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Places to Visit in Sabah

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Gunung Mulu National Park, Kota Kinabalu

Gunung Mulu National Park is a beautiful national park situated in Sarawak that comprises caves and karst formations in the setting of the mountainous equatorial rainforest. This national park is highly renowned for its impressive collection of caves and rich dense rainforests. It is also home to a vast variety of flora and fauna, thereby offering a perfect escapade from the humdrum of city life close to the lap of nature.

Lok Kawi Wildlife Park, Kota Kinabalu

Lok Kawi Wildlife Park in Malaysia is quite popular among nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. Spread over 280 acres of land, the park is divided into two sections, the botanical and zoological side. It is run by the Sabah Wildlife Department under the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Environment.

The park is mainly family oriented and is also well-liked as a children’s zoo. The residents of the zoo include the Borneo Pygmy elephants, Orang Utan, Malayan Tiger, Sumatran Rhinoceros, Proboscis monkey, as well as a few species of Deer.

The botanical side of the park allows the visitors to go on leisurely strolls and jungle trekking along the trail. The well maintained and paved botanical trail runs for approximately 1.4 kilometres and the entire botanical component is spread over 200 acres of the area.

There is an aviary which is a very lively section of the park as you can hear a whole lot of pleasant sounds of the birds that greet the visitors who come to the park. The aviary houses many species of birds like the hornbill, parrots, pigeons, eagles and many more. The section in the zoo which is for children offers elephant rides from 10:30 am to 11:30 am and from 3:30 pm to 4:30 pm every day.

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Kinabalu Park, Kota Kinabalu

A dream destination for all the wildlife and nature lovers, Kinabalu Park, encompasses around 5000 plant species and over 90 mammal species. The gigantic Mount Kinabalu range forms the major highlight of this park. This heritage park, which is also the starting point of Kinabalu trek, is conveniently located at an altitude of 1585 metres. If you want to add a dash of adventure into your trip, engage in activities like birding, mountain biking, golf, and farm tours. You can also capture the beauty of this place in your camera as a memento your way back home.

• Kota Kinabalu

Sapi Island, Kota Kinabalu

If you are looking for a relaxing holiday by the calm waters in the Peninsular region of Malaysia, then Sapi Island is the perfect escape to enjoy the cold breeze and serene blue sea. One of the must-visit islands in Sabah, a state in Malaysia, Sapi Island attracts tourists from all over the world. Famous for Coral Flyer - the longest zipline in the world, the beautiful island offers a plethora of activities such as scuba diving, snorkeling, swimming and more that will give you an adrenaline rush.

Located very close to Kota Kinabalu, the 25-acre Sapi Island is one of the five islands constituting the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park that covers 50 square km of the islands. Shaped like a cow’s head, this picturesque island in Malaysia has long been a favorite tourist destination for its distinguishing natural beauty, exotic culture, thrilling adventurous activities and thriving marine life. Some of the top attractions include the island’s distinctive wildlife, quaint hidden beaches and coral flying.

For enchanting travelers and animal lovers who want to soak sunlight by the white sandy beaches and relax under rustling palms, Sapi Island can provide them a comfortable stay. While you are here at the ravishing island, try out the coral flyer zipline activity that will give you a tour of other surrounding islands. Fish and turtles in the clear water and macaques, wild boards and monitor lizards dot the island. You will enjoy snorkeling and diving in the surrounding reefs and hiking through the dense forests. 

In addition to exploring the coolest and thrilling Coral Flyer activity, Sapi Island is also famous for its monitor lizards. These 2-meter-long wild creatures on the island are harmless unless humans cause any disturbance to them.One of Sapi Island’s top attractions is a secret cliff which is located 800 meters from the ground. The picture-perfect and pristine view from the cliff is worth exploring.

As you follow the trail towards the cliff, you will reach an open area with sedimentary rocks and a magnificent view of the mesmerizing blue and green colored water. Sapi Island also features a few hidden beaches which are less crowded and offer a peaceful spot, drawing similarities to a castaway dream location.

Gaya Street Sunday Market, Kota Kinabalu

Also known as the Sunday market, Gaya Street should be in every traveller’s bucket list. The place has been of importance to the traders for over a hundred years. It’s the perfect place for those who want to tour the local markets. Tourists can buy a variety of things like, authentic Malaya ingredients, a large variety of sea food, Malayan art and craft etc.

Highlights : If you are looking to buy some souvenirs to take back home, then this is the correct place to do so. People can also find traditional Malaysian artifacts. If you are a food lover, then you can explore the various ingredients for authentic Malaysian cuisines.

Location : It is located in the center of the city; hence people can stroll down to this place. The market is well connected with the public transport as well, so reaching there is not a problem.

Timing : The best time to visit the market is during the daytime on Sundays.

Layang Layang Island, Kota Kinabalu

Manukan Island Resort, Kota Kinabalu

The Manukan Island Resort is a luxury private island resort. This serene retreat offers exquisite accommodation, sophisticated cuisine and unparalleled water sport activities in one of the most pristine corner of the world. Manukan Island is surrounded by a protected coral reef, and the island boasts a pristine rainforest and beautiful white sand beaches.

Location: Manukan Island, 88100 Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia

Highlights: This resort features an outdoor pool, a restaurant and spacious villas with private terraces and dining areas. The resort offers a wide range of activities such as diving, snorkeling and trekking. For views of marine life, glass-bottomed boat rides are available.

Price: Approximate price for a room starts at 700 MYR.

Pulau Mantanani Beach, Kota Kinabalu

Pulau Mantanani is a cluster of three isolated tiny islands to the northwest of Kota Belud. It was so isolated in fact that not until recently, only a few locals knew the existence of the islands. One of the main reasons that Mantanani Islands is popular among tourists is because of its picturesque scenery, cool breezes and serene environment. But most popular attraction of Pulau Mantanani are the dugongs. The Mantanani Islands seem to provide the ideal habitats for dugongs with sea grass beds and shallow sandy areas within the encircling fringing reef of the islands.

Highlights: These islands present popular diving and snorkeling destinations because of their crystal clear waters and colourful coral reefs.

How to Get There : The islands are accessible by a one-hour speedboat journey from Kuala Abai jetty, Kota Belud, 80 km north-east of Kota Kinabalu.

Mataking Beach, Kota Kinabalu

Another resort island with one of the best beaches in Malaysia, Mataking Island is the furthest from Semporna in east coast Sabah where a boat trip takes nearly an hour one way. Just stroll around the island to look for your own secluded place. One of the unique things about the island is that they have an underwater post office where you can literally post a letter or postcard. Highly recommended for those who want a 'Maldives' experience in Malaysia.

Highlights: This is the perfect romantic getaway as the island has a spa, private bungalows, an outdoor Jacuzzi by the sea and all the romantic walks by the beach you want. Special arrangements can be made for honeymooners, weddings or private parties. The only way to get here is by booking a tour package from the resort. There are no day trips or visits here.

  How to Get There : It is about 40 minute’s boat ride from the mainland of Semporna in the province of Sabah.

Kota Kinabalu City Mosque, Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu City Mosque is the second most important mosque in the whole Kota Kinabalu after the State Mosque, located in Sembulan. It is a perfect blend of modern and Islamic architecture and can hold more than 12,000 people in a single time. The architecture of the mosque highly resembles the Nabawi Mosque in Medina. The man-made lagoons surrounding the mosque gives its visitors an elegant and dramatic look, especially on a full moon night and is the largest mosque in Kota Kinabalu.

 Location: The mosque is just 3 KM from the main Kota Kinabalu City and is easily accessible.

 How to reach: Either you can take a local taxi, which will cost you around 15 MYR per way or you can take Bus No. 5A from the front of Hotel Shangri-La, which will cost you around 1.50 MYR per  person per way.

 Timings: 8 AM to 5 PM (Fridays closed)

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Other Attractions

Tunku abdul rahman national park.

Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park is a beautiful collection of five Malaysian islands that are situated off the Borneo coast around six kilometers from Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia. It is a wonderful place for people who look forward to indulge in underwater activities or relax on the white sandy beaches. The fundamental attraction of this national park is the vast variety of aquatic life found in the surrounding waters of the park. 

Mount Kinabalu

Located on the west coast of Sabah, Mount Kinabalu is the highest mountain peak in Malaysia, standing at a whopping height of 4101 meters. This humongous mountain is abundant in the different species of flora and fauna at various altitudes. It is renowned for its biodiversity of plants that serve as a vast array of natural habitats for animals to thrive. The fantastic views and the thrill urges visitors to go trekking on this mountain. 

Borneo Kellybays

If you have not visited this aqua paradise in Sabah, your trip is incomplete. Situated amidst dense mangrove forest along the Southern China Sea, Borneo Kellybays is a perfect place to delve into the marine world. It is a must-visit spot for all the adrenaline junkies who just never get enough of adventure and fun. From banana boating and crab-catching to Mangrove kayaking and beach volleyball, there are a plethora of activities that this place offers. If you get some extra time, relish its cool streetside desserts or try your hand on Blowpipe Dart shooting or Batik painting. Borneo Kellybays is also a popular picnic spot among locals and tourists. Location: Jalan Kampung, Kampung Laya Laya, Tuaran, Sabah, Malaysia Timing: 9:30 AM-5:00 PM

Mari Mari Cultural Village

Nestled away from the bustling city, Mari Mari Cultural Village introduces you to the traditional and simple Malaysian lifestyle. The village has turned into a museum which has beautifully preserved ethic Borneo culture. If you wish to delve into the history of Borneo, head straight to this small hamlet and learn some interesting facts about the city. Mari Mari Cultural Village features five diverse ethnic tribes, including Dusun, Rungus, Lundayeh, Bajau, and Murut. A visit to this village is a perfect opportunity to learn about the culture of Borneo tribe and enjoy the live art events performed by tribal people. For all the history buffs and culture geeks, Mari Mari Cultural Village is the most prominent spot among all the Sabah tourist places. Location: Inanam, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah Timing: 10:00 AM -5:00 PM Entrance fee: RM 96 per adult

Kiulu White Water Rafting Centre

The 15-Km long river of Kiulu facilitates bountiful of water sports activities for the visitors. From paddling through the dense water to overcoming rapids, there are endless activities that will thrill your senses. Though the rapids are of lower grade, you can expect a lot of adventure on your way ahead. This white water rafting trip is suitable for all those who are seeking a relaxing trip. If you are a beginner, who wants to kickstart their water sports adventure journey, here is a golden opportunity for you. Since the rapids here are not of a higher level, you can also accompany your kids to this spot. Once you are done with water sports, sit on the river banks and bask in the warmth of nature. Location: Tamparuli, Kota KInabalu, Sabah, Malaysia Timing: 8:30 AM-3:00 PM

Kapalai Island

Sipadan Island

Top Experiences To Do in Sipadan Island

Turtle Islands National Park

Nestled in the centre of Turtle Island, this national park from Sabah provides shelter to several endangered turtle species. Turtle Islands national park is enveloped by three surreal islands including Gulisaan, Selingan, and Little Bakkungan. Though this park is mainly popular for its sea turtles, there are several other enthralling activities to engage in. From indulging in sports like zip-lining to setting off on mountain expeditions, here, you can find more than one ways to set your adrenaline racing. On your visit to the beautiful home of turtles, be a witness to all of their activities, right from egg-laying to nesting. For a wildlife enthusiast, this is an ideal opportunity to peep into the world of turtles. Location: Sabah, Malaysia Entry fee: RM 10 for adults and RM 6 for kids Timing: It remains open to visitors throughout the day.

Danum Valley Conservation Area

Spread across 440 Sq Km in Central Sabah, Danum Valley Conservation is home to a vast variety of animal species including Sambar Deer, Flying Squirrels, red-leaf monkeys, king cobras, and gibbons. If you are lucky, you will also be able to spot its vibrant cat species that include leopard cat, marbled cat, and flat-headed cats. If you happen to be at this complex ecosystem, don’t forget to the old-age burial site of Kadazandusun which is complete with ceramic spirit jars and Belian coffins. Location: Lahad Datu, Sabah, Malaysia Entry fee: Conservation fee: RM50 per person Camera fee: RM 10 per person

Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre

Sprawled over 40 square kilometres on the ground of Kabili Forest Reserve, this rehabilitation centre is known to give new life to orphaned orangutans before sending them back to the forests. The reserve is inhabited by 200 orangutans who form the major highlight of this place. Sepilok Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre is swarmed with people from all across the globe who wish to see this rare animal species living in their natural habitat. If you are someone who loves to spend undisturbed time amidst nature, here is a perfect place to visit in Sabah. Location: Sandakan, Malaysia Timing: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Entry fee: RM 5 for Malaysian adults and RM 30 for foreign adults

Mengalum Island

Nestled away from the boisterous city crowd, Mengalum Island is a hidden-gem featuring its white sandy beaches and picturesque landscapes. The beauty of this island is not restricted to land, but it also extends to its turquoise blue waters. If you ever dreamt of swimming like a fish deep into the water, you have this place all to yourself for living this dream. On this aquamarine journey, you will come across several aquatic creatures, including corals, fishes, butterflyfishes, and mackerels. If life under the water has always intrigued you, Mengalum Island is a must-visit Sabah tourist place for you. Location: South China Sea, Sabah, Malaysia

Gaya Island

With its rich aquatic life and untouched rainforests, Gaya Island is an absolute treat for nature buffs and water sports enthusiasts. From Kayaking to scuba diving and snorkelling, there is a vast range of activities that one can engage in on their Gaya trip. The island, which is the part of Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park, comprises two prime resorts including Gayana Eco Resort and Bunga Raya Island Resort. If you want to make a stay on the island, these two resorts are the perfect retreat for the travellers. The best thing about this trip is that you get to cover the distance from Kota Kinabalu to Gaya Island on a special boat called Gayana. Location: Tunku Abdul Rahman Park, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia

Kinabatangan River

Flowing from the Crocker Range to the Sulu Sea, Kinabatangan is the longest river in Sabah. The river passes through varying habitats including oxbow lakes, mangroves, dipterocarp forests, and Nipah. Being a part of Sukau-Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary, this pristine river offers tremendous opportunities to spot the exotic wildlife. On a visit to this place, you will get to witness rare species like Orangutans, crocodiles, and hornbill. While travelling through Kinabatangan, you will pass through bountiful of small and untouched hamlets such as Bilit, which stand as an epitome of beauty.

Location: Sandakan, Sabah, Malaysia

Poring Hot Springs

Your Kinabalu tour is incomplete without a visit to Poring Hot Springs. This place is often frequented by locals and tourists who want to release their stress by stepping into the warm sulphuric mineral spring. In addition to Poring Hot Spring, you can also explore tropical gardens, butterfly farm, Poring canopy walkway, Rafflesia flower site and Orchid conservation centre. With its alluring landscape and relaxing environment, it is one of the most sought-after places to visit in Sabah. Location: Ranau, Sabah, Malaysia Timing: 7:00 AM-6:00 PM Entry fee: MYR 15 per person

Mabul Island

A tiny island off the south-eastern coast of Sabah boasting fine beaches of coconut trees, soft white sand and aquamarine waters, Mabul Island is one of the world’s top rated destinations for muck diving. What’s more, Mabul Island also boasts one of the world’s most concentrated reserves of small marine life that includes species like frog fish, scorpion fish, cuttlefish and various shellfish. Visitors here can easily stroll around the island within an hour to explore attractions like the traditional villages with their thatched huts.

Highlights: Mabul Island is a popular place to stay for travellers that plan to dive at one of the worlds' best dive spots and also venture out to the more secluded areas, you will find some truly fantastic beaches.

  How to Get There : It is about 40 minute’s boat ride from the mainland of Semporna.

Masjid Bandaraya Kota Kinabalu

Popularly known as Floating Mosque, Majid Bandaraya Kota Kinabalu is another well-known tourist place to visit in Sabah. The mosque boasts traditional Islamic architecture with a slight hint of modern architectural style in it. The entire place is dotted with moat and swinging palm trees, which add to its aesthetic appeal. Bandaraya Kota Kinabalu Majid overlooks Likas Bay which forms a perfect view for the visitors. If you are a non-muslim who has never been inside a mosque, this is a golden chance for you to learn about the old-age Islamic traditions. However, before stepping into the mosque, you have to borrow appropriate clothing from the outside booth. Location: Jalan Pasir, Kampung Likas, Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia Timings: 8:00 AM-5:00 PM

Klias Wetland

Around 125 Km away from Kota Kinabalu, this coastal wetland is spread over a vast area of 130,000 hectares. The Wetland, which is also the flood plain for Padas River, boasts a huge river channel network. Klias provides shelter to a substantial population of proboscis monkeys. It is also home to other wildlife species including monitor lizards, hornbills, estuarine crocodiles, and silver-leaf monkeys. If you are eager to spot a proboscis monkey, visit Klias during the evening time when a swarm of monkeys gather at the riverside. If you are lucky, you will get to see fireflies shining in the darkness. A typical Klias Wetland visit covers wildlife river cruise tour. Location: Jalan Beaufort, Kampung Kota Klias, Sabah, Malaysia Timings: 2:00 PM-10:00 PM

Sabah State Museum

The Sabah State Museum is located in the same place where, once, the British North Borneo Governor’s Istana was situated. Built in the year 1985, the museum consists of the Main Building, Science and Education Center, Heritage Village, Sabah Art Gallery and the Museum of Islamic Civilization. The inside of the museum is loaded with many galleries, which include the Natural history, Ceramics, Ethnography and the exhibits of Archaeology. If you love experiencing traditional things, there is a heritage village on the grounds of Museum, which allows you to enter and behold the different vintage and traditional houses of various unique groups from Sabah. The place also organizes the timely cultural activities.

How to reach: You can take the Bus No. 13 from the main City Hall and the ticket will cost you around 1 MYR per person only.

Price: The entry fees to the museum is approximately 15 MYR per person.

Timings: 9 AM to 5 PM

Sepanggar Island

Clearly visible from Kota Kinabalu City centre, Sepanggar Island is one of the most idyllic places to visit in Sabah that will take your life down a few notches and help you relax in its calm environment. The island is surrounded by tropical rainforests on the one side and sandy beaches on the other. A true paradise for nature buffs, Sepanggar is blessed with exotic flora and fauna which leave you in awe of them. Go for a long walk along the sandy beach or soak in the charm of the sun-kissed island; the choice is all yours. You can also embark on a trek to the South Sea and admire the alluring views of Gaya Bay, South China Sea, and Likas Bay. While returning from the trek, take a dip into the blue sea and engage in water sports like kayaking, snorkelling, and scuba diving. Location: Sepanggar Island, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia

Signal Hill Observatory Tower

Do you want to relish the bird's eye view of Kota Kinabalu? If yes, then head towards Signal Hill Observatory Tower and capture some of the best shots of Sabah. The mesmerising views of Kota Kinabalu, its coastline, and lush green patches from the highest point of the city are totally worth it. One can also catch a glimpse of Likas Bay, Abdul Rahman Park and Tanjung Aru from this point. The tower can be easily reached by climbing the wooden steps through the dense forests. If you are a nature buff, this is one of the most charismatic places to visit in Sabah. Location: Jalan Bukit Bendera, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah Entry fee: Entry into this tower is free of cost. Timing: 9:00 AM -11:00 PM

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Home » Travel Guides » Malaysia » 25 best things to do in Sabah (Malaysia)

25 best things to do in Sabah (Malaysia)

Sabah combines protected jungles with tropical islands spread in the South China, Sulu and Celebes Sea.

Jungle retreats, hundreds of kilometers of coastline and some of the world’s best diving spots feature in the East Malaysian state too. Throw in the chance to see wild orangutans, fireflies and carnivorous flowers.

Sabah is the pearl of Borneo with countless ecotourism activities and beach retreats. Visitors encounter unmatched biodiversity along jungle trails and have the chance to scale Malaysia’s tallest mountain.

Crazy Tourist explores the 25 best things to do in Sabah for nature, beaches and islands.

1. Mount Kinabalu: Malaysia’s granite beast

Sabah’s Mount Kinabalu (Gunung Kinabalu in Bahasa) is Borneo’s and Malaysia’s tallest peak.

Soaring to 4,095 meters (13,435 feet), it’s the highest point between the Himalayas and Papua New Guinea.

Travelers to Sabah immediately notice Kinabalu featuring on the state flag. It holds both deep ties to local Kazadan-Dusun indigenous people and ancient paganism.

Climbing Mount Kinabalu is a two-day affair. Day one involves hiking 3,272 meters (10,735 feet) to a hostel in Laban Rata. The second day starts at 2:00am to reach the summit in time for the sunrise.

Keep your eyes open for the changing landscapes, flowers and wildlife. Bring warm clothes for the higher altitudes.

Mount Kinabalu only permits a limited number of climbers each day. Places sell out months in advance.  Climbing Kinabalu in Sabah needs preparation to guarantee a spot.

2. Malaysia’s first Heritage Site: Kinabalu Park

Kinabalu Park became Malaysia’s first UNESCO World Heritage site in 2000.

Covering an area of 754 square kilometers, the national park surrounds Mount Kinabalu in northwest Sabah. The tropical park is a biodiversity melting pot forming thousands of habitats.

More than 5,000 plants grow inside its borders including the carnivorous pitcher plants and colorful orchids. Kinabalu Park also houses the Rothschild slipper orchid ( Paphiopedilum rothschildianum ). This stripy flower is among the world’s rarest and most expensive orchids.

Over 300 birds, 100 species of mammals and several species of monkeys call Kinabalu Park home.

When combined, this makes the area one of the most important ecological zones on Earth.

3. Kota Kinabalu: A city on the sea

Kota Kinabalu, literally City of Kinabalu, is Sabah’s capital along the South China Sea.

Regular flights connect with Kuala Lumpur and other parts of Malaysian Borneo including Lahad Datu and Sandakan on the east coast.

For a capital city, Kota Kinabalu (KK for short) is tiny. But it packs a punch.

Travelers can visit the almost mirage-like Floating Mosque and stroll along the 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) Likas Bay. Or head to Signal Hill Observatory Platform for stunning views over KK.

Most visitors spend their time around Gaya Street, the city’s main stretch. Dozens of restaurants and a handful of bars fill the bustling street after dark.

Tourists often spend two or three days in KK before heading off to other parts of the state. Download the Grab Car App (Southeast Asia’s Uber) for convenient transport in the city.

4. The world famous Bornean sunset

Borneo has a reputation for jungles, beaches and an almost guaranteed spectacular sunset.

As the sun dips, the horizon lights up with a blend of reds, oranges and purples. Watching on the beach is even more mesmerizing.

Kota Kinabalu’s Tanjung Aru is a short drive from the city center near the airport. The copper-orange sanded beach stretches against a border of bendy palm trees. Islands dominate the horizon.

Local families and tourists head down around 6:00pm.

5. Beaches, snorkeling and hiking on Kota Kinabalu’s islands

Visiting Kota Kinabalu and skipping Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park is like missing the Petronas Towers in Kuala Lumpur.

Five islands (Gaya, Manukan, Mamutik, Sapi and Sulug) form the chain off the coast of Kota Kinabalu.

If you want beaches and snorkeling, head to the most popular Manukan Island. For light jungle trekking and to explore a floating village, visit Gaya.

The other three are more secluded with fewer tourists.

