Immersive Journeys into Batang Ai’s Rainforest and Iban Heritage
Reachable only by longtail boat, Batang Ai offers a rare opportunity to step into a world where emerald waters meet untouched jungle and tradition lives on.
A Lake with a Hidden Story
Formed in the 1980s, Batang Ai’s vast reservoir is still dotted with treetops poking above the surface — silent markers of the flooded valley beneath. The scenery is otherworldly, framed by thick forest and home to thriving biodiversity.
Longtail Adventures and River Skills
Boat rides here are more than transport — they’re an adventure. Navigating boulder-strewn rivers, your Iban guide expertly steers around obstacles, revealing nature’s raw beauty at every bend.
Encountering the Iban Way of Life
In the villages deep within the jungle, visitors are welcomed into traditional longhouses. Enjoy a shared meal, observe age-old customs, and gain insight into the Iban people’s enduring culture and hospitality.
Speak to someone who's been there
This sample itinerary will give you an idea of what is possible when you travel in Batang Ai, and showcases routes we know work particularly well. Treat this as inspiration, because your trip will be created uniquely by one of our specialists.
Borneo ⟩ Kuching
Borneo ⟩ Kota Kinabalu
Borneo ⟩ Kinabatangan River
Borneo ⟩ Kinabalu National Park
Borneo ⟩ Kapalai Island
Borneo ⟩ Gaya Island
Borneo ⟩ Garama Wetlands
Borneo ⟩ Deramakot Forest Reserve
Borneo ⟩ Danum Valley
Borneo ⟩ Batang Ai
Borneo ⟩ Bako National Park
Our expert guides to exploring Batang Ai
Written by our specialists from their own experiences of visiting Batang Ai, these guides will help you make the most of your time there. We share both our practical recommendations and the best ways to appreciate Batang Ai at its best.
