What to Expect at Orou Sapulot: A First-Timer's Guide

What to Expect at Orou Sapulot: A First-Timer's Guide

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It is not a resort. It is not a glamping site. Orou Sapulot is a real, living Murut community deep in the interior of Sabah, and the experience of being here is unlike anything most travellers have encountered before. No shopping malls, no Wi-Fi, no traffic. Just the river, the rainforest, and the people who have called this land home for generations.

Here is what to expect.

Day 1: Arrival and the River

Your journey into Orou Sapulot begins at Keningau town, where our team meets you and transfers you by private 4x4 to Labang Village in Sapulot. From there, the road ends and the adventure begins.

You board a traditional longboat and cruise up the Sapulot River to Pungiton Eco-Camp, where lunch will be waiting. After settling in, you take a short jungle trek to explore the multi-leveled Pungiton Caves, a sacred site to the Murut people and home to extraordinary rock formations and cave fauna.

That night, you sleep at Pungiton Eco-Camp to the sound of the river and the insects of the rainforest. No air conditioning. No noise except nature. It takes most guests about ten minutes to fall in love with it.

Day 2: Batu Punggul and the Hidden Waterfall

After breakfast, you depart by river again, heading deeper into the primary rainforest toward the legendary Batu Punggul. This 800-foot limestone outcrop rises dramatically from the jungle floor and is considered one of the most spectacular natural landmarks in all of Sabah.

The trek to its base takes around 45 minutes through untouched jungle. For the adventurous, there is the option to free-climb the rock face itself for a view of the rainforest canopy that you will not forget.

After a picnic lunch by the riverbanks, you are transferred to Vangkaakon Hidden Waterfall for a swim in one of the most secluded natural pools in Borneo. That evening, you camp at Vangkaakon, falling asleep to the sound of the falls.

Day 3: River Rapids, the Farm and Cultural Night

This is the day that surprises most guests.

The morning begins with an exhilarating longboat ride downstream toward the Kalimantan border, shooting through rapids navigated by boatmen who have spent their entire lives on this river. It is as thrilling as it sounds.

From there, you are transferred to MunorAulai Guesthouse at Romol Eco Village. After checking in, you explore the MunorAulai Integrated Farm, where you learn about regenerative and sustainable farming practices that have sustained this community for centuries.

The evening belongs to the community. Local villagers perform traditional Murut dances and music, and guests are warmly invited to join in. You will try Lihing, the traditional Murut rice wine served from jars through bamboo straws, and share a meal with your hosts.

This is the night most guests say they will remember forever.

Day 4: Farewell

Breakfast is served at 7.30am. Then it is time to say goodbye as you are transferred back to Keningau Tung-Ma Bus Terminal, carrying with you memories that no resort holiday could ever replicate.

What to Pack

Come prepared for the jungle. Bring trekking shoes, leech socks, a raincoat, insect repellent, sunscreen, a hat, swimming attire, a flashlight and cash (there is no ATM in Sapulot). Leave the laptop at home.

Who Is This Trip For?

Orou Sapulot is best suited for those who are curious, open-minded and moderately adventurous. You do not need to be an athlete. You need to be willing to step outside your comfort zone and into one of the most remarkable communities in Borneo.

Couples, small groups, families with older children and solo travellers are all very welcome.

Ready to Come?

We offer packages from 2D1N all the way to 7D6N, with everything included: meals, accommodation, activities, guides, transfers and community fees.

Browse our packages and book your trip

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