Sandakan – Gomantong Caves

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Gomantong Caves in the heartland of the Gomantong Rainforest Reserve have been the focus for birds' nest collectors for centuries and is described by WWF as 'the best-managed edible birds' nest cave in the world'.

Since the 13th century, Chinese traders have come to Sandakan in search of birds' nests, a prized delicacy among the Chinese. Harvesters put their lives on the line literally, climbing networks of rattan ladders and ropes to get to the nests. The risky nature of nest collecting has only helped make the commodity a pricey one.

There are two cave complexes - Simud Hitam (Black Cave) soaring up to 90 metres high, accessible by a well-maintained boardwalk which gives you easy access to do some exploring or watch the skilled harvesters at work. Simud Putih (White Cave), are where the more valuable nests are found. You will need to make prior arrangements for exploring the challenging Simud Putih, which calls for more serious caving.

The resident creatures of the caves include swiftlets (from which the nests are collected) and bats. Outside, other birds such as serpent eagles, bat hawks and kingfishers can be seen.

Sandakan – Gomantong Caves Reviews

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