Imagine stepping into a cathedral sculpted by nature—where towering limestone walls echo with the flutter of wings, the air is thick with the scent of guano, and the light from the jungle fades into cavernous darkness. This is not a fantasy; this is Gomantong Cave, one of the most awe-inspiring natural wonders in Sabah, Malaysia.
Located deep within the Gomantong Forest Reserve, this ancient limestone cave has been carved over millions of years, creating an otherworldly sanctuary teeming with life. But what truly sets Gomantong apart is its living, breathing ecosystem—home to millions of bats, Swiftlets, and an age-old tradition that still thrives today: the harvesting of edible bird’s nests.
For centuries, the Orang Sungai community has risked life and limb to collect these fragile nests from dizzying heights, continuing a practice that links modern Sabah to its ancient roots. Meanwhile, at dusk, the skies above the caves darken with the swirling silhouette of bats on their nightly exodus—a spectacle that rivals any nature documentary.
Whether you’re a wildlife photographer, eco-tourist, culture enthusiast, or a curious adventurer, Gomantong Cave offers a rare blend of natural drama, cultural heritage, and raw ecological richness. In this guide, we’ll explore what makes Gomantong Cave so legendary, how to visit responsibly, what to expect during your tour, and why this site holds a special place in the heart of Borneo’s eco-tourism landscape.
Photo Credit: Caving In SE Asia
Where is The Gomantong Cave Located?
The Gomantong Cave is nestled within the Gomantong Forest Reserve, part of the Kinabatangan district in Eastern Sabah. Tucked away in the lush lowland rainforest of the Sabah East Coast, this ancient limestone cave lie within a protected area under the jurisdiction of the Sabah Forestry Department.
Geographically, it is about 30 Kilometers from the small town of Sukau and roughly a 2-hour drive from Sandakan city; a popular base for eco-tourists exploring the region.
The cave is part of the Lower Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary, one of the last remaining areas of pristine jungle in Borneo, making them an ideal destination for travelers seeking authentic wildlife experiences in Southeast Asia. Visitors typically journey here by private car, tour van, or as part of a broader Kinabatangan River eco-tour package, often combining a river cruise with a stop at Gomantong.
Reaching the cave involves a scenic journey through dense rainforest, winding palm oil plantations, and remote villages, showcasing the biodiversity and cultural diversity that Sabah is known for. Upon arrival, a raised boardwalk surrounded by jungle leads visitors toward the cave entrance, often accompanied by the calls of Hornbills, the rustling of Proboscis Monkeys, or the occasional flash of a wild boar darting through the underbrush.
Why is Gomantong Cave Famous
The Gomantong Cave isn’t just another tourist attraction, it’s one of Sabah’s most biologically and culturally significant landmarks. This vast cave system is famous for two key reasons: its enormous bat colonies and the centuries-old tradition of birds’ nests harvesting from Swiftlets that call the cave home.
Inside the cave’s massive chamber—locally known as Simud Hitam (Black Cave)—the air is filled with the unmistakable sound of flapping wings, echoing shrieks, and the steady drip of guano from the high ceilings. This otherworldly atmosphere has drawn researchers, wildlife experts, and adventurers for decades.
The primary residents of Gomantong are the Swiftlets and bats, each numbering in the millions. The Swiftlets—small, agile birds related to swallows—build edible nests from their hardened saliva. These nests are the key ingredient in bird’s nest soup, a delicacy prized in Chinese cuisine and traditional medicine. Harvesting these nests is a tightly regulated, seasonal event that has been passed down through generations of local harvesters.
Equally awe-inspiring is the bat exodus that occurs every evening just before dusk. As the sky darkens, a swirling vortex of more than 2 million bats emerges from the cave mouth, spreading out across the rainforest to feed on insects. It’s a jaw-dropping spectacle, often accompanied by raptors circling overhead, preying on the bats in mid-air.
This dramatic convergence of predator and prey, framed against the deepening twilight, is one of the most powerful nature experiences in Borneo.
Photo Credit: Rachel’s Ruminations
Bird's Nest Harvesting: A Centuries-Old Tradition
The tradition of harvesting edible bird’s nests from the Gomantong Cave dates back over 500 years. It’s a practice deeply rooted in the culture of the Orang Sungai community, who have managed the cave and harvested the nests long before modern conservation laws were enacted.
