3D2N Kuching Eco-Tour: Bako National Park, Irrawaddy Dolphins & Sarawak Cultural Village with Cove 55

Adventure awaits as you embark on a journey to Sarawak’s oldest national park, a haven for nature lovers. Your day begins with a scenic 45-minute drive to Bako Fishing Village, the gateway to this ecological wonder. From here, set sail on a 30-minute boat cruise along the dramatic coastline, with the cool sea breeze refreshing your senses. A word of caution – keep your hands inside the boat, as some of the coastal vegetation is covered in sharp thorns. 

Upon arrival at Bako National Park, register at the Park’s Information Centre to gain insight into the park’s seven diverse ecosystems. Set off on an exhilarating trek through the mangrove forests, keeping a keen eye out for mudskippers darting across the shallows and brilliant blue fiddler crabs flaunting their oversized pincers. 

As you traverse the park’s trails, look out for Borneo’s unique wildlife, including Proboscis Monkeys swinging through the trees, Bearded Pigs foraging along the forest floor, and Silver Leaf Monkeys peering curiously from the canopy. 

After an immersive nature experience, transfer to Cove 55 for check-in and an overnight stay. 

Tucked at the base of Mount Santubong, Cove 55 is a luxurious boutique retreat where the lush rainforest meets the South China Sea. Once a private Iban family home, this sprawling villa has been transformed into an intimate sanctuary featuring 13 rooms, 2 suites, and 13 villas. Offering a perfect blend of ethnic elegance and modern sophistication, Cove 55 provides a tranquil haven where guests can unwind in comfort. 

Despite its secluded setting, Cove 55 is easily accessible. International travellers can fly into Kuching Airport with carriers such as AirAsia, Malaysia Airlines, and Singapore Airlines. From the airport, a scenic 30-minute drive along Jalan Sultan Tengah leads to this exclusive retreat. 

Cove 55 has earned multiple prestigious international luxury hotel awards, including: 

• Luxury Boutique Retreat – Continent of Asia (World Luxury Hotel Awards) 
• Unique Luxury Hotel of the Year – Malaysia (Luxury Travel Guide Awards, Asia & Australasia) 
• Recognition of Excellence – Rated 9/10 by Guests (Hotels Combined) 
• Certificate of Excellence (2020) (TripAdvisor) 

After breakfast, depart from Cove 55 and head to the Sarawak Cultural Village, an award-winning living museum located 24KM from Kuching City at the foothills of Mount Santubong. 

Immerse yourself in Sarawak’s rich cultural heritage as you step into this 17-acre village, home to around 150 residents showcasing daily traditional activities. Gain first-hand experience in arts, crafts, and indigenous games, and sample traditional delicacies prepared by the locals. Wander through the authentic longhouses of the Iban, Bidayuh, and Orang Ulu tribes, as well as the towering Melanau tall-house—each structure a living testament to Sarawak’s diverse ethnic heritage. 

A highlight of the visit is the spectacular multi-cultural dance performance in the village’s theatre, where vibrant costumes and rhythmic beats bring Sarawak’s traditions to life. 

Next, transfer to Santubong Jetty, where your 3-hour wildlife cruise begins. 

Board a boat at the Santubong Boat Club and journey along the Santubong and Salak Rivers, where the waterways are teeming with wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for the elusive Irrawaddy Dolphins, known for their distinctive rounded heads and found in rivers, estuaries, and coastal waters. 

Beyond dolphins, expect to spot estuarine crocodiles basking on the riverbanks, macaque monkeys swinging through the trees, and monitor lizards moving stealthily along the shoreline. The wetlands are also a paradise for bird enthusiasts, home to species like the White-Bellied Sea Eagle, White Egrets, Kingfishers, and Seagulls. 

For those opting for an evening cruise, witness the magical display of fireflies twinkling in the mangrove forests, a truly mesmerizing sight to end your day. 

Return to Santubong Jetty, followed by a comfortable transfer back to Cove 55 for another restful night. 

After a rejuvenating stay at Cove 55, check out and transfer to Kuching Airport, marking the end of your unforgettable Sarawak adventure.