Welcome to Sarawak, Malaysia’s largest state, where lush rainforests, vibrant cultures, and breathtaking natural wonders await! Nestled on the island of Borneo, Sarawak is a paradise for nature lovers, culture enthusiasts, and adventure seekers.
In 2025, Sarawak is set to shine even brighter, with a goal to welcome 5 million visitors, thanks to its diverse attractions and rich heritage. Whether you’re trekking through ancient jungles, exploring massive caves, or savouring local delicacies, Sarawak promises unforgettable experiences.
Let’s dive into the Sarawak best tourist spot to visit in 2025, complete with tips to make your trip seamless and memorable!
Why Visit Sarawak in 2025?
Sarawak is a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural diversity, and adventure. With 30 national parks, ancient caves, vibrant markets, and a rich tapestry of ethnic groups like the Iban, Bidayuh, and Orang Ulu, there’s something for everyone.
In 2025, Sarawak aims to hit a record 5 million visitors, building on its 4.6 million in 2019 and surpassing its 2024 target of 4 million. Events like the Rainforest World Music Festival (June) and Sarawak Regatta (fall) add a festive vibe, while the dry season (March to October) offers ideal weather for exploring. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, history buff, or foodie, Sarawak’s got you covered.
Top 10 Sarawak’s Best Tourist Spots for 2025
Here’s a curated list of Sarawak’s best tourist spots, packed with natural wonders, cultural gems, and adventure opportunities. Each destination is beginner-friendly, yet offers depth for seasoned travellers.
1. Bako National Park – A Wildlife Haven
Why Visit? Sarawak’s oldest and smallest national park, located 37 km from Kuching, is a biodiversity hotspot. Spot the iconic proboscis monkeys, bearded pigs, and monitor lizards while trekking through mangroves, lush forests, and dramatic cliffs. Its pristine beaches and unique rock formations are perfect for photography.
- Highlights: Trekking trails (easy to challenging), wildlife spotting, secluded beaches, and the famous sea stacks.
- Best Time: April to October for dry weather.How to Reach: A 45-minute boat ride from Kuching. Arrange through local tour operators.
- What to Focus: Bako National Park, proboscis monkeys, Sarawak wildlife.
Tips: Wear sturdy shoes, bring insect repellent, and consider an overnight stay for dawn/dusk wildlife spotting.
2. Gunung Mulu National Park – A UNESCO World Heritage Marvel
Why Visit? This UNESCO-listed park is home to the world’s largest cave chamber, the Mulu Caves, and stunning limestone pinnacles. Adventure seekers can explore vast cave networks, trek jungle trails, or walk the canopy skywalk, while the bat exodus at dusk is a mesmerizing sight.
- Highlights: Mulu Caves (Deer Cave, Clearwater Cave), Pinnacles trek, canopy walk, bat watching.
- Best Time: March to October for trekking and caving.
- How to Reach: Fly from Miri or Kuching to Mulu Airport, then a short transfer to the park.
- What to Focus: Gunung Mulu National Park, Mulu Caves, UNESCO site Sarawak.
Tips: Book guided tours in advance, as some caves require permits. Bring a torch for cave exploration.
3. Semenggoh Nature Reserve – Meet the Orangutans
Why Visit? Just 24 km from Kuching, this sanctuary is a must for wildlife lovers. Watch semi-wild orangutans during feeding sessions (9 AM and 3 PM) and learn about conservation efforts. The lush forest setting adds to the charm.
- Highlights: Orangutan feeding sessions, nature trails, botanical garden.
- Best Time: March to September for better viewing chances.
- How to Reach: A 30-minute drive from Kuching; taxis or guided tours are convenient.
- What to Focus: Semenggoh Nature Reserve, orangutan rehabilitation, Sarawak wildlife.
Tips: Arrive early for feeding sessions, keep quiet to respect the animals, and wear comfortable clothing.
4. Kuching Waterfront – The Heart of Sarawak’s Capital
Why Visit? Stretching 900 meters along the Sarawak River, this vibrant esplanade blends history and modernity. Admire colonial-era buildings, the iconic Astana, and Fort Margherita, or enjoy local food stalls and cultural performances.
