“Once in a lifetime opportunity. MUST see!”
Sumbiling Eco Village is an amazing and once in a lifetime opportunity to stay overnight (or however long you desire) in untouched rainforest amongst the Iban community. We stayed for two days, one night with two teenagers and an adult, and I think it is an experience we will never forget. If you like nature or have a remote interest in wildlife ect.. then this is a MUST, MUST, MUST see. The flora and fauna were stunning and really brought us back to nature- all the forest is primary and completely safe for you to roam around in in your own time, and the river was a source of much relaxation, enjoyment and laughs. No need to worry about the safety of the river by the way, only if you have a fear of large pebbles need you be afraid! We felt so privileged to meet some of the Iban people, (including a 4 year old girl who could use a machete and a 65 year old ex-army character) and although they were a little shy, went out of their way to help and do anything to enrich our stay. All the food is traditional Iban food, and all the ingredients were found from within a few hundred metres of our cabin. We even dug up our own tapioka and bamboo shoots! And if your a wildlife person or a shutterbug, prepare to see some very interesting and exotic creatures. We saw a chameleon along with numerous other colourful lizards, bats, bright feathered birds and billions of little bugs for us to spot. I guess what makes it so great is that the whole project is self sustaining and you know the money is going to the people and the preservation of the forest. The money you give is given to the locals and means that they don't have to turn to cutting down of the trees or hunting of animals to make a living. Overall it is an incredible chance to spend quality time in tranquil rainforest and we highly recommend it. For people interested in booking something like this, we booked through HASA Travel who were amazing in helping us and very proactive in protecting the forest and helping achieve a greater quality of life for the locals.
Room Tip: Cabins are available for those who don't want to brave a tent! 
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- Stayed July 2011, traveled with family
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