Gomantong Caves

Gomantong is a limestone cave system in the Kinabatangan region featuring two main chambers called Simud Hitam and Simud Putih that run through a massive limestone outcrop. The caverns contain thick guano deposits and shelter numerous bird species alongside millions of bats.

Initial investigations of guano deposits began in 1889 when the China Borneo Company explored the site for commercial use. The first systematic cave mapping took place in 1930, revealing its full structure to the outside world.

Local harvesters enter the caves seasonally to collect valuable edible bird nests using traditional climbing techniques with bamboo and rattan equipment that has remained largely unchanged for generations.

Wear sturdy shoes with good grip since the paths inside are slippery and uneven, especially where guano covers the floor. Expect humid and warm conditions, and allow your eyes time to adjust to the dim light inside.

Every evening, approximately two million wrinkle-lipped bats exit the cave in synchronized flight patterns to hunt for food. This exodus is so massive it darkens the sky and represents one of the largest animal migrations visible in the region.