Do I need a visa to visit Sarawak?

Visa requirements depend on your nationality. Many countries receive visa-free entry for short stays, but always check with the Malaysian embassy. Note that Sarawak maintains separate immigration control—keep your passport handy for domestic flights between Sarawak and Peninsular Malaysia.

Is English widely spoken?

Yes, English is widely spoken in tourist areas, cities, and by most tourism professionals. Many signs are in both Malay and English. In remote villages, basic Malay or local language phrases are helpful.

What is the food like in Sarawak?

Sarawak offers unique Borneo cuisine. Must-try dishes include Sarawak laksa (spicy noodle soup), kolo mee (dry noodles), and umai (raw fish salad). Indigenous ingredients like jungle ferns and midin (wild fern) are common. Food hygiene is generally good in established eateries.

Can I visit longhouses independently?

It's strongly recommended to visit longhouses through licensed tour operators who arrange proper invitations and cultural exchanges. Independent visits may be seen as intrusive. Operators ensure respectful interaction and often include homestays.

What should I pack for a trip to Sarawak?

Light, breathable clothing for humidity, sturdy hiking shoes for jungles, rain gear, insect repellent, sunscreen, a hat, and a power adapter for Type G plugs. For longhouse visits, bring small gifts like school supplies for children as a gesture of goodwill.

Visa-free for many nationalities for up to 90 days. Check with the Malaysian embassy.

What is the local food like?

A mix of Malay, Chinese, and indigenous cuisines. Must-try: Sarawak laksa, kolo mee, and umai.

Can I visit longhouses?

Yes, but it's best to go with a guided tour to respect local customs.

Is it safe to drink tap water?

No, drink bottled or boiled water.

What is the best way to see orangutans?

Visit the Semenggoh Wildlife Centre near Kuching.

Do I need any vaccinations?

Hepatitis A, typhoid, and tetanus are recommended. Consult your doctor.

What is the weather like?

Tropical, hot and humid year-round. Rain is common.

Can I use my credit card?

Yes, in cities. Cash is needed in rural areas.

Is there a dress code?

Modest clothing is recommended, especially in rural areas and religious sites.

What souvenirs should I buy?

Handwoven textiles, pepper, and indigenous crafts.

Sarawak

StateMalaysia, Asia

Sarawak is a STATE in Malaysia, Asia.

Sarawak, Malaysia's largest state on the island of Borneo, offers an extraordinary adventure into ancient rainforests, vibrant indigenous cultures, and untamed natural beauty. Known as the 'Land of the Hornbills,' Sarawak captivates travelers with its world-class national parks like Gunung Mulu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its dramatic limestone pinnacles and vast cave systems, including the world's largest cave chamber. The capital, Kuching, charms visitors with its riverside esplanade, colonial architecture, and exceptional museums showcasing Borneo's rich heritage. Immerse yourself in the living cultures of the Iban, Bidayuh, and Orang Ulu peoples by visiting traditional longhouses along the Skrang or Lemanak rivers. Witness incredible biodiversity in Bako National Park's proboscis monkeys and pitcher plants, or embark on a wildlife river cruise in the Kinabatangan region. From the bustling markets of Sibu to the remote highlands of Kelabit, Sarawak delivers an authentic, less-traveled Southeast Asian experience where adventure and cultural discovery await at every turn.

Best time to visit Sarawak

June to September is the best time to visit, during the drier season when rainfall is lower, making it ideal for jungle trekking, river trips, and outdoor activities. The weather is more predictable, though humidity remains high. March to October also sees several cultural festivals like the Rainforest World Music Festival (usually June/July) and Gawai Dayak harvest festival (June), offering rich cultural experiences. November to February brings the monsoon season with heavier rains, which can disrupt travel to remote areas but also means fewer tourists and lush greenery.

