Many of Kuching’s most exciting destinations are beyond the city center. Activities favor nature and eco-tourism, as the island of Borneo is famous for its rich ecosystems from mountains to valleys, forests, and even coral reefs. While visitors in cosmopolitan mode can roam the buzzing waterfront for dining, shopping, and late-night entertainment.
Semenggoh Nature Reserve
This nature reserve is famed for protecting one of Borneo’s most endangered species – the orangutan. Twenty kilometers south of Kuching, the reserve is home to a colony of orangutans who can interact with humans. Established in 1975 as a sanctuary, it has a mind-blowing population of residents including ones unique to Borneo, such as giant squirrels, gibbons and hundreds of bird species. A paradise for lovers of the outdoors, visitors can glimpse rare flora and fauna that thrive in the wild.
Address: KM 20, Jalan Puncak Borneo, 93250, Kuching
Phone: +6082 – 618 325
Operating Hours:
– Daily: 8:00 am – 10:00 am, 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Admission Cost:
Locals
– Below 6yrs old: Free
– 6 – 7yrs old: RM2
– Adults: RM5
– Senior citizens & Special needs: RM3
Foreigners
– Below 6yrs old: Free
– 6 – 7yrs old: RM5
– Adults: RM10
– Special needs: RM5
Website
Kuching Waterfront
A hit with locals and tourists in Kuching, the waterfront is flanked by a 900-meter-long esplanade parallel with the Sarawak river. Food stalls, restaurants, shops and more pack the walkway. Besides the swirl of flavors and shopping delights, the waterfront is studded with original colonial-style architecture. Live entertainment floods the amphitheater and streets after sunset. Evenings light up with traditional music, while the Darul Hana Musical fountain completes the festive mood.
Address: Waterfronts, 93000, Kuching
Phone: N/A
Operating Hours:
– 24 hours daily
Admission Cost:
– Free of charge
Website
Mount Santubong & Santubong National Park
Located 35 kilometers to the north of Kuching, the Santubong National Park is a popular day excursion for visitors. At a height of 810 meters, Mount Santubong looms over local villages as well as the Sarawak Culture Village attraction. Intrepid explorers can hike Mount Santubong on a trail crossed by local animal species including monkeys and hornbills. The park is well-liked for its hiking routes within varying degrees of difficulty. The trails are well maintained and usually safe for hikers of all fitness levels.
Address: Q100-2, Santubong, 93050 Kuching
Phone: +6011 – 6573 0730
Operating Hours:
– Daily: 8:00 am – 5:00 pm
Admission Cost:
– Free of charge
Website