The process itself is nothing short of daring. Harvesters scale dizzying heights on fragile bamboo scaffolds, ropes, and handmade ladders that stretch all the way up the towering limestone walls. Using only traditional tools and sheer bravery, they carefully pluck the delicate nests from the cave ceilings.
The nests are harvested twice a year, once before the birds lay eggs and once after the chicks have fledged—ensuring sustainability and respect for the bird population.
These nests are graded into white nests (more prized and pure) and black nests (darker due to feathers and environmental exposure). Both are highly valuable in the global market, with some white nests fetching up to RM10,000 per Kilogram, making this tradition not only culturally important but also economically significant for local communities.
The harvesting process is governed by the Sabah Wildlife Department, which imposes strict quotas and licensing systems. Unauthorized harvesting is illegal and can result in heavy penalties. Only trained and licensed collectors are allowed inside the cave during harvest seasons, ensuring that both the Swiftlet colonies and the delicate cave ecosystem are protected.
This tradition embodies a rare harmony between humans and nature, where resource extraction is practiced with reverence and deep ecological understanding—a model of sustainable cultural heritage.
Photo Credit: Andrews Fabulous Travel blog
Wildlife You Might See Inside the Cave
Gomantong is a biodiversity hotspot. Yes, the smell might hit you first (guano does that), but look closely and you’ll be rewarded.
Common Species: Insects, Snakes, and Bats
Expect to encounter:
- Cockroaches (millions of them)
- Giant centipedes
- Cave-dwelling snakes like the Cave Racer, which prey on bats
- Long-legged crickets and beetles
- And of course, the resident bat colonies
Rare Sightings: Endangered Birds & Cave Creatures
Occasionally, visitors may spot Slow Lorises, cave-dwelling owls, and rare birds like the black-nest Swiftlet, which is more elusive and highly prized for its nest purity.
Photo Credit: Naturetrek
Photo Credit: Emanuele Biggi
What to Expect on a Tour of Gomantong Cave
Visiting the Gomantong Cave is both thrilling and humbling. From the moment you step onto the raised jungle boardwalk, you’re immersed in one of Borneo’s richest biodiversity zones. The trail to the cave is often alive with movement— Macaques swinging overhead, Hornbills gliding between treetops, and if you’re lucky, Orangutans might make a surprise appearance in the canopy.
As you approach the gaping mouth of Simud Hitam, you’re met with a wall of sound—and smell. The unmistakable scent of Guano (bat droppings) hangs in the humid air, a byproduct of millions of cave-dwelling creatures that call this place home.
Inside the cave, the scale is overwhelming. Towering ceilings arch high above, while the cave floor teems with life—cockroaches, beetles, and millipedes, all part of a complex ecosystem built around nutrient-rich guano. You may see snakes slithering along beams, on the hunt for their next bat meal, or a glimpse of Swiftlets circling the ceiling, calling out in rapid chirps.
Most tours include:
- A guided walk through the jungle and cave system
- An educational briefing on bird’s nest harvesting
- The chance to witness the evening bat exodus at dusk
- Optional visits to nearby Kinabatangan River lodges for an extended eco-tourism experience
For those interested in cultural learning, photography, or just marveling at raw nature, Gomantong offers an unforgettable journey. Come prepared with sturdy shoes, insect repellent, and a sense of awe—you’ll need all three.
Conservation Efforts & Eco-tourism Impact
The Gomantong Cave represents a delicate balance between economic use and ecological preservation. As tourism grows and demand for edible bird’s nests continues to rise, maintaining this balance has become a top priority for both the Sabah Forestry Department and local stakeholders.
Managing Harvesting and Wildlife Protection
The cave system is divided into zones, with only specific areas open for harvesting at any given time. Nest collection is timed to avoid disrupting breeding seasons, and the number of nests harvested is strictly monitored. Any attempt to overharvest or access unauthorized areas is met with legal action.
Community-based conservation programs have also been implemented to empower local people to act as both custodians and beneficiaries of the cave’s resources. These programs include training in sustainable harvesting, eco-tourism guiding, and environmental education.