October

Now

Typical for October

Weather: Warm 25-32°C

Travel notes

Crowds: Low
Prices: Low

Transition to wet season

Know before you go

Getting there

KCH

Kuching International Airport

International

10 km away

MYY

Miri Airport

Domestic/International

10 km away

SBW

Sibu Airport

Domestic

20 km away

BKM

Bakelalan Airport

Domestic

5 km away

MUR

Marudi Airport

Domestic

5 km away

Getting around

"In cities like Kuching and Miri, ride-hailing apps (Grab) are widely used and affordable. Taxis are available but insist on meters or agree on fares beforehand. Local buses connect major towns but schedules can be irregular. For exploring remote areas, 4WD rentals with drivers are recommended due to rough terrain. Domestic flights (MASwings, AirAsia) connect Kuching, Miri, Sibu, and smaller towns like Bintulu and Limbang. River transport (express boats, ferries) is essential for reaching interior regions and longhouses—book through tour operators. Renting a car offers flexibility for coastal highways, but be prepared for limited signage in rural areas."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

20 Mbps

Mobile data

Good

WiFi

Widely available in cities and hotels

Local SIM

Local SIM available at airport from $5

Calling code

+60

Stay safe

Overall

8/10

Scams are rare but can occur in tourist areas. Use official taxis or ride-hailing apps.

Night safety

7/10

Scams are rare but can occur in tourist areas. Use official taxis or ride-hailing apps.

Transport

9/10

Scam risk

6/10

"Sarawak is generally safe with low violent crime rates. Exercise normal precautions in cities regarding petty theft. Avoid isolated areas at night. When visiting longhouses or rural communities, always go with a reputable guide. Be cautious when trekking in national parks—stay on marked trails and hire guides for challenging routes. Road conditions can be poor in rural areas; drive carefully, especially during rainy seasons. Common scams are rare but be wary of overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited tours or deals. Political gatherings should be avoided. Coastal areas may have crocodile warnings; heed local signs."

Police

999

Ambulance

999

Fire

994

Tourist Police

+6082-250522

Entry and health

Health information

"Medical facilities are adequate in major cities like Kuching, Miri, and Sibu, with private hospitals offering good standards. Government hospitals provide affordable care. Common health concerns include mosquito-borne diseases like dengue fever—use repellent and wear long sleeves. Malaria risk is low in urban areas but present in remote rural regions; prophylaxis may be advised for jungle travel. Ensure routine vaccinations are up-to-date; hepatitis A and typhoid are recommended. Tap water is not potable; drink bottled or boiled water. Travel insurance covering medical evacuation is strongly recommended, especially for adventure activities in remote areas."

Culture

Local customs

"Respect indigenous cultures: always ask permission before entering longhouses or taking photos of people. Remove shoes when entering homes or certain buildings. Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or rural communities—avoid revealing clothing. Handshakes are common, but some indigenous groups may use both hands or a slight bow. Tipping is not customary but appreciated for good service in tourist establishments (5-10%). When offered food or drink, accept politely. Avoid touching people's heads, as it's considered sacred. Public displays of affection are frowned upon. During Gawai and other festivals, participating respectfully is welcomed."

Malay (Bahasa Malaysia)EnglishIbanChinese (various dialects)BidayuhMelanauOrang Ulu languages

Costs and practicals

Currency

Malaysian Ringgit (MYR) · RM

Cost level

Mid-range

Meals

$3-5 | a cheap local meal costs around $3-5

Hotels

$30-80 | budget hotels range $30-80/night

Local transport

$1 | local bus ride ~$1

Cost notes

Prices are in USD. Mid-range hotels in Kuching cost around $50-80.

Timezone

Asia/Kuching +08:00 (GMT)

More facts

Population

2,900,000

Area

124,450 km²

Government

State government within the federal constitutional monarchy of Malaysia, headed by a Governor (Yang di-Pertua Negeri) and Chief Minister

ISO code

MY-11

Type

State

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: Саравак, Saravako, Saravaka, سراوك;سرواك;سراواك;ساراواك, サラワク, सारावाक, รัฐซาราวัก, ساراواک, Սարավակ, 사라왁, سراوق, Bumi Kenyalang;Sarawak Bumi Kenyalang, MY-13, סראוואק, 砂拉越州, Sarawaki osariik, சரவாக், Saravakas, ဆာရာဝပ်ပြည်နယ်, Sarawak suyu, Saravak, സാരവാക്ക്, سراواک, Sarawak, সারাওয়াক, KCH, Kuching, Kucingas, Kučingas, gu jin, ku ching, kuchin, kuching, kuciga, kucim, kucinga, kuciniግ, kwchyng, kwtshyngh, kwtshynj, qwzyng, Кучинг, קוצינג, كوتشينغ, کوتشينج, کوچینگ, कुचिंग, কুচিং, ਕੁਚਿੰਗ, กูชิง, ኩቺንግ, クチン, 古晉, 쿠칭

Capital CityMajor HubBeachHistoric CityFamily-FriendlyHikingEco-TourismCulturalAdventureRainforest