Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Bring a first-aid kit and a torch/flashlight.
The Pinnacles
(per person RM325)
The Pinnacles are an incredible formation of 45m-high stone spires
protruding from the forested flanks of Gunung Api. Getting there involves a boat ride
(you can stop off at Wind Cave and Clearwater Cave for a fee of RM20) and, between two
overnights at Camp 5, an unrelentingly steep 2.4km ascent; the final section - much more
gruelling than anything on Mt Kinabalu - involves some serious clambering and some
rope and ladder work. Coming down is just as taxing so when you stagger into Camp 5, a
swim in the cool, clear river may look pretty enticing. The trail passes through some gor-
geous jungle.
Bring shoes that will give you traction on sharp and slippery rocks, bedding (many
people find that a sarong is warm enough at Camp 5) and enough food (eg instant
noodles) for six meals. Cooking equipment and gas stoves are available at Camp 5, home
- recent climbers report - to lots of stinging bees.
TREKKING
Gunung Mulu Summit
(per person RM385, with a porter RM475)
The climb to the summit of Gunung Mulu
(2376m) - described recently by one satisfied ascendee as 'gruelling' and, near the top,
'treacherous' - is a classic Borneo adventure. If you're very fit and looking for real ad-
venture, this 24km trek may be for you.
Bring proper hiking shoes, a sleeping bag (Camp 4 can get quite chilly), a sleeping pad
(unless you don't mind sleeping on wooden boards), rain gear (some groups end up hav-
ing rain the whole way) and enough food for four days. The camps along the way have
very basic cooking equipment, including a gas stove. Bring water-purification tablets if
you're leery of drinking the rainwater collected at shelters en route. Near the summit you
may spend much of your time inside clouds; a fleece jacket is the best way to ward off the
damp and cold. Recent trekkers report having been visited by rats at Camp 3 and by squir-
rels who were 'keen on noodles' at Camp 4. The trip takes four days and three nights.
TREKKING
Headhunters' Trail
The physically undemanding Headhunters' Trail is a backdoor route from Mulu to Lim-
bang and can be done in either direction, although most people start at the park. The route
is named after the Kayan war parties that used to make their way up the Sungai Melinau
from the Baram area to the Melinau Gorge, then dragged their canoes overland to the Sun-
gai Terikan to raid the peoples of the Limbang region.
TREKKING
