Rahman Park in Sabah. A hammock or sleeping bag will do very well.

Although most of the national parks and private tourist facilities furnish and rent out camping gear, it may be wiser to bring along basic camping necessities.

Remember to check on restrictions which may apply due to ecological or other reasons. If unsure, contact the Park authorities.