Regular speedboats connect Kota Kinabalu’s Jesselton Point with the marine park. Island-hopping trips are available too.

6. Zipline from one island to another

Ziplining has established itself as a favorite not-too-intense thrill-seeking activity.

Coral Flyer Zipline provides an experience found only in Sabah.

The zipline stretches 250 meters (820 feet) from Gaya Island to Sapi in Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park.

Strap yourself in and soar from one island to the next over the gentle azure South China Sea.

Apart from a shot of adrenaline, expect stunning views of the tiny archipelago and Sabah’s shoreline.

Remember to charge the Go Pro to capture Borneo’s longest zipline on film.

7. Sabah’s original Survivor Island

TV series Survivor has become a household name covering 37 seasons since it first aired in 2000.

Season One took place on Sabah’s Pulau Tiga.

The island near Kota Kinabalu is just close enough to the mainland for easy access and far enough to feel like a desert island.

Since featuring on Survivor, Pulau Tiga (translating to ‘Three Islands’) allures the adventurous. Join a day tour and visit its mysterious mud volcanoes and sunbath on forgotten beaches.

Splash out for a night in either the ultra-luxurious Pulau Tiga Resort or Gaya Island Resort for a private beach getaway.

8. Cooler temperatures in Sabah’s highlands

Ranau is Sabah’s version of West Malaysia’s Cameron Highlands.

The mountainous town sits at 1,176 meters (3,858 feet) a stone’s throw from Mount Kinabalu.

Locals flock for the cooler temperatures, fresher mountain air and to wake up with stunning views of Kinabalu.

Surrounding tea plantations form a sea of green. Stop by the cafés for a hot drink or high-tea with a view.

Dozens of trails penetrate the forests ranging from easy 30 minute hikes to several hour treks.

Ranau provides easy access to Kinabalu Park.

History fans can visit a memorial marking the final destination of WW2’s infamous Sandakan to Ranau Death March. More than 2,500 Australian and British prisoners of war lost their lives during three punishing marches.

9. The only place in Sabah where you’ll need a sweater

Kundasang holds the title as Sabah’s coldest town.

With an altitude of almost 2,000 meters (6,562 feet), temperatures regularly dip below 20°C.

Sabahans living the stifling lowlands make the two-hour journey from Kota Kinabalu for a mini-retreat. A few resorts cater to their needs.

Travelers often stop by for convenient access to Kinabalu Park which is just 6 kilometers (3.7 miles) from the town. Other highlights include fresh produce markets, views of Kinabalu and easy access to hiking trails.

10. Soak in Ranau’s natural spa

Poring Hot Springs consist of a series of natural sulfuric pools near Ranau.

Hikers often stop by for a recuperating soak after climbing Mount Kinabalu. Others spend their time inside the spa-like complex.

But it’s not just about relaxation.

The family-friendly Butterfly Park is a highlight. Or hike to see the world’s largest (and smelliest) flower: Rafflesia.

Poring Hot Springs takes approximately 45 minutes by car to reach from Mount Kinabalu. The journey back to Kota Kinabalu is about two and a half hours.

11. The northernmost point of the world’s third largest island

Borneo is the world’s third largest island. Visiting the northernmost point is a favorite day trip from Kota Kinabalu.

The ‘Tip of Borneo’ sits approximately 180 kilometers (112 miles) northeast of the capital in Kudat Town. Expect a three-hour drive through lush scenery, deserted shorelines and winding mountain roads.

In Kudat, a path leads to the northernmost point of Borneo. This is the spot where the South China Sea and the Sulu Sea meet.

Rocky outcrops form dramatic structures in the rough waters. Empty beaches are a short walk from Kudat Town.

12. Proboscis monkeys and fireflies

Kota Belud, a small town 70 kilometers (43 miles) from Kota Kinabalu, provides a glimpse into rural Sabah. Colorful bungalows sit next to two-storied traditional wooden houses.

The river meanders through the villages and hosts two other remarkable attractions.

Boats cruise along the river to find the rare proboscis monkeys. Others take passengers to watch the dancing fireflies after dark.

While seeing the primates isn’t a guarantee, holding a bright firefly in your hands almost certainly is.

13. Whitewater rafting in the jungle

Sabah’s rugged landscapes burst with fast-flowing rivers and almost secret rapids.

This gives rise to adventure activities in the rainforest including white water rafting. Thrill-seeking travelers can attempt the rapids through the dense jungle landscapes.

Monkeys perch in the tree branches watching the rafters with curiosity. Sambar deer occasionally peak out of the foliage while hornbills soar above.

Tamparuli’s Kiulu River, less than an hour from Kota Kinabalu, has a 15-kilometre (9.3-mile) set of class I and II rapids. Beaufort’s Padas River caters towards the more experienced.

14. Proboscis monkeys and crocodiles on the Kinabatangan River

River cruises along the 560 kilometer (348 miles) Kinabatangan River in East Sabah provide the chance to see Proboscis monkeys.

The unusual pot-bellied primates lurk with both their arms and legs spread in the mangrove branches. Certain parts of the Kinabatangan house Sabah’s largest population of these rare endemic species.

Most travelers spend the night in the riverside bungalows and chalets.

Join a river cruise in the afternoon for monkeys. Head out again after dark for crocodiles and the occasional pygmy elephant.

15. Meet orphaned orangutans at Sepilok Rehabilitation Center

Borneo Island, along with Indonesian Sumatera, are the world’s only habitats for wild orangutans.

Sadly, deforestation and hunting threaten our orange-haired cousins.

Sepilok near Sandakan opened in 1964 becoming the world’s first orangutan rehabilitation center. The semi-wild enclosure adopts and nurtures the young and orphaned in a protected environment.

A boardwalk leads to a viewing platform. Feeding time at both 10:00am and 3:00pm entice the 75 resident orangutans out into the open.

Sepilok provides an almost guaranteed chance to see orangutans in their natural habitat.

16. Sabah’s first colonial capital

Sandakan in East Sabah became the capital of British North Borneo in 1879.

In 1946 after suffering destruction during WW2, the capital moved to present day Kota Kinabalu.

Because of the devastation, Sandakan lost most of its colonial architecture. But the little-visited city acts as a convenient point to visit Sepilok, Gomantong Cave and Selingan Turtle Island.

Sandakan itself has colorful Chinese temples, colonial-like churches and an English Tea House. The stilted Buli Sim Sim Water Village on the outskirts of the city is a favorite side trip.

17. Danum Valley: Sabah’s most biodiverse jungle

Borneo’s globally acclaimed reputation for biodiversity can be attributed to Danum Valley in East Sabah.

Danum Valley Field Center is both a world-class conservation facility and ecotourism haven.

Located two hours into the 130-million-year-old rainforest from the nearest town Lahad Datu, the protected area has remained free of human settlements. This means the jungle is still the same today as it was millions of years ago.

Visitors can follow jungle trails with expert guides, climb up to canopy walks and join night safaris. Orangutans live near the Field Centre. Pygmy elephants sometimes roam nearby.

Those looking to splurge can stay in the eco-friendly bungalows. Prince William and Kate Middleton stayed in these when they visited Danum Valley in 2012.

Hostel beds and camping facilities cater towards the more budget conscious.

18. Explore where few people have explored at Maliau Basin

Maliau Basin in the heart of Sabah is among the least explored parts of the planet.

Most of the region remains unmapped.

The Maliau River flows through a basin, which rises 1,675 meters (5,495 feet). The geography and lack of human activity create an almost self-contained ecosystem.

Getting here takes time and patience. Those who do usually combine Maliau Basin with a trip to Danum Valley.

Hike to the summit, search for wildlife and swim in natural pools.

Only a handful of privileged souls have walked along the same trails before.

19. Sea Nomad villages at Semporna

East Sabah’s Semporna acts as a gateway to Tun Sakaran Marine Park and Sipadan Island.

Few international travelers make it this far unless they’re heading to the islands.

But Semporna provides a window into one of Southeast Asia’s most mysterious indigenous peoples: The Bajau.

Seafaring Bajau live on the water earning the nickname ‘Sea Nomads’ or ‘Sea Gypsies’.  With an uncanny ability to dive without equipment to the seabed, they’re an enigmatic part of Sabah.

Bajau floating villages, rickety wooden houses forming a neighborhood, line Semporna’s coast.

Take a water taxi and explore the mini-town above the water complete with shops, mosques and schools.

20. Sabah’s best diving on Sipidan Island

Sipadan Island upholds an international reputation with acclaimed divers.

The island near Semporna in East Sabah consistently gets voted among the world’s best diving spots. Tours ferry scuba fans to dozens of sites which houses countless species of marine life.

After a day in the sea, return to Sipadan’s tropical paradise. White beaches line the sandy atoll’s shores as jungle dominates its interior.

Because of Sipadan’s protected status, the marine park issues only 120 diving permits each day. Plan your trip and secure a placement at least three months in advance.

21. The most beautiful spot in Sabah

Bohey Dulang on Bodhgaya Island in East Sabah’s Celebes Sea has a stunning sapphire-blue lagoon.

According to visitors, the small mountainous island is the Sabah’s most beautiful spot.

White-beaches line the coastlines with a thick jungle spreading over the center. Hike to its peak at 353 meters (1,158 feet) for the best views of the lagoon.

Bodgaya belongs to the Tun Sakaran Marine Park approximately 23 kilometers (14.3 miles) from Semporna Island.

22. A luxurious retreat on Lankayan Island

Lankayan Island offers a taste of Maldivian-style luxury in East Sabah.

The Lankayan Island Dive Resort is the island’s only resort inside the protected marine park. Overwater bungalows line the empty beaches offering guests a private section of sand and sea.

Visitors can relax on the beach, snorkel outside their bungalow or take diving trips to deeper waters.

Travel between June and September and witness turtles laying their eggs in the sand. Shortly afterwards, the babies escape the shells and scuttle across the sand towards the sea.

Lankayan Island is approximately 90 minutes from Sandakan by speedboat.

23. World-class diving on Mantanani

Mantanani Island in West Sabah has more than 20 relatively unexplored diving sites.

PADI-Certified travelers can join a tour which visits four or five sites as part of a day trip. Some burst with hundreds of colorful fish above the corals. Others lead to shipwrecks.

Apart from the underwater world, dugongs (sea cows) often swim in the warm tropical waters.

Either visit Mantanani Islands on a day trip from Kota Kinabalu. Or arrange a diving trip from one of the tour companies in the city.

24. Hiking in the jungle

Sabah’s biggest appeal is its easy access to the rainforest.

Visitors won’t face the same lengthy expeditions into the jungle as they would in the Amazon. Instead, it’s often possible to have a taste of the landscapes on a day trip.

Several hiking trails penetrate the forests near Kota Kinabalu. Longer ones lead around the jungle in Kinabalu Park.

Either join a tour from Kota Kinabalu. Or search online and hike with an informal group of locals.

25. Search for carnivorous plants

Sabah houses two unusual species of plants which resemble something out of a sci-fi movie.

Both Rafflesia and Pitcher Plants use sophisticated biology to entice insects towards them. When the bugs step inside, the flowers start to digest and absorb their flesh.

The carnivorous flowers are endemic to Borneo and Sabah.

Rafflesia, often called the Rotting Flesh Flower, is both the world’s largest and smelliest. The red giant releases a disgusting odor to mimic the smell of decomposing meat to attract insects.

Pitcher plants hang like an upside-down bell and allure their victims with a sweet scent.

Both are spectacular sights. Travelers can visit these weird lifeforms with the help of a guide.

25 best things to do in Sabah (Malaysia):

• Mount Kinabalu: Malaysia’s granite beast
• Malaysia’s first Heritage Site: Kinabalu Park
• Kota Kinabalu: A city on the sea
• The world famous Bornean sunset
• Beaches, snorkeling and hiking on Kota Kinabalu’s islands
• Zipline from one island to another
• Sabah’s original Survivor Island
• Cooler temperatures in Sabah’s highlands
• The only place in Sabah where you’ll need a sweater
• Soak in Ranau’s natural spa
• The northernmost point of the world’s third largest island
• Proboscis monkeys and fireflies
• Whitewater rafting in the jungle
• Proboscis monkeys and crocodiles on the Kinabatangan River
• Meet orphaned orangutans at Sepilok Rehabilitation Center
• Sabah’s first colonial capital
• Danum Valley: Sabah’s most biodiverse jungle
• Explore where few people have explored at Maliau Basin
• Sea Nomad villages at Semporna
• Sabah’s best diving on Sipidan Island
• The most beautiful spot in Sabah
• A luxurious retreat on Lankayan Island
• World-class diving on Mantanani
• Hiking in the jungle
• Search for carnivorous plants

10 Best Things To Do In Sabah, Malaysia, Including Less-Touristy & Iconic Attractions

Things to do in Sabah, Malaysia

When it comes to discovering Malaysia’s best nature spots, a trip to Sabah is unmissable. Best known for its serene hiking trails and sun-kissed beaches, the state is also home to overlooked attractions that aren’t clogged with crowds. 

With some planning, those itching to see the misty landscapes of Kundasang and enjoy the seaside in Semporna can find new places to experience. We’ve got a list of 10 things to do in Sabah to discover its lesser-known and iconic attractions. Read on to find out more:

Table of Contents

1. Try sky-biking with a gorgeous mountain view at Mont K Bike

2. have lunch by the sea at pitas floating coral bar, 3. go parasailing & paddleboarding to discover the islands of sabah, 4. sleep under the stars and go camping in kota belud, 5. spend a night in sabah’s countryside at kiulu farmstay, 6. hang out with adorable alpacas at alpaca club, 7. take a trip to japan at hidden hills kundasang, 8. go on a cruise through a wetland or on a lake to spot local wildlife, 9. traverse sabah’s longest canopy walkway at rainforest discovery centre, 10. learn more about local culture & weave baskets at marais center, best things to do in sabah, malaysia, in 2023, plan your trip to sabah here and go off the beaten path.

Riding a bicycle comes as second nature to most of us. But picture this: pedalling a bicycle in mid-air on a cable . At Mont K Bike in Ranau, you can experience this exhilarating activity with a stunning backdrop of Mount Kinabalu against sunny skies.

Whether you’re braving the journey alone or with your best pal, you’ll get to pedal on a cable set 30 metres up in the air on one of two bicycles. The cycling rail stretches about 100 metres long, and you can stop to admire the view or strike a pose for photos as you venture across it.

You’ll find Mont K Bike tucked within Ranau Rabbit Farm – so if your travel buddy or little ones prefer to sit this adventure out, they can cuddle adorable bunnies for a fun ground-level activity at the farm.

Price (Skybike): RM90/pax (Malaysians) | RM150/pax (Standard tickets) Address: Ranau Rabbit Farm, Kampung Kigiok, 89300 Ranau, Sabah Opening hours: 9am-6pm, Daily Contact: +6019-832 9868

You may have heard of floating resorts , with many of them peppered across Sabah’s stunning islands. But wait until you hear about Floating Coral Bar, located in the middle of the sea off Pitas, on an untouched private island with no hotels. 

When you arrive, find just a bridge and an observation deck, as well as tables and chairs to accommodate just over 50 people. All these are set on a 1-km stretch of naturally-formed coral bar.

It goes without saying that packing sunscreen will go a long way, as there’ll be nothing but the clear sea, shallow reefs, and blue skies around you.

The floating bar is run by Archangel Borneo Holiday, and an excursion here starts from RM330/pax . The package includes transport, lunch, and free access to water facilities such as kayaking in a clear-bottom boat, snorkelling, and stand-up paddleboarding . 

For lunch, you’ll get to enjoy a hearty and authentic Malaysian meal prepared by Pitas locals. 

This Floating Coral Bar is about a 3-hour drive from Kota Kinabalu, and it takes around 45 minutes from Marina Jetty Kudat to get here by boat. Trips begin at 9am and conclude at 3pm, giving you more than enough time to explore the island.

Pick-up point : Marina Jetty Kudat, Off Jalan Urus Setia, 89058 Kudat, Sabah Contact : +6019-895 4248 | +6014-993 2788

The sheer number of pristine beaches in Sabah means there’s no shortage of water activities to try when you’re island-hopping. While snorkelling is a must-do, you can opt to go parasailing instead – it requires no training and lets you enjoy stunning bird’s-eye views of the sea and sky.

Similar to paragliding, parasailers will fly through the air backed by a parachute-like canopy. The main differences are that you’ll be towed by a boat and dangling aloft over the sea – and, of course, you can avoid the nerve-wracking leaping-off-the-cliff part of paragliding.

Long Beach Watersports have packages (from RM110/pax) that include parasailing, as well as a banana boat ride and snorkelling. Transportation fees are covered between Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal and Manukan and Mamutik Islands, where you can spend a half-day discovering marine life and soaring over the sea.

If you prefer calmer water sports, you can try stand-up paddleboarding at Tanjung Aru Beach . It might just be the best way to bask in the captivating Sabah sunset while leisurely gliding over gentle waves towards the horizon.

Head North Paddle hosts sunset and sunrise paddling sessions, priced from RM110/pax. Your journey out into the waters will be led by a professional guide, so even first-timers can try this activity out.

Paragliding @ Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park: Pick-up point: Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal, Jalan Haji Saman, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah Contact : +6019-862 4549

Stand-up Paddleboarding @ Tanjung Aru Beach: Address: Lot 21, Kuarters TM Tanjung Aru, Lorong Pinang, Tanjung Aru 88801 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah Contact: +6017-583 2156 | Head North Paddle Kota Kinabalu’s Facebook

As much as we love hotel amenities, waking up to breathtaking views of nature right at our feet is an unbeatable experience. One popular area to spend a night under the stars is Kota Belud , located about 2 hours from Kota Kinabalu.

There are multiple campsites located here, including Tegudon Tourism Village, Nohutu Eco Tourism Campsite, and Polumpung Melangkap View Campsite . These campgrounds let you experience a peaceful night’s sleep under clear skies glittering with stars – all while enjoying unblocked views of Mount Kinabalu and flowing waters just outside your tent. 

But roughing it isn’t for everybody, and we get that. Luckily, these campsites have various kampung-style cabins and essential camping gear available for rent.

To recharge in nature sans gadgets, campers here often dip their feet in the river outside their tents when the tides are calmer. No matter which campground you’re opting for a night’s stay at, the water streaming from the mountain is always clear and cool, even on sunnier days. 

Tegudon Tourism Village: Entrance fee: RM3/pax Address: P/S 291 Tegudon, 89158 Kota Belud, Sabah Contact: +6016-828 2416 | Tegudon Tourism Village’s Facebook

Nohutu Eco Tourism Campsite: Entrance fee: RM3/pax Address: Melangkap Tiong, 89150 Kota Belud, Sabah Opening hours : 2pm (Check-in) | 12pm (Check-out) Contact: +6013-803 4382 | Nohutu Eco Tourism’s Facebook

Polumpung Melangkap View Campsite: Entrance fee: RM6/adult & RM4/child (Malaysians) | RM12/adult & RM8/child (Standard admission) Address: Polumpung Melangkap Baru, 89158 Kota Belud, Sabah Opening hours : 2pm (Check-in) | 12pm (Check-out) Contact: +6011-3624 4723 | Polumpung Melangkap View Campsite’s website

Go beyond Kota Kinabalu’s urban sprawl to discover a village community at Kiulu Farmstay . This hidden eco-lodge lets guests spend the night in rustic bamboo huts, and be treated to an unvarnished glimpse of local village life amidst the Bornean jungles.

Tucked within the misty valley of Kiulu, the farmstay is just over an hour’s drive from the capital city. Lush greenery and a river serve as backdrops for the traditional lodges made almost entirely of bamboo. 

A 2D1N stay in the 2-bedroom Fig House (RM465/night) can accommodate a family of 4 comfortably. Meals and a fun itinerary are included with your stay, so look forward to local delicacies prepared by villagers, and embark on a tour after having your meals. 

Besides soaking up postcard views of paddy fields with a local guide, you can take part in Kiulu’s notable cultural activities: rice processing, blowpiping, and rubber tapping included. 

After dinner, gather with villagers in the common area to share food, rice wine, and stories.  

If you’re looking to explore the scenic Kiulu countryside further, go on a quad bike tour (from RM213/pax). You’ll be part of a guided 3-hour tour travelling through rolling hills, past rivers and quaint villages, to learn more about local village life, flora, and fauna.

Do note that you’ll need a driver’s licence and be at least 18 years of age to operate a quad bike. But if you’re travelling with kids, a double-bike has an optional passenger in-tandem seat. There’ll also be an additional fee of RM10 per person for Community Development Contribution.

Address: Jalan Kiulu Pukak Mantob, Kampung Mantob, 89250 Tamparuli, Sabah Opening hours: 2pm (Check-in) | 10am (Check-out) Contact: +6019-326 3800

Desa Dairy Farm is one of Kundasang’s most popular attractions. But it’s not the only place in the town that lets animal-loving travellers hang out with gentle creatures. Over at Alpaca Club , you can pet and take selfies with fluffy alpacas that roam free in a pen. 

Alpacas are gentle, but sensitive and social creatures, so come ready to give them soft neck pats when you aren’t feeding or snapping photos with them. There are about 10 alpacas at the farm, all brought in from Australia. 

To ensure every visitor has a chance to interact with the animals, 35 people are allowed inside the farm at one time for a 20-minute session. A pack of feed can be purchased for RM3 at the ticket counter.

Admission : RM15/adult | RM10/child | RM2/infant Address: Jalan Cinta Mata Mesilou, 89308 Kundasang, Sabah Opening hours: 9am-5pm, Daily Contact: +6011-5868 3622

One of the best parts about visiting Kundasang is experiencing the cool highland climate. 

Coupled with unparalleled views of Mount Kinabalu, a trip to this hill station will make you feel like you’ve travelled out of Malaysia. Cue Hidden Hills , a themed homestay with a hidden Japanese village attraction that’s open to the public.

While Kundasang is popularly known as the “Little New Zealand” of Sabah, Hidden Hills will have you thinking you’re in Japan with its collection of photo spots speckled across its grounds. 

Find a torii gate, a Japanese tearoom, and a statue of the beloved Totoro from My Neighbor Totoro to pose with. The homestay also lets you rent traditional Japanese costumes, and offers hair-styling services at their Yukata Station for RM38/pax . 

To discover the IG-worthy zones and enjoy views of Mount Kinabalu from here, there’s a small entrance fee for adults (RM5/pax) and children (RM3/pax).

Address : Kampung Dodon Kasigau, 89308 Kundasang, Sabah Opening hours : 9am-5pm, Daily

It isn’t every day that you get to spot a wild Proboscis monkey, as the species can only be found in Borneo. A fun and popular way to see these creatures in the flesh, with their unique long noses and bulging bellies, is by hopping on a Klias River Cruise in Beaufort.

This laidback cruise on an open boat begins at 4pm and takes you deep into Klias Wetland for a leisurely 2-hour ride. During the trip, you can spot Proboscis monkeys clinging onto branches as the area is largely populated by them.

If you prefer less beaten paths, head to Kinabatangan River in Sandakan. This river, which happens to be Malaysia’s second longest, runs through a wildlife sanctuary home to proboscis monkeys, orangutans, and pygmy elephants – which you might just get glimpses of as you traverse it by cruise.

