Hiking in the Lambir Hills National Park - Miri

When the jungle beckons, you answer the call, and there’s no better place to experience the allure of the wild than Lambir Hills National Park, nestled just outside Miri City in Sarawak. Imagine leaving behind the bustling coastal vibe and serene beaches of Miri for a day to immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of the Borneo rainforest. The park promises an adventure unlike any other, with its dense greenery, majestic waterfalls, and the tranquillity that only nature can provide.

Lambir Hills is more than just a hiking spot; it’s a sensory journey. As soon as you step into the park, the harmonious sounds of the forest greet you, along with the refreshing scent of damp earth and the vivid sights of towering trees and exotic plants. Each trail offers something different: a challenging climb, a leisurely walk, or a rewarding waterfall waiting at the end. The breathtaking scenery makes it a paradise for nature enthusiasts and photography lovers.

So, pack your camera, lace up your hiking boots, and fill those water bottles. Lambir Hills National Park is calling, and it’s time to embrace the beauty of Borneo’s tropical rainforest for a day of adventure and unforgettable moments.

Let’s get ready to explore – Sarawak Style!

Lambir Hills National Park – Sarawak.

Getting to Lambir Hills National Park – Sarawak

Miri may not have the extensive public transportation options that many other cities offer, so planning your journey to Lambir Hills National Park is essential for a smooth and enjoyable day of hiking. Located about 30-40 minutes from the city centre, getting to and from the park requires some forethought, especially since mobile reception in the area can be spotty or nonexistent. This can pose challenges when arranging transportation back into the city after your jungle adventure.

The most convenient way to visit Lambir Hills is by using a ride-hailing service like GRAB or a taxi. A GRAB ride from Miri City to Lambir Hills National Park typically costs around RM 50 to RM 70 one way, depending on traffic and the time of day. Since mobile reception at the park can be unreliable, it’s a good idea to arrange with your driver to either wait for you or return at a pre-agreed time for your trip back to Miri. Many drivers are open to negotiating a waiting fee or a scheduled return ride for your convenience(

Alternatively, for a more seamless experience, you can book a private day tour, which includes transportation and a guide. This option not only ensures you won’t have to worry about returning to Miri but also allows you to benefit from a local guide’s expertise, enriching your experience of the Lambir Borneo Rainforest.

Entering the trails of Borneo Rainforest Lambir Miri.

What should you bring with you to the Lambir Rainforest?

When planning a day hike in Lambir Hills National Park, it’s essential to pack wisely due to the tropical climate and rugged conditions of the Borneo rainforest. Here’s a detailed list of what you should bring to ensure a safe and enjoyable adventure:

1. Plenty of Drinking Water

The rainforest is hot and humid, which can cause dehydration quickly, especially during longer hikes. Bring at least 2-3 litres of water per person or more for extended hikes.

2. Sunblock

Even under the canopy, the tropical sun can be intense, and there are open areas near waterfalls and trail clearings where exposure is higher. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF before you set out and reapply as necessary.

3. Mosquito Repellent

The rainforest is home to many insects, including mosquitoes, so repellent is crucial to avoid bites and the potential risk of diseases such as dengue fever. Use a DEET-based or natural repellent, depending on your preference, and reapply regularly.

4. Light Swimwear

Many trails lead to beautiful waterfalls like Latak, where you can take a refreshing dip. Wearing light swimwear under your hiking clothes or packing a swimsuit will allow you to enjoy the natural pools.

5. Quick-Dry Towel

A lightweight, quick-dry towel helps dry off after swimming in the waterfalls or wiping away sweat during the hike. It’s also handy if you encounter rain or humidity along the way.

6. Basic First Aid Kit

Carry a small kit with essentials like adhesive bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and personal medication. Blisters and minor cuts are ordinary on hikes, and being prepared can make a big difference.

7. Snacks or Packed Lunch

Energy-rich snacks like trail mix, granola bars, or fruit are perfect for maintaining energy during your trek. If you plan a longer hike, pack a light lunch like sandwiches to enjoy at one of the many scenic spots in the park.

