The amazing Danum Valley

“FORESTS are the WORLD’s air conditioning system, the LUNGS of the PLANET and we are on the verge of switching it OFF ~ Prince Charles” Date: 18/11 – 21/11/2023 Lodge: Borneo Rainforest Lodge, Danum Valley 18/11/2023: The journey begins with the first flight from Kuching to Kota Kinabalu, followed by a connecting flight to Lahad Datu. Our time in Lahad Datu was incredibly short and rather uneventful, mainly due to the continuous rain throughout the day upon our arrival. We lodged at Grace Hotel, which proved to be suitable for our brief stay, offering a spacious room and convenient proximity to the airport just 5 minutes away driving. 19/11/2023: Our transportation to Danum Valley arrived at 8:25 am, and proceed to the lodge's Headquarters, not far from the airport, served as our briefing point for the journey to the lodge. They provided us with refillable bottles for our use during the stay. From Lahad Datu to Borneo Rainforest Lodge, it's a journey that involves half an hour on a paved road and two hours on a gravel path, featuring some enjoyable off-roading adventures. Credit goes to our driver, Mr. Aluwie, for his excellent driving skills. Along the way, have two designated toilet stops, both of which are kept clean and well-maintained. My joy soared as the main lodge came into view, and I particularly admired the open design of the building. The staff warmly greeted us, and the check-in process was efficient and swift. While awaiting the readiness of our room, we were treated to a delightful welcome drink and introduced to our guide for the duration of our stay, Mr. Sherwood. As our room wasn't prepared yet, we were invited to indulge in a lunch buffet. The full-board dining, inclusive in our package, was incredibly generous, ensuring we remained well-nourished throughout the entire three-day stay. Activity 1: Slide presentation at Conference Room and following with Afternoon Trek: Introduction to the forest through “Nature Trails”. 20/11/2023: Activity 2: Morning Jungle Trek: Hike to the burial site known as "Coffin Cliff" followed by a visit to the View Point for a panoramic bird’s-eye view of the surroundings. Afterward, descend to the "Jacuzzi Pool" for a rejuvenating foot dip. Activity 3: After lunch, we have EM mudballs class, this is a component of the lodge's commitment to environmentally friendly sewage management and the overall sustainability of the environment. Activity 4: After the class, we have river tubing down the Danum River. Activity 5: Night Drive in an open-top vehicle in search of nocturnal animal 21/11/2023: Activity 6: Morning Tree Top “Canopy Walkway” 300m in length and 27m at the height point providing a close-up observation of the rainforest. Undoubtedly, the canopy walk stands out as the highlight of this Danum Valley excursion. After breakfast, we have fun in a photoshoot at our chalet and enjoy a leisurely activity before lunch and check-out. Post-lunch, we head to Lahad Datu Airport. #cheapthrillsjg