In short
- Guides are strictly mandatory for all adventure caving.
- Minimum age requirements (12 or 16) apply to advanced routes.
- Cave tours cost an additional RM 35 to RM 70 on top of your pass.
In this article
Gunung Mulu National Park has over 295 kilometers of mapped cave passages. Beyond the boardwalks of the show caves, adventure caving tours take you into the unlit, challenging sections of the karst system. You must navigate these routes with an official park guide.
What are the adventure caving tours in Gunung Mulu?
You can explore unlit, advanced routes deeper inside the park's 295 mapped kilometers of passages.
These routes go beyond the paved paths of the standard show caves. Activities can involve climbing, crawling, and wading through underground rivers. Official guides are mandatory for every adventure caving group to ensure safety in the complex systems.
How much do adventure caving tours cost?
Adventure cave tours cost an additional RM 35 to RM 70 per person.
This fee is on top of the mandatory 5-day park pass. The pass costs RM 30 for foreign adults and RM 15 for Malaysian adults. You pay these fees directly at the park headquarters.
Are there age limits for adventure caving?
Yes, the park enforces minimum age requirements of either 12 or 16 years old.
The exact age limit depends on the specific cave route's difficulty. These rules ensure all participants have the physical capacity to safely complete the demanding underground treks.
What gear do you need for unlit caves?
A strong headlamp or torch is essential for all adventure caving.
You will also need lightweight dry bags to protect your electronics from water. Wear sturdy, non-slip hiking boots for solid grip on the wet limestone floors.
Can I go adventure caving without a guide?
No, independent exploration of the caves is strictly prohibited.
All cave tours and adventure activities require an official park guide. You must not stray from the marked paths or touch any cave formations during your tour.
What happens if I cannot finish the caving route?
There are no refunds if you turn back after leaving the Park Office.
This rule applies whether you stop due to low fitness levels, high water levels, or poor weather. Ensure you are physically prepared before booking an advanced route.
Questions travellers ask
Are tripods allowed in the caves?
Tripods are not permitted in the show caves without special permission from park management.
Do I need a permit for a drone?
Yes, flying drones or filming commercial video requires a special permit from the Sarawak Forestry Department.
Where do the adventure tours start?
All tours depart from the Park Headquarters. You can walk there directly from Mulu Airport (MZV) in about 20 minutes.
