by Geena Roslyna
Danum Valley, home to one of the oldest rainforests on Earth, bursts with life. It’s a sanctuary where cicadas sing, hornbills fly across the canopy, and layers of morning mist drape above ancient trees that has stood for over 140 million years.
Here, you can find Borneo Rainforest Lodge (BRL), where luxury meets conservation.
During our visit, we sat down with Mr. Jude, the lodge’s manager. His career in hospitality has taken him from the sea to the mountains and now to the forest of Danum Valley.
Over coffee on the verandah, he shared how BRL came to be, the challenges of balancing eco-tourism with conservation, and the stories that make this place unforgettable.
It All Started with… a Vision
“The lodge was born from a vision to create a sanctuary, a place where people could feel the wonder of an untouched forest, while also contributing to its protection.” – Jude
Danum Valley, a Class 1 Forest Reserve, was chosen for its pristine ecological value and lack of permanent human settlement. Yet, history lingers here. Near the lodge lies Coffin Cliff, an ancient Dusun Subpan burial site.
Green at Heart
Walking around BRL, it became evident that sustainability isn’t just a slogan, it’s a way of life.
- A chlorine-free swimming pool filters naturally.
- Biodegradable detergents ensure rivers remain clean.
- Guests take part in mudball workshops that treat wastewater.
“Every chemical we use is biodegradable, so when it flows back into the river, it doesn’t harm the ecosystem.” – Jude
The lodge also supports conservation research, such as an orangutan monitoring project under the Japanese Commission.
POV of A Guest’s Journey
Arriving at BRL feels like unwrapping a Christmas gift; you just can’t help but feel excited! Guests are welcomed with warm smiles, drinks and scented towels while being briefed about their stay. Here, we were paired with a personal guide who would be taking care of us throughout our time in BRL.
“We’re the only five-star lodge inside the rainforest. It’s luxury, yes, but it’s also immersion. You sleep in comfort, but step outside and the forest itself greets you, sometimes even with an orangutan passing by if the trees are fruiting.”
Activities include hikes to the Coffin Trail, night safari/walks and new activities including rafting, and cycling. Guides adjust for each guest’s pace, encouraging exploration without compromising safety.
Culture in the Canopy
Three nights a week, BRL becomes a stage for local culture. The staff form a Dusun Subpan dance troupe and invite guests to join traditional performances during dinner.
Last year, during Kaamatan, some local Dusun Subpan communities brought gongs, food, and traditional attire to the lodge. This connected guests not just with nature, but also with the communities that call this land home.
Stories That Stay
For Jude, the true spirit of BRL lies in its people. “Guests often tell us it’s the friendliness of our staff that makes the difference,” he said.
One guest’s room was once visited by a mischievous orangutan. Some damage occurred, but the staff quickly fixed everything, washed the clothes, and sent a personal apology email before the guests returned home. The guests responded with gratitude, not for the incident, but for the care they received.
“It feels like a calling. This forest touches your heart, and once it does, you never want to leave.” – Jude
Jude’s own connection runs deep. “I first came here 30 years ago as a student,” he reflected. “Now, three decades later, I’ve returned as lodge manager. To me, it feels like coming full circle.”
At Borneo Rainforest Lodge, eco-luxury means more than just good food and comfortable beds. It’s about standing on a canopy bridge at dawn, connecting with nature, and knowing that your presence supports the protection of this unique wilderness.
6 Tips to Make the Most Out of Your Stay in Danum Valley
- Pack a First Aid Kit
As your stay will be packed with outdoor activities, having a small first aid kit with bandages, antiseptic wipes, insect repellent, and pain relief tablets can go a long way in keeping you comfortable and prepared during jungle treks or nature walks. - Bring Hydration Packs for Your Hike
With the high humidity in the rainforest during the day, it’s important to stay hydrated. Carry a hydration pack or a reusable water bottle, especially if you’ll be going on long treks through the rainforest. - Take Time to Speak with the Guides
During lunch breaks or meals, take the time to chat with the Danum Valley guides. Their stories about wildlife, traditional beliefs, and conservation work will give you a deeper appreciation of the rainforest’s living ecosystem. - Bring a Camera (or a Good Smartphone Lens)
Danum Valley is a photographer’s paradise. From misty sunrises and ancient trees to rare sightings of orangutans, hornbills, or even pygmy elephants, there’s no shortage of breathtaking moments to capture. Whether you’re using a DSLR, a compact camera, or your smartphone, you’ll want to keep the memories of your rainforest adventure. - Visit the Tree of Hope and Make Your Pledge
Check out the Tree of Hope at the lodge’s lobby by the souvenir store and make your pledge to protect and preserve the environment. It’s a small yet meaningful act, and who knows, you might find yourself back there one day. - Stay Connected But Be Present
Yes, there’s Wi-Fi in Danum Valley, so you can share your adventures or check in with loved ones. But try to balance it with moments of digital silence by listening to the rainforest, watching the fireflies at night, and simply being in the moment. The forest has a way of reminding you that the best connection isn’t always online.
