Endau-Romping is a beautiful national park in the southeastern part of Peninsular Malaysia. Together with Taman Negara and Royal Belum State Park it contains some of the oldest rainforests in the world. The name comes from the two rivers that run through the park; the Endau River and the Rompin River. People that visit the national park do so to visit the many wonderful waterfalls, or to visit the Orang Asli tribes. The park is not easily accessible (by normal vehicles) which makes it an attraction especially popular among adventure seekers.
Just like Taman Negara there are many wildlife species that live in the park, chances on spotting them are slim as they have ample space to roam around within the park boundaries. The national park is known for having the largest remaining population of the highly endangered Sumatran rhinoceros. Other animals that live in the national park are the white-handed gibbon, Malaysian tiger, Asian elephant, wild boar, tapir, slow loris, deer, long-tail macaques and leopards. Among the many bird species that live in the park are the hornbills and kingfishers. As most of the animals know how to evade visitors it is more common to spot insects, spiders and the occasional snake.
There are many activities and attractions at Endau-Rompin National Park to keep you busy for at least 3 or 4 days. Among the most popular attractions are; jungle trails, a visit to the Orang Asli (Jakun tribe) village, rubber tube rafting, night safari (walk or by 4x4), numerous fantastic waterfalls, a few beautiful lakes and river cruises. You can stay at the chalets (RM100/RM150) or dormitory at Endau-Rompin Park Headquarters. As there is no aircon, it is advisable to bring along mosquito netting. Also make sure to bring along enough mosquito repellant. There are also a few campsites in the area; you can rent a tent at Park HQ (Peta) for RM40 per night.
The national park can be visited from April to October and is closed during the monsoon season (November to March).
Checklist trip to Endau-Rompin National Park
- First aid travel kit with personal medicine
- Tripod for your camera (to make pictures in low light conditions)
- Mosquito repellent Rain coat, poncho and/or umbrella
- Headlamp or flashlight
- Dry clothes in an aqua bag
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Special socks against leeches
How to get to Endau-Rompin National Park
The best way to get to Endau-Rompin National Park is by rental car though you will not be able to use the car within the park (unless it is a 4WD). If you come from either Kuala Lumpur (5hrs) or Johor Bahru (3hrs) you should follow the main North-South Expressway until you reach Exit 244 (Air Hitam Interchange). From there you follow the signs via Kluang to Kahang. From there you can follow the signs to the Park HQ (Peta). If you are on a package tour Kahang is the place to drop your car and to get on the 4WD for the drive to Kampung Peta. At the Park HQ you can also arrange 4WD transport to the national park (accommodation at Kampung Peta); but make sure you arrange this beforehand.
