Affordable Danum Valley Field Centre

Written by Aleena Che Ramli

Discover the Heart of Borneo on a Budget

Danum Valley Field Centre (DVFC) is a perfect trip for your budget — an affordable way to discover and explore one of the best rainforests in Borneo. Nestled in the midst of the Danum Valley Conservation Area (DVCA), this fully equipped research facility was established in 1986 and has evolved into one of the foremost rainforest research establishments in Southeast Asia. Visited by both international and local scientists, Danum Valley Field Centre is not only a research hub, but also a field training centre for university students and a base for environmental education.

The meals and accommodation might be simple and basic, however a wide variety of trekking trails awaits to be explored and a multitude of incredible wildlife to be discovered. Squawking hornbills, macaques flying overhead, swaying orangutans and travelling packs of silver leaf monkeys are often seen during your treks, leading you to mesmerizing waterfalls, natural jacuzzi pools and ancient burial sites deep within the interior of Danum Valley. Exploring this part of Borneo will stay with you for a lifetime — so plan a perfect trip for your budget and discover the pristine primary rainforest of Borneo.

Getting There

Danum Valley Field Centre is approximately 80 km west of Lahad Datu town. It is accessible by road and takes around two hours to reach DVFC, situated within the Danum Valley Conservation Area. Covering 438 square kilometres of virgin lowland dipterocarp forest, it is the largest undisturbed area of rainforest in Malaysia and one of the world’s most complex ecosystems, classified as a Class I protected rainforest.

Most of the flora and fauna inhabiting this remote jungle have survived and thrived undisturbed for over 130 million years. Home to over 500 species of mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and birds, the area attracts naturalists, wildlife enthusiasts, and birdwatchers from around the world.

What to See and Do

Danum Valley Field Centre serves as both a research station and a base for visitors wanting to explore the spectacular Danum Valley Conservation Area. One of the best ways to experience wildlife here is from the canopy walks — several of which are located near the field centre. From the treetops, you can take in breathtaking views of the forest, watch monkeys swinging, and spot colourful tropical birds.

For those preferring to keep their feet on the ground, numerous rainforest trails are available for exploration. Watch hornbills soaring overhead, listen to the distant calls of primates, and perhaps catch a glimpse of sambar deer or sun bears in the treetops. Or simply relax on the cafeteria terrace, overlooking the rainforest and watching dozens of birds flutter by.

Accommodation Options

Accommodation at Danum Valley Field Centre is basic, simple, and clean — ideal for those wanting to explore Danum Valley on a budget. Here are the three types of accommodation available:

Chalet

• Twin bed
• Attached bathroom
• Air-conditioned
• Blanket, towel, tissue, and soap
• Refrigerator
• Water heater
• Cupboard
• Sofa
• Working table

Resthouse

• Twin bed
• Attached bathroom
• Ceiling fan
• Blanket, towel, tissue, and soap
• Cupboard
• Working table

Hostel

• Dormitory bunk beds
• Common bathroom
• Wall fan
• Blanket and towel

However, if you are looking for a more luxurious experience in the forest, we recommend staying at the nearby Borneo Rainforest Lodge.

Facilities and Amenities

Besides visitor accommodation, Danum Valley Field Centre has a wide range of facilities such as researchers’ quarters, laboratories, a computer room with broadband, a conference room, library, public telephone, multi-purpose hall, and cafeteria.

Danum Valley Field Centre is an affordable jungle adventure for those who are content with the bare necessities of clean and comfortable facilities — without skimping on the true rainforest and wildlife experience.

HAK’s World – formerly Bike and Tours

Return to the Danum Valley Field Centre — plan your stay, join guided treks, and experience Borneo’s pristine rainforest up close in Sabah’s iconic research and nature hub.

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