Sarawak Travel Guide

Planning a trip to Sarawak, Malaysia? Check out this comprehensive travel guide featuring attractions, activities, food, culture, and logistics.


Introduction to Sarawak

Sarawak is a beautiful state located in Malaysia, on the island of Borneo. It is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, lush rainforests, and stunning natural beauty. This travel guide will introduce you to some of the best places to visit in Sarawak, along with useful information on things to do, food, local culture and customs, safety, and logistics.

List of Places to Visit in Sarawak

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Sarawak is home to several museums and historical places that are culturally significant and worth visiting. Some of the most popular ones include:

  • Sarawak Museum: One of the oldest museums in Borneo, showcasing the history and culture of Sarawak through artifacts, photographs, and dioramas.
  • Kuching Waterfront: A picturesque area along the Sarawak River with historical landmarks, shopping, and dining options.
  • Fort Margherita: A fortress built in 1879 by Charles Brooke, the second White Rajah of Sarawak, which now houses a museum.
  • Astana: Built by the second White Rajah, this palace is now the official residence of the Governor of Sarawak and is open for tours.
  • Sarawak Cultural Village: A living museum that showcases the cultural and ethnic diversity of Sarawak, including traditional houses, dances, and handicrafts.

Natural Attractions of Sarawak: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Sarawak boasts a wealth of natural attractions that are sure to impress travelers seeking outdoor adventures and scenic views. Some of the most popular ones include:

  • Bako National Park: Known for its rugged landscapes, rainforests, and wildlife such as proboscis monkeys and hornbills.
  • Gunung Mulu National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its limestone karst formations, caverns, and the world’s largest cave chamber.
  • Semenggoh Nature Reserve: A sanctuary for orangutans that were rescued or orphaned, where visitors can watch them interact and feed.
  • Kubah National Park: A popular destination for hiking and trekking, with waterfalls, caves, and diverse flora and fauna.
  • Santubong Peninsula: A picturesque region with beaches, forests, and historic landmarks such as the Sarawak Cultural Village and the Santubong Fishing Village.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Sarawak

Sarawak offers diverse terrain and trails that are ideal for hiking or mountain biking. Some of the most popular ones include:

  • Mount Santubong: A challenging hike that rewards visitors with stunning views of the coastline and rainforest.
  • Gunung Gading National Park: A popular destination for hikers and nature lovers, with the world’s largest flower, the Rafflesia, and several trails.
  • Damai Beach: A scenic coastal path that offers a relaxing stroll by the sea with beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Kuching Wetlands National Park: A nature reserve with a network of trails that meander through mangroves, ponds, and forests.

Best Things to Do in Sarawak: Activities and Tours

There are plenty of things to do in Sarawak, ranging from cultural experiences to outdoor adventures. Some of the best activities and tours include:

  • River cruises along the Sarawak River or the Kinabatangan River, where visitors can see wildlife such as Asian elephants, crocodiles, and proboscis monkeys.
  • Visiting local markets to see the vibrant and diverse local produce and handicrafts, such as the Sunday Market in Kuching.
  • Exploring the culinary scene of Sarawak, with a mix of Chinese, Malay, and indigenous influences that give rise to unique and flavorful dishes.
  • Visiting a traditional longhouse, a communal dwelling of the indigenous tribes of Sarawak, to learn about their culture and way of life.
  • Participating in a batik-making workshop, a traditional fabric-dyeing technique that produces colorful and intricate designs.

Week-Long Itinerary for Sarawak

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Sarawak, here’s a sample itinerary that covers some of the best attractions and activities:

Day 1: Arrive in Kuching and explore the city, visiting landmarks such as the Sarawak Museum and Kuching Waterfront.

Day 2: Visit Bako National Park, hiking through the rainforest and spotting wildlife such as proboscis monkeys and macaques.

Day 3: Take a guided tour of the Sarawak Cultural Village, where you can experience traditional dances, music, and crafts of the different indigenous tribes of Sarawak.

Day 4: Explore the Gunung Mulu National Park, taking a guided tour of the famous caves, including the Deer Cave and the Clearwater Cave.

Day 5: Visit Semenggoh Nature Reserve, where you can watch the orangutans and other wildlife interact and feed.

Day 6: Take a river cruise along the Kinabatangan River, observing the diverse wildlife and admiring the beautiful scenery.

Day 7: Relax on the beaches of the Santubong Peninsula, soaking up the sun and enjoying the coastal views.

Food and Drink Scene of Sarawak

Sarawak’s culinary scene is a reflection of its diverse cultural heritage. Some of the must-try dishes and local beverages include:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Sarawak laksa: A spicy and tangy noodle soup with prawns, chicken, and bean sprouts.
  • Kolo mee: Dry-tossed egg noodles with minced pork, meatballs, and shallots, often served with chili sauce and vinegar.
  • Sarawak kek lapis: A layered cake with vibrant colors and intricate patterns, made with butter, eggs, and flour.
  • Midin: A type of fern found only in Sarawak, usually stir-fried with garlic and chili.

Local Beverages

  • Teh C Peng: A layered drink of tea, evaporated milk, and palm sugar syrup, served over ice.
  • Kek Batik: A sweet chocolate biscuit cake with Marie biscuits, condensed milk, and cocoa powder.
  • Tuak: A fermented rice wine made from glutinous rice, yeast, and sugar, often served during festivals and celebrations.

