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Top 10 Powerful Reasons to Visit the Tabin Mud Volcano in Sabah, Borneo

Marriea Travels Marriea Travels June 18, 2025
A family of pygmy elephants grazing and bathing in the mud near the Lipad mud volcano in Tabin Wildlife Reserve, Sabah- tabin mud volcano

Introduction: What Is the Tabin Mud Volcano?

Located deep in the heart of Sabah’s largest nature reserve, the Tabin Mud Volcano is a geological and ecological marvel. Unlike the dramatic, lava-spewing volcanoes seen in other parts of the world, this mud volcano is a low-key yet active site where natural gas pushes mineral-rich mud to the surface, creating a bubbling, crater-like landscape.

 

Set within the Tabin Wildlife Reserve (a sprawling 122,539-hectare lowland rainforest) the mud volcano is more than just a quirky natural phenomenon. It serves as a mineral lick for animals, a rare soil ecosystem, and a unique destination for eco-tourists.

 

Additionally, the Tabin Mud Volcano offers an experience that blends geology, biodiversity, and immersive jungle exploration.

 

Regardless of whether you’re into wildlife, trekking, or natural wonders, this blog will provide you with 10 powerful reasons why the Tabin Mud Volcano is one of Sabah’s most fascinating and underrated eco-destinations.
Eruption of Tabin’s mud volcano with thick mud spewing into the air in a dense Bornean jungle setting
A rare spectacle in Tabin Wildlife Reserve—the mud volcano erupts, shooting mineral-rich mud into the air and transforming the forest floor into a bubbling landscape (Photo by: Sbn Hamit)

1. A Rare and Active Natural Mud Volcano

The Tabin Mud Volcano is one of the few active mud volcanoes in Southeast Asia accessible to the public. Unlike larger volcanic formations, a mud volcano erupts mud and gas instead of lava. The constant bubbling of gas through mineral-rich mud creates a lunar-like surface that shifts and changes with each passing year.

 

What makes it especially unique is that this isn’t a one-time phenomenon—the volcano is continuously active, making every visit slightly different. You might witness fresh eruptions of grey mud, cracks forming new channels, or the occasional plume of gas escaping from underground.

 

For geology enthusiasts, nature photographers, and curious travelers, standing at the edge of this living landscape is a surreal and fascinating experience that can’t be found anywhere else in Sabah.

2. Wildlife Magnet: Mineral Lick for Rare Species

One of the most important ecological functions of the Tabin Mud Volcano is that it acts as a natural mineral lick. The soil and mud here are rich in essential salts and minerals, drawing wildlife from across the rainforest. This hotspot becomes a congregation zone for many species, especially during early morning or twilight hours.

 

Visitors who are quiet and patient may spot endangered species like the Bornean pygmy elephant, deer, wild boars, and even rare birds who come to the site to ingest the mineral-rich mud or simply to wallow.

 

For those interested in eco-tourism, wildlife sightings at the Tabin Mud Volcano offer one of the best chances to see animals in a completely natural setting, without the need for artificial feeding or enclosures.
A family of pygmy elephants grazing and bathing in the mud near the Lipad mud volcano in Tabin Wildlife Reserve, Sabah- tabin mud volcano
A rare sight in Tabin—Bornean pygmy elephants approach the mud volcano, likely drawn by the mineral-rich soil and surrounding vegetation (Photo by: Tabin Wildlife Resort)

3. Birdwatching Hotspot in Sabah’s Lowland Rainforest

If birding is your passion, then visiting the Tabin Mud Volcano is a must. The surrounding forest and open mud-flat ecosystem attracts a wide variety of avian life, including hornbills, broadbills, and pittas.

 

In fact, this area is considered one of the best lowland rainforest birding zones in Borneo.

 

The open landscape makes it easier to spot birds as they fly over the crater or perch on nearby branches. Early morning visits are particularly rewarding, as bird activity is at its peak.

 

Whether you're a casual observer or a serious bird photographer, the Tabin Mud Volcano provides a natural stage to observe birds interacting in ways rarely seen in denser parts of the forest.
A hornbill soaring above the steaming mud volcano in Tabin Wildlife Reserve, Sabah
A hornbill takes flight above Tabin’s mud volcano, a powerful image of Borneo’s vibrant wildlife soaring over one of its most unique geological features

4. One of Sabah’s Most Photogenic Eco-Attractions

For nature photographers, the Tabin Mud Volcano is a dream location. The contrasting textures of the cracked grey mud against the lush green backdrop of the rainforest create a visually stunning landscape.

 

The site is especially photogenic at sunrise and sunset when golden light reflects off the wet surface of the crater, creating ethereal visuals.