8. Comfortable and Sturdy Footwear

Hiking boots or sturdy walking shoes with a good grip are essential as the trails can be muddy and slippery, especially after rainfall. Make sure your footwear is broken in to avoid blisters.

9. Camera or Smartphone

The rainforest is teeming with wildlife, waterfalls, and stunning natural landscapes that are perfect for photography. Ensure your camera or smartphone is charged, and consider bringing a waterproof case to protect your gear from humidity and rain.

10. Hat and Sunglasses

Even though much of the trail is shaded, there are sections where you’ll be exposed to direct sunlight, especially near waterfalls or open viewpoints. A hat and sunglasses will provide added protection from the sun.

11. Light Rain Jacket or Poncho

The weather in the rainforest can be unpredictable, with sudden rain showers common. A light, packable rain jacket or poncho will help keep you dry without weighing down your pack.

12. Plastic Bags or Dry Bags

Pack your belongings in waterproof bags or zip-locks to protect them from rain or if you plan to swim. This is especially important for electronics like your phone, camera, or wallet.

13. Extra Change of Clothes

After hiking and possibly swimming, you’ll appreciate having a dry set of clothes for the trip back to Miri, especially if the weather has been rainy or humid.

Packing these items ensures you’re well-prepared for the challenges and the beauty of Lambir Hills, allowing you to focus on the adventure and scenery while staying comfortable and safe.

When hiking, be well equipped with supplies.

Entrance Fee to Lambir Hills

To enter Lambir Hills National Park, a fee of 20 Malaysian Ringgit per adult is required, payable at the park’s main headquarters. Upon payment, you’ll receive a map of the park and recommendations from the helpful staff on the best trails suited to your available time and your hiking preferences.

Park Hours

The park is open from 8 AM to 5 PM, but no entry is allowed after 4 PM to ensure visitors have enough daylight to complete their hikes and return safely.

Once you’ve sorted your ticket and received your trail map, you’re all set for an exciting day of exploration in the beautiful and biodiverse Lambir Hills National Park.

Pay the entrance fee and go exploring.

A gentle stroll to the Latak Waterfall

For those seeking a brief but memorable hike in Lambir Hills National Park, the Latak Waterfall Trail offers an ideal escape into nature. This easy 1.2 km trail is perfect for families, beginners, or anyone with limited time, providing an immersive rainforest experience without needing a lengthy trek. The journey to Latak Waterfall typically takes about 25 minutes one way, but you may want to pause frequently to take in the sights and sounds of the Borneo jungle.

The trail begins at the park headquarters and meanders through a lush tropical forest, where towering trees provide ample shade and offer relief from the heat and humidity. The path is well-maintained and stable, making it accessible for most visitors, including those with children or less hiking experience. The creek line runs alongside much of the trail, and the soothing sound of flowing water accompanies you throughout the journey, enhancing the tranquillity of the rainforest setting.

As you walk, you’ll encounter two smaller waterfalls that serve as a delightful preview of what’s to come. These smaller cascades offer scenic spots to pause, take photos, or enjoy the natural beauty. Suppose you’re visiting during the wet season. In that case, the water flow is powerful, creating an even more impressive spectacle as the rainforest comes alive with the vibrant sounds and sights of the water crashing over the rocks.

After an enjoyable walk, you’ll arrive at the highlight of the trail, the Latak Waterfall, a majestic 25-meter cascade. A large natural pool at the waterfall’s base is perfect for a refreshing swim after your hike. The pool is deep in some areas, so it’s essential to exercise caution, especially if you’re not a strong swimmer. Surrounding the waterfall, picnic areas provide a serene space to relax and enjoy a packed lunch or snack while enjoying the magnificent scenery. There are also basic amenities such as toilets nearby for convenience.

