Plizio Visual Lab
Bukit Retak
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
Mountain
Weather…
Water temperature…
Bukit Retak is a prominent peak in Brunei's Temburong district, reaching an elevation of approximately 1,618 meters. As part of the Batu Apoi Forest Reserve, it is surrounded by one of the best-preserved rainforests in the world. The area is renowned for its extreme biodiversity, including many rare species of orchids and carnivorous plants like Nepenthes. The slopes of the mountain are steep and often shrouded in clouds, creating a unique microclimate. Access to Bukit Retak is difficult, requiring a challenging multi-day jungle trek suitable only for very experienced trekkers. Its remoteness has helped preserve its pristine nature, making it a significant site for scientific research, particularly in the fields of botany and entomology.
- Location: Brunei
- Nearby: Batu Apoi (19 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Mar, Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 21 | 21 | 22 | 22 | 22 | 22 | 21 | 21 | 22 | 21 | 22 | 21 |
| Rain mm | 260 | 151 | 169 | 223 | 254 | 254 | 247 | 230 | 248 | 315 | 306 | 298 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
The journey heads deep into the Temburong district, primarily via traditional river longboats, followed by hiking along hidden and rarely traversed jungle paths.
Best season
The best conditions are typically found during the drier months between February and April, when the river water levels generally allow for a safe and smooth passage.
Terrain & paths
Expect a remarkably wild, nearly untouched nature experience with very steep, slippery sections and dense undergrowth that features almost no clearly marked trails.
What to bring
Wear quick-drying expedition clothing, sturdy jungle boots, and be sure to bring plenty of water purification tablets in addition to a machete for trail clearing.
Parking
A starting point is usually reached by longboats from Bangar; personal cars are left securely at the official boat departure points far away in the main town.
Safety
This pristine area absolutely requires a knowledgeable local guide; do not underestimate the severe risks posed by falling trees, aggressive insects, and extreme exhaustion.
Time needed
An expedition into this remote region usually lasts two to three full days, with a heavy focus placed on wilderness survival and navigating the dense jungle canopy.
Geography
Facts
- Elevation: approx. 1618 meters.
- Part of the Batu Apoi Forest Reserve.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Bukit Retak (1)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What relief does Bukit Retak have?
A steep, mountainous relief with deep valleys and sharp ridges.
Are there scientific stations on the mountain?
Researchers occasionally use the area for biological studies, but there are no permanent stations.
What is the soil structure like?
Often thin humus layers over sandy or clayey rock, very prone to erosion.
Is the area part of a protected zone?
Yes, it is part of Brunei's important forest protection areas for biodiversity conservation.
Can you go birdwatching there?
Yes, it is an excellent location for spotting Borneo's rare montane birds.
Bukit Retak: where is it located?
Bukit Retak is located in Brunei.
Bukit Retak: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Mar, Aug.
Bukit Retak: why is it worth visiting?
Bukit Retak is a prominent peak in Brunei's Temburong district, reaching an elevation of approximately 1,618 meters.
Explore with Plizio
Discover more places in Asia
More places in Brunei →
Nearby cities
Bangar
The isolated administrative center of Temburong District, accessible mainly by boat or the new bridge.
Batu Apoi
A significant area in Temburong that serves as a gateway to the pristine rainforests.
Amo
A remote village providing an authentic glimpse into the traditional lifestyle of the indigenous people.
Labu
A village situated near the dense mangrove forests of the Temburong District.
History & landmarks
Nature
More places
Bukit Pagon
The highest mountain in Brunei, located on the border with Malaysia.
Bukit Retak
A prominent mountain ridge in the inaccessible hinterland of Brunei, known for its extreme biodiversity at higher elevations.
Bukit Pagon Cloud Forest Zone
On Brunei's highest mountain, there is a unique cloud forest vegetation that is home to many endemic species.
Bukit Pagon
The highest mountain in Brunei, located on the border with Malaysia in the Temburong district and covered by cloud forest.
Bukit Tudal
A remote mountain peak in the mountainous south of Temburong.
Ulu Temburong National Park
The first national park in Brunei, known for its pristine rainforest and spectacular canopy walkway.
Bukit Lesong
A heavily forested mountain in the Ulu Temburong National Park.
Bukit Belalong
A mountain in the Temburong jungle, frequently visited by researchers and hikers.