by Camilia Tee on 1st December 2025
Guarded by the mighty Baram River is Ulu Baram, an encased alluvial plain nestled deep inside Sarawak. This hidden gem of Sarawak is home to majestic canyons, mesmerizing waterfalls, and treasured local traditions. You’d not only get a taste of thrilling adventure in Ulu Baram, you will also get to experience precious local traditions – and make everlasting friendships along the way!
Earlier this March when Celine first invited me to Mowgli’s Ulu Baram Reloaded, I felt a mixture of excitement and self-doubt, as I was new to hiking nor did I know how to swim. However, knowing that her mum, Aunty Elaine, and her sister, Jolene, are coming along, I knew deep down in my heart that my answer was a yes. Not only because it had always been in my bucket list to go on a trip with them, but also because I wanted to do something I’d never imagined doing before I hit the big 3-0.
And honestly, it was the best decision I had made in 2025.
So, grab your adidas kampung, because these 7 Things to Explore in Ulu Baram will get you packing your backpacks and say: “Let’s Go!”
1. Travel Like The Locals
We arrived at Long San, a quaint village in Baram, via the Twin Otter operated by MASWings. Sitting on the Twin Otter plane was an adventure in itself – maybe not so much for the locals as it was their usual mode of transport around Ulu Baram – it felt almost like I was in a movie scene. And, of course, taking a photo with the plane and the pilot is a must.
Travel Tip
Medicated oil, or ‘Himalayan Salt’, comes in extra handy, especially if you are prone to motion sickness!
2. A One-of-a-kind Whitewater Rafting Experience
Spanning over 400km in length, going whitewater rafting on the Baram River is an activity not to be missed when in Ulu Baram! Day 1 began with our travel hosts briefing us on the day’s activity: Whitewater Rafting through a section of the Baram River.
I wanted to back out at the last minute as my fear of not knowing how to swim overwhelmed me. My travel mates, not wanting to leave me behind, assured me that it would be safe and that we would all be together. I mustered up some courage, and thanks to my travel mates, I decided to go for it.
We navigated the first few rapids with ease, thanks to our experienced guides, until we also felt somewhat underwhelmed. But, as adventure comes when we least expect it, one particular rapid took us all by surprise.
Of course, I had my eyes closed the entire time. But, we never stopped watching the video taken during that rapid post-trip to reminisce about the thrilling experience.
We had short breaks in between, listening to only the sounds of Baram, as we munch on the snacks carefully prepared by our travel hosts. Rafting through the Baram river will not be complete without hornbill spotting, and admiring the beauty of the Baram forest.
Another unexpected turn was it started to rain when we almost reached back. I still remembered Aunty Elaine saying: “At least the weather is still quite good”, then dark clouds surrounded us moments later…
But, we never stopped working as a team to paddle back home. Once we reached back to our finishing line, I felt that we could conquer anything!
I’m so glad that my first whitewater rafting experience was at Ulu Baram. As we reached back to our homestay, Boey, one of our travel mates, mentioned to Celine: “First day already so adventurous ah…” True enough, it only got better each day…
Things to bring: Plastic bag (to throw rubbish), ziplock bag or dry bags to keep your electronics (avoid bringing your electronics if possible), water bottle, proper footwear (adidas Kampung works well!)
3. Be Enchanted by Ulu Baram’s Waterfalls
Ulu Baram is home to numerous mesmerizing waterfalls.The main waterfalls with trails opened to the public are the Tekiwit Sela’an Waterfall, Three Sisters Waterfall, and U’ong Bilong Waterfall, with each waterfall having its own unique characteristics. For the Ulu Baram Reloaded Itinerary, we trekked to the Tekiwit Sela’an Waterfall. For the wanderers out there, you can explore the other 2 waterfalls with Mowgli’s Passage To Ulu Baram.
Spot Celine’s beautiful painting of the U’ong Bilong Waterfall at Jevinda’s Homestay!
The Tekiwit Sela’an Waterfall has a single cascade with an approximate 100 metre drop, The Three Sisters Waterfall has three beautiful falls, and the U’ong Bilong Waterfall is shaped like a giant cross.
