How to get to Long Banga

Long Banga is a remote and scenic settlement located deep within the state of Sarawak in Malaysia, close to the border with Indonesia. This destination attracts ecotourism enthusiasts and adventure seekers wishing to experience authentic culture and enjoy the unspoiled nature of the highlands. You can reach Long Banga in various ways: by utilizing light aircraft or by conquering a challenging yet thrilling route via off-road vehicle through the jungles.

The fastest and most convenient way to reach the region is by air. The settlement is served by the small Long Banga Airport (LBP), which receives regular light aircraft flights (typically Twin Otter planes) from the cities of Miri and Marudi. This air link is vital for local residents and tourists, allowing them to avoid the long journey by land.

Flying to Long Banga offers a unique opportunity to view the endless tropical rainforests and mountains of Malaysia from a bird's-eye view. The airport is located in the immediate vicinity of the residential area, so transfers to guesthouses are usually not required or take just a few minutes.

Railway connections to Long Banga are completely non-existent, as the complex mountainous terrain and dense jungles of Borneo make laying tracks impossible. Trains have never operated in this part of Malaysia, and there are no plans to develop this mode of transport.

Nearby settlements, such as Bario or Long Seridan, also lack access to the railway. Travelers planning a trip to this region should rely exclusively on flights or high-clearance automotive transport.

There is no direct bus service to Long Banga due to the specific nature of the local roads, which are primarily unpaved logging tracks. Standard intercity buses are not adapted for movement in such conditions, so it is impossible to get here by public transport in the conventional sense.

The only alternative for overland travel consists of four-wheel-drive jeeps and pickups, which act as shared taxis between villages. Such a trip can be organized through private drivers in neighboring large settlements; however, one should be prepared for a bumpy ride and a long journey.

Traveling by car to Long Banga is a serious challenge requiring a reliable off-road vehicle (4WD) and experience in driving on rough terrain. The shortest route leads from Bario: the distance is about 127 km, but due to the difficult terrain, the travel time will take at least 5.2 hours.

The road from Long Seridan, spanning 384 km, will require about 11.2 hours of continuous driving. The option of traveling from Ba'kelalan is the most exhausting: covering 690 km can take more than 15 hours, which is why this route is chosen extremely rarely.

A trip to Long Banga is an immersion into wild nature and a traditional way of life, which requires careful preparation. To ensure your journey is comfortable and safe, please pay attention to the following recommendations.

1. Clothing and Essentials. The climate here is humid and tropical. Pack light, breathable clothing with long sleeves for protection against insects and the sun, as well as sturdy trekking boots for jungle walks.
2. Transport. Within the village, everyone moves around on foot. To travel outside the settlement, the only reliable option is rented off-road vehicles with local drivers who know the road conditions.
3. Finances. There are no ATMs or card terminals in Long Banga. Be sure to bring a sufficient supply of cash (Malaysian Ringgit) in small denominations to pay for accommodation and food.
4. Health and Safety. The nearest hospital is far away. Assemble a first aid kit with plasters, antiseptics, remedies for digestive issues, and strong repellents against mosquitoes and leeches.
5. Communication. Locals speak their own dialects and the Malay language. English is not understood everywhere, so it is useful to learn a few basic phrases or have an offline translator.
6. Local Etiquette. Upon entering a traditional longhouse, it is customary to remove your shoes. Always ask for permission before photographing local residents, especially the elderly.
7. What to Avoid. Do not drink raw water from the tap or rivers; use only boiled or bottled water. Avoid independent treks into the deep jungle without an experienced guide.
8. Additional Tip. Try the local produce grown in ecologically clean conditions, especially the rice and mountain salt—they are considered the pride of the region.

By following these tips, you can avoid practical difficulties and fully enjoy the hospitality and unique atmosphere of this corner of Malaysia.