The climb to the summit of Gunung Mulu (2376m) – described by one satisfied ascendee as "gruelling" and, near the top, "treacherous" – is a classic Borneo adventure. If you’re very fit and looking for a challenge, this 24km, three-day, four-night trek may be for you. The climb must be booked at least a month ahead.
Bring proper hiking shoes, a sleeping bag (Camp 4 can get quite chilly, often dropping below 15ºC), a sleeping pad (unless you don’t mind sleeping on wooden boards), rain gear and enough food for four days. The camps along the way have very basic cooking equipment, including a gas stove. Bring water-purification tablets if you’re wary of drinking the rainwater collected at shelters en route.
Near the summit you may spend much of your time inside clouds; a fleece jacket is the best way to ward off the damp and cold. Trekkers report having been visited by rats at Camp 3 and by squirrels who were "keen on noodles" at Camp 4. The steep trail – which is slippery when wet – passes through limestone and sandstone forest. Fauna you might see on the way include gibbons, wild boar and (possibly) sun bears.
Reaching the summit involves leaving Camp 4 at 3am to arrive at the top in time to see the spectacular sunrise.