The Last Frontier Resort , hidden on the top of Dutch Hill Bilit amid the Kinabatangan Forest Reserve, has cruises on the river as part of their 3D2N all-inclusive package , with prices starting from RM850 . 

Whether you’re on a morning cruise or trekking through the tropical rainforest, you’ll get to experience Sabah’s natural settings and local wildlife at their most serene and undisturbed.

Klias River Cruise: Fees: RM60/adult | RM40/child Address: Kampong Kota Klias, 89800 Beaufort, Sabah Opening hours: Sat-Thu 3pm-8pm | Fri 4pm-8pm Contact: +6019-807 3159

The Last Frontier Resort: Address: PPM 309 Elopura, Kinabatangan River, 90000 Sandakan, Sabah Contact: +6016-676 5922 | The Last Frontier Resort’s website

Home to a 620-metre-long Rainforest Skywalk, Rainforest Discovery Centre is a lesser-known gem in Sepilok when compared to its more popular neighbours, the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre and Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre.

As one of the most accessible rainforest parks in Sabah, you can explore the forest reserve and its inhabitants from beyond its self-guided nature trails – at a panoramic 27-metres-high, thanks to an impressive canopy walkway dubbed the longest of its kind in the state.

Besides learning about local fauna and flora at the various educational zones here, you can try your luck at spotting rare Bornean endemic birds, flying squirrels, and even orangutans while traversing the forest. 

Rainforest Discovery Centre also hosts various family-friendly activities, including a 180-metre-long Flying Squirrel Zipline over the lake and a night walk .

Admission: RM7/adult & RM3/child (Malaysians) | RM20/adult & RM10/child (Standard admission) Address: Jalan Fabia, Sepilok, 90715 Sandakan, Sabah Opening hours: 8am-5pm, Daily Contact: +6089-533 780

A great way to fully immerse yourself in your travel destination is to learn more about its culture. One place to be to experience locally grown culture is Marais Center in Tenom.

While the town is best known for its coffee production, visitors can get to know more about the Murut people in Sabah through a variety of activities at this village.

Whether it’s weaving baskets from natural materials or cycling past paddy fields to soak up postcard views of mountains and rivers, there won’t be a dull moment spent here. 

You can’t miss the special performance that takes place at the village either, with locals donning their traditional Murut attire and dancing energetically.

With nature just next door and activities galore, you can visit this lesser-known village in Tenom on a day trip away from the crowds and city. Else, opt to spend a night at their guesthouse to truly slip into the shoes of a local. 

Address: Peti Surat 206, Kuala Tomani, Kampung Marais, 89908 Tenom, Sabah Opening hours: Appointment-based Contact: +6016-834 9781

There’s more to conquer in Sabah than just the majestic Mount Kinabalu. With attractions that let you explore the state’s natural beauty – from its crystal-clear sea to the starry skies – there’s certainly something for every type of traveller to discover there.  

To find out what Sabah truly has to offer and flesh out your travel plans, you’ll want to drop by Matta Fair 2023 from 1st-3rd September . At this year’s second instalment happening at MITEC Kuala Lumpur, you’ll get to browse promotions for must-visit destinations at Sabah Tourism booths so you can have a thrilling holiday without breaking the bank.

So if you want to experience everything, from local food and culture to sky-high activities, Sabah might just be the perfect travel destination for you. 

Here’s to safe travels and exciting holidays ahead. 

This post was brought to you by Sabah Tourism Board.

Cover image adapted from: Mont K Skybike, Archangel Borneo Holidays, Sabah Tourism, Hidden Hill Kundasang

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Ultimate Guide to Sabah, Borneo: Top Places & Itineraries

Sabah is one of the most diverse places we have ever visited. It is located in Malaysia , on the northern half of the island of Borneo. We were enticed to go to Sabah to see orangutans and proboscis monkeys in their natural habitat. There are very few places in the world to see these creatures in the wild. 

Orangutans are on the critically endangered list and can only be seen in the wild in Sumatra and Borneo. Reminding me of the creepy dude at the bar, proboscis monkeys are endemic to Borneo. These unique monkeys are so amazing to see in real life. However, due to palm plantation deforestation, they are losing their homes at alarming rates.

Sabah also has so much more to offer. It is teeming with exotic wildlife, beautiful beaches, an epic mountain hike, and world-class scuba diving. Sabah is perfect as part of a bigger Malaysia trip or for a Borneo wildlife holiday! Whether you plan to come for a family vacation or a backpacking trip, Sabah is a wonderful destination nestled in Southeast Asia.

Check out this guide to Sabah as it covers all the best places to visit to help you plan your trip!

Content and photographs provided by Yana Kogan and Timon .

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

Best Time to Visit Sabah, Borneo

The best time to visit Sabah is not as cut and dry as most places. There are different rainy seasons for the east and west of Sabah. When one has more rain, the other is drier. Overall though, March through October is the driest part of the year. Most of Sabah is rainforest, so it is possible for rain at any time of the year.

Currency in Sabah, Borneo

The Malaysian Ringgit (RM) is the national currency in Malaysia and Sabah. As of April 2022, the Ringgit is worth:

• $1 USD = 4.35 RM
• €1 = 4.60 RM

Religion and Language in Sabah, Borneo

Sabah is not as conservative as West Malaysia, such as the Kuala Lumpur area. The majority of people are Muslim, but there are also small pockets of practicing Christians. Malay is the official language of Malaysia. However, English is widely spoken in Kota Kinabalu and the majority of tourism and hospitality businesses around the island.

As always, a few phrases in the native language are good to learn. We found that just saying “thank you” in Malay brings a very friendly response.

• Hello – Helo
• Good morning – Selamat pagi
• Good evening – Selamat petang
• How are you? – Apa khabar
• Thank you – Terima kasih
• I am – Saya
• Your welcome – Sama-sama

Food in Sabah, Borneo

There are typically three types of food you can find in Sabah – traditional Malay, Indian/Bangladeshi, and Chinese. Many of the dishes in Sabah are heavily influenced by Chinese cuisine. Most of the population and places to visit are on the coast, so seafood is widely available.

Malay food is not the best for vegetarians. However, roti canai, similar to a flaky naan beard, was our lifesaver and so delicious. We ate it every day, typically for breakfast and snacking. Also make sure to try teh tarik, a frothy delicious tea.

Some common dishes in Malaysia with typical prices:

• Roti canai – traditional bread with dipping sauces 4 RM – 6 RM
• Telur mata – sunny side eggs 4 RM – 6 RM
• Telur dadar – omelette 8 RM – 10 RM
• Thosai – similar to Indian dosa 12 RM
• Mee goreng – fried noodles 12 RM – 20 RM
• Nasi goreng – fried rice 12 RM – 20 RM
• Teh Tarik – Black tea with condensed milk (frothy) – 4 RM – 6 RM
• Teh “O” – tea with sugar – 4 RM – 6 RM
• Kopi – coffee 4 RM – 6 RM

A few useful words on food/drinks in Malay

• Panas / Sejuk – Hot/Cold for drinks
• Sayur – vegetables
• Tidak ayam – no chicken

Accommodation in Sabah, Borneo

The accommodation is expensive relative to the rest of Southeast Asia. Budget hostels and dorms start from 20 RM to 36 RM ($5 – $8 USD) depending on the area. Basic private double rooms start from 70 RM ($16 USD) per night. A budget room in Sabah also typically means really poor standards. Not all hotels charge it, but legally, hotels and guesthouses are required to charge a tourist tax of 10 RM per night.

One thing we noticed was that prices were ALWAYS higher as a walk-in. We would book ahead, or walk in to check out the room, and if we decided to stay, book the room online. The best prices typically were on  Booking.com .

Transportation in Sabah, Borneo

Getting to Sabah is best with AirAsia, a budget airline based in Kuala Lumpur. They have cheap flights to Sabah from different airports in Asia. A flight from Kuala Lumpur to Sabah is 120 RM ($30 USD) when booking 4+ weeks in advance.

Bus Transport  in Sabah is available between all major cities. Bus departures typically leave from Kota Kinabalu each hour to destinations, such as Sandakan, Semporna, or Tawau. There are several bus companies with similar fares. At the time of writing, the fares were as follows:

• Kota Kinabalu to Mount Kinabalu 25 RM
• Kota Kinabalu to Sandakan 45 RM
• Sandakan to Semporna 45 RM
• Semporna to Tawau 20 RM

Motorbikes  are available for rent in Kota Kinabalu for 45 RM/day.

Car hire companies  are located near the airport in Kota Kinabalu. The price for a small car, such as a Viva, is around 100 RM/day, or a larger Toyota SUV for 200 RM/day.

Grab Car  is excellent and available in all cities in Sabah. When traveling with multiple people, it is often the same price or cheaper than the bus. For example, a Grab Car from Kota Kinabalu to Mount Kinabalu for 80 RM, or from Semporna to Tawau for 65 RM.

Top Places to Visit in Sabah, Borneo

1. what to do in kota kinabalu.

The main city in Sabah – Kota Kinabalu – is filled with hotels, restaurants, and lively night markets. The Filipino market and night market, both centrally located by the waterfront, have local produce, meat, fish, and freshly prepared dinners. There are local BBQ restaurants that cook fresh seafood. Make sure to negotiate.

Gaya street has many bars and Chinese and Malay restaurants. Definitely stop by Yee Fung Laksa on Gaya Street for the best Laksa in all of Malaysia. For 19RM, you get a steaming hot bowl of the good stuff. Trust us on this one! It is worth a stop outside of town to the Kota Kinabalu City Mosque. The reflection of the mosque on the moat is a really awesome photo opportunity.

High-End Stay:   Shangri-La Tanjung Aru Resort  is located near the city and with a private beach. Rooms start at 800 RM ($190).

2. The Best Beaches in Sabah at the Tip of Borneo

The Tip of Borneo is a picturesque spot on the northernmost point of Borneo. The rocky shoreline is a perfect backdrop for sunset. Some of the best beaches on mainland Borneo are located just south of the tip. The large Kalampunian Beach has several beach cottages and a few restaurants, although a bit rundown. We preferred a smaller more private beach and tent camping at the Secret Place.

High-End Stay:   Kudat Riviera Beach Villas  is located at private beaches with three stunning villas to choose from starting at 1380 RM ($330).

3. Hiking Mount Kinabalu 

Mount Kinabalu is the tallest mountain in Malaysia and one of the highest in Southeast Asia. The hike is expensive at $350 – $400 per person and with limited permits. However, the views from the summit are some of the best of any mountain in SE Asia. Mount Kinabalu is a strenuous hike ascending over 2,200 meters (7,300 feet) and was one of our highlights in Sabah.

Check out our full post on  hiking Mount Kinabalu  for more information.

High-End Stay:   Sutera Sanctuary Lodges Kinabalu Park  is located in the national park with rooms starting at 200 RM ($50 USD).

4. Borneo Wildlife in Sepilok & Sandakan

Sandakan is the gateway to visiting several attractions in the area. We found the waterfront to be quite dirty and pretty smelly. Sepilok is popular for animal sanctuaries to visit. The well-known Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Center should not be missed.

The orangutan nursery is just too cute and the twice-daily feeding is a great way to get up and close to adult orangutans. The feedings are at 10 AM and 3 PM, the latter of which is less crowded. Located next door is the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Center. Sun Bears are the smallest bears in the world and are threatened by deforestation and illegal hunting. This center is home to 42 sun bears and is open between 10 AM and 3 PM.

There is a proboscis monkey sanctuary in Labuk Bay. However, we do not recommend visiting this attraction. The owner of this “sanctuary” owns the palm plantation surrounding the park, which displaced the monkeys in the first place. Proboscis monkeys can easily be seen in the wild elsewhere in Sabah (see  Kinabatangan River ). From Sandakan, it is possible to visit Turtle Island to see nesting turtles in June.

Entrance Costs:  The entry to the Orangutan and Sun Bear conservation are both 30 RM.

High-End Stay:   Sepilok Forest Edge Resort  is located next to the sanctuaries and has chalets starting from 290 RM ($70 USD).

5. Borneo Rainforest Tours at the Kinabatangan River

Borneo is known for its superb wildlife. The Kinabatangan River is one of the best places in Borneo to see wildlife due to its easy accessibility. Here you can easily see proboscis monkeys, orangutans, pygmy elephants, crocodiles, snakes, exotic birds, and many more in just a couple of days.

Most homestays and resorts are located near Sukau, a village upriver next to palm plantations. There are a few resorts located downriver that are more remote. While staying on the Kinabatangan, resorts usually have an all-inclusive package rate that includes meals, river cruises, and jungle walks. There are a few budget backpackers and homestays on the Kinabatangan, and there are several high-end resorts, leaving few options in between.

Mid-Range Stay :  Borneo Natural Sukau Bilit Resort  has all-inclusive packages for two people at one of their cottages for 1,060 RM ($250 USD/room).

6. Stunning Beaches and Views at Bohey Dulang

An amazing day trip to the beautiful Bohey Dulang island is definitely worth it. The views are incredible and the beaches are some of the best in Sabah. You can arrange a trip from the port town of Semporna, which is the gateway to Bohey Dulang and Sipadan.

However, if it weren’t for these two things, there is absolutely no reason for anyone to ever visit Semporna. It is a filthy city with no redeeming qualities. Streets are littered with trash and an absurd amount of pollution/plastics in the water. I would avoid the cheapest backpackers here, they are truly horrible. Semporna is the necessary evil to get to some amazing places, so get in and out as fast as possible!

Mid-Range Stay :  The Village  is a new and modern hotel with private rooms for 180 RM ($40 USD).

7. Scuba Diving at Sipadan

Sipadan is one of the best dive sites in the world. Doesn’t it seem like you hear that in so many countries? With over 150 combined dives in some incredible places, we can attest to it being one of our favorites! With stringent laws for the protection of the marine environment, there are now only 120 daily permits for diving at Sipadan.

Sipadan is known for its incredible marine diversity. The island is an inactive volcano, with a sloping wall that has a drop-off of 600 meters (2,000 feet) to the seabed. It is home to green and hawksbill turtles, massive schools of barracuda and big-eye trevally, manta rays, reef sharks (white tip/blacktip/grey), as well as an occasional spotting of whale sharks and hammerhead sharks.

Several websites state it is cheaper to stay in Semporna, and maybe it is, but we recommend staying on Mabul Island. Mabul Island has diving as well, which is subpar relative to Sipadan, but it’s inexpensive and has tons of massive turtles.

Mid-Range Stay :  Billabong Scuba  has overwater chalets for 150 RM per person including all meals (price for divers) ($35 USD).

One-Week Itinerary for Sabah, Borneo

Day 1  – Arrive in Kota Kinabalu and check out the Filipino night market and nearby KK night market.

Day 2  – Take a bus to Mount Kinabalu, enjoy views of the park and pick one of the nine shorter hikes near the base of Mount Kinabalu.

Day 3  – Transport to Sandakan/Sepilok, and check out the sun bear conservation and afternoon orangutan sanctuary feeding.

Day 4  – Transport to Semporna.

Day 5  – Bohey Dulang day tour.

Day 6  – Scuba diving at the world-famous Sipadan (permits required).

Day 7  – Return to Semporna and take a flight from Tawau to Kota Kinabalu to finish your one-week trip!

Two-Week Itinerary for Sabah, Borneo

Day 2  – Stop at the Kota Kinabalu City Mosque on the way to Kudat. Spend the afternoon at the beach, and watch the sunset at the tip of Borneo.

Day 3  – Beach day.

Day 4  – Travel to Mount Kinabalu.

Day 5  – Hiking day one up to Labuan Rata Guesthouse  (permits required) .

Day 6  – Summit Mount Kinabalu and descend the mountain, staying the night in Ranau.

Day 7  – Travel day from Ranau to Sandakan. Go to the sun bear conservation and the 3:30 pm feeding at the Orangutan Sanctuary.

Day 8  – Travel day from Sandakan to Semporna.

Day 9  – Boat to Mabul Island, scuba diving at Mabul Island.

Day 10  – Scuba diving at Mabul Island.

Day 11  – Scuba diving at the world-famous Sipadan (permits required).

Day 12  – Return to Semporna.

Day 13  – Day trip to Bohey Dulang, afternoon transport to Tawau, flight to Kota Kinabalu.

Day 14  – End your two-week holiday in Sabah!

That’s it – we hope you enjoy exploring Sabah, Borneo!

Planning a trip to Malaysia? Check out our favorite books and travel guides!

About the Author:

Yana & Timon met at college in Boston, Massachusetts. After graduating, they started their professional careers. They moved to San Francisco in 2010, a city they loved living in for nearly six years. After working and saving up money for several years, they quit their jobs and set off on an adventure of a lifetime. They started living a nomadic lifestyle in December 2015 and have not looked back since.

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Places to Visit in Sabah

Here are the top 14 places to visit in sabah in 2024:, 1. kota kinabalu.

1 out of 14 Places to visit in Sabah 22 Tourist attractions

Kota Kinabalu, commonly referred to as KK, is the capital of Sabah. The city lies on the fringes of the South China Sea and is home to the majestic Mount Kinabalu, after which it is named. Serviced by Kota Kinabalu International Airport, this city serves as the gateway to eastern Malaysia and partic...

Best Time: September to December

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3. Sandakan

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Sandakan, also known as Elopura, is the capital of the Sandakan district in Sabah, Malaysia. It also the largest town in Sabah after Kota Kinabalu. Located on the Sandakan Peninsula, northeastern of Sabah, it is well known for its main ports that export goods of prime importance all around the world...

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Tawau, formerly known as Tawao, is a popular tourist destination popular for cocoa, prawn farming, and Sabah's best seafood. Located on the Semporna Peninsula on the southeast coast of the state, Tawau is the third-largest town in Sabah. Gateway to Tawau Hills Park and a coalescence of ethnicities a...

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Semporna is a town on Borneo island located in the Malaysian state of Sabah. Serviced by the Tawau Airport, which is around 58 Kms away, it is the capital of the Semporna district under the Tawau Division. Semporna is generally a staging point for visitors while going to dive or snorkel at nearby is...

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Sepilok is a small town located in the state of Sabah, around 25 km from Sandakan. Sepilok is popularly known for its Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre which is a perfect spot for ecotourism and to enjoy a laid back weekend. It is also known for the World’s only Sun Bear Sanctuary, the Sun Bear Conser...

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The Tabin Wildlife Reserve in a 1,225 km natural preserve located 48 km from Lahad Datu in Sabah. It is considered as the largest wildlife reserve in Malaysia covering an area of 300,000 acres. One major drawing factor of this reserve are its mineral rich mud volcanoes which spew out mud everyday an...

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Maliau Basin Conservation Area is a 25-km wide bowl-shaped catchment depression which is now a popular rainforest in Sabah, Malaysia. It is one of the world's greatest biodiversity zones housing almost 2000 types of flora and fauna. Maliau Basin attracts adventurers, trekkers and naturalists. The Ri...

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15 Incredible Things To Do In Sabah

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Dreaming of a Borneo adventure? Then fly from Kuala Lumpur to Kota Kinabalu (KK) in Sabah, the heart of Malaysian Borneo. Having visited one of its two states (Sabah and Sarawak) recently, here are my top places to visit in Sabah if you love nature and history.

Sabah has plenty of attractions for nature lovers and there’s a good choice of nature-based places to visit in Sabah when compared to the vibrant city things to do in Kuala Lumpur , Malaysia’s capital. Sabah is also home to one of the most famous landmarks in Malaysia , Mount Kinabalu. 

1- Explore Kota Kinabalu

2- relax on mari mari sepangar island , 3- visit the mari mari village , 4- climb mt kinabalu, 5- explore world heritage kinabalu park , 6- step back in history at sandakan memorial park, 7- learn about war history in ranau, 8- sip tea at sabah tea gardens , 9- get some local culture at kamping luanti, 10- see the locals at sepilok orangutan rehabilitation centre , 11- explore gomantong caves , 12- cruise through the borneo jungle , 13- get close to proboscis monkeys, 14- learn about headhunting at monsopiad cultural village, 15- visit the mengkabong water village.

• Guided Snorkeling Day Trip – discover an amazing underwater world from Kota Kinabalu.
• Mount Kinabalu Climbing Tour – 2 days (1 night) with a guide.
• Borneo Wildlife Tour – 3 days 2 nights at Tanjung Bulat Jungle Camp Kinabatangan.

15 Incredible Things To Do In Sabah 

Sabah’s capital, Kota Kinabalu, is a city with a number of fascinating attractions including markets, beaches and the stunning Kota Kinabalu City Mosque. 

The giant ‘lipstick’ Sabah Foundation Building is another famous Kota Kinabalu sightseeing spot.

Take a river cruise along the wetlands, visit the Green Connection Aquarium, go on a whitewater rafting adventure or prepare to climb Mount Kinabalu as KK is the gateway to Kinabalu National Park. 

Recommended tours:

• Kota Kinabalu Half-Day City Tour
• Leisure Diving – 3 Dives at Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park in Kota Kinabalu Island Hopping
• Kota Kinabalu ATV Riding and Dairy Farm at Mountain Kinabalu

Chill out on Mari Mari Sepangar Island, which is one of the best places to visit in in Sabah to enjoy a few hours downtime or to stay for a few days if time permits.

There are a few tropical islands just off the coast of Kota Kinabalu, in the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park.

Mari Mari Seppangar Island is one of the quieter tourist islands in the South China Sea.

Only a 10-minute local ferry ride from Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal, its small sandy tropical Sabah beach is surrounded by a turquoise sea.

Enjoy fun water sports such as kayaking and paragliding or snorkel in search of ‘Nemo’ on the small natural and artificial shore-based coral reef.

Jellyfish season is from December to March. Outside of this time, however, you are more likely to get hit by floating plastic than jellies (sad, but true).

Forgotten your towel? Don’t worry. Cool shaded tables and chairs with deck chairs are available.

Try your hand on a stand-up paddleboard (SUP) or dive the deeper ocean with the island’s experienced divemasters.

If scuba diving is not your thing, try ‘Sea Walkers’. This is diving but you are still attached to a hookah airline. No diving experience needed – cool!.

Tasty local food and drink, including a stunning smorgasbord lunch, are yours to enjoy after a stressful morning sun baking.

Enjoy the authentic culture of Mari Mari Village, which is a Borneo nature tour with a difference.

Set in the Borneo tropical rainforest, 20 minutes on the outskirts of KK is the Mari Mari Cultural Village.

Visiting the five different ethnic tribal houses in the museum is one of the best places to visit in Sabah to gain insights to a time gone by.

From fire starting to rice-wine making, there’s plenty to see and do.

Crack a coconut, taste local foods and drink sweet pandan juice.

Round off your Borneo adventure with a vibrant, colourful performance of traditional dance. Try your hand (or feet) at the breathtakingly pulsating ancient ‘Magunatip’ bamboo dance.

Do take water, insect repellent and a packet of wet wipes as the temperature and humidity persist well into the night.

Recommended tour: Private Mari-Mari Cultural Village Tour Including Lunch

At 4095m, climbing Mt. Kinabalu or ‘Low’s Peak’ is to summit the highest mountain in Borneo.

Towering above the clouds it has a reputation, not unlike Mt. Fuji, one minute it’s there, the next minute it’s gone. So if you see it, take a photo quickly!