Ethical Tourism Guidelines
Responsible tourism is key to protecting Gomantong for future generations. Visitors are encouraged to:
- Follow all signage and stay on designated boardwalks
- Avoid touching or disturbing cave structures
- Refrain from using flash photography, which can disorient bats and birds
- Support licensed, local tour operators who reinvest in conservation
In recent years, eco-tourism revenue has helped fund wildlife monitoring programs, clean-up operations, and awareness campaigns that benefit both the cave environment and surrounding communities.
As more travelers seek authentic nature-based experiences, Gomantong stands out as a powerful reminder that tourism, when done right, can be a force for conservation and community resilience.
Best Time to Visit Gomantong Cave
Nest Harvesting Seasons
To witness the harvesting process, visit between:
- February to April
- July to September
These seasons coincide with when nests are mature enough for collection, and the Swiftlets are not incubating eggs.
Bat Exodus Timing (Daily Fly-Out)
The bat exodus happens every evening, typically around 5:30 PM to 6:30 PM. Arriving a bit earlier gives you a better view and a good photography position.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Gomantong Cave
1. Can I Visit Gomantong Cave Without a Guide?
Yes, visitors are allowed to enter Gomantong Cave without a guide, as the site is open to the public and features a well-maintained boardwalk. However, we highly recommend hiring a licensed Sabahan nature guide, especially if you want to spot wildlife, understand the cultural significance of bird’s nest harvesting, and safely navigate the more slippery sections of the cave. Guides also help ensure you’re respecting conservation guidelines.
2. Is the Cave Tour Suitable for Kids?
The tour is generally suitable for children aged 7 and above who are comfortable with dark, damp environments and creepy-crawlies like insects and bats. The cave is safe when using the designated paths, but the sensory experience—strong smells, dim lighting, and wildlife—may be overwhelming for very young kids. Parents should use discretion and ensure children stay close on the boardwalk.
3. What’s the Difference Between Black and White Bird’s Nests?
White bird’s nests are purer and considered more valuable due to their cleaner appearance and smoother texture. These nests are often used in high-end bird’s nest soup and are more expensive. Black nests contain more feathers and impurities but are still cleaned and sold for consumption. Both types are harvested sustainably under strict government regulation and are important for the local economy.
4. When is the Best Time to See the Bat Exodus?
The best time to witness the bat exodus is in the early evening, typically between 5:30 PM and 6:30 PM. Arrive at least 30 minutes early to secure a good viewing spot. During this time, millions of bats pour out of the cave entrance in a swirling column across the sky. It’s one of the most iconic natural spectacles in Borneo and a dream for wildlife photographers.
5. Can I See Bird Nest Harvesting During My Visit?
Yes, but only if you visit during the official harvesting seasons: usually from February to April and July to September. During these months, trained harvesters climb into the cave to collect the nests. Note that access to some areas may be restricted for safety and conservation purposes, and photography may be limited. It’s best to ask your guide in advance if harvesting will be happening during your visit.
6. What Should I Wear and Bring for the Cave Tour?
Wear sturdy closed-toe shoes with a good grip (the floor can be slippery), lightweight breathable clothing, and insect repellent. Bring a torchlight or headlamp for navigating darker sections, a reusable water bottle, and hand sanitizer due to the presence of guano and wildlife. If you’re planning to photograph the bat exodus, bring a camera with low-light capability and a tripod.
Final Thoughts: Why Gomantong Is More Than Just a Cave
Gomantong Cave is not simply a tourist stop—it’s a living monument to nature’s power, cultural endurance, and ecological complexity. Within its cavernous depths, you’ll witness the delicate balance between ancient tradition and modern conservation, between wild freedom and careful stewardship.
The spectacle of the bat exodus, the intricacy of bird’s nest harvesting, and the sensory overload of life teeming on the cave walls—all combine to make Gomantong an unforgettable destination. But it’s more than just the sights; it’s about understanding how local communities and conservationists are working together to protect a fragile system that sustains livelihoods and biodiversity.
As eco-tourism continues to grow in Sabah, the story of Gomantong stands as a model for sustainable travel, one where tourists, locals, and nature coexist in harmony. Whether you’re journeying through the Kinabatangan River Basin or exploring the cultural corridors of Sandakan, don’t overlook this iconic cave system. It’s one of Borneo’s true natural treasures.
So pack your walking shoes, bring your camera, and come with an open heart—Gomantong Cave will show you that sometimes, the darkest places can offer the brightest lessons.
