Gunung Mulu National Park Extension II

Gunung Mulu National Park Extension II is a protected area in Malaysia.

Gunung Mulu National Park Extension II at a Glance

Location
Sarawak, Malaysian Borneo, Malaysia, Southeast Asia
Coordinates
4.009272, 115.028694
IUCN Category
II
Crowds
Very Quiet
Malaria Risk
Moderate
Best Time to Visit
March to October for Peninsular Malaysia parks. Year-round for Borneo.

Getting to Gunung Mulu National Park Extension II

Nearest airport: Kota Belud Airport, 307 km away.

Big Five in Gunung Mulu National Park Extension II

1 of the Big Five can be found here: Rhinoceros Hornbill.

Wildlife in Gunung Mulu National Park Extension II

Home to 12 recorded species including 6 iconic birds, 2 tropical birds, 2 waterbirds, 2 birds of prey.

Notable Species

Similar Parks in Sarawak, Malaysian Borneo

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Malaysia

Travel advisory for Malaysia

Gunung Mulu National Park Extension II FAQs

What kind of visitor experience can I expect at Gunung Mulu National Park Extension II, particularly regarding crowd levels?

This extension offers an exceptionally intimate and tranquil safari experience due to its very low crowding level (1/5). You can anticipate more personal wildlife encounters and a deeper connection with nature, away from large tourist groups.

What unique wildlife can I hope to spot in Gunung Mulu National Park Extension II, distinguishing it from other Malaysian protected areas?

While specific to the Mulu region, this extension protects diverse Bornean rainforest ecosystems, offering chances to see endemic primates, unique bird species, and fascinating cave-dwelling fauna. Its status as a protected area ensures a rich biodiversity for keen observers.

When is the optimal time to visit Gunung Mulu National Park Extension II for the best wildlife viewing and weather conditions?

The drier months from March to October are generally considered best for visiting, offering clearer trails and more comfortable conditions for exploring. However, the park is accessible year-round, and the wet season can bring lush scenery and different wildlife activity.

What specific health precautions, particularly regarding malaria, should I take when planning a trip to Gunung Mulu National Park Extension II?

Given the moderate malaria risk, it is highly recommended to consult your doctor about antimalarial medication before your trip. Additionally, use insect repellent diligently, wear long sleeves and pants, and sleep under mosquito nets to minimize exposure.

What are the typical logistical considerations and costs for accessing Gunung Mulu National Park Extension II?

Access typically involves flying into Mulu Airport (MZV), often via Miri, followed by local transfers to the park entrance. While specific costs vary, expect to budget for flights, park entrance fees, and potentially guided tours to fully explore the extension's unique offerings.

Recommended Books

  • The Handbook of Bird Photography by Markus Varesvuo, Jari Peltomäki & Bence Máté - Excellent for birding photographers on safari - covers technique, equipment, fieldcraft, and post-processing with stunning example images.
  • Photographing Wildlife in Africa by Paolo Torchio - Practical guide specifically for African safari photography - camera settings, lens choices, composition techniques, and how to make the most of game drives.
  • Fodor's The Complete Guide to African Safaris by Fodor's Travel - Country-by-country planning guide with lodge reviews, practical logistics, packing lists, and insider tips. Often cited as the best all-in-one safari planning resource.
  • National Geographic Kids: Safari by National Geographic - Age-appropriate wildlife facts with stunning photographs. Great for getting children excited about the animals they'll see on safari.
  • The Last Elephants by Don Pinnock & Colin Bell - Conservation-focused book combining beautiful photography with urgent storytelling about the threats facing Africa's elephant populations.
  • Here Is the African Savanna by Madeleine Dunphy - Beautifully illustrated picture book about the savanna ecosystem. Teaches children about the interconnected web of life on an African plain.
  • Safari: A Photographic Journey by Art Wolfe - Large-format coffee-table book from one of the world's most celebrated nature photographers. Stunning images from across the African continent.
  • The Kingdon Field Guide to African Mammals by Jonathan Kingdon - The definitive mammal field guide for Africa covering over 1,150 species with detailed illustrations. Considered the gold standard for safari-goers and researchers alike.
  • The Behavior Guide to African Mammals by Richard Despard Estes - Goes beyond identification to explain why animals behave as they do. Essential reading for safari-goers who want to understand the wildlife they observe.
  • Remembering Lions by Various Photographers - Part of the acclaimed Remembering Wildlife conservation book series. Features contributions from world-class wildlife photographers, with proceeds supporting lion conservation.
  • African Animals ABC by Stella Blackstone & Petr Horacek - Simple alphabet book with bold, colourful animal illustrations. Perfect for toddlers and young children preparing for their first safari. Ages 2–5.
  • Beat About the Bush: Mammals by Trevor Carnaby - The single best book for understanding animal behaviour on safari. Explains why animals do what they do - feeding, mating, territory, predator-prey dynamics. Makes every game drive infinitely more rewarding.
  • Africa's Top Wildlife Countries by Mark W. Nolting - The most respected safari planning book in print. Detailed country-by-country guide covering parks, lodges, best times to visit, and what wildlife to expect. Updated regularly. The first book every safari planner should read.
  • The Safari Companion: A Guide to Watching African Mammals by Richard D. Estes - Part field guide, part planning tool. Explains mammal behaviour in a way that transforms game drives. Covers tracks, signs, social structures, and habitat preferences. A must-pack for serious safari-goers.
  • The Shadow of the Sun by Ryszard Kapuscinski - Widely considered the greatest book ever written about Africa. Kapuscinski spent 40 years reporting from across the continent. Vivid, poetic, and deeply insightful. Essential pre-safari reading for understanding the continent.
  • Elephant Company by Vicki Constantine Croke - The extraordinary true story of James Howard Williams and the elephants who helped him build bridges, extract teak, and ultimately rescue refugees across the Burmese jungle during WWII. Gripping and moving.
  • When the Last Lion Roars by Sara Evans - An urgent, accessible account of the African lion's decline from 200,000 to under 20,000 in a century. Covers the science, politics, and human stories behind lion conservation. Eye-opening pre-safari reading.
  • Ivory, Horn and Blood by Ronald Orenstein - The definitive book on the poaching crisis devastating African elephants and rhinos. Covers the criminal networks, the rangers fighting back, and what travellers can do. Important context for any safari visitor.
  • Last Chance to See by Douglas Adams & Mark Carwardine - Witty and heartbreaking tour of endangered species by the Hitchhiker's Guide author. Combines humour with urgent conservation messaging.
  • Owen and Mzee by Isabella Hatkoff, Craig Hatkoff & Paula Kahumbu - True story of an orphaned hippo befriending a 130-year-old tortoise in Kenya. A heartwarming tale of unlikely friendship that teaches empathy.
  • Remembering Elephants by Various Photographers - Stunning coffee-table book from the Remembering Wildlife series. All proceeds go to elephant conservation - beautiful photography with a purpose.
  • Whatever You Do, Don't Run by Peter Allison - Hilarious memoir from a Botswana safari guide - true stories from the bush that will have you laughing out loud. A favourite among safari enthusiasts.
  • Poached by Rachel Love Nuwer - Gripping investigation into the illegal wildlife trade - from African poaching networks to Asian markets. Essential reading for understanding the threats to safari wildlife.
  • Safari Nation by Jacob S. T. Dlamini - Fascinating history of South Africa's national parks and their complex colonial legacy. Academic but accessible - changes how you think about safari tourism.
  • Safari: A Photicular Book by Dan Kainen & Carol Kaufmann - Mesmerising book with moving photographic images of African animals. Kids and adults love the magical moving pictures - perfect pre-trip gift.