 

Photographing wildlife here adds another layer of magic. Imagine capturing a wild deer or hornbill mid-frame, standing on the edge of the crater, surrounded by mist and bubbling mud.

 

It’s not just about taking pictures—it’s about capturing a story. For travelers who want more than just selfies, this site provides material for truly meaningful and memorable photography.
A woman closely observing and studying the surface of Tabin’s mud volcano in Sabah’s rainforest
A woman studies the mud volcano up close—one of Tabin’s most photogenic eco-attractions that draws both scientists and nature enthusiasts into its bubbling, mineral-rich landscape (Photo by: Tabin Wildlife Resort)

5. Accessible Yet Deep in the Jungle

Despite its remote feel, the Tabin Mud Volcano is surprisingly accessible for those already staying at Tabin Wildlife Resort.

 

A guided trek or off-road drive of around 20–30 minutes brings you to a wooden observation tower and boardwalk trail leading directly to the site. The final approach is often done on foot through secondary forest, offering opportunities to spot wildlife along the way.

 

This combination of accessibility and raw wilderness makes it ideal for families, solo travelers, or small groups. You don’t need to be an experienced trekker to enjoy this adventure, but you will still feel like you’ve journeyed deep into the jungle. That’s the magic of the Tabin Mud Volcano—remote but reachable, wild yet welcoming.

6. Trekking Through Tabin Wildlife Reserve

Part of the appeal of visiting the Tabin Mud Volcano is the experience of trekking through one of the richest rainforests in Borneo. The trails that lead to the volcano are relatively flat and well-marked, but they still take you through vibrant ecosystems filled with sounds, sights, and scents of the jungle.

 

During the trek, guides often point out medicinal plants, animal tracks, and bird calls, transforming a simple walk into an educational jungle immersion. This isn't just a quick photo stop—it's part of a larger eco-journey through Tabin Wildlife Reserve, where every step reveals something new.

 

If you're visiting Sabah to experience its natural wonders, this short trek is a perfect introduction to Borneo’s complex rainforest environment.
Hikers walking through dense rainforest trails in Tabin, en route to the mud volcano
An immersive rainforest trek through Tabin leads to one of Sabah’s natural wonders—the mineral-rich mud volcano, hidden deep within the jungle

7. A Unique & Educational Experience for Families & Friends

The Tabin Mud Volcano offers more than just scenic views—it’s a living, bubbling classroom perfect for families and friends seeking meaningful outdoor experiences. This natural site invites both kids and adults to explore the fascinating world of geology, wildlife behavior, and conservation in a fun, hands-on setting.

Whether you’re traveling with curious kids or nature-loving friends, guided tours often enrich the experience with local legends, traditional uses of volcanic mud, and stories that highlight Tabin’s ecological value.

It’s a chance to bond, learn, and make memories—transforming your visit into a meaningful chapter of your Sabah adventure.

Group of friends observing and discussing the mud volcano in Tabin Wildlife Reserve for educational learning
A group of friends engages in hands-on learning at Tabin’s mud volcano—where education meets adventure at one of Borneo’s most intriguing natural sites (Photo by: Tabin Wildlife Resort)

8. Rich Cultural Context and Local Legends

Beyond science and wildlife, the Tabin Mud Volcano is also embedded in local folklore and traditional beliefs. Indigenous communities from the region have long regarded the site as a sacred and mysterious place.

 

Some stories describe the bubbling mud as the “breath of the earth,” while others link it to ancestral spirits and natural healing.

 

These cultural dimensions are often shared by knowledgeable guides who blend storytelling with facts, creating a more holistic experience. Visitors learn that the volcano is not just a geological feature but a symbol of nature’s power and mystery.

 

This cultural richness adds depth to your visit and reinforces the importance of preserving not just the land, but the stories that live within it.

9. Supports Eco-Tourism and Conservation

Every visit to the Tabin Mud Volcano directly supports conservation efforts within the Tabin Wildlife Reserve.

 

Entrance fees, guide wages, and eco-lodge stays help fund habitat protection, wildlife monitoring, and educational outreach. This form of responsible tourism ensures that the natural and cultural heritage of the area is maintained for future generations.

 

Unlike mass-tourism sites that suffer from overuse, the Tabin experience is carefully managed. Group sizes are limited, visitor paths are clearly marked, and human impact is minimized.

 

By choosing to explore the Tabin Mud Volcano, you’re not only treating yourself to a remarkable experience—you’re also playing a part in sustainable tourism and rainforest preservation in Sabah.

10. One-of-a-Kind Jungle Experience You’ll Never Forget

Finally, what truly makes the Tabin Mud Volcano special is that it’s unlike anything else you’ll experience in Borneo. Where else can you trek through dense rainforest, encounter wildlife, hear the bubbling of gas underfoot, and stand on the edge of an ancient, living landscape—all within a few hours?