- Highlights: River views, street art, Tua Pek Kong Temple, evening buskers.
- Best Time: Year-round, but evenings are magical with lights and music.
- How to Reach: Located in central Kuching, easily accessible by foot or taxi.
- What to Focus: Kuching Waterfront, Sarawak River, Kuching attractions.
Tips: Visit the nearby Sarawak Museum for a cultural deep dive and try Sarawak laksa at local stalls.
5. Niah National Park – A Journey Through Time
Why Visit? Explore ancient limestone caves with 40,000-year-old human remains and cave paintings. Located 120 km from Miri, Niah is perfect for history buffs and nature lovers, with rainforest treks and birdwatching opportunities.
- Highlights: Great Cave, Painted Cave, archaeological tours, Bukit Kasut Observation Centre.
- Best Time: March to October for dry trails.
- How to Reach: Drive or take a bus from Miri (2 hours).
- What to Focus: Niah Caves, Sarawak archaeological sites, Niah National Park.
Tips: Wear comfortable shoes for the 3-km trail to the caves and bring a flashlight for dark passages.
6. Sarawak Cultural Village – A Living Museum
Why Visit? Located at the foot of Mount Santubong, this “living museum” showcases Sarawak’s diverse ethnic groups (Iban, Bidayuh, Melanau, and more). Experience traditional longhouses, crafts, and cultural performances. Located at the foot of Mount Santubong, this “living museum” showcases Sarawak’s diverse ethnic groups (Iban, Bidayuh, Melanau, and more). Experience traditional longhouses, crafts, and cultural performances.
- Highlights: Cultural shows, replica longhouses, craft workshops.
- Best Time: Year-round; visit during the Rainforest World Music Festival (June) for extra vibrancy.
- How to Reach: 45-minute drive from Kuching, near Damai Beach.
- What to Focus: Sarawak Cultural Village, Borneo culture, Rainforest World Music Festival.
Tips: Try the blowpipe activity and sample local dishes like bamboo chicken.
7. Gunung Gading National Park – Home of the Giant Flower
Why Visit? See the world’s largest flower, the Rafflesia, in this park near Lundu. With lush trails, waterfalls, and diverse flora, it’s a nature lover’s dream.
- Highlights: Rafflesia blooms, jungle trekking, waterfalls.
- Best Time: Year-round, but check with park rangers for Rafflesia blooming times.
- How to Reach: 2-hour drive from Kuching.
- What to Focus: Gunung Gading National Park, Rafflesia flower, Sarawak nature.
Tips: Book a guided tour to locate Rafflesia flowers, and bring swimwear for waterfall dips.
8. Miri’s Coco Cabana – Sunset and Family Fun
Why Visit? This seaside spot in Miri is perfect for families, with playgrounds, bouncing castles, and stunning sunset views. The iconic seahorse lighthouse adds charm.
- Highlights: Sunset photography, weekly markets, child-friendly activities.
- Best Time: Evenings for sunsets; year-round for family outings.
- How to Reach: Central Miri, accessible by taxi or car.
- What to Focus: Coco Cabana Miri, Sarawak beaches, Miri attractions.
Tips: Visit the nearby Miri Handicraft Centre for souvenirs and try local snacks at the evening market.
9. Talang Satang National Park – Malaysia’s First Marine Park
Why Visit? This marine park near Kuching is a haven for endangered Green and Hawksbill turtles. Snorkel or dive to explore vibrant coral reefs and marine life.
- Highlights: Turtle conservation, snorkeling, diving.
- Best Time: March to October for calm seas.
- How to Reach: Boat from Kuching or Santubong.
- What to Focus: Talang Satang National Park, Sarawak marine life, turtle conservation.
Tips: Book through licensed operators for turtle-watching tours and respect marine conservation guidelines.
10. Sibu Central Market – A Foodie’s Paradise
Why Visit? One of Malaysia’s largest indoor markets, Sibu Central Market is a vibrant hub for local food, handicrafts, and culture. Try Sarawak laksa and browse unique souvenirs.
- Highlights: Sarawak laksa, local handicrafts, bustling atmosphere.
- Best Time: March to October; early mornings for fresh produce.
- How to Reach: Fly to Sibu Airport or drive from Kuching (6 hours).