Bright and early on Day 2, we got on a 4 Wheel Drive to Data Bila village to begin our hike to the waterfall. Driving through the forests of Ulu Baram, Sylvester introduced to us various plants of the forests, including the “akar lati”, which was like nature’s eye mo. Being the curious travellers as we are, we had to try it too!
The start of the trek to the waterfall was an old logging trail. There was nothing to distract us: only meaningful conversations with each other, and just being present in the moment made the trek so much more memorable.
We had to cross a small stream, nearing the waterfall, with a small bamboo bridge built by the locals. With my “grip of death” (according to Celine), I held onto my travel mates’ hands (somehow, I can hear Jolene laughing at me as I write this) as well as our guides’, and crossed the stream. Not long after, we could hear the loud roar of the Tekiwit Waterfall.
The Tekiwit Waterfall truly was a sight to behold. We enjoyed our packed lunch, deliciously prepared by our hosts, as we soaked in the waterfall’s grandeur.
During our hike down, our guide shared with us a local myth where one has to untie a knot made of leaves. If it becomes a straight line, it means it is a yes. Our guide wanted to know if he should bring us to another waterfall, but sadly, it was a ‘no’.
We stopped by Batu Siman Viewpoint on the ride back to Long San. Batu Siman, known for its three adjacent peaks, holds its own mythical wonders. According to local folklore, a Giant cut part of the mountain to build a tomb for its son. Today, it is a popular spot for bird nest collection by the locals.
4. Explore Ulu Baram’s Breathtaking Canyons
We couldn’t contain our excitement for Day 3 – the Alo San Canyoning. Prior to Day 3, Sylvester and Linda had given us a safety briefing and what to expect during the activity. Helmets – checked; Life jackets – checked; Hiking poles handmade from tree branches – checked; adidas Kampung – checked; A thrilling adventure – 100% checked.
I was in awe of the sparkling clear waters as we trekked up to Canyon Falls 1. Our hosts ensured that everyone felt safe by trekking together, and with a pace that everyone’s comfortable with.
Up at Canyon Falls 1, we enjoyed the simple company of each other and mother nature. Some of us swam, skipped pebbles, and some enjoyed a hot cup of coffee.
After lunch, we trekked down to San Slide. At this point, my ‘grip of death’ did not come in handy, as I had to let go of Sylvester’s muscular arm, as I slided down and into the gushing waters.
After a slow & easy time at San Slide, we trekked down to Dam Brothers Waterfall where my travel mates made their first cliff jump there!
5. Take A Stroll Around Long San Village
After a full day of water activities, we ended the day with an evening stroll around Long San Village. We visited the local secondary school, which had brought back many nostalgic memories of our schooling days. Students around Long San village would ride boats just to get to school every morning.
6. Immerse In Rich Local Traditions & Delicacies
We’re thankful to be hosted by incredibly dedicated village hosts, Sylvester & Linda of Jevinda Village Stay, who not only ensured our safety was top priority, but also that we had a comfortable stay. Linda & her family made sure our tummies were filled with delicious home cooked food.
7. Create Everlasting Memories & Friendships
One of my most unforgettable parts of the trip was the nights spent each day at the dining hallway, with my travel mates and village hosts, as we reflected and shared stories of the day’s activities. One night in particular, included a very muscular competition with Long San’s version of The Rock. Well, legend has it, he is still the most muscular man in Long San till this day…
The bottomless tuak that accompanied us each night, with Sylvester and Linda, and occasionally, Jolene, making sure our glasses were never empty, ended each night with a sweet note. Words can’t describe the friendships made throughout the trip – you just have to experience it yourself to know it!
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I heard from Celine that many who visited Long San, have always wanted to return again. In my wandering of the last year of my 20’s, I’m glad I got to do this trip with Mowgli Venture, and with my dear friends. Ulu Baram had opened up my heart and the adventurer in me. After all, not all who wander are lost.
Till then, Aa-us! Long San.
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