Danum Valley Field Centre is a research and conservation area located in Sabah, Malaysia. It serves as a base for both researchers and scientists to study the various flora and fauna that call Danum Valley home. Established in 1986, it is one of the leading research and field centers in Southeast Asia, fully equipped with laboratories, living quarters, dorms, and a cafeteria, among other facilities to cater to scientists. The field center is designed for research purposes and thus, facilities provided are at the most basic. However, over the years, the center has opened its doors to keen naturalists and independent travelers who want to be involved in the studies conducted there.
Visitors to the centre can engage in various activities, including hiking and trekking, wildlife watching, birdwatching, night safari, research and education, and relaxation and rejuvenation. With over 270 species of birds and a diverse array of wildlife, including the Bornean Orangutan, Pygmy Elephant, and Sumatran Rhinoceros, Danum Valley is a paradise for nature enthusiasts.
Please note that electricity is only available from 6am to 11pm. This provides a unique opportunity for visitors to experience the beauty and diversity of a tropical rainforest and to learn about the important work being done to protect and conserve these precious ecosystems.
Location / How To Get Here
The Danum Valley Field Centre (DVFC), which is housed within the Danum Valley Conservation Centre, is situated approximately 80 metres west of Lahad Datu town along Sabah's east coast.
The field centre is accessible by road and the journey takes at least two hours.The route to the field centre features a combination of both paved roads and gravel roads, and the journey is frequently used by heavy vehicles such as logging trucks. Despite the presence of heavy traffic, the road conditions are generally good, making the trip to the field centre relatively straightforward.
Highlights
One of the highlights of DVFC is the nature trails, where one can marvel at the beauty and the serenity of the rainforest. It also serves as the introduction for guests to get familiarise themselves with the area. During the trekking session, you will have the chance to visit the Tembaling Waterfall or the ancient Kadazandusun burial ground.
Besides that, you could also go on their sunrise tour, sunset tour, and night safari, which gives you the chance to further experience and appreciate the rainforest and its inhabitants at a different time of the day.
Background / History
DVFC is originally a research centre for the scientific community to study the local ecosystem. However, the place are also able to accomodate tourists and nature enthusiasts that wish to experience the Danum Valley and its rich biodiversity.
