Located in the north-east corner of Malaysian Borneo, the Danum Valley is arguably home to the world’s most pristine jungle environment. After visiting a number of national parks in Borneo, this was the only one where it felt like the jungle was still in charge. It felt like you were just a mere visitor, and the rainforest could swallow you up if it so desired.

One morning, I dragged myself out of bed to go and watch an ultimately non-existent sunrise. Instead, as the delightful dawn chorus of the valley’s myriad avian inhabitants reverberated through the trees, I was treated to the sight of this magical morning mist rising above the canopy.

There are only two places to stay in the Danum Valley. The first is the Danum Valley Field Centre, a research facility mainly designed to accommodate scientists, but welcoming to nature-loving tourists as well. The Field Centre consists of basic cabin-style accommodation with both private and shared facilities, and gives you a raw and vibrant jungle experience. The second option is a five-star eco lodge hidden away amongst the trees.

Personally, I don’t quite understand the appeal of infinity pools and flat-screen TVs in the heart of an otherwise-untouched jungle environment, but both sites are actively contributing to the conservation of this region. With the incessant financial lure of palm oil hanging over the Danum Valley, any money being spent here is an investment towards maintaining this magnificent region for many generations to come.

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Danum Valley, Borneo