Where to Stay in Sarawak: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Sarawak offers a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. Some of the most popular ones include:

  • Hilton Kuching: A luxurious hotel located in the heart of Kuching, with excellent facilities and stunning views of the river.
  • One Hotel Santubong: A beachfront resort in the Santubong Peninsula, offering cottages and chalets with sea views.
  • Borneo Highlands Resort: A secluded hilltop retreat with eco-lodges, a golf course, and surrounding rainforest.
  • Singgahsana Lodge: A budget option in Kuching’s Chinatown, with dorms and private rooms, a rooftop bar, and a friendly atmosphere.

What to Buy in Sarawak: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Sarawak offers a wealth of souvenirs and local products that make for great keepsakes or gifts. Some of the best ones include:

  • Sarawak pepper: Known as the “King of Spices,” Sarawak pepper is a high-quality pepper that is renowned for its aroma and flavor.
  • Pua Kumbu: A traditional Iban cloth with intricate designs, often used for ceremonial purposes.
  • Orang Ulu Crafts: Handicrafts made by the Orang Ulu people, such as woven baskets, beadwork, and wood carvings.
  • Sarawak pottery: Ceramic wares with intricate designs inspired by local flora and fauna.

Local Culture and Customs of Sarawak

Sarawak is home to several ethnic groups and indigenous tribes, each with their own unique culture, traditions, and beliefs. Visitors are advised to respect the local customs, including:

  • Removing shoes before entering homes or temples.
  • Covering up when visiting religious sites or during festivals.
  • Asking for permission before taking photos of people or their belongings.
  • Avoiding pointing with the feet or touching someone’s head.

Best Time to Visit Sarawak

Sarawak’s climate is tropical, with a monsoon season from November to February. The best time to visit is from March to September, when the weather is generally dry and pleasant. However, visitors should be aware of peak season during June to August, when prices can be higher and crowds can be larger.

Do’s and Don’ts of Sarawak

Do:

  • Learn some basic Bahasa Malaysia phrases, such as “terima kasih” (thank you) or “sila” (please).
  • Respect the local customs and traditions.
  • Try the local food and beverages.
  • Bargain at markets or street vendors.
  • Dress comfortably and appropriately for the weather and activities.

Don’t:

  • Disrespect the local culture or beliefs.
  • Carry illegal drugs or weapons.
  • Eat or drink in public during Ramadan or other religious festivals.
  • Wear revealing or provocative clothing at religious sites or public areas.

Safety and Health

Safety in Sarawak

Sarawak is generally a safe destination for travelers. However, visitors are advised to take common-sense precautions, such as:

  • Keeping valuables and passports in a safe place.
  • Being aware of pickpockets in crowded areas.
  • Avoiding dark or isolated areas at night.
  • Taking licensed taxis or transportation.
  • Checking the latest news and updates on the local situation.

Health in Sarawak

Visitors should take precautions against mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue fever and malaria by using insect repellent and wearing long-sleeved clothing. Travelers are also advised to get vaccinated against typhoid, hepatitis A and B, and rabies, depending on their activities.

Getting to Sarawak: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Sarawak

The main airport in Sarawak is Kuching International Airport (KCH), which offers domestic and international flights. Other airports in Sarawak include Sibu Airport (SBW), Miri Airport (MYY), and Bintulu Airport (BTU).

Bus Stations Near Sarawak

Kuching Sentral is the main bus station in Kuching, serving domestic destinations and neighboring countries such as Brunei. Other bus stations in Sarawak include Sibu Bus Terminal, Miri Bus Station, and Bintulu Bus Terminal.

Other Options

Visitors can also arrive by ferry from neighboring countries such as Brunei or Indonesia, or by road from other parts of Malaysia.

How to Get Around in Sarawak

Sarawak offers several transportation options for visitors, including taxis, buses, and rental cars. Visitors can also take river cruises or charter boats for transportation and sightseeing purposes, especially in areas inaccessible by land.

Where to Go Next from Sarawak: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Sarawak offers several nearby destinations and excursions worth exploring, such as:

  • Brunei: A small sultanate located on the northern coast of Borneo, known for its Islamic culture, opulent architecture, and lush rainforests.
  • Sabah: Another Malaysian state located on the northern coast of Borneo, famous for Mount Kinabalu and its diverse culture and cuisine.
  • Kalimantan: The Indonesian part of Borneo, offering unique cultures, wildlife, and landscapes such as the Tanjung Puting National Park and the Dayak tribes.
  • Labuan: A Malaysian federal territory located off the coast of Sabah, known for its duty-free shopping, diving sites, and World War II history.

Conclusion

Sarawak is a truly fascinating and stunning destination that offers a wealth of attractions, activities, and experiences for visitors. From its rich cultural heritage to its natural wonders, from its delicious cuisine to its friendly people, Sarawak is a must-visit destination that will leave a lasting impression on any traveler.

James Brooke, the first White Rajah James Brooke, the first White Rajah Foreign visitors to Sarawak receive a Sarawak passport stamp, even if coming from elsewhere in Malaysia Foreign visitors to Sarawak receive a Sarawak passport stamp, even if coming from elsewhere in Malaysia Umai Umai Variety of Sarawak delicacies Variety of Sarawak delicacies


    Bako National Park
    Bintangor
    Bintulu
    Gunung Mulu National Park
    Igan
    Kelabit Highlands
    Kubah National Park
    Kuching
    Lawas
    Miri
    Rejang River
    Santubong
    Simunjan