Imagine arriving at Poring Hot Springs, tucked into the lush folds of Ranau in Sabah. The air is thick with the earthy scent of sulphur, steam curling lazily from deep stone baths where weary travellers soak their limbs. It’s a place that whispers of rest and rejuvenation. Yet, beyond the pools lies something far more exhilarating—a path that leads not to water, but sky.
A short hike from the hot springs brings you to an unassuming tower, the gateway to the Poring Canopy Walk, where suspension bridges sway high above the rainforest floor, offering a rare glimpse into the secret world of the treetops.
Into the Rainforest Canopy
The journey begins with a steady uphill climb, shaded by towering Menggaris and Seraya trees. The rainforest hums with life: cicadas buzz like a chorus, birds call from unseen perches, and the air grows heavy with humidity. The trail is manageable, even for beginners, though the climb can feel longer than expected.
Comfortable shoes are essential here; flip-flops would betray any traveller on the uneven ground. As the ascent continues, anticipation builds. The canopy walkway is not simply a bridge—it is a passage into another realm.At the top, Pondok Manggis tower rises above the forest, its wooden steps creaking underfoot.
Here, the adventure truly begins. Only six people are allowed on the walkway at a time, and as each person steps onto the first bridge, the ground disappears beneath them. Suspended 41 meters above the forest floor, the canopy walkway zigzags through crowns of ancient trees, each step a dance between thrill and awe.
The Engineering of Adventure
The walkway itself is a feat of ingenuity. Aluminium ladders are bolted together, suspended horizontally from steel cables, and laced with polyester ropes. Wooden boards cover the open rungs, while netting encloses both sides to add a measure of safety. Yet, the sway of the bridge and the open gaps beneath remind visitors of the wildness of this place.
It is not a polished attraction—it is raw, thrilling, and alive. The rainforest canopy is home to three-quarters of its creatures, and here, among the branches, they seem less fearful, more at ease. Birds flit across the path, monkeys chatter from the treetops, and the rustle of unseen creatures stirs the leaves. For a moment, every visitor becomes part of their world, suspended in their domain.
Circuits Among the Trees
There are three circuits in total, stretching 373.6 meters across the canopy. The first, shaped like a ‘Y’, spans 157.6 meters and has become the most popular route for visitors. It’s open daily from 9AM to 4PM, though patience is required—queues form quickly during peak hours.
The second and third circuits climb higher and stretch longer, each walkway more exposed than the last. The thrill builds with every step, the bridges swaying gently, the rainforest opening out to reveal distant mountain views. At times, branches brush against shoulders; at others, the walkway hangs in open air, the forest stretching endlessly below.
The course begins gently with a 20-meter walkway, hidden among the trees, offering little sense of height. But soon, each bridge grows longer, more exposed, and more exhilarating. At one point, the canopy opens out, revealing sweeping views of the Crocker Range mountains.
The sight is breathtaking—verdant peaks rising against the sky, mist curling around their slopes. It is a moment to pause, to breathe, to absorb the grandeur before continuing the walk.
Practical Notes
Entrance fees:
RM3 for Malaysians,
RM5 for non-Malaysians.
Within the Poring Hot Springs complex, an additional fee applies—MYR10 for adults, MYR8 for children.
Opening hours: Daily, 8AM–6PM.
Location: Jalan Poring, Ranau, Sabah.
The walk takes about 30 minutes to complete, though the uphill climb to the first tower can feel longer in the humid air. Bring water, a small bag, and a camera that can be secured hands-free; capturing the views is irresistible, but safety comes first.
Who Should Try It?
The canopy walk is not for the faint-hearted. Heights, swaying bridges, and exposed walkways make this a challenge for those uneasy with altitude. Children often find it easier—the netting rises to their shoulders, giving them a greater sense of security. Adults, however, may feel the chest-high netting less reassuring.
Once begun, there is no easy exit; it’s a one-way system, and the only option is to continue to the end. Comfort levels should be assessed before stepping onto the first bridge. One woman struggled visibly, her steps hesitant, her grip tight on the ropes. She moved aside to let others pass, but fear was etched on her face.
It was a reminder: this is not an activity to take lightly. Yet, for those who persevere, the reward is immense—a sense of triumph, of having walked among giants.
Beyond the Walk
The canopy walk is just one part of the Poring Hot Springs complex. After the treetop adventure, soak in the sulphuric baths, wander through the butterfly park, or hike to Kipungit Waterfall, where cool waters tumble into a natural pool perfect for swimming.
The gardens here are lush, with Rafflesia flowers blooming when in season, adding another layer of wonder to the visit.Children delight in the small water slides, while adults linger in the botanical gardens, marveling at orchids and tropical blooms.
The butterfly farm is a kaleidoscope of color, wings fluttering in the humid air. And then there is the waterfall—a short hike, but worth every step. Kipungit cascades into a pool where rocks invite climbing and water invites play. It is a place of joy, a natural playground.
The Journey to Poring
Getting to Poring is part of the adventure. The complex sits near the main road between Kota Kinabalu and Sandakan, making it a convenient rest stop when traveling between the two cities. Most buses and minivans stop in Ranau, a town 20 minutes away. From there, travellers can catch a minivan to Poring or arrange a pickup with accommodation.
A private transfer costs around MYR50 each way—a simpler, if pricier, option.The road winds through hills and valleys, the scenery shifting from villages to dense forest. By the time Poring appears, anticipation has built. The entrance is clearly signposted, leading past baths and the butterfly park, up towards the canopy walk.
It is a 5–10 minute walk from the main entrance to the ticket booth, where the steep climb to the first tower begins.
What to Wear and Bring
The weather—and occasional panic—can make the canopy walk a hot and humid experience. Dress in cool clothes, and wear sturdy footwear with good grip. Trainers are ideal; sandals and flip-flops are not. Bring water, a snack, and a small bag to carry them. A camera or phone is essential, but secure it hands-free—both hands will be needed to grip the ropes.
The Emotional Journey
Walking the canopy is not just a physical experience—it is emotional. At first, there is trepidation, the heart racing as the bridge sways beneath each step. Then comes exhilaration, the thrill of being suspended among the trees. Finally, there is triumph, the sense of having conquered fear and embraced adventure.
It is a journey of courage, of discovery, of connection with nature. Children skip along as if at ground level, their laughter echoing through the trees. Adults move more cautiously, gripping ropes, testing each step. Yet, at the end, all share the same smile—the joy of having walked among giants.
Final Thoughts
The Poring Canopy Walk is more than just a tourist attraction—it is a literal highlight of any trip to Borneo. Suspended among giants, visitors feel both vulnerable and exhilarated, senses sharpened by the height and the hum of the rainforest. It’s not easy, and it’s not for everyone, but for those who dare, it’s unforgettable.
A walk among the treetops, where nature reveals itself from a perspective few ever see.It is an adventure that lingers long after descent, a memory etched in the mind—the sway of the bridge, the rustle of leaves, the distant mountains framed by branches. It is a reminder of the vastness of nature, and of humanity’s small place within it. And it is, without doubt, one of the most thrilling ways to reconnect with the wild heart of Sabah.
