The Madai Caves, accessible by land from Lahad Datu or Tawau are the habitat of countless swiftlets whose nests are harvested twice a year for the famous Chinese speciality, the birds nest soup. The nests are harvested by the Ida'an people, who have owned harvesting rights in the Madai Caves for more than five centuries.

Madai is one of Sabah's most important archeological sites and traces of human existence and inhabitation can be traced back over the past 15,000 years, preserved in the layers of guano (bat droppings) found inside the caves.

Madai is easily accessible as it is only located 1.6 km from the main road. Some wooden houses are located outside the caves, which are seasonally occupied (during harvesting). The caves are guarded by a few local residents against illegal harvesters. 

Located near the Madai Caves, just besides the highway from Lahad Datu to Tawau, is the Madai Waterfall. Another 16 km from Madai is Baturong, another huge limestone massif of archeological importance. Baturong was once part of the Tingkayu Lake, which drained away over several thousands of years around 15,000 BC. The Baturong caves were periodically inhabited over some 5,000 years, until they were abandoned around 10,000 BC. They were occupied again, together with the Madai Caves, until the end of the Palaeolithic Age. Baturong is only accessible by a one-hour drive and an hour's walk through palm oil plantations. For those who wish to go to Baturong, it is highly recommended that you engage the services of a guide, or sign up with a tour company. On the way to Baturong there is also a Mud Volcano.

TRAVEL TIPS

Transportation to the area is only available by land from Lahad Datu/Tawau town through hire or rental. If you purchase a tour package from a tour company, transport will be ready to pick you up from the Lahad Datu / Tawau Airport. Other places you should visit along with this destination are Tawau Hills Park, Danum Valley, Sipadan and the Tabin Wild Life Sanctuary. Make sure you bring the following gear: insect repellent, long trousers and long-sleeved shirt, raincoat, sunhat, swimming suit, trekking boots or trainers, flash light, binoculars, camera & water bottle.