The Latak Trail is not just a hike; it’s an opportunity to experience the Borneo rainforest in a way that is accessible yet deeply rewarding. The short trail offers the perfect balance of rainforest immersion and a stunning destination, making it a must-visit for anyone heading to Lambir Hills National Park.

Highlights of the Latak Waterfall Trail

Short and Accessible: The 1.2 km trail is ideal for those who are short on time. It offers a memorable rainforest hike that typically takes 25 minutes to reach the waterfall.
Family-Friendly: With stable and well-maintained pathways, this trail is perfect for families and casual hikers, providing an easy and safe journey through the rainforest.
Creek-Side Walk: The trail follows a creek for much of the hike, with the soothing sound of flowing water enhancing the tranquil atmosphere.
Two Smaller Waterfalls: Before reaching the main attraction, hikers can enjoy the sights of two smaller waterfalls, offering scenic stops.
Majestic Latak Waterfall: The trail culminates at the stunning 25-meter Latak Waterfall, where a large natural pool invites visitors for a refreshing swim.
Picnic Areas and Basic Facilities: Visitors can relax at nearby picnic spots and use basic amenities such as toilets after enjoying the waterfall.
Best During Wet Season: Visiting during the rainy season makes the waterfalls even more impressive, with a more robust flow that brings the rainforest alive

A boutique waterfall onwards to Latak Falls.

The Wildlife of Lambir Hills

Lambir Hills National Park is known for its incredible biodiversity, making it a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. The park is part of the Borneo rainforest, one of the most biodiverse ecosystems on the planet. While hiking, you may encounter various wildlife species, including mammals, birds, insects, and reptiles.

Notable Wildlife in Lambir Hills:

Primates: Gibbons and long-tailed macaques are commonly spotted swinging through the trees. These agile primates are a delightful sight as they move through the canopy.
Birds: The park is home to more than 230 bird species, making it a bird-watching paradise. You may see hornbills, woodpeckers, and various other colourful birds.
Insects and Butterflies: The park is rich in insect life, including various species of butterflies, which add vibrant colours to the forest. You might also come across unique beetles and ants.
Reptiles and Amphibians: In the forest, you may encounter tree frogs, lizards, and even snakes. Amphibians make themselves known after rainfall, filling the air with their calls.
Mammals: Though harder to spot due to their nocturnal nature, small mammals like flying squirrels and civet cats are part of the park’s wildlife. Occasionally, you may see deer or other small ground mammals.

The rainforest’s complex ecosystem, including its towering dipterocarp trees and thick undergrowth, provides the perfect habitat for many species. It’s worth keeping an eye and ear out as you explore, as many animals are more easily heard than seen due to the dense foliage.

Latak Warefall.

The Lambir Hills Hiking Trails

Lambir Hills National Park offers a variety of trails, each catering to different levels of hiking experience and interests. Whether you’re looking for a stroll to soak in nature or a more challenging trek with rewarding views and waterfalls, there’s a trail for you. Here are some of the best trails in Lambir Hills National Park:

1. Latak Waterfall Trail

Distance: 1.2 km (one way)
Difficulty: Easy
Highlights: The Latak Waterfall trail is the park’s most popular and beginner-friendly. It leads through lush jungle scenery to the stunning Latak Waterfall, where you can relax, swim, or enjoy a picnic. The path is well-marked and relatively easy, perfect for families or those looking for a quick, rewarding walk.

2. Nibong Waterfall Trail

Distance: 3.4 km (round trip)
Difficulty: Moderate
Highlights: A bit more challenging than the Latak Trail, the Nibong Waterfall Trail offers a longer hike through diverse vegetation. You’ll encounter more dense forest as you reach the smaller yet beautiful Nibong Waterfall. It’s less crowded than Latak, providing a more peaceful experience.

3. Pantu Trail

Distance: 6.1 km (round trip)
Difficulty: Moderate
Highlights: For those seeking more adventure, the Pantu Trail takes you through steeper park sections with a higher elevation. This trail offers excellent views of the surrounding forest canopy and ends at a viewpoint that rewards hikers with panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape. While the trail is moderately challenging, it’s worth it for the scenery.