 

Whether you're a scientist, a photographer, a family, or simply a curious traveler, the moment you step onto the mud flat and feel the earth pulsing beneath you, you'll understand why this place is unforgettable.

 

The experience is immersive, surprising, and deeply moving. Visiting the Tabin Mud Volcano becomes one of those rare travel moments that stick with you long after you’ve returned home.
Powerful eruption of Tabin’s mud volcano with thick mud spewing high into the rainforest air
The iconic mud volcano erupts—an awe-inspiring natural event that reminds visitors of the ever-changing forces beneath Borneo’s rainforest floor

How to Reach Tabin Wildlife Reserve for the Mud Volcano Trip

Planning a trip to the Tabin Mud Volcano starts with getting to Tabin Wildlife Reserve, one of Sabah’s largest and most biodiverse protected areas. The journey begins with a flight to Lahad Datu Airport, a small regional hub on the east coast of Borneo.

 

From there, visitors are picked up by pre-arranged 4WD vehicles, usually organized by the lodge or tour operator, which take you on a scenic 1.5 to 2-hour drive through a mix of countryside, palm oil plantations, and forested zones until you reach the reserve.

 

Once inside Tabin Wildlife Reserve, your journey to the Tabin Mud Volcano is typically included as part of a guided tour. Most visitors stay at Tabin Wildlife Resort, which offers daily excursions to the volcano either by off-road vehicle or a short jungle trek.

 

The experience is safe, well-organized, and designed to give you a smooth yet immersive introduction to the wild. Whether you're traveling solo, with family, or on a private wildlife tour, getting to Tabin Mud Volcano is part of the adventure—and the jungle welcomes you every mile deeper in.

Best Time to Visit the Tabin Mud Volcano

The best time to visit the Tabin Mud Volcano is during the dry season from March to October, when trails are less muddy and wildlife sightings are more frequent.

 

Early mornings offer the highest chance of seeing animals at the mud lick, while sunset provides stunning light for photography.

 

However, the volcano remains active year-round, and visits during the rainy season can also be rewarding, especially for photographers who want misty, dramatic shots.

 

Always wear sturdy shoes, bring insect repellent, and carry water regardless of the season. The rainforest can surprise you, but with the right preparation, your visit will be safe, exciting, and unforgettable.

Final Thoughts: Why the Tabin Mud Volcano Belongs on Your Borneo Itinerary

If you're crafting a Sabah adventure that goes beyond the ordinary, the Tabin Mud Volcano deserves a place on your itinerary.

 

It’s a destination that connects geology, wildlife, culture, and sustainability into one compact and unforgettable experience. From bubbling craters and wild elephants to jungle treks and sunrise photography, this spot delivers a multi-sensory journey into the heart of Borneo.

 

To explore everything Tabin has to offer, beyond just the mud volcano, don’t miss our full guide: The Ultimate Tabin Wildlife Reserve Travel Guide 2025. It’s your complete resource for lodges, wildlife encounters, trekking trails, travel logistics, and eco-friendly travel tips.

 

Pairing the Tabin Mud Volcano with other experiences in the reserve will give you a deeper appreciation of Sabah’s untouched wilderness. Come for the mud, stay for the magic—Tabin is calling.
Close-up of Tabin’s mud volcano with round, active bubbles forming on the surface of the muddy crater
Calm yet alive—Tabin’s mud volcano simmers gently with surface bubbles, revealing the quiet activity beneath this geological wonder

FAQs: Tabin Mud Volcano

The Tabin Mud Volcano is an active mud volcano located within the Tabin Wildlife Reserve in Sabah, Borneo. It continuously emits gas and mineral-rich mud, creating a bubbling, crater-like formation in the heart of the rainforest.

Join an EcoTour Malaysia Trip to the Tabin Mud Volcano

At EcoTour Malaysia, we understand that for many travelers, visiting the Tabin Mud Volcano is about reconnecting with nature, learning something new, and experiencing the rainforest with purpose.

 

That’s why our tours are designed to go beyond the ordinary. We don’t just guide you to the site; we create meaningful journeys that immerse you in Sabah’s incredible biodiversity with the Tabin Mud Volcano as a powerful highlight.

 

From your first step into Tabin Wildlife Reserve to your quiet moments overlooking the bubbling crater, our team handles the details so you can stay present in the experience. Our guides are not just knowledgeable—they’re passionate, local, and deeply rooted in the ecosystem you’re exploring.

 

Ready to experience the beauty of Sabah’s rainforest at your own pace? Let EcoTour Malaysia guide you to the Tabin Mud Volcano.

 

➡️Reach out through our contact page for custom travel support and curated itineraries. Your journey into Tabin’s breathtaking wilderness begins with us by your side.
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