Danum Valley Conservation Area

Prior to may 1995, Danum Valley Conservation Area (DVCA) was an informal protected area in the Ulu Segama Forest Reserve of primary, undisturbed, predominantly lowland rainforest with an outstanding complement of Borneo flora and fauna. It was part of the almost one million ha forest concession assigned to Yayasan Sabah.

In 1976, WWF-malaysia suggested that the area be declared a national park. The Danum Valley Conservation Area (DVCA) is a 438 sq. km tract. However, Yayasan Sabah Board of Trustess resolved on November 28, 1980, to leave the area within Yayasan Sabah concession but shall leave it unlogged for the purpose of conservation. Thereafter it is known as "Danum Valley Conservation Area".

It was in 1986 that the Sabah Foundation was entrusted with the Danum Valley to be made as the Danum Valley Field Center which plays the role as the tropical research and environmental education station. The wonders of Danum Valley are not limited to researchers alone but can be accessed by the public as well. At about 35 kilometers from the Danum Valley Field Center is the Borneo Rainforest Lodge which was started in 1994 to cater to the visitors of Danum Valley.

Since Danum Valley is very isolated from modern civilization, the area is a real paradise for visitors. It would be the best experience ever to walk in the virgin forest of lowland dipterocarp. For people who love birdwatching, there is a 300 meter long and 27 meter high canopy walkway which allows visitors to watch various species of birds in the forest canopy. There are also magnificent scenery from the waterfalls and rivers in the Danum Conservation Area. These include the Sungai Purut 7-tiered pools which is one of the most amazing waterfalls that can be found in the conservation area.

Other than picturesque views of lush greenery and clear waters of the waterfalls and rivers, visitors can also visit the ancient Kadazandusun burial site which is complete with belian coffins and ceramic spirit jars. So far, three burial sites have been found in Danum Valley. Two of the sites are near the field center and the other is situated below the cliff, overlooking the Borneo Rainforest Lodge. Accommodations are limited at Danum Valley.

Getting There

One must get to Lahad Datu in order to reach the Danum Conservation Area. Since the conservation area is 70 kilometers from Lahad Datu, it will take about 2 hours to get there as a large portion of the journey will be on private logging road.

Attractions in Sabah