- What to Focus: Sibu Central Market, Sarawak food, Sibu attractions.
Tips: Bargain politely for souvenirs and visit the nearby Tua Pek Kong Temple.
Cultural Experiences to Savor in Sarawak
Sarawak’s multicultural heritage, with 27 ethnic groups, makes it a cultural treasure trove. Here are must-do experiences:
- Rainforest World Music Festival (June 2025): Held at Sarawak Cultural Village, this globally acclaimed festival features world music, craft displays, and food stalls. Book tickets early!
- Sarawak Regatta (Fall 2025): Watch longboats race on the Sarawak River in Kuching, a tradition since 1872.
- Visit Longhouses: Stay in an Iban longhouse (e.g., Annah Rais or Batang Ai) for an authentic cultural immersion. Learn traditional crafts and enjoy local hospitality.
- Borneo Cultures Museum: Opened in 2022 in Kuching, this museum showcases over 1,000 artifacts of Sarawak’s indigenous heritage.
Tip: Respect local customs, such as removing shoes before entering longhouses, and ask permission before photographing people.
Adventure Activities in Sarawak
For thrill-seekers, Sarawak offers endless adventures:
- Jungle Trekking: Explore trails in Bako, Gunung Mulu, or Lambir Hills National Park for encounters with rare flora and fauna.
- Caving: Navigate the vast Mulu Caves or Fairy Cave near Kuching for a mix of adventure and history.
- River Cruises: Cruise the Sarawak or Salak River to spot fireflies, proboscis monkeys, or Irrawaddy dolphins.
- Diving and Snorkeling: Dive Miri’s coral reefs or Talang Satang’s marine park for vibrant underwater experiences.
Tip: Book guided tours for safety, especially for caving and diving, and check weather conditions.
Foodie Highlights in Sarawak
Sarawak’s cuisine is a delicious blend of Malay, Chinese, and indigenous flavors. Must-try dishes include:
- Sarawak Laksa: A spicy, tangy noodle soup popularized by Anthony Bourdain. Try it at Kuching’s waterfront stalls or Sibu Central Market.
- Kolo Mee: A light, flavorful noodle dish, perfect for a quick meal in Kuching.
- Manok Pansoh: Chicken cooked in bamboo, a traditional Dayak dish, available at Sarawak Cultural Village.
- Belacan Shrimp Paste: Sample this pungent delicacy in Bintulu.
Tip: Visit local markets like Satok Weekend Market in Kuching for fresh produce and street food.
Practical Travel Tips for Sarawak in 2025
Best Time to Visit: March to October for dry weather, ideal for outdoor activities. June and July are great for festivals.
Getting Around: Kuching and Miri have public buses and taxis. Rent a car for rural areas or book local tours. Domestic flights connect major towns like Kuching, Miri, and Sibu.
Accommodation: Options range from budget hostels to luxury resorts like Damai Beach Resort. Book early during peak seasons.
Safety: Sarawak is safe, but follow park guidelines, stay hydrated, and use sunscreen.
Budget Planning: Research attractions and set a budget to avoid overspending. Many parks have affordable entry fees, but guided tours may cost more.
Cultural Sensitivity: Dress modestly in villages and temples, and ask for permission before photographing locals.
Getting to Sarawak
By Air: Kuching International Airport and Miri Airport are the main gateways. Domestic flights from Kuala Lumpur, Penang, or Kota Kinabalu are frequent.
By Land/Water: Buses and boats connect remote areas, especially for river-based destinations like Batang Ai.
Why Sarawak Stands Out in 2025
Sarawak’s blend of natural wonders, cultural richness, and modern amenities makes it a top destination for 2025. With ambitious tourism goals, new infrastructure, and events like the Rainforest World Music Festival, it’s the perfect time to explore this Bornean gem. From the awe-inspiring Mulu Caves to the heartwarming orangutans of Semenggoh, Sarawak offers experiences that linger long after you leave.
So, pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to discover Sarawak’s best tourist spots in 2025! Have questions or need personalized travel tips? Let me know, and I’ll help you plan your dream adventure!
Note: For the latest updates on attractions, festivals, or bookings, check official sites like Sarawak Tourism, Tourism Malaysia.
