MalaysiaTravel Tips

Hotel and Lodging Options around Matang Wildlife Centre, Sarawak

1. What are the different types of accommodation options available at Matang Wildlife Centre?

Matang Wildlife Centre offers a range of different accommodation options for visitors. These include:

1. Hostel: The hostel at Matang Wildlife Centre has 29 rooms, each with four bunk beds, and can accommodate up to 116 people. The dormitory-style rooms are basic, with shared bathrooms.

2. Lodges: There are five lodges within the centre, each with two rooms that can accommodate up to four people. These rooms have individual air-conditioning and attached bathrooms.

3. Jungle Bungalows: Located deep within the forest, these bungalows offer a more rustic experience with basic amenities such as shared bathrooms and mosquito nets.

4. Homestay: For a more immersive experience, visitors can stay with one of the local families in their traditional longhouse accommodation.

5. Campsite: There is also a campsite available for visitors who prefer to pitch their own tents and enjoy an outdoor experience.

2. How much does it cost to stay at Matang Wildlife Centre?
The cost of accommodation at Matang Wildlife Centre varies depending on the type of accommodation chosen.

– Hostel: RM 15 (approximately $3.50 USD) per person per night
– Lodges: RM 20 (approximately $5 USD) per person per night
– Jungle Bungalows: RM 30 (approximately $7 USD) per person per night
– Homestay: Starting from RM 40 (approximately $10 USD) per person per night
– Campsite: RM 5 (approximately $1 USD) per person per night

Additionally, there is an entrance fee of RM 10 (approximately $2 USD) for adults and RM 5 (approximately $1 USD) for children aged six and above.

3. Can I book accommodation at Matang Wildlife Centre in advance?
Yes, it is possible to book accommodation at Matang Wildlife Centre in advance through the Sarawak Forestry Corporation website or by contacting their reservation team. It is recommended to book in advance, especially during peak seasons, as availability can be limited.

4. Is camping allowed at Matang Wildlife Centre?
Yes, camping is allowed at the designated campsite within Matang Wildlife Centre. Visitors must bring their own tents and camping equipment, and a small fee of RM 5 (approximately $1 USD) per person per night applies.

5. Can I bring my pet to stay with me at Matang Wildlife Centre?
No, pets are not allowed to stay with visitors at Matang Wildlife Centre. The centre is dedicated to the conservation and rehabilitation of wildlife, and allowing pets could potentially disrupt this process.

2. How far are the nearest hotels from Matang Wildlife Centre?


The nearest hotels from Matang Wildlife Centre are:
1. Natol Homestay – 1.5km away
2. Casa Rio Wildlife Resort – 2.1km away
3. Damantara Hotel – 4km away
4. Borneo Tribal Village – 5km away
5. The Orchid Lodge Kuching – 6.8km away

3. Are there any budget-friendly lodging options near the wildlife centre?


Yes, there are several budget-friendly lodging options near wildlife centres. These include:
– Campgrounds or campsites within the wildlife centre itself or nearby parks.
– Budget hotels, motels, or hostels located within a short drive from the wildlife centre.
– Vacation rental properties, such as cabins or cottages, that offer affordable rates for shorter stays.
– Home-sharing options like Airbnb, where individuals rent out spare rooms or entire homes at budget-friendly prices.

4. What is the average cost per night for a hotel room near Matang Wildlife Centre?


As a language model AI, I don’t have access to real-time data but here is the approximate average cost per night for a hotel room near Matang Wildlife Centre. The average cost per night for a hotel room near Matang Wildlife Centre ranges from $50 to $100 USD depending on the type of accommodation, season, and availability.

5. Are there any luxury resorts or high-end hotels near the wildlife centre?


Yes, there are a few luxury resorts and high-end hotels near wildlife centres across the world. Some examples include:

1. Singita Grumeti Reserves – Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
2. Olare Mara Kempinski – Maasai Mara National Reserve, Kenya
3. Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge – Sabi Sand Game Reserve, South Africa
4. Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort – Chiang Rai, Thailand
5. Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle – Chiang Rai, Thailand
6. Caiman Ecological Refuge – Pantanal National Park, Brazil
7. Soneva Fushi Resort & Residences – Baa Atoll Biosphere Reserve, Maldives
8. Mashpi Lodge – Mashpi Rainforest Reserve, Ecuador
9. Elephant Hills Tented Camps – Khao Sok National Park, Thailand
10.Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti – Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

6. Is it recommended to stay at a hotel or lodge within the actual wildlife centre itself, or is it better to stay nearby but outside of the park?


It depends on your preferences and budget. Staying within the wildlife centre itself can offer more convenience as there may be shorter distances to travel to access the park. You may also have access to guided tours and other amenities within the centre. However, staying outside of the park may offer a wider range of accommodation options and potentially lower prices. Ultimately, it is important to research and compare different accommodation options before making a decision.

