Talang-Satang National Park

Talang-Satang was gazetted in 1999 as Sarawak's first marine protected area and covers four islands - Talang-Talang Besar, Talang-Talang Kecil, Satang Besar and Satang Kecil - which between them account for the overwhelming majority of turtle landings in the state, chiefly green turtles with some hawksbill. Protection here is old: egg collection was regulated from the 1950s and a hatchery programme has run for decades, moving clutches from the beaches to fenced enclosures away from predators and tides. Landing on the main nesting islands is restricted, and the way most visitors experience it is through a volunteer programme where participants stay a few nights, help tag nesting females, relocate eggs and release hatchlings. Satang Besar is more open and takes day trips for snorkelling.

History

Since its gazettement in September 1999 the park has protected Sarawak's Turtle Islands, with conservation work both at the nesting beaches and in the surrounding waters (Wikipedia, Talang Satang National Park).

What you'll find

• Green turtles nesting - the great majority of Sarawak's landings on these beaches.
• A hatchery programme - clutches relocated to fenced enclosures, running for decades.
• A volunteer stay - tagging, egg relocation and hatchling releases over a few nights.
• Satang Besar - the more accessible island, open for day trips and snorkelling.

When to go

May to September for the nesting peak. Two days.

Before you go

The nesting islands are closed to casual visits - the volunteer programme books out months ahead. Turtles come ashore at night and nothing is guaranteed on any given night. Facilities are basic.

Nearby

Sematan and Bako are along the coast; Kuching is inland.

Key facts