The Madai Caves comprise a wide network of caves and passages and it is a Madai Caves venue worth visiting because of its accessibility. It is only a short distance from the Tawau – Lahad Datu highway. There is a labyrinth of cave passages that can be followed and an underground stream which adds to the fascination as visitors move through cave formations that echo the timelessness of nature.

In moving through the caves, it is better for visitors to be guided. The droppings of bats and swallows over the centuries have formed a permanent carpet of lush, soft areas which can be thigh deep at places.

Watch out for such spots. Many of the workers who collect birds’ nest will be happy to provide direction or personally guide visitors for a small fee.

The activity of collecting birds’ nest which is a delicacy among the Chinese, is an intriguing sight. Some of the ladders constructed of bamboos and rattan can extend up to great heights but the workers deftly move up such ladders with ease.

For the adventurous, climbing up to the lower peaks of the Madai hills is a must. Although the climb is nearly vertical in stages, the many footholds among the limestone outcrop help make the climb much easier.

It is certainly not a climb to be attempted by the faint-hearted. The exhilaration at the top is hard to describe and the view over the Kunak plains stretching right out to the sea is excellent.

How to Get There
Fly to Tawau. From Tawau, you can hire a taxi or rent a car for a day to the caves or arrangements can be made with the hotels or tour companies.

Accommodation will have to be in Tawau or Kunak town. If hill climbing is on your plan, please bring the following:- change of clothes, first-aid, gloves, good pair of rubber shoes, food, plenty of drinks. Remember, if you visit the Madai caves, visit also the Madai Waterfalls which is along the Tawau-Lahad Datu main road. It is an excellent spot for a picnic.