The best time to climb Mt. Kinabalu is May and June, the start of the dry season, however, the 8.5km International Summit & Climbathon race to the top is actually in October.

Only 135 climbs per day are permitted and both summit trails – Ranau and Kota Belud Trail – both achievable in a two-day one-night climb.

Aim for an early start so you can summit with the rising sun to enjoy this breathtaking Sabah tourist attraction!

Recommended tour: Mount Kinabalu Via Ferrata – Walk The Torq (two days one night)

At the foothills of Mt. Kinabalu, at 1850m high is the World Heritage site Kinabalu Park, including the Mt. Kinabalu Botanic Garden.

The site has vast botanical and biological species diversity, one of the ecologically richest in the world.

There are many Borneo tropical rainforest walks such as the Bukit Tupai or Silau Silau Trails.

The Balsam Buffet Restaurant at the base of the Park is the only local place to top up your energy stores.

With mountain views, the continental and local food smorgasbord menu have an excellent reputation.

Recommended tour: Kinabalu Park & Poring Hot Spring & Canopy Walk

For more things to do in Malaysia read:

• 20 Famous Landmarks in Malaysia
• 30 Things To Do In Kuala Lumpur
• 35 Things To Do In Penang
• Living in Penang As An Expat
• 20 Things To Do In Melaka
• 15 Things To Do In Sabah
• 15 Things To Do In Cameron Highlands
• Malaysia Airlines Business Class Review
• 21 Beaches In Malaysia
• 20 Things to Do In Kuala Lumpur At Night
• 20 Malaysian Cities
• 16 Overwater Bungalow Resorts In Malaysia

Honour fallen comrades who lost their lives during the Sandakan to Ranau death marches.

The infamous Japanese “Death Marches” between 1942-45 led to the deaths of 2345 allied British and Australian POW’s.

Imprisoned at the Sandakan Borneo POW camp as part of the Pacific campaign of WWII, only six Australians survived.

Horrific tales and memories commemorating these tragic times are at both the Sandakan Memorial Park and the Kundasang War Memorial in Ranau.

This is a must-see for history enthusiasts and two of the top historically interesting places in Sabah Borneo.

Sandakan Memorial Park is one of the most interesting places in Sabah.

It’s actually built on the grounds of the original POW camp. Its peaceful Borneo tropical rainforest setting belies the horrors of war perpetrated there.

The Commemorative Pavilion is a wonderful memorial for fallen comrades as well as local Malays killed for aiding POW’s.

Quotes by dying POW’s and photographs cover the walls. Partially lit by a striking blue leadlight window casts a tranquil hue on those painful memories.

Kundasang War Memorial commemorates the endpoint of the horrific 279 km Death Marches at Ranau.

A local Thai-born Malay Seeve Charuruks, along with a team of locals recently cleaned up the vandalized memorial.

Although tired and in need of more refurbishment funds, its four gardens, including the Contemplation Garden, stand as a testament to those terrible war crimes.

Watch the documentary by Australian television journalist Jana Wendt of the horrors of the Death Marches in the Memorial Hall.

Unaware of the story, this video had me sobbing in tears. ‘Lest We Forget’…

On a completely different and more ‘refreshing’ note, Sabah tea is the best organic tea from the Borneo Rainforest.

Visit the Sabah Tea Gardens and take a tour around the mountain-based plantation.

This ‘vintage’ factory has old stained louvres for ventilation and rattly conveyor belts.

The tour is complete with handwritten instructional signs and an authentic Malay English speaking tour guide.

Our guide was very ‘accented’, so much so that he lost me at ‘hello’ but his effusive passion for Sabah tea encouraged us all to buy many of the home-grown tea products.

Note photographs in the factory are not allowed and don’t lean on any bright green machinery. As we discovered it had been freshly painted but with no warning signs!

Tea bushes cover the rolling hillside and all the tea is picked by hand.

The picturesque scenery at the mouth of Mt. Kinabalu is indeed a photographer’s delight and reminded me of my trip to the Madura Tea Plantation in Australia’s Tweed region. 

Take lunch or dinner in the Sabah Tea Plantation Restaurant.

Or even stay overnight in the nearby quaint, white-picket-fenced Sabah Tea Resort cottages.

Try a fish foot massage and spa at Kampung Luanti, which is just a 2km drive from Sabah Tea Plantation.

A small quirky tourist delight, it is just off the road along the local river and is where nine kinds of fish are cultivated. 

Harvested only twice a year, the locals boost their economy with this unusual tourism venture.

It brings in more than 15,000 tourists a year.

For only a few RM you too can lose the hairs of your shins and keratin off your callouses as you walk barefoot along the river’s edge.

Thousands of fish surround you appearing out of nowhere, and begin nibbling your feet and shins.

Shrieks cry out, some from horror, others from fear and occasionally pain.

Apparently, it can even cure psoriasis…

But not for me, I thought.

I’ll stick to photography, thank you very much.

Stay in Sepilok and go wild with the wildlife.

There are quite a few Borneo rainforest lodges to stay in Sepilok. 

A few are right next to the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre and Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre.  

Sepilok Jungle Resort and Sepilok Forest Resort both border the protected hectares of Borneo tropical rainforest forming the conjoined grounds of the Conservation Centres.

There are tour guided and self-guided tours, with regular feeding times for both orangutans and sun bears.

Take your camera with a good zoom for this one of a lifetime opportunity to see these rare and endangered animals up close.

A highlight is the orangutan nursery where there is both an air-conditioned or non-airconditioned room.

Watch the antics of the young rescued orphan ‘babies’ on their outdoor playground equipment.

Don’t discount seeing an orangutan on the boardwalk to the feeding decks or the nursery either.

Sometimes even with a smartphone, you can be too close!

The Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre and Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centres are a MUST visit.

Recommended tour: Private Full Day Sepilok Orang Utan, Bornean Sun Bear and Rainforest Discovery Center Tour

Go batty in the Gomantong Birds Nest Caves, which is set in the Bornean rainforest along a short boardwalk. 

We were lucky enough to see a wild orangutan and its baby along the boardwalk.

The previous tour group even saw both at the cave’s entrance, adorning the deck of one of the workers’ house.

This cave is stunning, one of the best I have ever seen not only for its geological attributes but for the sheer millions of wildlife inhabiting it.

From the infamous swiftlets (anyone for birds nest soup?) to many species of bats, rats, and beetles.

Even Sir David Attenborough has visited these cases more than 40 years ago.

His more recent 2014 trip was to film part of his “Conquest of the Skies” series.

Harvesting the swiftlets’ nests is done two to three times a year and performed by locals who use long precarious bamboo ladders and rope systems.

In between harvests, some become onsite security, to protect their rather unusual but valuable income source. 

Be warned to wear suitable foot and clothing. I did this exploration in thongs, shorts and a sleeveless vest.

Realisation soon hit that the deeper into the cave I ventured, the more cockroaches and other ‘crawlies’ covered not only the boardwalk but the handrail too.

And bird and batshit droppings were everywhere – aaargh!

Photography ‘on the run’ is difficult in the extremely low light and high contrast at both the entrance and exit. But a smartphone camera will often do the best job.

And don’t forget the smell (strong ammonia).

If your olfactory system is over-sensitive, then this venture may not be for you. 

Take a river cruise or night walk in the Borneo jungle.

Lying back in a traditional longboat during a Kinabatangan River cruise at dawn or dusk is simply gold and a must-do.

See crocodiles, wild boar, long and short-tailed macaques, proboscis monkeys or even a wild Borneo orangutan or pygmy elephant.

Don’t pass up on an opportunity to stay in a riverine Borneo tropical rainforest.

Yet to do a  Borneo jungle trek at night is even more thrilling.

Not only for the challenge of avoiding being ‘leeched’!

Most of the year-round, the Borneo jungle is hot and humid.

Rainfall varies with two distinct seasons per year, wet and dry, and the conditions don’t change much at night.

Leeches are always out to get you but you can minimise your risk by wearing gumboots and thigh-high waders usually offered by accommodation hosts.

A night Borneo jungle trek is stunning.

Our jungle guides located all sorts of creatures from spiders, beetles, scorpions to abundant birdlife.

Most of all, the mammals are my fave, with Malay civets, palm civets, and mouse deer to name a few.

Recommended tour: Borneo Wildlife Tour 3 Days 2 Nights At Tanjung Bulat Jungle Camp Kinabatangan

Visit the proboscis monkeys at Labuk Bay. Endemic to the Borneo tropical rainforests, they are the world’s largest nosed monkeys.

Their webbed feet also make them prolific swimmers. Curious indeed.

Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary makes for a great Borneo wildlife tour.

Regular daytime feeds entice wild troops of these rather strange nosed animals to descend from their mangrove treetops.

The viewing boardwalk and feeding decks offer easy access but be warned, there is little shade except under the main deck.

A few refreshments are on offer but take an umbrella, hat, sunglasses, and water. And your camera of course!

With 1000 left in the world, to see these proboscis monkeys roaming free in these protected forests is priceless.

As a result, do it now not later, as deforestation and ever-expanding oil palm plantations is a killer.

• Labuk Proboscis, Sepilok, Sun Bear, Sandakan City Tour and Lunch
• Sky-Mirror Photographing and Proboscis Monkey an d Fireflies Watching River-Cruise

Cultural Places in Sabah

Monsopiad Cultural Village in Penampang is a great place to discover the traditions of the Kadazan – Dusun tribe.

Tour tribal huts, play traditional games and learn how to use traditional harvest implements.

The displays about the life of Monsopiad, a legendary headhunting warrior are an eye-opener. 

Monsopiad’s war trophies are a reminder of Sabah’s headhunting past. 

Monsopiad Cultural Village is in Penampang, Sabah. 

The largest remaining Bajau village in Kota Kinabalu, Mengkabong Water Village is the home of Sabah’s sea gypsies, the Bajau people.

With a backdrop of Mt Kinabalu, visiting this village will give you a look into the traditions and customs of these seafaring folk. 

The Bajau roamed the seas gathering produce and trading with the sultans for the right to moor, trade, draw freshwater and bury their dead.

While their origins are a mystery, what is known is that they lived on their houseboats, or lepas and were a people that were born, lived and died at the sea. 

I visited Sabah with TripADeal , which is an online company that loves filling my inbox with amazing deals.

More tours:

• Kiulu White Water River Rafting
• Mangrove Kayaking Experience in Borneo
• 2-Night Danum Valley Borneo Rainforest Lodge Hiking and Wildlife Adventure
• Private Arrival Transfer: Kota Kinabalu International Airport

Plan Your Trip

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Every year about 4 millions tourists visit Sabah because of her nature wonder, which is completed with islands & beaches, hills & mountains, pristine rainforest, abundant marine and Borneo wildlife, and colorful cultures, all suitable for a leisure vacation and softcore adventures. We have Sipadan Island , one of world’s top 5 dive sites, Danum Valley , a Borneo virgin rainforest older than Amazon and Mount Kinabalu , the highest mountain of Malaysia.

Where is Sabah?

Sabah is one of the 13 states of Malaysia, a country in the centre of South East Asia. Sabah is at the northern part of Borneo, the third largest island in the world, shared by three countries, namely, Malaysia (Sabah and Sarawak), Brunei, and Indonesia (Kalimantan). Sabah is the second largest state of Malaysia, and also a mountainous state with 59% of her land covered by forest.

The capital of Sabah State is Kota Kinabalu city (KK in short). With a population of over 244,000, KK is located in west coast and the 13th largest city in Malaysia. Most tourists who visit Sabah will land in KK by air. KK is voted as one of the best cities for retirement in the world .

Sabah is 8 hours ahead of GMT (GMT+8), same time zone as Kuala Lumpur and Shanghai.

Current local time in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia

Malaysia is a tropical country with warm and humid climate (Humidity: 85-95%) throughout the year, so is Sabah, the temperatures are fairly constant, ranging from 32°C (90°F) in lowland to 21°C (70°F) in highland . Temperature can reach near freezing point in higher altitude of Mt. Kinabalu. The wettest months of Sabah are from December to January , with heavy rain from Northeast Monsoon. The dry months are from March to September. The most comfortable clothing are lightweight and quick-dry T-shirt, shorts and sandal. Only in highland such as Kundasang, Ranau, Tenom and Tambunan you would need more clothing like jacket to stay warm. To locals, our weather only has 3 modes: sunny, cloudy or rainy.

Natural Disasters

Sabah is also known as The Land below the Wind because we are just below Typhoon belt of Philippines and not hit by typhoon. However, the tail of typhoon would brings rainstorm (happens occasionally between Apr and Nov), strong wind and rough waves that affect outdoor activities. During heavy rain season, flood and landslide occurs in some areas. It’s advisable not to visit Kinabalu Park on the same day you leave Sabah, just in case the way home is blocked by landslide.

No Tsunami (tidal wave) threat presents in Sabah. There was a magnitude 6.0 earthquake in 2015, but no life-threatening earthquake thereafter. Week-long haze may or may not occur between Jun and Sep, the time neighbouring Kalimantan clear the land by open burning.

What’s the Best Time to Visit Sabah?

Actually anytime is fine. Due to global warming, the weather is not so predictable.

• Dry Months : March to September (ideal for outdoor activities)
• Diving : April to June (best visibility and calmest waters), February to March (whale shark season)
• Turtle Nesting: July to August
• Stargazing: April to September

Worst Months to visit:

• Chinese New Year (between late Jan and mid-Feb) and Puasa (Muslim fasting month), the time when many shops / restaurants are closed.
• Wet Months : Nov-Jan (Northeast Monsoon)
• Peak Season (Travel): Nov-Jan and Jun-Aug. Book flight and hotel earlier if you will visit Sabah in these months.

Events & Festivals

You won’t regret to add the following grand cultural events into your itinerary.

• 30 & 31 May: Kaamatan Celebration (Harvest Festival)
• April: Lepa-Lepa Water Festival *
• October: Tamu Besar *

*date is subject to change

Electricity

Electricity is on the 240 Volts AC/ 50-Cycle system. Malaysia uses standard British three-pin rectangular blade plug (Type G) and sockets. You can buy the travel universal plug in our shopping malls.

Units of Measurement

British Imperial System. We use Kilometre (KM), Metre (M) and Centimetre (CM) to measure distance and length, Kilogram (Kg) and Gram (G) for weight measurement.

Money and Payment

The international currency code of Malaysian Ringgit is MYR. But you see Ringgit is more commonly labelled as RM on price tags here. Both MYR and RM are the same thing (e.g. RM20 = MYR20). Banknotes are divided into the following denominations: 1, 5, 10, 20, 50 and 100.

Cash is King , so always have at least one or two hundred Ringgit cash with you, though e-Wallet such as Boost is getting very popular. Small eatery, bus and national parks usually expect you to use cash. Credit Cards such as MasterCard and Visa are widely accepted by hotels, restaurants and larger shops. Some shops may require you to spend a minimum amount of money like MYR30 or MYR50 to allow payment by credit card.

Currency Exchange

Kota Kinabalu International Airport has a few money changers where you can exchange your currency to Ringgit. You may exchange a small amount of money, then convert the rest with Licensed Money Changers in the shopping malls, which offers better rate. Most major hotels charge a nominal fee for currency conversion. You can use the form below to check the latest exchange rate of your currency to Malaysian Ringgit (MYR).

There are a lot of licensed money changers in shopping malls of city. Make sure your notes are in near-perfect condition as notes with any torn or stains would not be accepted by money changers. Commonly accepted currencies are US Dollar, Australian Dollar, British Pound, China RMB, Indonesia Rupiah, Philippines PESO, Thailand Baht, etc. You may convert your money to one of these currencies above in your country first to bring to Sabah. Be vigilant of people around you when you leave the counter with your money.

Internet WiFi & Phone

Sabah has 4G coverage in populated area. You can get a local SIM card and register a prepaid phone line (with Internet data plan) at Kota Kinabalu International Airport, if you arrive in normal working hours. Our big 3 cellphone service providers are Celcom , Maxis (HotLink), and Digi .

Maxis has great Internet speed in city and suburban areas. Celcom has the widest coverage but fairly slow line. Digi is somewhere in between. You and your travel mates can use different providers to backup each other. You can browse the Traveller SIM Cards by Celcom , Maxis , and Digi .

There are many phone shops in city that can help you to register a line or reload credit. By law you need a passport to register. The country code of Malaysia is 60. If you get a mobile phone number like 012-3456789. Your overseas friends and relatives can call you at +60 123456789. Anyway, you can use Whatsapp and Facetime. Set your phone to airplane mode when you are in remote places that have no connection, or the busy network search would drain your battery.

WiFi service is available in most hotels (some may charge a fee). Many restaurants and cafes in town also have free WiFi access. Kota Kinabalu City centre has free WiFi but the connection is quite patchy (no every street is in the range).

Travellers can buy almost every necessities in Sabah, so you can cut the weight of you check-in luggage. Shopping malls generally open daily from 10am to 9:30pm. They are air-conditioned and good place for grocery shopping, phone service, local food, money changers, clothing, and movie time. Toilet inside shopping mall collects an entry fee of MYR0.20 to MYR0.50. Besides shopping malls, you can find drug store / pharmacy, supermarkets, and 24×7 convenience stores around town area.

Things to Buy

Sabah Tea, Tenom Coffee, White Coffee, Orangutan / Proboscis Monkey plush toy, handicraft (bead necklace / bracelet, baskets), hand woven tapestries, colourful serdang box, Sabah batik, durian chocolate, mango candy, dried seafood, frozen seafood, scarf with Sabah motif, and sting-less bee honey are popular buy, besides the ordinary keychain, fridge magnet and I♥Sabah T-shirt. You may check out my guide on 10 best souvenirs to buy in Sabah .

Good places to shop and bargain for these souvenirs are Gaya Street shoplot and its Sunday Market (7am-12pm) in KK City Centre. Filipino Market next to KK Central Market is also a good spot. KadaiKu has the best line of authentic Sabah products (higher prices).

Popular Tours

Most tourists travel in Sabah for 5 days and majority of them visit or do the following:

• Climbing Mount Kinabalu *: the highest mountain of Malaysia
• Kinabalu Park : staycation in the cooling highland and tour around the UNESCO World Heritage Site and Geopark
• Kinabatangan River ( Corridor of Life ): river cruise to see Orangutan, Proboscis Monkey and Pygmy Elephant
• Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre Orphanage and “school” of baby orangutan
• Tunku Abdul Rahman Park : beautiful islands (e.g. Sapi , Manukan ) 15 minutes away from KK
• Mantanani : Mermaid Island
• Mari-Mari Cultural Village : experience lifestyle of 5 native tribes
• River Cruise at Klias , Weston , Kawa-Kawa : Wetland, Sunset and Proboscis Monkey
• Poring Hot Springs : natural hot springs, tree canopy walk, rafflesia flower
• Tip of Borneo : scenic beach and seascape
• Islands of Semporna (part of Coral Triangle): Sipadan *, Mataking Island , Mabul Island , Bohey Dulang Island
• Padas / Kiulu River Rafting
• Danum Valley : 130-million-year old primary rainforest
• Turtle Islands Park (Selingan) *: turtle nesting and hatchery

*Need to book 6 months in advance as they are always fully booked, even in non-peak seasons.

Sabah has many more wonderful attractions, please explore them in this travel blog MySabah.com (shameless self-promotion). Not all destination accepts walk-in tourist, some requires you to go by tour.

People and Culture

There are 42 ethnic groups living in harmony in Sabah. In Sabah population of over 3.5 millions, Kadazandusun people are the largest indigenous group and occupy 30% of population, followed by Bajau (21%), Malay (20%) and Murut (5%). 12% of Sabah population is Chinese and most of them live in cities. Interracial marriage is very common, so don’t be surprised if a native can speak Chinese.

Generally, Sabah people are gentle, friendly and more tolerant. Though we are Malaysians, we like to call ourselves as Sabahans . Sabahans are very laid back, we might look like slow loris to those from fast-paced modern cities LOL.

Interesting Facts

• The iconic dance of Sabah is Sumazau of Kadazandusun people, which mimic the movement of bird in flight.
• Murut was once the headhunter of Borneo. Their bamboo dance (named Magunatip ) is to welcome the return of headhunters.
• Bajau is the Cowboys of the East because of their excellent horse-riding skill.
• Sea Bajau in East Coast is also known as Sea Gypsies , sea nomads who spend their lives (cooking, giving birth, sleeping) on the boat.
• Most Sabah Chinese are the descendants of Chinese labours immigrated from China in 19th century. Hakka, Hokkien and Cantonese are the most common Chinese dialects.

Islam is the official religion of Malaysia and 65% of Sabah people are Muslim, followed by Catholics, Christians and Buddhists. Many destinations have Surau room for Muslim to pray. In hotel room, look for the Qibla compass on the ceiling that points to Makkah. Malaysia is rated as a top Muslim-friendly holiday destination , in terms of Islam-compliant on food, services, prayer facilities and accommodation.

About 80 languages are spoken in Sabah. Malay is the national language, English is our second language and widely spoken, especially in urban and business environment. English is used in shop signage and even food menu. Chinese is also common in cities. Tourists have very little language barrier in Sabah. Most Sabahans are multilingual and can converse in 2 or more languages such as Malay, English, Chinese (Mandarin), Hakka and Cantonese.

Yes we know English but… it’s not our mother tongue. If we have problem to understand you, you may need to speak slowly and clearly using simple words. Avoid using slang from your region.

Useful Phrases

Sabahans do understand basic English phrases such as “How are you?” and “Thank you.” You can travel comfortably in Sabah without learning any local words. The only reason you learn is for ice-breaking with your cute pronunciation. If you really want to impress the locals, say “ Boleh Bah Kalau Kau ” (meaning: Can / Sure if this is for you / Of Course!) or Bah (meaning OK or Yes).

Anyway, here are some useful words for you to read local signage: Tandas (Toilet), Lelaki (Male), Perempuan (Female), Tutup (Closed), Jalan / Jln. (Road / Street), Kampung / Kg. (Village), Taman (Park), Masuk (Entrance), Keluar (Exit), Kedai (Shop), Bas (Bus), Teksi (Taxi), Air (Water).

Local Etiquette

Sabahans are really diversified. Even if one group accepts certain interaction, the same thing can be awkward to others. Don’t worry. Sabahans are highly-tolerant. But good to be respectful and sensitive.

• Take off your shoes before entering house, mosque and (some) temple.
• Don’t handshake with left hand. A handshake should only be initiated by ladies.
• In places of worship, visitors are required to dress modestly. Lady is required to wear scarf and long skirt to cover their hair and exposed skin in mosque.
• Muslim takes no pork & liquor, do not offer them.
• Pointing at people with index finger is rude, you may use your thumb to point at something (still better not pointing at any person).
• No nude / topless sunbathing on beach (I have no complaint but many think boobs are evil).
• Holding hand and hugging with your spouse in public is romantic. Long wet kiss is probably too much here.
• Guys, don’t touch the shoulder of female.

Just to list a few examples of misbehaved tourists: going nude on Mount Kinabalu and Sibuan , walking in city with bikini , hot dance at mosque . Sabah is not Miami.

Food and Dining

The staple food of Sabahans are rice, noodles and bread. As a multicultural and food loving society, we have many options to spoil you. The most common place locals going for a meal is Kopitiam or Kedai Kopi (Coffee Shop), an open air shop which sells common food items such as mixed rice ( nasi campur ), chicken rice and fried noodles. A proper meal costs about MYR6 to MYR8 (without drink) in city. Japanese food, Western food and fast food are common as well in city. Fun Fact: All small towns have KFC Fried Chicken.

