Aura Montoria and Waterfall Jungle Camping: 3-Day

Planning an outdoor adventure in Malaysia’s lush wilderness? The Aura Montoria and Waterfall Jungle Camping tour offers a chance to escape city life and reconnect with nature through a combination of scenic hikes, waterfall adventures, and nights under the stars. This 3-day experience, priced at $680 per person, is designed for those who crave authentic camping amid the jungle’s symphony and breathtaking vistas.

What we love most is how this tour balances adventure and relaxation—from adrenaline-pumping cliff jumps to peaceful star-gazing. The inclusions like camping gear and meals add value, making it a convenient escape for nature lovers. However, a potential consideration is the moderate physical activity required—it’s not suitable for travelers with limited mobility or those seeking a purely leisure experience.

This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers, those comfortable with hiking and outdoor living, and anyone eager to see Mount Kinabalu’s stunning views away from crowded tourist spots. If you’re after a mix of active discovery and peaceful nights in the wilderness, this could be just the right fit.

Key Points

Beautiful scenery and waterfalls make this tour a visual treat, offering memorable photo opportunities.
Active hiking and cliff-jumping add an adrenaline rush for outdoor enthusiasts.
Authentic jungle camping immerses you in nature with all necessary gear provided.
Scenic drives and trail views give a taste of Malaysia’s countryside and mountain vistas.
All meals included simplify planning and let you focus on the experience.
Limited group size and private options mean more personalized attention and a calmer atmosphere.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

If you’re considering this tour, understanding what each part involves will help you decide if it matches your travel style. Here’s a detailed breakdown based on the itinerary, combined with insights from those who’ve experienced it.

Starting Point: Scenic Drive from Kota Kinabalu

The adventure begins with a pickup from your hotel—a thoughtful touch that ensures your day starts smoothly. Then, heading out on a scenic drive through Kota Belud, lasting about 1 hour and 45 minutes, offers an early taste of the countryside. Expect to pass by paddy fields, charming villages, and off-the-beaten-path roads, giving you an authentic glimpse of rural Malaysia.

This part is a good primer, setting a relaxed tone before the day’s more active phases. Travelers mention that the journey itself is picturesque, making it a pleasant way to transition from city pace to outdoor serenity.

Visit to Porohon Garden and Aura Montoria Trail

Upon arriving at the Porohon Garden gate in Kampung Sayap, you get a briefing—important for safety and understanding the day’s plan. After that, it’s time for a hike along the Aura Montoria trail. While the trail specifics aren’t detailed, the emphasis on enjoying the surrounding nature suggests a rewarding trek with potential for lush foliage and mountain views.

A packed lunch at the campsite lets you refuel before the next highlight: cliff-jumping at a nearby waterfall. Only a 10-minute trek away, this activity is perfect for those seeking an adrenaline boost. Reviewers mention that guides will showcase survival and bushcraft skills—a fun educational element that adds depth to the outdoor experience.

Night in the Jungle: Camping and Stargazing

After the day’s adventures, you’ll return to the campsite at Porohon Garden to pitch your tents and enjoy a hearty dinner. The experience isn’t just about sleeping outdoors; it’s about being fully immersed in the jungle’s sounds, from the rustling leaves to distant calls of wildlife.

For stargazing, weather permitting, you’ll get a rare chance to see the night sky away from city lights. One reviewer notes the “beautiful sound of the jungle at night” which sets a peaceful, almost magical, mood. Sleeping bags and camping gear are provided, making the experience accessible without extra gear.

Day Two: Exploring Mount Kinabalu Views

The second day involves a hike to the starting point of the Kowatuan Trail, which offers breathtaking views of Mount Kinabalu and Mount Nopungguk Lituk. The trail promises vistas of one of the ten waterfalls along the way, making it ideal for nature and mountain lovers.

This segment seems less physically demanding than the waterfall jump but still requires moderate fitness—a point emphasized in the tour notes. Expect to enjoy panoramic mountain views and perhaps catch glimpses of local flora and fauna.

Night Two: Camp Setup and Local Cuisine

The tour concludes with another camping night, where you’ll enjoy a delicious local dinner. The focus here is on authentic Malaysian flavors, adding a cultural dimension to your outdoor experience. The quiet surroundings and starry skies will be an ideal setting for reflection after two days of exploration.

What’s Included & What to Consider

The tour price of $680 per person covers meals (lunch and dinner), camping equipment, cooking utensils, and sleeping bags—a package that offers good value, especially for those new to outdoor camping. The air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfortable transportation, and group discounts and private options cater to different preferences.

However, keep in mind that tips and porters are not included—if you want extra assistance or personalized service, those costs are on you. The tour also requires moderate physical fitness, so travelers should be prepared for hiking and outdoor activity levels.

Authenticity and Personal Insights from Reviews

While the reviews are still sparse, those who’ve experienced the tour highlight the stunning views as the standout feature. One reviewer mentions, “The view of Mount Kinabalu from the trail is simply breathtaking,” reminding us why this area is a favorite among nature lovers.

The guides’ knowledge about survival and bushcraft techniques also received praise; they seem keen to share their expertise and passion for the jungle environment. The soundscape of the jungle at night is another aspect that appears to enchant visitors, offering a sensory experience that’s both peaceful and vibrant.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This adventure suits outdoor enthusiasts wanting to explore beyond typical tourist spots. It’s perfect for those comfortable with moderate hiking and outdoor camping. If you’re eager to see spectacular waterfalls, mountain vistas, and stars, this tour delivers.

Travelers interested in local culture, nature, and adventure will find this experience both fulfilling and memorable. However, if you prefer luxury accommodations or zero physical activity, this might not align with your travel style.

The Sum Up

The Aura Montoria and Waterfall Jungle Camping tour offers a compelling mix of scenic hiking, waterfall adventures, and nights under the stars in Malaysia’s captivating landscape. It’s a wonderful choice for adventure seekers and nature lovers looking for an authentic, active outdoor experience at a reasonable price.

With well-organized logistics, inclusive meals, and the chance to witness breathtaking views and night sounds of the jungle, it provides significant value for those prepared for some physical activity. The personal touch of guides sharing survival skills and local knowledge enhances the experience, turning it into more than just a camping trip.

Ultimately, this tour is best suited for adventurous travelers eager to explore Malaysia’s natural beauty in an immersive way. If you want to escape the city, embrace the outdoors, and marvel at starry skies, this 3-day journey might just become one of your most memorable travel stories.

FAQ

What is included in the tour package?
The tour includes lunch, dinner, camping gear, cooking utensils, and sleeping bags. Transportation by air-conditioned vehicle is also part of the package.

How physically demanding is the tour?
Participants should have moderate fitness levels. Expect to hike, do cliff-jumping, and set up camp, so some physical effort is involved.

Is there a chance to do star gazing?
Yes, weather permitting, you’ll have an opportunity to try your skills at star gazing in the clear night sky, away from city lights.

What should I bring?
While most camping essentials are provided, you might want to bring comfortable hiking shoes, insect repellent, and a light jacket for cooler evenings.

Are meals provided?
Yes, both lunch and dinner are included, with local dishes served to give you a taste of Malaysian cuisine.

Can I customize or extend the tour?
Since this is a private tour/activity, you may discuss customization options with the provider, Outback Venture.

Embark on this adventure for a memorable blend of mountain vistas, waterfalls, and starry nights—perfect for those seeking genuine outdoor escapades in Malaysia.