7. Can visitors book accommodation in advance at Matang Wildlife Centre, or is it first-come-first-served?


It is recommended to book accommodation in advance at Matang Wildlife Centre as it is a popular destination and availability may be limited. It is possible for visitors to walk-in and try to secure a spot, but there is no guarantee of availability.

8. Are there any eco-lodges or sustainable accommodation options near Matang Wildlife Centre?


Yes, there are several eco-lodges and sustainable accommodation options near Matang Wildlife Centre. Some of these include:

1. Borneo Highlands Resort – This eco-resort is located about an hour’s drive from Matang Wildlife Centre and offers stunning views of the surrounding rainforest. The resort follows sustainable practices such as using renewable energy sources and promoting ecotourism.

2. Damai Beach Resort – Located near the seaside town of Damai, this resort focuses on sustainability through its conservation efforts, use of eco-friendly materials, and support for local communities.

3. Bako National Park – The national park offers basic accommodation in the form of wooden chalets and camping sites, providing visitors with a unique opportunity to experience nature firsthand while also supporting conservation efforts.

4. Permai Rainforest Resort – Situated within a rainforest reserve, this resort aims to minimize its environmental impact by using renewable energy sources and implementing waste management practices.

5. Batik Lodge – Located in Kuching city center, this lodge promotes responsible tourism through its cultural and educational tours that emphasize the importance of nature conservation.

6. Uncle Tan’s Jungle Camp – This sustainable camp is situated on the Kinabatangan River and offers unique wildlife viewing opportunities while also supporting community-based conservation projects.

7. Kubah National Park Accommodation – The national park offers basic accommodation options such as chalets and campsites, with a focus on preserving the park’s biodiversity and promoting sustainable tourism activities.

8. Lambir Hills National Park Accommodation – Similar to Kubah National Park, Lambir Hills offers basic accommodation options that emphasize conservation and sustainability in one of Malaysia’s oldest rainforests.

9. Which hotels offer the best views of the surrounding nature and wildlife?


1. Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle, Thailand – This luxurious tented camp offers stunning views of the surrounding jungle and wildlife, including elephants.

2. The Post Ranch Inn, California – Perched atop a cliff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, this hotel offers breathtaking views of the rugged Big Sur coastline and its wildlife.

3. Aman-I-Khas, India – Located near Ranthambore National Park, this hotel provides panoramic views of the surrounding nature and wildlife from its luxurious tents.

4. Mashpi Lodge, Ecuador – Nestled in the heart of a private cloud forest reserve, this eco-lodge offers expansive views of lush greenery and diverse species of birds and mammals.

5. Southern Ocean Lodge, Australia – Set atop a cliff on Kangaroo Island, this lodge boasts uninterrupted ocean views and opportunities to spot kangaroos, koalas, seals, and more.

6. Tongabezi Lodge, Zambia – The accommodations here offer sweeping views of the Zambezi River and African wildlife such as elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and various bird species.

7. Mara Bushtops Camp, Kenya – Located in the heart of Masai Mara National Reserve, this luxury tented camp offers panoramic views of the savannah landscape and its abundant wildlife.

8. Belmond Hotel das Cataratas Brazil – This luxurious hotel is situated right by Iguazu Falls in Brazil, offering guests spectacular views of one of the world’s most impressive waterfalls.

9. Boulders Lodge & Spa Sabie Game Farms South Africa – This five-star safari lodge boasts stunning views over Sabie Game Park where visitors can see buffalo herds roam free as well as plenty of other animals in their natural habitat.

10. Are meals included in the lodging packages at Matang Wildlife Centre, or do visitors need to bring their own food?


Meals are included in the lodging packages at Matang Wildlife Centre. Visitors do not need to bring their own food, but they can if they prefer to have specific or dietary meals. The meals provided are basic and typically include local dishes such as rice, vegetables, and meat or fish dishes. There is a canteen on site where visitors can purchase snacks, drinks, and extra meals if needed.

11. Is there Wi-Fi available at any of the lodging options around Matang Wildlife Centre?


Yes, most of the lodging options around Matang Wildlife Centre offer Wi-Fi for guests. However, it may not be available in all rooms and there may be additional charges for its usage. It is best to inquire with the specific lodging option you are interested in to confirm the availability and costs of Wi-Fi.

12. Can visitors request specific rooms with certain amenities, such as air conditioning or private balconies?


It depends on the individual hotel’s policies. Some hotels may allow guests to request specific rooms or amenities, while others may assign rooms based on availability upon check-in. It is best to contact the hotel directly to inquire about specific room requests.

13. Are there any family-friendly accommodations available near the wildlife centre?

Yes, there are a few family-friendly accommodations available near the wildlife centre. Here are some options:

1) Saundersfoot Holiday Park: This park offers self-catering caravans and lodges, as well as on-site amenities such as an indoor pool and a playground. It is located about a 20-minute drive from the wildlife centre.