Recommended Food

Tuaran Mee (Tuaran Fried Noodle), Ngiu Chap (Beef Noodle), Sang Yuk Mee (Pork Noodle), Tamparuli Mee , Fish Noodles , Seafood , Kon Lou Mee (Dry Noodle), Nasi Lemak, Bak Kut Teh , Satay, Laksa, Rojak, Soto (Malay Noodle Soup), and Hinava (Local Fish Salad).

Dining Guide

If this is your first time visit Sabah, below are some guidelines:

• No smoking in any eatery.
• Some restaurants say they “Serve No Pork” but that doesn’t mean they are certified halal. Look for halal logo when in doubt.
• Most Sabah hotels are compliant with Halal.
• Malay and Indian Kopitiams serve Halal (Muslim) food. Non-Muslims are also welcome to eat there.
• You may see a small pot on table of Malay Kopitiam, the water is for washing hands. Don’t drink it.
• Some kopitiam are self-service. You need to get your utensils and condiment at one corner.
• Food spoils fairly quick in warm temperature of Malaysia. Don’t eat wet food that is left overnight in room temperature. You would suffer food poisoning.
• Although Malaysia is an Islamic country, Beer & liquor are sold in many shops but at higher price (due to tax). Or you can try our Tapai or Lihing (local rice wine)
• KFC and McDonald in Malaysia serve halal food. Don’t ask for pork burger.
• Tipping is not obligatory but appreciated. If you see 10% service charges on your bill, you have contributed some.

Feel free to order drink like a local with the following names:

• Kopi-O (Hot Coffee)
• Kopi-C (Hot Milk Coffee)
• Teh-C (Hot Milk Tea)
• Teh-O Ping (Ice Milk Tea)
• Kit Chai Ping (Iced Kasturi Juice)
• Teh Tarik (Pulled Tea)

(Kopi = Coffee, Teh = Tea, O = No Milk, C = Milk, Ping = Cold) So Ice Milk Tea is “Teh-C Ping”.

Entering Sabah

Malaysian citizens from Peninsular Malaysia can enter Sabah with MyKad (passport not required). Foreigner need a passport or Visa to visit Sabah. Your Passport must have a validity of at least 6 months upon entry. Visa is not required for some countries such as Australia, USA, UK and Japan. You can check if your nationality is Visa-free online .

If your country is eligible (e.g. China, India) to apply Visa (eVISA) online, you may submit your application here . You can request your travel agent to do it for you.

Goods Exempted

Individual may bring these items into Malaysia without paying customs duty:

• Wine / spirit / malt / liquor not exceeding 1 Liter in all;
• Tobacco not exceeding 225 Grams (equal to 200 sticks of cigarettes).
• Wearing apparels not exceeding 3 pieces and footwear not exceeding one pair.
• Portable electrical or battery operated appliances for personal care and hygiene not exceeding 1 unit each.
• See the complete list in Royal Malaysian Customs Department website

WARNING: Smuggling illicit drugs such as Marijuana, Cocaine and Heroin is a VERY SERIOUS offense in Malaysia and can result in DEATH penalty. Pornography materials and firearm (even the fake one like BB Gun) are prohibited items to bring in.

Fly to Sabah

Sabah has many direct international flight connection to major cities of East Asia and Australia. You can use Google Flights to look for direct flight and bargain tickets to fly to Sabah. If no direct flight to KK, you can fly to other cities (e.g. Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, Brunei, Taipei, Seoul, Tokyo, Hong Kong, Manila) which have direct flight to Sabah . To move around major towns / cities of Sabah, book a domestic flight with Air Asia or MASwings

Kota Kinabalu International Airport (KKIA)

KKIA is the second busiest airport in Malaysia and 7.5 KM away from Kota Kinabalu city. Most international flights to Sabah will land there. Locals and tourists also mainly rely on domestic flight to travel between east and west coast of Sabah.

Once you arrive Sabah, there are a few things you can do in KKIA:

• Get a airport taxi / bus, or call a Grab driver to pick you up
• Exchange a small amount of Malaysian currency.
• Register a local mobile phone line, which includes Internet data plan.
• Visit Tourism Malaysia information booth to get more information about your trip.
• You can even book tour package and accommodation, or rent a car there.

Note: Most businesses there open during normal working hours and some open until 10pm. McDonald’s McCafe in KKIA opens 24×7.

Public Transport

Our public transportation system is a joke. It is inconvenient to move around Sabah without a car. You can get a taxi or Grab driver easily in city, hotels, shopping malls and popular tourist spots. Though the taxi has the label that says “Teksi Bermeter” (Meter Taxi), they seldom use the meter. Haggle for the price before getting into the taxi. Mobile apps such as Waze, Google Map and Grab will help you a lot.

Renting a Car

Car rental is available in cities of Sabah. You can even book a car online, then collect it at the airport upon your arrival. You need a Malaysia or International Driver License to rent a car. A good place to rent car in Kota Kinabalu is Wisma Sabah.

The rental fee starts from MYR40/day for Motorbike, MYR150/day for Sedan, MYR500/day for 4-wheel Drive and MYR400/day for a Van. In Malaysia we drive at left side of the road (driver seat is at the right). The car should remain on left lane if not overtaking. Driver and passengers must fasten their seat belt or get fined heavily.

Boat Transfer

If you want to visit the islands ( Sapi , Manukan , Mamutik , Sepanggar , Mengalum ) off Kota Kinabalu city, you can depart from Jesselton Point, Sutera Harbour or Star Marina, which operates between 7am to 4:30pm. Please read my guide about these 3 boat terminals .

To visit islands of Semporna, you can book with travel agent. Most of them sells island-hopping day trip. Island resorts will provide boat transfer if you will stay on their islands. It’s NOT safe to use the unlicensed boat service, they usually wander nearby the terminal (e.g. KK fish market, Wisma Merdeka) and offer you cheaper deals.

Long Distance Bus

There are two long-distance bus terminals in Kota Kinabalu that connects to major cities / towns (e.g. Sandakan, Tawau, Lahad Datu, Semporna, Kudat) of Sabah regularly. The long distance bus is known as Bas Ekpress (Express Bus). Route to one location is usually operated by a few companies and depart in different time from 6:30am to 8:30pm.

• Inanam Bus Terminal (North) ( see Location Map ): (from KK) to Kundasang / Kinabalu Park (92 KM), Sandakan (332 KM), Semporna (530 KM), Lahad Datu (403 KM), Kunak, Tenom, etc. ( Online Ticketing available)
• Padang Merdeka Field ( see Location Map ): KK to Kota Belud (68 KM), Kudat (179 KM), Kundasang, Ranau, Tambunan, Keningau, Tenom
• KK Sentral (South) ( see Location Map ): KK to Beaufort, Kuala Penyu, Brunei, Sipitang, Bongawan, Membakut

To save time, you should consider domestic flight over buses. For example, travel from KK to Tawau by bus takes 10 hours but only 45 minutes by flight.

Accommodation

Sabah has over 500 hotels, and with range of choices from 5-star hotels to budget hostels. Nowadays you can book accommodation at attractive rate with feature-rich online booking site like Booking.com and Agoda . You can check the location with interactive map, photo gallery and reviews. AirBnB also offers you some decent choices. Most of them offers pick-up at airport.

However, if you ask for my advice, the following hotels and resorts are my personal recommendation based on reviews by tourists. Please note the prices can vary considerably depend on the (sea) view, room size, package, length of stay, etc. The fee would be higher during peak season such as Chinese New Year. Foreign tourist (non-Malaysian) needs to pay Tourism Tax (or TTx) of MYR10 per room per night for staying in hotels or registered private accommodations.

Recommended Accommodations

5-star hotels.

Price Range: MYR500-MYR1,870

• Kota Kinabalu: Shangri-La’s Tanjung Aru Resort & Spa (STAR) , The Magellan Sutera Resort , Hyatt Regency Kinabalu *, Hotel Le Meridien *, Hilton Kota Kinabalu *, Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu *
• Tuaran: Shangri-La’s Rasa Ria Resort & Spa

4-Star Hotels

Price Range: MYR250-MYR560

• Kota Kinabalu: Hotel Grandis *, Mercure Kota Kinabalu City Centre *, Horizon Hotel *, Promenade Hotel *

3-Star Hotels

Price Range: MYR125-MYR350

• Kota Kinabalu: Hotel Sixty3 *, Gaya Centre Hotel *, The Jesselton Hotel* , Dreamtel *

*located in City Centre of Kota Kinabalu

Island Resorts

Price Range: MYR950-MYR3,700

• Kota Kinabalu: Gaya Island Resort , Gayana Marine Resort , Bunga Raya Island Resort , Manukan Island
• Semporna: Sipadan Water Village Resort , Sipadan Mabul Resort (SMART) , Kapalai Dive Resort , Mataking Island Resort
• Sandakan: Lankayan Resort

If you want something different, go for our homestay or camping . Here are some special accommodation:

• Rungus Longhouse
• Misompuru Homestay
• Glamping on Libaran Island
• Seaventures (Dive Resort)
• Camping at Tegudon Tourism Village
• Farmstay: Kiulu Farmstay , Sabah Tea Garden

Health and Hygiene

• Government hospitals, clinics and pharmacies are available in all towns / cities.
• Treated pipe water is available in most urban and sub-urban areas. Tap water must be boiled before drinking.
• Due to hot weather, you need to prevent dehydration, sunburn, & heat stroke , by applying sunscreen and drink a lot of water.
• You will sweat a lot. Bath every day or you will stink.
• Mosquito is most active during dusk and dawn. Have an insect repellent next to you.
• Sandfly is present near mangrove swamp in evening. Its bite is itchy. Don’t scratch or it will get worse.
• Beware of jellyfish. The sting of box jellyfish can be fatal to child.
• Food poisoning bacteria multiply fast in our warm weather. Eat the food while it is still hot / fresh.
• You always can find Pharmacy / Drug Store such as Watson and Guardian nearby.
• Most public toilet are wet and smelly but bearable. Bring toilet seat wipes if you want extra clean.
• Toilet paper is not provided in most toilet (except your hotels). Bring your own or you can experiment the water “bum gun”.

Things to Bring

• Clothing (for tropical climate): shirts, shorts, jean, pants, skirt, underwear, socks, pajamas, etc.
• Comfortable walking shoes and sandal
• Visa (if required)
• Credit card
• Sunscreen lotion / spray
• Sunglasses, Contact Lenses
• Phone, cable, charger & power bank
• Camera, battery and charger
• Travel plug adapter
• Toiletries: toilet paper, tooth brush & paste, soap / body wash, shampoo & conditioner, face wash, hairbrush / comb, razor & shaving cream, dental floss, mouthwash, cotton buds
• Backpack (best if come with rain cover)
• Reusable water bottle
• Personal Medicine & Supplement
• Raincoat / Poncho
• For lady: makeup, lip balm with SPF, moisturiser, facial mask, body lotion, perfume, hair ties and clips, makeup remover, cotton pads, sanitary items
• Optional items for outdoor activities: hiking shoes, insect repellent, swimwear, bikini, rash guard, hat, dry bag, beach towel, walking stick, flashlight, anti-leech socks
• International / Malaysia Driver License (if you rent a car)
• Books? Really?

You don’t need to bring any snorkeling and diving gears, which are available for rent here.

Safety & Advice

• Always book your tour with a licensed travel agent / operator. To check if a tour company is legitimate, you can refer to the member list by MATTA (Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents) .
• Practice COMMON SENSE to avoid becoming an easy target of petty crime such as pickpocket and snatch thief.
• NEVER, EVER leave your bag unattended on car seat.
• Don’t flash your money in public.
• While dining in public places, don’t leave valuable belonging such as phone and handbag on the desk.
• Though some countries issue advisory against travelling in east coast of Sabah, security is good after more garrison are deployed to islands.
• While crossing road, watch out for motorbike speeding between cars.
• Never trust pedestrian / zebra crossing. Keep an eye on approaching car.
• Only book your tour with licensed travel agents. Illegal tour agents don’t care about your safety and you are not insured.
• Any headhunter? No. Borneo is used to be the land of headhunters, but it’s history.
• Photocopy your National Identity Card, Passport (Photo ID page) and Credit Card, and store them separately
• Look up the contact of your embassy in KK and save it on your phone.
• Drone is forbidden in some islands and restricted zones. Ask before you fly one, and study our regulations .

(Boring) History in Brief

Sabah was part of Brunei in the 16th century. In year 1658, Brunei Sultan (King) ceded the northern and eastern part of Borneo to the Sultan of Sulu (Philippines). By 1881, Sabah was granted to British government and administered by British North Borneo Chartered Company . Sabah became a protectorate of the United Kingdom in 1888 and named as North Borneo (Kota Kinabalu was called Jesselton during that period). Except 1942-1945 under the hand of Japanese during World War II, Sabah was controlled by British until Sabah (North Borneo) gains total independence and form Malaysia with Sarawak, Malaya and Singapore on 16 September 1963.

Useful Apps

• Grab : e-hailing service, similar to Uber
• WhatsApp : almost every person and company in Sabah use this messaging apps
• Google Maps : to get around and look for restaurants and accommodation
• Waze : very useful navigation apps if you drive on your own
• Foodpanda : food delivery to deliver local food to you without walking out of your room
• Boost and Alipay: e-Wallet
• MySejahtera: for update and tracking on COVID-19 status

Useful Numbers & Contact

• Kota Kinabalu International Airport (KKIA): +6088325555
• Tourist Information Center (Sabah Tourism Board) : +60 88-212121 (E-mail: [email protected] )
• Police / Ambulance: 999
• Custom Department (Sabah): +60 88-348100
• Immigration Department (Sabah): +60 88-413657
• Queen Elizabeth Hospital I: +60 88-517555
• Queen Elizabeth Hospital II: +60 88-324600
• List of Consulates / Embassy in Kota Kinabalu City

Thanks for reading this far. Please e-mail me if you find anything incorrect (even a typo) or incomplete. Please note this is not a sponsored page . No company pays me to get recommended here.

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Until European powers gained a foothold at the northern tip of Borneo in the nineteenth century, the tribal peoples of Sabah had only minimal contact with the outside world. Since then – and particularly since joining the Malaysian Federation in 1963 – these groups have largely exchanged traditional ways for a collective Malaysian identity. As Sabah’s cultural landscape has changed, so has its environment: the logging industry has been allowed to exploit huge swathes of the rainforests, with cleared regions used to plant oil palm – a monoculture that makes a poor habitat for wildlife. On the other hand, many locals would argue, this agro-industry provides work for thousands, and generates much-needed income into the state coffers.

Brief history

The people of sabah.

• Sabah's Interior

Kinabalu National Park Travel Guide

From lahad datu to the maliau basin, maliau basin, north of kk, poring hot springs, pulau labuan, southwest of kk, sungai kinabatangan, day-trips from kk, kota kinabalu, the markets, sabah state museum, day-trips from kota kinabalu.

While arguments rage between campaigners, corporations and politicians, tourists continue to enjoy the remaining natural riches of “the land below the wind” (so called because Sabah’s 72,500 square kilometres lie just south of the typhoon belt). The terrain ranges from wild, swampy, mangrove-tangled coastal areas, through the dazzling greens of paddy fields and pristine rainforests, to the dizzy heights of the Crocker mountain range – home to the highest peak between the Himalayas and New Guinea, Gunung Kinabalu (Mount Kinabalu). Although habitats for Sabah’s indigenous animals have shrunk dramatically, the remaining forests still offer some of the best wildlife-watching opportunities in Malaysia. Offshore, damaging fishing practices have as elsewhere in the region taken their toll, but marine parks protect areas of magnificent coral – most famously around Sipadan – and the attendant sea life.

Sabah’s urban centres are not especially attractive or historically rich, thanks to World War II bombs and hurried urban redevelopment. While places like KK (Kota Kinabalu) and Sandakan lack notable buildings, however, they abound in atmosphere and energy, plus good places to eat and sleep. That said, Sabah’s remarkable natural attractions are the major draw for most visitors.

The Klias Peninsula south of KK offers activity-based day-trips such as whitewater rafting or firefly cruises, while with more time you could visit the island of Pulau Tiga; you may also need to transit through duty-free Labuan on the way to Brunei. North of KK lie the beaches and coconut groves of the Kudat Peninsula, where it’s possible to visit longhouses belonging to the Rungus tribe; the northernmost point, the Tip of Borneo, features windy shorelines and splendid isolation.

Heading east from KK, things get truly exciting. Dominating the landscape are the huge granite shelves of the awesome Gunung Kinabalu, a major attraction as getting up and down involves spending just one night on the mountain. Further east is Sandakan, a rapidly modernizing town with offshore attractions including the Turtle Islands National Park. Back on the mainland, at the nearby Sepilok Orang-utan Rehabilitation Centre and Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary, you can get a ringside view of animals at feeding times.

Deeper into the oil-palm plantations of east Sabah lies the protected Kinabatangan River, where visitors can take boat trips to see wild proboscis monkeys, elephants and orang-utans. Further south, the Danum Valley Conservation Area offers a spectacular canopy walkway, with the choice of staying at a luxury lodge or a humbler research centre. Alternatively try the more affordable Tabin Wildlife Reserve, with a mud volcano and an elephant colony. In the deep south, accessible via the boom town of Tawau, nestles the untouched forest sector of the Maliau Basin, now open for challenging trekking.

For divers, the offshore islands near the southern town of Semporna are the jewel in Sabah’s crown. Sipadan offers world-class diving off coral walls, while its neighbour Mabul is known for its fabulous macro (small-scale) marine life. These two are simply the best known, and the area can keep divers and snorkellers enchanted for days.

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Little is known of Sabah’s early history, though archeological finds in limestone caves indicate that the northern tip of Borneo has been inhabited for well over ten thousand years. Chinese merchants were trading with local settlements by 700 AD, and by the fourteenth century the area was under the sway of the sultans of Brunei and Sulu.

Colonialism

Europe’s superpowers first arrived in 1521, when the ships of Portuguese navigator Ferdinand Magellan stopped off at Brunei before sailing northwards. Almost 250 years later, in 1763, colonial settlement began when one Captain Cowley established a short-lived trading post on Pulau Balambangan, an island north of Kudat, on behalf of the British East India Company. Further colonial involvement came in 1846, when Pulau Labuan (at the mouth of Brunei Bay) was ceded to the British by the Sultan of Brunei. By 1881 the British North Borneo Chartered Company had full sovereignty over northern Borneo.

First steps were then taken towards making the territory pay its way: rubber, tobacco and, after 1885, timber were commercially harvested. By 1905 a rail line linked the coastal town of Jesselton (later Kota Kinabalu) with the resource-rich interior. When the company introduced taxes, the locals were understandably displeased and some resisted; Mat Salleh, the son of a Bajau chief, and his followers sacked the company’s settlement on Pulau Gaya in 1897. Another uprising, in Rundum in 1915, resulted in the slaughter of hundreds of Murut tribespeople by British forces.

World War II

On New Year’s Day 1942, Japanese imperial forces invaded Pulau Labuan; Sandakan fell less than three weeks later. By the time the Japanese surrendered on September 9, 1945, almost nothing of Jesselton and Sandakan remained standing (although the worst structural damage was inflicted by Allied bombing). Even worse were the hardships endured by civilians and captured Allied troops, the most notorious of which were the Death Marches of 1945.

Towards independence

Unable to finance the postwar rebuilding of North Borneo, the Chartered Company sold the territory to the British Crown in 1946, and Jesselton was declared the new capital of the Crown Colony of North Borneo. Within fifteen years, however, plans had been laid for an independent federation consisting of Malaya, Singapore, Sarawak, North Borneo and (it was intended) Brunei. The Federation was proclaimed at midnight on September 15, 1963, with North Borneo renamed Sabah.

Modern politics

Relations with federal Kuala Lumpur have seldom been smooth, but differences had seemed to narrow until, in 1985, the opposition Parti Bersatu Sabah (PBS), led by the Christian Joseph Pairin Kitingan, was returned to office in the state elections. This was the first time a non-Muslim had attained power in a Malaysian state. Anti-federal feelings were worsened by much of the profits from Sabah’s flourishing crude oil exports being siphoned off to KL.

Nowadays, with PBS having joined the country’s ruling BN coalition, central government is following a policy of patching up long-running, cross-state disunity to realize a vision of a multi-ethnic – but Muslim-dominated – nation.

Although many traditions have died out, Sabah’s three-million-plus population includes more than a dozen recognized ethnic groups, and numerous dialects are still in use. The peoples of the Kadazan/Dusun tribes constitute the largest indigenous group; then there are the Murut of the southwest, and Sabah’s so-called “sea gypsies”, the Bajau. In recent years, Sabah has also seen an influx of Filipino and Indonesian immigrants, particularly on its east coast.

Town and village tamus (markets), usually held weekly, are a wonderful opportunity for visitors to take in the colourful mixture of cultures. Large tamus include those held on Sundays in the state capital Kota Kinabalu (KK) and in the small town of Kota Belud, two hours north by bus. The biggest annual festival is the Pesta Kaamatan, a harvest festival celebrated in May by the Kadazan/Dusun.

While the west may have majestic Gunung Kinabalu, East Sabah is the destination of choice for animal encounters. Around former capital Sandakan alone, visitors can see orang-utans in Sepilok, proboscis monkeys at Labuk Bay – and there are no prizes for guessing the attraction at the Turtle Islands National Park.

Next stop on the itinerary is the Kinabatangan River, where lodges arrange longboat journeys to see pygmy elephants, orang-utans and more in the wild. Further into the interior, there is the option of visiting Danum Valley, a primary rainforest area with a majestic canopy walkway, or the equally appealing Tabin Wildlife Reserve.

Back on the coast, divers especially are pulled to Semporna, the jumping-off point for the myriad flora and fauna hidden in the waters surrounding Palau Sipadan, Palau Mabul and numerous other islands. Serious trekkers keen to explore the Maliau Basin, referred to by some as “Sabah’s Lost World”, set off by 4WD from the frontier boom town Tawau.

Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary

Set amid mangrove forest and reached via a track through an oil-palm plantation, Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary functions as a companion to the more famous orang-utan sanctuary at Sepilok. Most visitors come on a day-trip from Sandakan or Sepilok, which is significantly closer, but it’s also possible to stay overnight.

Two large observation platforms, each with two feeding times, offer perfect vantage points from which to view the long-nosed proboscis monkeys; at the same time you can also see silverleaf monkeys scavenge fruit left behind, and there’s some fantastic birdlife including hornbills. On a day-trip you could see all four feedings if you like, or even leave after just one, but it’s more usual to see one from each platform.

Other activities

If you make arrangements in advance then it’s possible to combine watching the monkey feeding with other activities. These include a short jungle trek or a bird-watching walk (each 1hr; RM30) or a boat trip (2hr; RM250/boat) to a fishing village. If you’re staying the night then you can also sign up for a firefly walk (45min; RM20) and a morning birdwatching walk (1hr; RM30).