4. Bukit Lambir Summit Trail

Distance: 12 km (round trip)
Difficulty: Hard
Highlights: The Bukit Lambir Summit Trail is the most challenging route in the park, ideal for seasoned hikers. This trail leads you to the summit of Bukit Lambir (Lambir Hill), standing at 465 meters above sea level. It’s a tough hike with steep sections, but the payoff is the breathtaking view from the top, where you can see the endless expanse of the rainforest stretching out in all directions.

5. Inoue Trail

Distance: 3.1 km (round trip)
Difficulty: Moderate
Highlights: This trail is named after a Japanese botanist and is known for its biodiversity. As you hike along the Inoue Trail, you’ll pass through rich jungle terrain where you can spot various plant species and possibly even some wildlife. This trail balances a manageable hike and the opportunity to observe the park’s unique flora and fauna.

6. Lepoh-Ridan Trail

Distance: 9.2 km (round trip)
Difficulty: Hard
Highlights: The Lepoh-Ridan Trail is a longer, more strenuous trek that offers hikers a deeper immersion into the heart of the jungle. It’s an excellent option for those wanting to experience the park’s more remote areas, with a mix of forests, streams, and smaller waterfalls along the way.

Tips for Hiking in Lambir Hills National Park:

Start Early: The trails can get quite humid later in the day, so it’s best to start early to avoid the heat.
Bring Enough Water: The tropical climate can be draining, especially on the longer or more challenging trails, so stay hydrated.
Wear Proper Footwear: Some trails can be steep and slippery, especially after rain, so sturdy shoes with good grip are essential.
Watch for Wildlife: The park is home to many animals, including gibbons, flying squirrels, and hornbills, so look for wildlife sightings.
Plan for Rain: The rainforest can be unpredictable, so it’s a good idea to carry a rain jacket or poncho.

These trails offer a variety of experiences, from accessible waterfall walks to more challenging climbs with rewarding views. No matter your level of hiking experience, Lambir Hills National Park has something for every adventurer.

Which way will you go in Lambir Borneo Rainforest

The Best Time to Visit the Lambir Hills National Park in Miri, Sarawak

The best time to visit Lambir Hills National Park is during the dry season, which runs from March to October. During this time, the weather is generally more predictable, with fewer rain showers, making the trails less muddy and slippery and hiking more enjoyable. The dry season also provides ideal conditions for swimming in the park’s waterfalls and enjoying scenic views.

However, if you want to experience the waterfalls at their most spectacular, visiting during the early wet season (typically November to February) is also an excellent option. During this period, the rainforest is lush and vibrant, and the waterfalls have a more robust flow, though be prepared for occasional rain showers and slightly more challenging trail conditions(

For the best of both worlds, visiting in early March or late October can balance good weather and vibrant waterfall flows without the intensity of the rainy season.

Show respect and keep the National Park clean of rubbish.

A Conclusion to a Day Hiking at Lambir Hills National Park.

Lambir Hills National Park is a must-visit destination for those seeking an immersive experience in the heart of Borneo’s rainforest. With trails ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes and stunning natural attractions like the Latak Waterfall, it offers something for everyone, regardless of their hiking experience. The park’s rich biodiversity, serene atmosphere, and lush tropical surroundings make it a perfect escape for nature lovers. Visiting during the dry season from March to October ensures pleasant hiking conditions. Still, if you’re keen to see the waterfalls at their fullest, the early wet season can provide a more dramatic experience.

Ultimately, Lambir Hills is an ideal destination for a day trip from Miri City, providing a refreshing change of pace from the coastal attractions and urban environment. Whether you come for a short stroll to Latak Waterfall or to explore the park’s more challenging trails, the experience is guaranteed to leave a lasting impression. Plan your transport and pack appropriately for the tropical conditions to make the most of your adventure in this beautiful part of Sarawak.

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