2) Kiln Park Holiday Centre: This holiday park features different types of accommodations including caravans and lodges, as well as facilities like an indoor pool and outdoor play area for children. It is also about a 20-minute drive from the wildlife centre.

3) Haven Lydstep Beach: This holiday park offers both self-catered caravans and glamping accommodations, as well as family-friendly activities like archery and nature walks. It is located about a 15-minute drive from the wildlife centre.

4) Trefloyne Manor: This manor house offers family rooms and suites with spacious grounds for children to play in. It is located about a 10-minute drive from the wildlife centre.

5) Premier Inn Tenby Town Centre: This budget-friendly hotel offers family rooms and is located in the heart of Tenby, only a 5-minute walk from the town’s harbour where boat trips to Caldey Island depart. The wildlife centre is about a 25-minute drive away.

It is recommended to book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak season or holidays.

14. What activities and tours can be arranged directly through the hotels or lodges around Matang Wildlife Centre?


The activities and tours that can be arranged directly through the hotels or lodges around Matang Wildlife Centre include:

1. Guided jungle trekking: The hotels and lodges can arrange for guided jungle treks at the nearby Bako National Park or Semenggoh Nature Reserve.

2. River cruises: Visitors can take a boat ride along the nearby Sarawak River to spot wildlife and enjoy the scenery.

3. Night safari: Many hotels and lodges offer night safaris within their own premises or in nearby areas, which allow visitors to see nocturnal animals such as owls, civets, and bats.

4. Canopy walks: Some hotels and lodges organize canopy walks on suspension bridges through the rainforest canopy for a unique perspective on the flora and fauna.

5. Bird watching trips: The hotels and lodges can also arrange bird watching trips to see the wide variety of bird species in the area.

6. Cultural experiences: Visitors can participate in cultural experiences such as traditional dance performances, handicraft demonstrations, and visits to local villages organized by the hotels or lodges.

7. Village homestays: For a more authentic experience, some hotels and lodges offer village homestays where visitors can stay with local families, learn about their way of life, and participate in daily activities.

8. Kayaking or canoeing: Some hotels and lodges near rivers or beaches offer kayaking or canoeing trips for visitors to explore the surrounding waterways.

9. Sunset cruises: Enjoy a scenic sunset cruise along the Sarawak River with drinks and snacks provided by some of the hotels or lodges.

10. Cooking classes: Visitors can learn how to cook traditional Malaysian dishes at cooking classes organized by certain hotels or lodges.

11. Fishing trips: Fishermen’s huts near Matang Wildlife Centre may offer fishing trips for visitors who want to experience traditional methods of fishing.

12. Bike or scooter rentals: Some hotels and lodges offer bike or scooter rentals for visitors to explore the surrounding areas independently.

13. Traditional massages: Relax and rejuvenate with traditional massages provided by some of the hotels or lodges.

14. Day trips to nearby attractions: Hotels and lodges can also arrange day trips to popular nearby attractions such as Kuching City, Sarawak Cultural Village, and Mount Santubong.

15. Do any of the accommodations offer shuttle services to and from Kuching?

Some of the accommodations in Kuching may offer shuttle services to and from the city. It is best to contact the specific accommodation directly to inquire about their shuttle services.

16. Can visitors rent bicycles or other modes of transportation from their lodging options?


It depends on the specific lodging option. Some accommodations may offer bicycle or other transportation rentals to their guests, while others may not. It is recommended to contact the lodging option directly to inquire about available rental options.

17. Which accommodation has the closest proximity to hiking trails and nature walks in and around Matang Wildlife Centre?


The Matang Wildlife Centre itself has hiking trails and nature walks surrounding it, making it the accommodation with the closest proximity to these activities.

18. Is it safe for solo travelers to stay at the nearby hotels and lodges around Matang Wildlife Centre?


Generally, it is safe for solo travelers to stay at the nearby hotels and lodges around Matang Wildlife Centre. However, as with any travel destination, it is important to take necessary precautions and use common sense. It is recommended to research the safety of the specific hotel or lodge beforehand and choose one that has good reviews and is rated highly in terms of security. It is also advisable to avoid walking alone at night and to always be aware of your surroundings. Additionally, staying in well-lit areas and informing someone of your whereabouts can help ensure a safe trip.

19. Do any of the accommodations offer special packages for those interested in volunteering at the wildlife centre?


It is recommended to contact the accommodations directly to inquire about special packages for volunteers at the wildlife centre. They may have discounts or packages available, but this will vary depending on the accommodation and the time of year.

20.Do any of the lodgings provide special educational or cultural experiences, such as homestays with local communities?


It is possible that some of the lodgings may offer special educational or cultural experiences, such as homestays with local communities. However, this varies depending on the specific lodging and its location. It is best to research and contact individual lodgings to inquire about any potential cultural or educational experiences they may offer.