The town of Sepilok, 25km west of Sandakan, is best known for its Orang-utan Rehabilitation Centre. That’s not the only attraction, though, as the Rainforest Discovery Centre is worth visiting for its canopy walkway. There are also plans to open a conservation centre for Malayan sun bears, the world’s smallest bear species. See wsunbears.wildlifedirect.org for the latest news.

Set up in 1964 and occupying a 43-square-kilometre patch of lowland rainforest, the Sepilok Orang-utan Rehabilitation Centre is one of only a few such sanctuaries. It’s also among Sabah’s most popular tourist sites, with over two hundred people crowding onto the viewing platform during feeding hours on most days. In general it’s best to go for the afternoon session, as most tour buses come in the morning.

Leave valuables in the free lockers, along with food, drink and insect repellent (which can be harmful to the orang-utans if they ingest it). There’s little shade on the viewing platform, so bring a hat. You’ll find a café near the information centre.

The feeding station is a ten-minute walk from the entrance, so arrive with plenty of time. There are usually at least a couple of orang-utans waiting for their meal, often the very young ones, and they immediately cluster round the warden as he sets out the fruit. Others may soon come along, swinging, shimmying and strolling towards their breakfast or lunch, jealously watched by gangs of macaques that loiter around for scraps.

If you have time, stick around after feeding time and take one of several trails through the forest; you’ll need to register at reception. Besides the pleasure of the walk, there’s a chance you may see one or more orang-utans.

Orang-utans at Sepilok

Orang-utans – tail-less, red-haired apes (their name means “man of the forest” in Malay) – can reach a height of around 1.65m, and can live to over thirty years old. Solitary but not aggressively territorial, these primates live a largely arboreal existence, eating fruit, leaves, bark and the occasional insect.

Most of the orang-utans at the Sepilok centre are victims of forest clearance; many have been orphaned, injured and traumatized in the process. Some have also been kept as pets, something now prohibited by law, which means that their survival instincts remain undeveloped. Orang-utans are trained at Sepilok to fend for themselves in the wild. Although not always successful, the training process has seen many animals reintroduced to their natural habitat.

Turtle Islands National Park

Peeping out of the Sulu Sea 40km north of Sandakan, three tiny islands comprise the TURTLE ISLANDS NATIONAL PARK. They are favoured egg-laying sites of green and hawksbill turtles, which haul themselves laboriously above the high-tide mark to bury their clutches of eggs almost every night of the year. Although all three islands – Pulau Selingan, Pulau Bakungan Kecil and Pulau Gulisan – hold hatcheries, tourists can only visit Selingan.

All the action is at night. As well as seeing a mother turtle laying her eggs, you can watch as the park wardens release newly hatched turtles that waddle, Chaplin-like, into the sea to face an uncertain future. Before dark there’s plenty of time – arguably too much time, given the lack of facilities – for swimming, snorkelling (equipment rental RM25) and sunbathing. Take precautions against sandflies, which can be voracious especially when it rains.

Sabah's Interior

The highway southeast out of KK claws its way up onto the ridges of the Crocker mountain range, passing Gunung Alab (1964m). The mountains separate the state’s west coast and the swampy Klias Peninsula from the area christened the interior in the days of the Chartered Company. The former isolation of this sparsely populated region ended at the start of the twentieth century, when a rail line was built between Jesselton (modern-day KK) and Tenom to transport the raw materials being produced by the region’s thriving rubber industry.

Today, oil-palm cultivation takes precedence, though the Kadazan/Dusun and Murut peoples still cultivate rice, maize and cocoa.

Sabah holds no more impressive sight than Gunung Kinabalu (Mount Kinabalu), 85km northeast of KK and plainly visible from the west coast. Revered as “aki nabalu” (home of the spirits of the dead) by the Kadazan/Dusun, it’s 4095m high and dominates the 750 square kilometres of KINABALU NATIONAL PARK, a World Heritage Site renowned for its ecology, flora and geology. Although there are other hikes within the park, the prospect of reaching the summit fires the imagination of Malaysian and foreign tourists alike.

Gunung Kinabulu: the climb

Conquering Gunung Kinabalu today is far easier than it was in 1858, when Spenser St John, British consul-general to the native states of Borneo, found his progress blocked by Kadazan “shaking their spears and giving us other hostile signs”. Hugh Low, then British colonial secretary on Pulau Labuan, had made the first recorded ascent of the mountain seven years earlier, though he baulked at climbing its highest peak, considering it “inaccessible to any but winged animals”. The peak – subsequently named after Low – was finally conquered in 1888 by John Whitehead.

Here we detail the Timpohon trail to the top as it is by far the most popular, although a longer and quieter route up, the Mesilau trail, starts 17km east of the park HQ, and offers a greater chance of spotting wildlife.

The first day

The summit route begins with an optional but time-saving minibus ride (25min; RM16.50/vehicle) to the start of the Timpohon trail. The day’s climb to the mountain huts at Laban Rata takes between five and seven hours, depending on your fitness and trail conditions. Roots and stones along the trail serve as steps, with wooden “ladders” laid up the muddier stretches. There are regular rest shelters with toilets along the path.

To Layang Layang

The air gets progressively cooler as you climb, but the walk is still hard and sweaty, and you’ll be glad of the water tanks and rest point at Layang Layang (2621m), three hours into the climb. Around this point, if the weather is kind, incredible views of the hills, sea and clouds start to unfold below you.

To Laban Rata

At just above 3000m, a detour to the left brings hikers to Pondok Paka, a large overhanging rock that was the site of overnight camps on early expeditions. It’s a further 6km to Laban Rata, which lies at 3272m. The final 2km, dominated by large boulders and steep slippery rock surfaces, are demanding even for the fittest, particularly considering the lower oxygen levels. The rewards are the view of the mighty granite slopes of the Panar Laban rock face, plus the promise of reaching your accommodation.

The second day

Most climbers get up at 2.30am for the final ascent, although those who are particularly fit might leave slightly later to avoid getting to the summit too long before sunrise.

To the summit

The trail crosses the sheer Panar Laban rock face, past the Sayat Sayat hut and onwards to the summit at Low’s Peak. Although ropes, handrails and wooden steps help in places, it’s a stiff climb at the very least. You’ll also be doing it in pitch darkness so headlamps are an advantage and a powerful torch a must. Climbers should also be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness.

After the final push, the beautiful spectacle of sunrise at Low’s Peak will rob you of any remaining breath. Remember that it’ll be bitingly cold, so bring very warm clothing for that brief photo stop at the summit.

Descending from the mountain

After all that toil, it’s back to Laban Rata for a hearty breakfast – prepare to be shocked when you see the sharp drops along the trail, which were not visible in the dark. Then it’s time to head back down to park HQ, which usually takes three to five hours. As your leg muscles ache from the relentless downhill trudge – which is likely to get worse the next day – take a moment to reflect on the fact that the record time for the annual Kinabalu Climbathon is just over two and a half hours. That’s up and down.

Preparing to climb Gunung Kinabulu

Climbing the mountain has become a must-do in Borneo itineraries. For the thousands of people who come here annually to haul themselves up, the process is made easier by a well-defined, 8.5-kilometre-long path that weaves up through jungle on the southern side to the bare granite of the summit.

Despite its popularity, it’s a very tough trek and not to be undertaken lightly. Even given perfect weather conditions, there’s a remorseless, freezing, final pre-dawn ascent to contend with and it’s quite possible to suffer from altitude sickness and not get to the top. Bad weather can also scupper an ascent, or at least make it a pretty miserable experience.

Don’t undertake the challenge unless you are fully prepared with suitable clothing and in good general health. If you suffer from vertigo then you shouldn’t have a problem on the route up to Laban Rata (where there’s foliage to hide any drops), or even for the summit ascent (since it’s in the dark), but the way down from the summit may cause you problems.

Booking ahead

If you want to do the climb in just one day – an option only available from tour operators based in KK – then you can substantially cut costs. This does, however, mean an exceptionally long and tiring day on the mountain, while the view from the top will almost certainly be obscured by clouds by the time you get there. Getting a permit for a day-trip can also be difficult. All in all, it isn’t really worth it.

For the vast majority of visitors, therefore, ascending and descending Gunung Kinabalu takes two days. The standard route begins at the park HQ, two hours from KK and 1588m up. It’s possible to arrive on the morning of the climb, but spending the previous night in the area is a good idea; it gives time to acclimatize and means you can make an earlier start in the morning. Climbers then have to spend a night two-thirds of the way up the mountain in huts at Laban Rata, allowing for a final dawn ascent.

The accommodation on the mountain is often booked up long in advance, although tour operators in KK may be able to offer a package at short notice for an additional fee; you can also call direct in the hope of a cancellation. Avoid booking packages with overseas tour operators, which can work out a lot more expensive.

What to bring

Essential items to carry with you include a torch (preferably a headlamp), headache tablets, suntan lotion, energy boosters (such as nuts, fruit and muesli bars), and a water bottle (there’s unfiltered but drinkable water along the trail). Wear waterproof shoes or hiking boots with a good tread, and bring a few layers of warm clothing for the summit; the Laban Rata resthouse has a few jackets for rent, but you need to call ahead to reserve one. Most guides do not carry first-aid kits, so it’s best to bring your own.

The morning of the climb

Get to the park HQ as early as possible: the last group usually sets off by 11am, but ideally you should be here by 9am, in order to reach Laban Rata before the hot water runs out in the showers. Call in at the Sutera Sanctuary Lodges reception to confirm your place at Laban Rata, then go next door to the Sabah Parks office to pay the various fees.

Besides the climbing permit, conservation fee and insurance, you must pay for a guide. All those charges are mandatory; some climbers also opt to pay for a porter (maximum load 10kg). If you’re alone, ask whether you can join another group for company and to save on the guide fee. Lockers and a safe room are available at the HQ to deposit valuables or even your pack.

Kinabalu flora and fauna

If you dash headlong up and down Gunung Kinabalu and then depart, as many visitors do, you’ll miss out on many of the national park’s riches. Its diverse terrains have spawned an incredible variety of plants and animals, and you are far more likely to appreciate them by walking some of the lower trails (see Around the park headquarters) at a leisurely pace.

Around a third of the park’s area is covered by lowland dipterocarp forest, characterized by massive, buttressed trees and allowing only sparse growth at ground level. The world’s largest flower, the parasitic – and elusive – Rafflesia, occasionally blooms in the lowland forest. Between 900m and 1800m, you’ll come across the oaks, chestnuts, ferns and mosses (including the Dawsonia – the world’s tallest moss) of the montane forest.

Higher up (1800–2600m), the cloudforest supports a huge range of flowering plants: around a thousand orchids and 26 varieties of rhododendron have been identified, including Low’s rhododendron with its enormous yellow flowers. The hanging lichen that drapes across branches of stunted trees lends a magical feel to the landscape at this height. It’s at this altitude, too, that you’re most likely to see the park’s most famous plants – its nine species of insectivorous pitcher plants (Nepenthes) whose cups secrete a nectar that first attracts insects and then drowns them, as they are unable to escape up the slippery sides of the pitcher.

Higher still, above 2600m, only the most tenacious plantlife can survive – like the agonizingly gnarled sayat-sayat tree, and the heath rhododendron found only on Mount Kinabalu – while beyond 3300m, soil gives way to granite. Here, grasses, sedges and the elegant blooms of Low’s buttercup are all that flourish.

Although orang-utans, Bornean gibbons and tarsiers are among mammals that dwell in the park, you’re unlikely to see anything more exotic than squirrels, rats and tree shrews, or conceivably a mouse deer or a bearded pig if you’re lucky. The higher reaches of Gunung Kinabalu boast two types of birds seen nowhere else in the world – the Kinabalu friendly warbler and Kinabalu mountain blackbird. Lower down, look out for hornbills and eagles, as well as the Malaysian tree pie, identifiable by its foot-long tail. You’re bound to see plenty of insects: butterflies and moths flit through the trees, while the forest floor is home to creatures like the trilobite beetle, whose orange-and-black armour-plating lends it a fearsome aspect.

Mountain Torq

If merely walking up to the summit isn’t enough of a challenge, then Asia’s first via ferrata – pathways of rungs, ropes, rails and planks running along sheer cliffsides – may provide the adrenaline rush you are looking for. It’s exhilarating stuff with some incredible views, yet it’s safe because you’re always clipped onto something. Of the two routes, one is suitable for anyone over ten years old, the other has a minimum age of seventeen.

Located close to Laban Rata, the Mountain Torq centre also runs climbing and abseiling courses. Participants can arrange to stay at the Pendant Hut instead of at Laban Rata.

Ten kilometres along the road from Poring to Ranau, KUNDASANG is little more than a junction where simple stalls sell fruit and vegetables. It is, however, worth a stop for those interested in the World War II history of Borneo.

Kundasang War Memorial

The Kundasang war memorial commemorates the victims of the Sandakan Death Marches of 1945, when Japanese troops force-marched POWs from Sandakan to Ranau. No soldiers are buried here.

The site has been extensively renovated, and now includes an information centre that shows an Australian documentary about the death marches, plus three peaceful and well-tended memorial gardens (Australian, British and Bornean).

Sabah’s main trunk road continues southeast from Sandakan and the Sungai Kinabatangan to Lahad Datu. This unenthralling town offers access to two excellent rainforest areas: Danum Valley Conservation Area and Tabin Wildlife Reserve. Further south, Semporna draws scuba divers headed for the world-renowned Pulau Sipadan. It’s possible to stay in town or in an island resort; the latter range from backpacker shacks to luxurious retreats.

The main road around Sabah stops at the busy, noisy town of Tawau, from which ferries depart for Indonesian Kalimantan. Also from Tawau, 4WDs head daily for Keningau along rough routes that complete a ring road of sorts. This is also the way to the Maliau Basin, a magnet for trekkers although only accessible within expensive tour packages.

Danum Valley Conservation Area

Spanning 438 square kilometres, over ninety percent of its primary dipterocarp rainforest, the Danum Valley Conservation Area (DVCA) is contained within a sprawling logging concession. Wildlife includes bearded pigs, orang-utans, proboscis monkeys, clouded leopards and elephants, as well as reptiles, fish, insects and more than 320 bird species. Short hiking trails are limited to the eastern side, where the tourist accommodation is located. The remainder is pristine forest, out of bounds to all but researchers.

Travellers usually only visit the chaotic, traffic-clogged town of SEMPORNA because they plan to scuba dive and snorkel off nearby islands such as Sipadan, Mabul and Kapalai. While some divers base themselves on the islands, particularly Mabul, a backpacker scene has developed in Semporna since staying inexpensively can release funds for an extra dive or two. It also gives access to the more northerly islands, not usually visited from Mabul.

Semporna broadly consists of three sections: downtown, the commercial centre where buses and minivans stop; Semporna Seafront, home to dive operators (there are yet more out in the resorts themselves) and most tourist accommodation (plus an ATM in front of the Giant supermarket); and the jetty-lined Jalan Kastam, which holds more dive kiosks, a few cafés and the business-oriented Seafest Hotel.

The sea gypsies

Generations of Muslim Bajau and Suluk peoples have farmed the Celebes and Sulu seas for fish, sea cucumbers, shells and other marine products. Often dubbed sea gypsies, these people were originally nomads who lived aboard intricately carved wooden boats called lepa-lepa. Most are now settled in Semporna or on the islands around it, but their love of (and dependence upon) the sea remains strong, and the traditional red and yellow sails of the Bajau boats can sometimes still be seen billowing in the breeze. Every April, the Regatta Lepa Semporna (wetawau.com/Semporna/LEPA/LEPA.htm) sees the boats converge on the town for two days. Amid traditional singing and dancing, as well as sea sports and competitions, awards are given for the best lepa-lepa.

Islands around Semporna

Visitors come to Semporna not to hang out in town, but to explore the magnificent islands offshore. The prime destination for divers is Pulau Sipadan, but nearby Pulau Mabul and Pulau Kapalai are also renowned for marine life, and the latter in particular offers great snorkelling.

These well-known islands are, however, just the beginning. Sibuan, for example, on the edge of the chain and just over 45 minutes by boat from Semporna, has a breathtaking beach and shallow coral reefs. On Mantubuan there’s amazing pristine coral and very good visibility – a popular dive is to a section of very rare black coral (actually white), where you swim through a forest of what resemble underwater Christmas trees.

Pulau Sipadan

Acclaimed by Jacques Cousteau as “an untouched piece of art”, Sipadan is a cornucopia of marine life, its waters teeming with turtles, moray eels, sharks, barracuda, vast schools of colourful tropical fish, and a diversity of coral comparable to that at Australia’s Great Barrier Reef.

There is no accommodation on the island and thanks to Sipadan’s popularity, a permit system limits the number of divers each day. As a result, dive shops and resorts will typically require you to dive with them at other islands for three or four days before you get a day at Sipadan; you should also book well in advance. Dive shops regularly take less experienced divers, but you are likely to enjoy your time here more if you have some experience and preferably Advanced Open Water certification – there can be fairly strong drifts and some of the best dives go below 20m. At the very least you should be sure that you have enough buoyancy control to avoid damaging the coral.

You can also use the same permit to snorkel in Sipadan, but it’s hard to justify the huge premium over snorkelling trips to the other islands.

Most of the dozen-plus commonly visited dive sites around Sipadan offer the chance to see abundant turtles and white-tip sharks. The most popular, Barracuda Point, is a drift dive where divers hold onto rocks while shoals of barracuda pass by. Another great site is the Drop-off, close to the jetty, where you often find large schools of barracuda, bump-head parrot fish and Napoleon wrasse. Close to here is the entrance to Turtle Cave, a watery grave for the skeletal remains of turtles that have strayed in and become lost; fatal accidents have occurred when divers have gone in without proper guidance.

Pulau Mabul

Mabul, the chain’s largest island, holds the lion’s share of accommodation. It’s evenly split between posh resorts and affordable guesthouses; many of the latter are on the western side of the island, also home to a lively stilt-village inhabited by Bajau fisherfolk. Although there’s a beach on the eastern side, development means that this is not a very picturesque island and non-divers are not likely to find much to do (other than, perhaps, laze around the more upmarket resorts). Litter is also a major problem on the western side.

Visibility in the water can be 20m or more but it’s much less reliable than at Sipadan, particularly from July to September. Actually, though, the muck diving – seeking out creatures in the sediment – is famous here. Divemasters tend to prefer Mabul to Sipadan: while the latter has the big-ticket attractions like sharks and turtles, Mabul rewards patience. Among the marine life close to the island are seahorses – including the rare pygmy seahorse – frog fish, cuttlefish, mimic octopus, lion fish, stone fish, ribbon eels, mandarin fish and crocodile fish.

Pulau Kapalai

Little more than a sand bar, tiny Kapalai is exquisite and other-wordly. It has room only for one resort and an expensive one at that, although its reef is enjoyed by many visitors who are staying on Mabul. Again, the main attractions are the macro life: divers go looking for pygmy seahorses, harlequin ghost pipefish, frog fish and mandarin fish.

Pulau Pom Pom

The diving at Pom Pom Island itself is not the best in the area, but the island is lovely and a real desert-island escape which even has a relatively affordable resort. You also have access to plenty of other islands if diving is your passion.

Pulau Mataking

This great little island had only a single resort at the time of research, though another was under construction. Dive boats come here sometimes, as Mataking is renowned for turtles and magnificent rays, as well as interesting hammerhead nudibranchs.

Tabin Wildlife Reserve

Tabin Wildlife Reserve, a government-owned tract of land twice the size of Singapore, holds a single resort managed by a private company. It’s around 44km northeast of Lahad Datu airport, where the reserve office is based, of which the last 25km is unsurfaced. Although just eleven percent primary dipterocarp forest, Tabin offers excellent opportunities to see wildlife. Indeed, charismatic manager Fernando argues that Tabin’s strength as a habitat is in its combination of primary forest, secondary forest and plantation (which is rich in fruit for animals to eat).

Both hiking and night drives offer opportunities to come across pygmy elephants, macaques or wild boar as they cross the tracks from the forest to the plantations in search of food; orang-utans can also be spotted, and even the rare clouded leopard. Birdwatchers can look out for such endemic species as the Bornean bristlehead, blue-headed pitta and all eight local species of hornbills.

A visit to Tabin will typically include a walk to a mud volcano, used by animals as a mineral lick; a nearby tower allows guests to observe the scene and you can even sleep there by arrangement. Serious trekkers can explore the virgin forest of the Core Area, although this is not part of the normal schedule.

Sabah’s last true wilderness, and one of the world’s oldest rainforests, the MALIAU BASIN CONSERVATION AREA (wborneoforestheritage.org.my) remains barely explored; most visitors are scientists or researchers. Featuring various types of forest including lower montane, heath and dipterocarp, the basin is home to an impressive range of large mammals, notably the Borneo pygmy elephant, clouded leopard, Malayan sun bear and banteng (wild cattle), while birds include rare species found otherwise only at Gunung Kinabalu and Gunung Trus Madi.

To visit you must be on a tour, for which Borneo Nature Tours (wborneonaturetours.com) are the sole providers. The standard five-day itinerary starts at Tawau, a five-hour drive from the park, and includes long and strenuous hikes suitable only for the fit. You’ll need a doctor’s certificate to prove this, plus insurance that covers helicopter evacuation. The itinerary follows a circular route, spending the first and last night in dorms at the spartan Agathis Camp close to the park entrance, and the rest at the similarly basic Nepenthes (aka Camel Trophy) Camp, six hours’ walk deeper. Also included are night drives and a side-trip to the Maliau Falls.

Sabah’s trunk highway hurries through the northern suburbs of KK to the more pastoral environs of Tuaran. From here, the atap houses of the Bajau water villages, Mengkabong and Penimbawan, are only a stone’s throw away. Just outside Tuaran, the main road forks, with the eastern branch heading towards Gunung Kinabalu National Park and Ranau, then onwards to Sandakan.

Continuing north instead, the main road arrives at bustling Kota Belud, where a weekly tamu attracts tribespeople from all over the region. Beyond, the landscape becomes more colourful: jewel-bright paddy fields and stilted wooden houses line the road for much of the way up to the Kudat Peninsula, with Gunung Kinabalu dominating the far distance.

On the way to Kudat, the first administrative capital of the East India Company, it’s possible to stay at a Rungus longhouse in Kampung Bavanggazo. North of town the area known as the Tip of Borneo has quiet beaches and a few guesthouses. Remote islands reached from the peninsula include Pulau Banggi and Pulau Mantanani.

Kampung Bavanggazo

Although the shift to modern housing means that few traditional Rungus longhouses survive, a couple have been constructed in KAMPUNG BAVANGGAZO, 98km north of KK, to give tourists a chance to spend the night. In addition to room-only prices, it’s possible to book a package including dinner, breakfast and a tribal dance performance – call a couple of days ahead, to make sure that a performance is scheduled. Other activities include an early-morning jungle trek.

For six days of the week, KOTA BELUD, 75km northeast of KK, is a busy but undistinguished town; arriving tourists usually head straight to the jetty for Pulau Mantanani. Early on Sunday, however, the town springs to life as hordes of villagers congregate at Sabah’s largest weekly tamu. Fulfilling a social as well as commercial role, the market draws Rungus, Kadazan/Dusun and Bajau indigenous groups.

