Make the Most of Your Rainforest Music Getaway

Agoda’s not-to-be-missed activities hit the right note to enhance your Borneo festival experience

Thousands of festival goers will be descending upon the heart of the Borneo Jungle from 13-15 July to sway to the beats of world music by renowned musicians from all over the world. 

Beyond the festival itself, there is plenty to do in and around the festival village in the Damai Peninsular (Santubong), as well as the surrounding region. Here are a couple of ideas from Agoda that will take your musical getaway to the next level:

1. Soak up nature and culture
Damai Peninsular is home to Mount Santubong National Park and the Kuching Wetland Areas, a Ramsar site known for its diverse animal life and extreme hiking. Nature-lovers will get a kick out of hiking up to the viewpoint of Mount Santubong and spotting Irrawaddy Dolphins, crocodiles, and fireflies in the Kuching Wetlands. Serious hikers might try to reach the summit. 

Also nearby is the Sarawak Cultural Village, where travelers can soak-up the culture of the local tribes and indigenous communities.

Hotels like The Waterfront Hotel offer great rooms in the heart of the city that are also within commuting distance of the nature and cultural activities.

2. Kayak down the Semadang River
For travellers who get a rush from adventure, try kayaking along the Semadang River. From a short two-hour kayaking trip to a more rigorous full-day tour along the Upper Sarawak Kiri River, water enthusiasts can take in the spectacular scenery of dense forests on both sides of the river, huge outcrops of rocks and a rich variety of fish species.

Enjoy scenic views of the Sarawak River all day and night from the Grand Margherita Hotel. 

3. Journey through the Past
History buffs will find Kuching’s rich history and well-preserved monuments fascinating. As most of the places of interest are located around the Kuching Waterfront, it is convenient to enjoy many of attractions on foot.

From the Waterfront, hop into a penambang, (small wooden sampans), to get across to Fort Margherita, built in 1879, and The Brooke Gallery which houses many historical documents and artifacts. The north of the river also houses traditional Malay Kampungs or villages, including the famous Kampung Boyan to explore. Travelers can savor many traditional snacks and delicacies, including the famous kuih lapis, or layered cake.

Other nearby places of interest include the Old Mosque, Sarawak Heritage Museum, the Islamic Heritage Museum and Chinese History Museum. Just a stone’s throw away are some great accommodation options like The Ranee Boutique Suites.

For more accommodation options visit Agoda.com or download the mobile app.