Tawau is the third largest city in Sabah, located on the east coast of the state. It's a popular stopover destination for tourists heading to or returning from Semporna.
From the city centre there's a mountain range in the distance. Within this mountainous region lays Tawau Hills Park, a national park which covers almost 29,000ha of protected primary rainforest. The headquarters of this park is only around one hours drive from the airport along good roads, making it a convenient place to visit. The volcanic mountains in this park are crowned by three tall peaks – Mt. Magdalena, Mt. Lucia, and Mt. Maria. Calming streams and tranquil waterfalls flow down this hilly terrain. Other than the topography, the rainforest and biodiversity of Tawau Hills Park are actually almost identical to the more renowned Danum Valley. Tawau Hills Park and Danum Valley are part of the same rainforest network but unfortunately agricultural activities has severed and cut off Tawau Hills Park’s forest connection to Danum Valley.
Budget Lodges
Unlike expensive private lodges, Tawau Hills Park offers a budget-friendly, back-to-nature experience, located just an hour from Tawau City. By joining this tour, you’re not just exploring the rainforest — you’re directly supporting local conservation efforts, wildlife research, and habitat protection. Perfect for eco-travellers, wildlife enthusiasts, and adventurers who don’t mind roughing it out, this journey offers an immersive, meaningful, and truly wild Borneo experience.
Reseach Center at Tawau Hills Park