Though the market’s popularity among KK’s tour operators means there are always a few tourists, you won’t see many souvenirs for sale: instead you’re far more likely to come across dried fish, chains of yeast beads (used to make rice wine), buffalo, betel nut and tudung saji (colourful food covers used to keep flies at bay). Arrive early – if you’re coming from KK, set off by 8am at the latest.

Kota Belud’s annual tamu besar, or “big market”, usually held in October, sees cultural performances, traditional horseback games and handicraft demonstrations in addition to the more typical stalls.

Overlooking Marudu Bay, Kudat is a friendly town centred on the intersection of Jalan Ibrahim Arshad and Jalan Lo Thien Chock. The latter, the main street, holds some of Sabah’s oldest wooden shophouses and a Standard Chartered Bank. During a visit, leave time to peek at the central, orange-hued Chinese temple close to the Ria Hotel, plus the stilt village and the harbour, now significantly quieter than in the days when Kudat had an active fishing industry.

The Kudat Peninsula is home to the Rungus people, members of the wider Kadazan/Dusun ethnic group. Like most, the Rungus have gradually modernized, but many still hold their traditions dear. Older people in the kampungs still dress in black, and only two generations ago some Rungus wore coils of brass and copper on their bodies.

The architectural style of the traditional longhouse is distinctive too, built with outwards leaning walls and decorated with motifs and imagery from farming and nature. Today though, most dwellings are made from sheets of corrugated zinc, whose durability makes it preferable to the traditional materials like timber, tree bark, rattan and nipah leaves.

Pulau Banggi

The island of Pulau Banggi, 40km north of Kudat and accessible by daily ferry, is the largest in Sabah. It’s mostly flat but has lovely beaches, including one close to the jetty at the main settlement Karakit, and is worth a visit just for the boat ride and an amble on the beach. There are few tourist facilities; to dive the reefs here, for example, you’d need to make arrangements with a tour company in KK.

Pulau Mantanani

Popular with KK tour operators as a day-trip destination, Pulau Mantanani is actually a collection of three tiny islands 40km off the coast from Kota Belud (from where you can take a boat) that also holds a few resorts. It’s a lot of travel for a single day, but a lovely place to stay for a night or two; snorkelling, kayaking and scuba diving are available by arrangement.

The Tip of Borneo

Promoted as a tourist attraction in recent years, the thin promontory known as the Tip of Borneo (Tanjung Simpang Mengayau) has seen limited development but retains a great deal of charm. It’s easy to see what keeps visitors coming: cliffs drop away to steep, forested hills and waves crash onto the golden sandy beaches. While it’s well worth a visit – or, better, a night or two – if you’re in the vicinity, whether it’s worth a special journey all the way from KK is more debatable.

At the tip itself, Sabah Tourism has built a car park where steps lead down to a viewing area and a monumental globe. It’s busiest at the weekend, when local families visit; no buses or minivans come this way, so you’ll need to use your own transport, or a taxi.

The Poring Hot Springs were developed during World War II by the Japanese, who installed wooden tubs that have been replaced by tiled versions. Don’t come expecting natural pools, luxury or solitude, but it can be a good place to relax aching muscles after descending from Mount Kinabalu.

There are also a few other attractions within the site, including an orchid garden, a butterfly farm, a canopy walkway and a few walking trails. Outside the gates you’ll see signs advertising places to see Rafflesia flowers but these are best avoided: the plants have often been dug up and brought to Poring from more remote areas.

Accommodation in the Sabah hot springs area

The official accommodation within the hot springs area is run by Sutera Sanctuary Lodges and is very expensive. Luckily a handful of more affordable (if unexceptional) lodges lie just outside the entrance, with a great option in the jungle nearby.

A short distance west of the Klias Peninsula, PULAU LABUAN is not strictly part of Sabah, being Federal Territory governed directly from KL. Labuan town holds few tourist attractions, but its centre has decent eating, good mid-range accommodation and a lively nightlife. Some worthwhile sights lie beyond the town, while scuba divers are attracted by the chance to dive four wrecks. You might also want to take advantage of the island’s duty-free prices while passing through.

While there’s little reason to spend time in the undistinguished town of Ranau, it’s the main hub for travelling between Kinabalu National Park and eastern Sabah. The first day of each month sees a large and lively tamu (market), 1km out of town towards Sandakan; there’s also a smaller tamu every Saturday.

Sabah Tea Garden

The Sabah Tea Garden is a well-run organic tea plantation that makes a great place to stay for a night or two, but may also be worth a daytime visit if you’re passing through. Contact them in advance to arrange hikes and factory tours, as it’s very popular with groups and gets busy. Ask also about visiting the fish massage place nearby, where surprisingly large river fish nibble at customers’ dead skin.

Following the coast southwest of KK, the highway passes through Kinarut and Papar before reaching Beaufort, the main access point for the Klias Peninsula. This is prime country for day-trips organized by tour operators in KK, whether for whitewater rafting, proboscis-monkey watching or firefly tours. Offshore is Pulau Tiga, the setting for the first series of the TV show Survivor.

Named after Leicester P. Beaufort, an early governor of British North Borneo, BEAUFORT is a quiet, uneventful town whose commercial significance has declined since the sealed road from KK into the interior lessened the importance of its rail link with Tenom. The town’s position on the banks of the Padas leaves it prone to flooding, which explains why its shophouses are raised on steps.

It’s also the river that attracts most of the tourists who visit the town – Beaufort is the starting point for many whitewater rafting trips. Otherwise, once you’ve poked around in the market, inspected angular St Paul’s Church at the top of town and taken a walk past the stilt houses on the riverbank, you’ve exhausted its sights.

The Klias Peninsula

Thirty kilometres west of Beaufort, and served by regular minivans from the centre of town, the Klias Peninsula is an area of flat marshland that’s popular with KK-based tour operators for proboscis monkey or firefly tours.

The most westerly settlement on the Klias Peninsula, tiny MENUMBOK has no accommodation. It’s notable only for the jetty that links it to Labuan; a couple of cafés here may be useful when waiting for a boat.

Around an hour northeast of Beaufort, or 45 minutes from Menumbok, at the northern point of the peninsula, KUALA PENYU is the departure point for Pulau Tiga National Park. It’s a simple grid of streets with little more than a few stores, filled with basic supplies, and a couple of kedai kopis.

Pulau Tiga National Park

In the South China Sea, 12km north of Kuala Penyu, Pulau Tiga National Park once consisted of three islands, but wave erosion has reduced one to a mere sand bar. Of the remaining two, Tiga and Kalampunian Damit, only the former holds any accommodation. It acquired a degree of fame in 2001 as the location of the first series of the American reality-TV show Survivor.

Most visitors today content themselves with relaxing on the sandy beaches and snorkelling or diving in the azure sea, but it’s possible to hike right around the island in six hours. An easy twenty-minute walk to the centre of Pulau Tiga leads to a couple of (lukewarm) mud volcanoes. Slip and slide around there, then walk 1.2km further to clean up at lovely Pagong-Pagong beach. Be warned, though, that walking can be hard going if your feet and flip-flops are muddy.

Just 1km northeast of Pulau Tiga, Kalampunian Damit is also known locally as Pulau Ular (Snake Island), because it attracts a species of venomous sea snake called the yellow-lipped sea krait. The island is normally visited as part of a morning trip from Pulau Tiga Resort, combined with some snorkelling. It used to be possible to see dozens of snakes on a good day, but now they seem to be much more scarce and some visitors come away disappointed.

Southeast of Sandakan Bay, Sabah’s longest river – the 560km Sungai Kinabatangan – ends its journey to the Sulu Sea. Whereas logging has had an adverse impact on the river’s ecology upstream, the creation of the Lower Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary has kept its lower reaches largely free of development. This is the largest forested flood plain in Malaysia, laden with oxbow lakes, mangrove and grass swamps, and distinctive vegetation including massive fig trees overhanging the water’s edge.

The sanctuary offers some of Sabah’s best opportunities for seeing wildlife. Although some tour operators offer day-trips from Sandakan, it’s much better to stay overnight given the travel time; the ideal is a two-night stay. Although there are a few exceptions, most lodges are located either in or around the villages of Sukau or Bilit. From November to April, the rainy season can lead to flooding at some lodges – at its worst in January – and even force their closure.

Gomantong Caves

The Gomantong Caves are vast limestone cavities inhabited by swiftlets whose nests are harvested twice a year (normally Feb–April and July–Sept) for the bird’s-nest-soup trade. The caves are also home to a huge number of bats, and the enormous piles of guano (droppings) give them a distinctive acrid smell.

There are two main caves. The black cave, smaller but only a ten-minute walk from the ticket office, mostly contains black nests, a combination of twigs and bird saliva. The white cave is rarely visited by tourists as it’s another hour away, but nest collectors go there for the more valuable white nests, made from pure saliva. Note that the guano attracts a huge number of cockroaches, so don’t wear flip-flops or sandals.

There’s nowhere to stay or eat in and around Gomantong, so plan to leave the caves well before dark if you are not on a tour.

Lower Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary

Despite Sabah’s rather haphazard approach to making the most of its superb natural resources, the designation of the Lower Kinabatangan as a wildlife sanctuary in 2005 was a commendable move. That said, sanctuary status is one level below that of a national park, so villages and agricultural development have been allowed to crisscross the protected sections. Furthermore, only the area immediately alongside the river is protected; as animals have lost their habitats when the surrounding areas have been converted into palm-oil plantations, they have effectively been pushed into the narrow protected corridor.

This means that it is highly likely that, over a number of boat rides and short treks, you will see elephants (if they are in the area), orang-utans, proboscis monkeys, macaques and gibbons. The resident birdlife is equally impressive. With luck, visitors get glimpses of hornbills, brahminy kites, crested serpent eagles, egrets, exquisite blue-banded and stork-billed kingfishers, and oriental darters, which dive underwater to find food and then sit on the shore, their wings stretched out to dry. The river itself holds freshwater sharks, crocodiles and rays, and a great variety of fish species.

Sukau and Bilit

The first tourist lodges on the Sungai Kinabatangan opened around the kampung of Sukau, 134km from Sandakan by road or 87km by boat. Still the easiest place to reach, it’s particularly popular with independent travellers as it’s possible to stay in the village itself on a B&B basis then charter boats as needed. Most of the all-inclusive lodges are on the riverbanks close to the village.

Many would argue, however, that Sukau is a victim of over-development. In July and August in particular, dozens of boats converge along the same narrow tributaries at the same times and shatter any sense of peace. Although many boats now use quieter electric motors when the current allows, some still do not.

Once tourism became well established in Sukau, a few operators decided to open lodges further upriver around the kampung of Bilit. Although not the undeveloped spot it once was, Bilit remains quieter than Sukau partly because there’s no public transport to the village – it’s upstream of Sukau and reached via a lower-quality road.

Good day-trip options from KK include Mari Mari Cultural Village and Monsopiad Cultural Village for anyone interested in local culture, or taking a ride south on the North Borneo Railway if you fancy a taste of colonial Sabah. Also south of KK is the Tambunan Rafflesia Reserve , where you may be able to see the world’s largest flowering plant. The most popular attraction of all, however, are the beaches of Tunku Abdul Rahman Park just offshore.

Mari Mari Cultural Village

A newer alternative to the similar Monsopiad Cultural Village, with rather more of a theme park feel but also more interaction right from the start: groups have to assign a leader who will introduce them to the costumed “tribal leader” at the village entrance. Inside, visitors are taken on a whistle-stop tour through the longhouses and customs of Sabah’s various tribes.

Activities and demonstrations include rice wine tasting, beekeeping for honey and glue production, starting a fire using bamboo, bouncing on a trampoline, making sweets and using a blowpipe. Towards the end there’s a dance show, followed by a buffet meal. It may all feel a little phoney but, taken in the right spirit, it is also great fun and you come away both entertained and educated.

Monsopiad Cultural Village

Based around the tale of a legendary head-hunter, Monsopiad Cultural Village provides an introduction to the history and traditions of the Kadazan people. Tours are led by knowledgeable guides who take visitors to a hut where Monsopiad’s grisly harvest of 42 skulls is displayed, and then explain traditions such as the rituals practised by the bobohizan (priestess). Next comes the chance to taste lihing (rice wine) and test your accuracy with a blowpipe and sling. Finally there’s a dance show with scope for a little audience participation.

Although the exhibits and activities are interesting, the entrance price is high and the slightly dated approach has stiff competition from the newer Mari Mari Cultural Village. That said, it has an advantage in that it deals with people from a single tribe – and in the place where they lived – rather than taking a scattergun approach to tribal culture.

North Borneo Railway

You don’t have to be a railway buff to appreciate the romance of taking a steam train along the 36km of the colonial-era North Borneo Railway from Tanjung Aru station to the small town of Papar. The locomotive is a wood-burning British Vulcan, while the five carriages were built to a 1900s-style design in the 1970s.

Tambunan Rafflesia Reserve

If you feel you really must see a Rafflesia in flower while you are in Sabah, then the prospects at the Tambunan Rafflesia Reserve , often visited as a day-trip from KK, are good. As each bloom lasts for only a few days, however, it’s essential to check ahead. Assuming that one is flowering, expect a walk of up to two hours in total.

Tunku Abdul Rahman Park

Named after Malaysia’s first prime minister, and just a short boat trip away from KK, the five islands of Tunku Abdul Rahman Park (TAR Park) represent the most westerly ripples of the Crocker mountain range. The islands’ forests, beaches and coral reefs lie within 8km of the city, with park territory as close as 3km off the mainland. The three most often visited are Manukan , Mamutik and Sapi , and it’s easy to book a day’s island hopping. Try to avoid weekends and public holidays when facilities are often overstretched; don’t expect desert island solitude at any time.

Snorkelling is popular around the islands. Although careless tourists have damaged much of the coral, there’s enough marine life around to make it worthwhile. Scuba divers will find the best conditions from January to March, although visibility is still typically just 5m.

The site of the British North Borneo Chartered Company’s first outpost in the region, Pulau Gaya is the closest of the islands to KK and also the largest. It doesn’t feature on standard island-hopping routes; tourists can only visit by chartering a boat, staying at one of the island’s resorts, or booking a tour with an operator such as Tanjung Aru Tours & Travel ( w go2borneo.com ).

If you do make it over, you’ll find idyllic stretches of sand such as Polis Beach as well as lovely hiking trails; Downbelow ( t 012 866 1935, w divedownbelow.com ) runs a dive shop. The eastern end is taken up by a stilt village inhabited by Filipino immigrants.

Though far smaller than its neighbour Gaya, Pulau Sapi also has trails and is home to macaques and hornbills; with the best beaches of any of the islands, it’s popular with swimmers, snorkellers and picnickers. Sapi has simple facilities including toilets, a small café (daily 8am–4pm) and changing rooms. There’s also a dive shop, 50 Bar (daily 9am–1pm; t 013 854 5567), charging a steep RM250 per dive.

The park HQ is situated on crescent-shaped Pulau Manukan , site of a former stone quarry and now the most developed island. Indeed Manukan has become something of a victim of its own success, drawing hundreds of visitors on a busy day. That said, the beach is attractive, watersports are good and there’s a café serving a buffet (RM95) or à la carte meals – nasi lemak or curry laksa cost RM18. To escape the crowds, take the thirty-minute walk to Sunset Point.

Across a narrow channel from Manukan, tiny Pulau Mamutik is a snorkeller’s delight. The island is surrounded by coral gardens with the best stretch off the beach at the southwest, towards the back of where the boat drops you, but it’s necessary either to clamber over rocks or to swim right round.

Borneo Divers ( w borneodivers.info ) have a small dive shop, offering better prices to walk-in customers than you’ll get by booking ahead. Head out on the first boats of the day if that’s your plan; it’s much more cost-effective to do two or three dives than just one.

The last island of the group, Pulau Sulug , is the most remote and consequently the quietest, though its lovely coral makes it popular with divers. It has no facilities, and few boats visit.

It’s possible to camp on the three main islands for just RM5; tents can be rented for RM30, but don’t rely too much on availability.

While first impressions of KOTA KINABALU, which everyone calls KK, may be of a rather utilitarian concrete sprawl, many visitors end up charmed by its lively buzz and the friendliness of its citizens. As well as good places to eat, it also has excellent transport links and is the headquarters of most of the main tour operators.

The best of the city’s few specific sights are its markets, the Sabah Museum and the Mari Mari Cultural Village. A further highlight lies offshore in the Tunku Abdul Rahman Park, whose popular islands are just a short trip away by boat.

Modern-day KK can trace its history back to 1882, when the British North Borneo Chartered Company established an outpost on nearby Pulau Gaya. After followers of the Bajau rebel, Mat Salleh, burned that down in 1897, the Company chose a mainland site – a fishing village called Api-Api – to develop as a new town. Renamed Jesselton after Sir Charles Jessel, the vice-chairman of the Chartered Company, the town prospered. By 1905 the Trans-Borneo Railway reached from Jesselton to Beaufort, allowing rubber to be transported efficiently from the interior to the coast.

The Japanese invasion of North Borneo in 1942 marked the start of three and a half years of military occupation; little of old Jesselton survived the resultant Allied bombing. In 1968 the name was changed to Kota Kinabalu and city planners set about expanding outwards into the sea. Interconnecting concrete buildings have been constructed on the reclaimed land – the Sinsuran and Segama complexes and Asia City in particular have developed their own identities. Progress has been startling, and today, with a population of over a quarter of a million, KK is a beehive of activity once again.

A lively street market is held along Jalan Gaya every Sunday morning, with stalls selling items as disparate as herbal teas, handicrafts, orchids and rabbits. In addition, a huddle of markets on the waterfront are open daily, and together form one of the city’s highlights. Approaching from the northeast, you first reach the labyrinthine Central Market, which includes a fish market that’s at its best very early in the morning. Next comes the Handicraft Market, also known as the Filipino Market thanks to the ethnicity of many of its stallholders. Around sundown, the area west of here becomes a gargantuan night food market; further west still is the waterfront parade of bars and restaurants.

Styled after Murut and Rungus longhouses, the buildings of the Sabah State Museum are set in grounds that also hold several splendid steam engines. The botanical garden in front of the museum is bordered by finely crafted traditional houses, representing all Sabah’s major tribes and known as the Heritage Village (Kampung Warisan).

The other highlight of the complex, the ethnographic collection in the main building, includes human skulls dating from Sabah’s head-hunting days, and a sininggazanak, a totemic wooden figurine placed in the field of a Kadazan man who died without heirs. Photographs in the history gallery depict the city when Jalan Gaya still constituted the waterfront, lined with lean-tos thatched with nipah-palm leaves.

Exhibits on oil drilling in the Science and Technology Centre next door are less than gripping; head instead to the Art Gallery upstairs, where the centrepiece is a giant string of Rungus beads, created by Chee Sing Teck, hanging from the ceiling.

Good day-trip options from KK include Mari Mari Cultural Village and Monsopiad Cultural Village for anyone interested in local culture, or taking a ride south on the North Borneo Railway if you fancy a taste of colonial Sabah. Also south of KK is the Tambunan Rafflesia Reserve, where you may be able to see the world’s largest flowering plant. The most popular attraction of all, however, are the beaches of Tunku Abdul Rahman Park just offshore.

If you feel you really must see a Rafflesia in flower while you are in Sabah, then the prospects at the Tambunan Rafflesia Reserve, often visited as a day-trip from KK, are good. As each bloom lasts for only a few days, however, it’s essential to check ahead. Assuming that one is flowering, expect a walk of up to two hours in total.

Named after Malaysia’s first prime minister, and just a short boat trip away from KK, the five islands of Tunku Abdul Rahman Park (TAR Park) represent the most westerly ripples of the Crocker mountain range. The islands’ forests, beaches and coral reefs lie within 8km of the city, with park territory as close as 3km off the mainland. The three most often visited are Manukan, Mamutik and Sapi, and it’s easy to book a day’s island hopping. Try to avoid weekends and public holidays when facilities are often overstretched; don’t expect desert island solitude at any time.

The site of the British North Borneo Chartered Company’s first outpost in the region, Pulau Gaya is the closest of the islands to KK and also the largest. It doesn’t feature on standard island-hopping routes; tourists can only visit by chartering a boat, staying at one of the island’s resorts, or booking a tour with an operator such as Tanjung Aru Tours & Travel (wgo2borneo.com).

If you do make it over, you’ll find idyllic stretches of sand such as Polis Beach as well as lovely hiking trails; Downbelow (t012 866 1935, wdivedownbelow.com) runs a dive shop. The eastern end is taken up by a stilt village inhabited by Filipino immigrants.

Though far smaller than its neighbour Gaya, Pulau Sapi also has trails and is home to macaques and hornbills; with the best beaches of any of the islands, it’s popular with swimmers, snorkellers and picnickers. Sapi has simple facilities including toilets, a small café (daily 8am–4pm) and changing rooms. There’s also a dive shop, 50 Bar (daily 9am–1pm; t013 854 5567), charging a steep RM250 per dive.

The park HQ is situated on crescent-shaped Pulau Manukan, site of a former stone quarry and now the most developed island. Indeed Manukan has become something of a victim of its own success, drawing hundreds of visitors on a busy day. That said, the beach is attractive, watersports are good and there’s a café serving a buffet (RM95) or à la carte meals – nasi lemak or curry laksa cost RM18. To escape the crowds, take the thirty-minute walk to Sunset Point.

Borneo Divers (wborneodivers.info) have a small dive shop, offering better prices to walk-in customers than you’ll get by booking ahead. Head out on the first boats of the day if that’s your plan; it’s much more cost-effective to do two or three dives than just one.

The last island of the group, Pulau Sulug, is the most remote and consequently the quietest, though its lovely coral makes it popular with divers. It has no facilities, and few boats visit.

Accommodation in Tunku Abdul Rahman Park

A lively street market is held along Jalan Gaya every Sunday morning, with stalls selling items as disparate as herbal teas, handicrafts, orchids and rabbits. In addition, a huddle of markets on the waterfront are open daily, and together form one of the city’s highlights. Approaching from the northeast, you first reach the labyrinthine Central Market , which includes a fish market that’s at its best very early in the morning. Next comes the Handicraft Market , also known as the Filipino Market thanks to the ethnicity of many of its stallholders. Around sundown, the area west of here becomes a gargantuan night food market ; further west still is the waterfront parade of bars and restaurants.

The other highlight of the complex, the ethnographic collection in the main building, includes human skulls dating from Sabah’s head-hunting days, and a sininggazanak , a totemic wooden figurine placed in the field of a Kadazan man who died without heirs. Photographs in the history gallery depict the city when Jalan Gaya still constituted the waterfront, lined with lean-tos thatched with nipah-palm leaves.

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10 day sabah itinerary – in-depth guide 2024.

Table of Contents

This Sabah itinerary for 2024 is a step-by-step guide for everything to do in Sabah if you have 10 days. Sabah is a beautiful, wild state located on the island of Borneo, East Malaysia. We have tried to include a bit of everything. Culture, adventure, food, natural beauty, viewpoints, stunning beaches, crystal clear waters and wildlife. 

We have included prices, locations and booking information to help you plan your trip independently and on a budget. Following an organized tour that offers an itinerary like this would be very expensive. Follow our itinerary and you will save money AND have an amazing trip. If you are planning to visit Sabah please read this Sabah itinerary carefully. In some cases we have included things that you really need to know before you go.

