Lupa Masa is a unique jungle camp hidden on the lower slopes of World Heritage Mount Kinabalu National Park. Lupa Masa literally translates as ‘forget time’ and many travellers do just that. Set amongst primary rainforest, it is the perfect place for an introduction to the diversity of Borneo’s famous flora and fauna, as well as a retreat for those who simply want to relax in a beautiful environment surrounded by nature. Only a thirty-minute walk from the village of Poring, guests get their first taste of the rainforest on the guided walk into camp.
Links about Lupa Masa
- Trip Advisor - " Lupa Masa rainforest camp is a natural hideaway set amongst some of the oldest rainforest on Earth."
- Lupa Masa Borneo site
- Facebook page for up to date information
- Lonely Planet summary
- MySabah.com
- Adventure Alternative Borneo
Built entirely from local bamboo and reclaimed wood, accommodation at Lupa Masa jungle camp is rustic but comfortable. Sleeping open-air with mosquito nets, guests have the chance to immerse themselves in the surrounding sights and sounds of the rainforest. There is also the option to sleep within tents on the open-air bamboo structures for those wanting more privacy. It is recommended to pack light for your stay at Lupa Masa.
Activities at Lupa Masa
There are many activities for guests at Lupa Masa jungle camp. It is highly recommended to join the guided night trek that visits the surrounding trails; lastling 45mins, this simple trek gives guests a chance to see some spectacular nocturnal wildlife. Long and short day treks can be arranged to various locations near camp, as well as the fascinating jungle survival course lead by our local leaders.
The surrounding forests are rich in mammal, bird and plant life and treks have included sightings of the Slow Loris, the Western Tarsier, the Long-tailed Porcupine, the Yellow-throated Marten, the Rajah Brook Birdwing Butterfly and Wallace’s Flying Frog, a vast array of butterflies, dragonflies and fireflies, cicadas, frogs or even hooting gibbons. When in season, the Giant Rafflesia and many wild orchids can be found flowering nearby. As a sign of any healthy rainforest, there are leeches in the surrounding jungle, but there really is no need to worry about these harmless (if ugly looking) critters!
Guests can also enjoy their days spent on the sun deck by the river, relaxing in a hammock or swimming in the nearby river and waterfall.
Facilities at Lupa Masa
The facilities at Lupa Masa jungle camp are simple and all ecologically sound. The hydroelectric power supply is the primary source of electric at camp, supplemented by a fuel generator when the river in low.
Simple private showers and taps are supplied from the surrounding rivers and water use is kept to a minimum. There are western toilets that require a ‘bucket flush’.
Meals are vegetarian and include rice with numerous jungle vegetables that are grown in the surrounding area and supplied by the local village markets. All food is organic where possible, food waste is composted and plastic and other materials are limited in their use. Food is served in a communal eating area so you can get to know other campers and talk with guides about the incredible things you’ve seen throughout the day.
What to Bring to Lupa Masa
Lightweight breathable clothes, long sleeved and lightweight for the evenings and to cover up from the insects, a sarong or light towel, sandals and light socks for the evenings. The camp provides mattresses and mosquito nets but do bring a sleeping sheet or very lightweight sleeping bag.
Most people wear shorts and T-shirts or a light shirt with a sunhat during the day and some sandals which can be worn in the river for swimming. In the evenings and mornings change into long sleeved clothing and sandals with socks. At night people sleep in loose fitting trousers and a long sleeved Tshirt in a sleeping sheet or light sleeping bag. A torch is very useful, and any soaps or shampoos should be bio-degradeable.
Learning jungle skills during the day
The jungle at night is very noisy, partly because of these frogs!