Short of time? We also have a 5 day itinerary for Sabah

Summary – 10 Day Sabah Itinerary 

Day 1 kota kinabalu cultural village and a seafood market, day 2 kota kinabalu island hopping (tunku abdul rahman park), day 3 ziplining and the kundasang dairy farm and market, day 4 poring hot springs, canopy walkway and rafflesia, day 5 sandakan orangutans, sunbears and seafood , day 6 sandakan to semporna, day 7 semporna island hopping trip, day 8 mabul island diving or snorkeling, day 9 mabul island diving or snorkeling – travel to tawau, day 10 tawau chocolate museum, hills park and waterfall, sabah itinerary map.

How do you get around in Sabah?

The most convenient way to get around for this Sabah itinerary is to use your own vehicle. If you are able to rent a car for a reasonable price this will make the itinerary straightforward to follow.

Don’t miss our FULL GUIDE on renting a car in Sabah

Check Skyscanner for great car rental deals

There are also long distance buses around Sabah. Long distance buses are reasonably comfortable and very affordable. 

Most long distance bus Journeys around Sabah cost around RM20 to RM50 depending on the bus company and the length of the journey. Also, be aware that long distance buses in Malaysia do not generally have toilets on board although there are a few exceptions.

The main disadvantage of taking long distance buses around Sabah is getting to smaller, more local attractions. For example, there are not any buses to Poring. To get around this area you will need to use local taxis. The best way to arrange taxis in Malaysia is to use the grab taxi app. This is a quick, simple and affordable way of arranging Taxi transportation. Don’t miss our guide – How to Use Grab in Malaysia .

Need to book flights?

Check Skyscanner for epic deals to and from Sabah and internal flights within Sabah and Malaysia

Sabah itinerary – everything you need to know

This Sabah itinerary starts in Kota Kinabalu. This is the main city in Sabah and is a good starting point for an itinerary. The itinerary finishes in a town called Tawau. This town has a small airport, from here you can arrange internal transfers to other destinations around Malaysia and some international flights are available too. Alternatively, you can travel overland back to Kota Kinabalu or Sandakan. 

We have also tried to pace this itinerary to allow for travel time. If you are using long distance buses to travel between towns the journeys take a long time and use a large proportion a day. And of course you are restricted to traveling when the bus goes. In this 10-day Sabah itinerary we have considered the fact that you will need to take some travel days.

If you are on a budget consider staying at Escape Backpackers – super cheap dorm accommodation in a central location. OR if you have more room in your budget, check out the Horizon Hotel – great location and awesome Asian vibes. If you are really looking to splash out consider a stay at the 5 star Le Meridien Hotel . 

This itinerary starts with some activities in Kota Kinabalu. We recommend taking a visit to the Mari Mari Cultural Village. This lovely little jungle village is a tourist attraction located some 18km to the east of Kota Kinabalu. The Mari Mari Cultural Village is a celebration of the rich tribal heritage of Sabah.

The Mari Mari cultural Village displays traditional clothing, art and jungle houses. They also do performances showcasing traditional music, games and dance. This is a wonderful way to familiarize yourself with the rich and diverse culture and history of Borneo.

The Mari Mari cultural village offer sessions daily at 10am and 2pm

• Adults RM170 (or RM100 on offer)
• Children RM 155 (or RM 90 on offer)

How do you get to the Mari Mari cultural village?

The best way to get to the Mari Mari cultural Village from Kota Kinabalu is to take a taxi. You can arrange taxis using the grab taxi app. A taxi is likely to cost you around RM30 each way. We recommend asking your driver to wait or return to pick you up later.

How much does it cost to visit the Mari Mari cultural village?

Adults RM175 and children RM155 (watch our for special deals. Reduced rate RM100 adults and RM90 children). Daily sessions at 10am and 2pm.

In the evening visit the Sabah Seafood market along the seafront. This market sells fresh seafood dishes and is a great way to experience some of the Sabah seafood. 

Take an island hopping day trip from Kota Kinabalu . To organize an island hopping trip in Kota Kinabalu just turn up at the jetty between 8:00 a.m. and 10:00 a.m. At the jetty there are ticket counters where you can buy tickets and rent masks, snorkels and fins. You can book island hopping trips that visit one, two, three or four islands in a single day. We recommend the three Island trip as it allows you to see plenty of beautiful islands at a reasonable pace. The Kota Kinabalu island hopping trip is a great way to enjoy some of the beautiful beaches near Kota Kinabalu.

How much does Kota Kinabalu island hopping cost?

An island hopping trip will range in price from RM35 (roughly £7 or $10) to RM65 (roughly £13 or $15) depending how many islands you wish to visit. 

• 1 island: Adult RM35 Child RM30
• 2 island: Adult RM45 Child RM40
• 3 island: Adult RM55 Child RM50
• 4 island: Adult RM65 Child RM60

Rental of snorkel and fins should cost around RM10 and can also be arranged at the jetty. You also need to pay an island conservation fee (ONE fee per adult of RM20). Keep the ticket as this can be presented at each island. 

What do you need to prepare for an island hopping trip?

We recommend bringing plenty of water and sun protection on the Kota Kinabalu island hopping trip. On some of the islands it is possible to buy some simple food. However, there is not a lot of choice so we recommend bringing your own food along with you. Throughout the day you will be directed where to go and told what time to return for your boat. The island hopping trip normally returns to Kota Kinabalu between 3pm – 5pm. You may need to arrange your final return boat time when you book your tickets.

On day three of your Sabah itinerary you will travel to Kundasang. If you have your own car, consider a visit to the Zip Borneo Adventure center. This is roughly on route to Kundasang (you will need to take a short detour). 

Zip Borneo is an outdoor activity center with an obstacle course, climbing wall, high rope course and a thrilling zipline. We recommend contacting the Zip Borneo Adventure Center in advance to arrange the activities that you hope to do. After Zip Borneo, continue your journey to Kundasang. 

Kundasang is a beautiful mountain town located near Mount Kinabalu. We recommend staying at a Homestay in the area. The Pogimpaan Homestay is our top pick with breathtaking views of Kinabalu and the surrounding hills. It is also great value for money. Don’t miss our FULL REVIEW of the Pogimpaan home stay .

Alternatively check out Zen Garden . Lots of space and great value for money.

Visit the Desa Dairy Farm

The journey from Kota Kinabalu to Kundasang is likely to take around 2 or 3 hours by road. In Kundasang we recommend taking a visit to the Desa Dairy farm . The Desa Dairy Farm is situated in the hills around 5km north of Kundasang. Enjoy amazing views of the farm and don’t miss the amazing Desa Dairy ice cream.

For a very reasonable price you can buy a pot of soft serve Desa Dairy ice cream. Here are some things to do at the Desa dairy farm:

• See the milking bay
• See the cattle barns
• Learn about milk processing and packaging
• Agro feeding pen activity
• Food kiosk and cafe

How much does the Desa Dairy farm cost?

Entrance tickets for the Desa Dairy farm only cost RM5 for adults, RM4 for children (7-12 years old), and FREE for children 6 years old and below. 

The Desa dairy farm is open daily 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. 

Tickets are only available in advance and must be booked through their official ticket website .

After visiting the Desa dairy farm we recommend paying a visit to the local fruit and veg market located in Kundasang. They sell a range of fresh fruits and vegetables, a great way to experience the beautiful rural mountain culture.

Don’t miss the BW Bus Restaurant Kundasang. This novelty themed restaurant is located on the main road between Kundasang and Ranau. The bus restaurant offers scenic dining in converted buses with tables and chairs installed. They serve a range of decadent drinks and food.

Food and drinks are a little more expensive than the average restaurant, however you are paying for the location and novelty.

Day four of the Sabah itinerary is a packed, exciting and adventurous day. In the morning we recommend that you check out of your accommodation, do the epic activities in the morning, and then travel on towards Sandakan in the afternoon. 

This day is a lot easier if you have your own vehicle. If you do not have access to your own vehicle you will need to make the journey to Poring by taxi and arrange a bus to Sandakan in the afternoon. 

Visit the Rafflesia gardens

We recommend an early start. Head over to Poring. On the road that leads to the hot springs there are a couple of Rafflesia gardens. We recommend stopping at these Rafflesia Gardens to see if they have any Rafflesia flowers in bloom. If they do have flowers in bloom you can normally see them for around RM20. 

Don’t miss our FULL guide – seeing Rafflesia in Malaysia

Visit the hot springs

After stopping at the Rafflesia Gardens, continue up the road to the Poring hot spring . This is a very beautiful and natural area and a great place for relaxing. At the top there are some pools that are almost too hot to touch (take care!) You can also see the source of the geothermal water. 

As you walk down through the site you can see small hot spring baths that can be filled up using a tap, and some larger hot spring pools. Some of the hot spring baths also have covers to provide shade from the intense sun. There is one hot spring pool that is big enough to swim in close to the bottom.

How much does it cost to visit the Poring hot springs?

The Poring hot springs are open daily from 8am – 3pm. Once you have paid for entry you can stay for the whole day: 

RM15 for adults and RM10 for children (7 – 17 years old). Children 6 years and below are FREE

Visit the canopy walkway

Finally, check out the canopy walkway . Not for the faint of heart. This impressive Poring canopy walkway is a series of rope bridges suspended high in the jungle canopy. This walkway affords a stunning view of the jungle and the surrounding hills. But be aware it is high and pretty scary. To get to the canopy walkway just walk to the top of the hot springs and look out for signs. It is only around 1 minute walk from the hot spring.

How much does the canopy walkway cost

You do need to buy an additional ticket for the canopy walkway. Adult entry tickets RM5 and Children RM2.50 (under 18 years old) . Opening hours: 9am – 4pm (closed on mondays) From the ticket office you then need to hike up a steep jungle trail for around 10 minutes to get to the start of the course. 

In the afternoon head over to Sandakan so you are ready for your adventures on the next day. Be prepared for an early start to head over to the Sepilok Orangutan Sanctuary.  

On day 5 of your Sabah itinerary you get a chance to see orangutans at the Sepilok orangutan rehabilitation center . Seeing orangutans at Sepilok is one of the most memorable things that you can do in Sabah. You can visit this center independently and do not need to pro-book any tickets.

What can you expect at Sepilok?

At Sepilok there are around 60-80 orangutans living across 43 square kilometers of jungle. If you visit at feeding time there’s a good chance of seeing around 5 – 10 orangutans at the feeding platform. There is also an orangutan nursery where you can see orphaned orangutans. 

Sepilok has a wooden platform that leads through the jungle. There are no cages, fences or bars separating you from the jungle where these magnificent primates live. Sometimes it is possible to see orangutans close up when they climb onto the walkway.

Sepilok has two daily feeding times and the orangutans gather at the feeding platform during these times. 

TOP TIP: You are not allowed to bring any bags into the Sepilok orangutan sanctuary. There is however a free locker area available to leave bags.

You can buy your entry tickets from the ticket office when you arrive, however if you are planning to visit on a weekend or public holiday we recommend arriving early to avoid waiting.

How much does it cost to visit the orangutan rehabilitation centre

The Sepilok Orangutan Sanctuary is open daily from 8.45am – 4pm (closed for lunch from 12pm – 2pm). 

• RM30 Adults
• RM15 Children (2 – 17 year olds)
• RM10 camera fee (phone cameras FREE of charge). 

At Sepilok there are two orangutan feeding times per day: 10am and 3pm. We recommend arriving at least 30 minutes early as the orangutans also like to arrive early for their food. The platforms can be quite crowded at feeding time. If possible avoid weekends and public holidays. 

When is the best time to see orangutans?

If you want to see an orangutan up close arrive around 2pm. The orangutans can sometimes be found strolling around the wooden walkway waiting for their lunch. Also, there is a section of walkway where you may see orangutans arriving for feeding. This section of walkway is just past the viewing deck for the feeding platform. Remember orangutans are strong animals. Always respect their space and be careful if you are trying to film them (they have been known to grab things out of people’s hands!) After seeing the orangutans you can also visit the Malaysian Sun Bear conservation project (it is right next to the orangutan sanctuary at Sepilok). 

There is also a Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary not to far from Sepilok.

In the evening head over to Sim Sim 88. This is a beautiful seafood restaurant located on the coast in Sandakan. They have a range of fresh seafood dishes. It is more up market and expensive. Many dishes cost in the range of RM50 – RM100 or more. They charge by weight that can also make it tricky to order. Top tip: If you are struggling to order be weight, ask for a certain price (depending on your budget)

If you are traveling by bus around Sabah, you will need to leave a day to travel from Sandakan to Semporna. The journey takes around 8 hours by bus. You are likely to arrive in the afternoon and there wont be enough time to do anything epic in Semporna. BUT if you have your own car, you could get this journey done on the evening of day 6. If you do manage to get to Semporna early you can actually arrange an island hopping trip. Otherwise, we recommend using day 6 as a travel day. 

Semporna is quite run down and there is a lot of poverty here. Many people travel to Semporna for diving and snorkeling. If you are looking for places to stay in Semporna check out the Kuree Hut . This is a great budget option with private rooms. Clean, simple accommodation and well located. Rooms range between £10 – £20. Alternatively check out Ang Lee Holiday Stay .   Simple, clean and nice accommodation. Includes a triple room for families. Rooms range from £20 – £30 per night. Well located in central Semporna town. 

Take a Semporna island hopping trip . This trip visits some beautiful beaches and snorkeling spots. You can also visit the famous Bohey Dulang viewpoint (under 12 year olds are not allowed and trainers are required for this trek). Different companies offer different itineraries.

Normally including around 3 – 5 stops. Here are some of the islands that you can visit for snorkeling near Semporna:

• Bohey Dulang island – hilly island with stunning viewpoint of curved bay and marine park. Not allowed to swim or snorkel at this site. 
• Sibuan island – small island with beautiful sandbar and clear shallow waters. Small military base and a Bajau village are located on this island. 
• Mantabuan island – small island, flat, lovely beach, surrounded by shallow turquoise waters
• Kapalai sandbar – Sandbar with a resort and some great coral reef and snorkeling
• Mataking island – Beautiful island out to the east. Long sand bar, clear waters and lots of marine life here. 
• Pom Pom island – small beautiful island with a couple of resorts
• Timba Timba island – small thin island with long sandbar surrounded by clear shallow waters.

For a shared island hopping trip: RM120 – RM200 per person (roughly £24 – £40 or $30 – $50) and normally includes equipment rental (snorkel, mask, fins and a life jacket) and lunch. For a private island hopping trip expect to pay around RM600 – RM800 depending on the company and tour (roughly £120 – £160 or $150 – $180)

The cheapest way to arrange island hopping Semporna is to book your trip directly with a local company. Dive shops based in Semporna can arrange island hopping trips. Contact 52Hz Dive Shop for island hopping trips in Semporna. 

Don’t miss our guide: What is the BEST Mabul island resort?

Go to Mabul island for diving, snorkeling and some rest and relaxation. Marbul is a small, flat and beautiful island near Semporna. It is actually next to Sipadan – which is a world famous spot for amazing diving. Sipadan is expensive to visit due to the very high price for permits.

Mabul has clear shallow waters brimming with sea life and coral. Some of the great diving and snorkeling spots include Lobster wall and a couple of shipwrecks. In the waters you can see a wide array of fish including: Reef shark, turtles, star fish, frog fish, stone fish, lobsters, shrimp, barracuda, clown fish, angel fish and much much more! 

If you stay with Mabul Backpackers Hostel they will include food and drinks. A dive costs RM100 at Mabul Backpackers (this is super cheap) and a snorkeling trip (around 1-2 hours) costs RM50. This is impressively cheap. 

Keep your expectations in check: The water around Mabul is very beautiful. BUT this island sadly has a lot of rubbish around. Some beaches are very unclean and there is a lot of trash. BUT the diving and snorkeling is some of the BEST we have seen in the world. Don’t miss our full review of the Mabul Backpackers hostel .

We recommend taking the last boat off Mabul. Make the most of the diving and snorkeling. You can also rent sea kayaks in Semporna for your own adventures. Check out the Seahorse Resort (near Mabul backpackers). They can rent a transparent Kayak for around RM50 per hour.

This is a lovely place to relax. You will need to stay in Semporna overnight or take a late bus to Tawau. The buses from Semporna to Tawau are shared mini buses. They cost a humble RM20 per person (roughly £4 or $5) and the journey takes a couple of hours. There is a small car park near KFC where buses wait. Once a minibus is full they will go. 

Visit the Tawau Hills Park. This is a beautiful national park with jungle trails and waterfalls. This lovely national park also has Giant Yellow Meranti Trees. These are the second tallest living trees. These monster trees have been known to grow 96.9m tall in the area. 

Adults RM5 and Children RM2.50 

Expect to pay around RM20-RM30 each way for a taxi to the Tawau Hills Park.

There is a small Chocolate Museum in Tawau town called the Teck Guan Cocoa Museum. If you are interested in a visit the prices are as follows:

• RM35 for adults
• RM25 for children (6 – 12 years old)
• RM10 for infants (3 – 5 years old) 
• 0-2 years old FREE

Please pre-book at least 1-2 days in advance (at least two adults required). You can book by phone: +6016 8269579 or +6089 772277

A few things that aren’t on this Sabah itinerary

There are also a few fantastic activities that we have missed out – mainly due to time constraints. SO if you have a little longer – or you want to change this itinerary – here are some other things to do in Sabah: 

It is very popular to take a Kinabatangan River cruise in Sabah. These beautiful River Cruises allow you to spot Wildlife along the banks of this wild river. There is a very good chance of seeing wild proboscis monkeys and if you’re lucky you may also be able to see wild orangutans. If you have more time in Sabah we recommend looking into doing one of these river cruises.

We have also skipped out the Danum Valley conservation area. Although this is a very beautiful area, it is a little bit out of the way and we don’t think it adds a sufficient amount to this itinerary to include it. However, if you do have more time this would be a great place to visit.

The BEST places to stay for our amazing Sabah itinerary

Kota kinabalu (day 1 and day 2).

If you’re on a budget book a bunk bed at Escape Backpackers – super cheap, simple and well located. Watch out for Escape Backpackers on booking.com . You can also find Escape Backpackers on Agoda . Alternatively, if you have a little more freedom in your budget consider the Horizon Hotel.

Horizon hotel have some great deals on Agoda . AND you can also find Horizon Hotel on booking.com . Or if you’re looking to splash out for something really special check out Le Meridien. Check out Le Meridien on Agoda or booking.com .

Kundasang (day 3)

Our top pick in Kundasang is the beautiful and very affordable Pogimpaan Homestay ( Agoda AND Booking.com ) – very simple and beautiful. Also Zen Garden is a nice option in the area. Zen Garden are on Agoda and Booking.com .

Sandakan (day 4 and day 5)

If you’re traveling on a budget check out the Sandakan Backpackers Hostel. Sandakan backpackers can be found on Agoda and booking.com . If you have a bigger budget and want to stay near the Orangutan Rehabilitation Center check out the Sepilok Forest Edge Resort. Sepilok Forest Edge are on Agoda and on Booking.com . For a GREAT mid range option (excellent for families too) check out the Sabah hotel (in the picture above). You can book the  Sabah Hotel on Agoda . You can also snatch up some great deals for the  Sabah Hotel on Booking.com .

Semporna (day 6 and day 7)

Kuree Hut on Agoda OR find Kuree Hut on booking.com and the Ang Lee Holiday Stay offer good value for money in an excellent location in Semporna. You can find Ang Lee holiday stay on Agoda and the Ang Lee Holiday Stay on booking.com

Mabul (day 8)

We recommend staying at the Mabul Backpackers Hostel in Mabul. Lovely, basic, nice food, great vibe. You can find Mabul Backpackers on Agoda AND Mabul Backpackers on booking.com  

Tawau (day 9 and day 10)

Foresight hotel – spacious, stylish and nice accommodation. Find Foresight on Agoda and Foresight on booking.com to find the BEST deals.

Not the cheapest available but very nice. Slightly cheaper – check out the pretty City Garden Hotel on Agoda. You can also find the City Garden Hotel on Booking.com .

AND FINALLY…

Don’t miss our guide on THE BEST things to do in Sabah

Life loving, adventure chasing, Mum of 3 who loves travel. Over 10 years of travel writing experience. Emma now loves to give the best tips to help other travel loving parents plan adventures with their kids. Whether you need to find the best accommodation or just need to know how to pack your bag Emma is that travelling mum who love to help you.

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Things To Do in Kundasang (2024)

Kundasang, which is located in Malaysian Borneo, is a popular destination for leisure travellers. The town is found in the state of Sabah, at the foot of Mount Kinabalu - Malaysia’s tallest mountain and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Nevertheless, Kundasang has managed to build a reputation of its own and attracts thousands of tourists all year round. It is a destination that is perfect for anyone looking for stunning scenery, culture, history, and unique Malaysian delicacies.

Popular Packages in Kundasang

Ranau paragliding.

MYR 360 - 50 % OFF

Kinabalu Park & Poring Hot Spring

2d1n kinabalu park, poring canopy walk & desa cow farm tour, what to do in kundasang, climb mount kinabalu.

Adventurous travellers need to place climbing Mount Kinabalu at the top of their list of things to do in Kundasang! The mountain - which is the utmost peak within the southeast part of Asia - is breathtaking at first glance and worth conquering for many adventure lovers. Trekkers will take at least two days to get up the mountain and is considered a moderate climb. If you have no experience in trekking then it would be highly recommended to train yourself before climbing Mount Kinabalu.

Here are some Mount Kinabalu packages

2D1N All-Inclusive Mount Kinabalu Climb Package

2D1N Mount Kinabalu Climb Via Ferrata (Walk The Torq)

3D2N Mount Kinabalu Climb and Kinabalu Park Stay

Sutera Sanctuary Lodges at Mount Kinabalu

Explore Desa Dairy Farm

The lush greenery and herds of cattle seen at Desa Dairy Farm, also dubbed as "The Little New Zealand" of Sabah, has become very popular among tourists visiting Kundasang - especially families with kids. The farm covers more than 200 hectares and produces fresh milk and cheese from its herd of black and white cows. Visitors to the farm can expect a day full of fun and knowledgeable facts on the processing of fresh milk.

During your visit, tourists can feed baby farm animals like cows and goats with bottled milk and grass as they take in scenic views of the expansive farm and Mount Kinabalu. And of course, you must stop by the shop to purchase some freshly-made yoghurt ice cream, cheese and milk.

[Update] Desa Dairy Farm is now reopened and requires online booking to reserve a slot. Daily slots are limited and walk-in visitors are not allowed, so make sure to book ahead at  Desa Cattle Dairy Farm (Admission Ticket) !

Some travel packages that include Desa Dairy Farm

Kinabalu Park with Rumah Terbalik and Desa Dairy Farm

2D1N Kinabalu Park, Poring Hot Spring and Desa Dairy Farm Tour

Go Paragliding with a Scenic Backdrop of Mount Kinabalu

This is a must-do thing whenever you're in Kundasang or Ranau! Elevate your sightseeing experience with an unforgettable paragliding adventure at Lohan Village, Ranau! Imagine yourself soaring like an eagle, enveloped by breathtaking landscapes of lush greenery, pristine rivers, and majestic mountain ranges. It's an adventurer's dream come true to glide through the air, capturing a magnificent bird’s eye view of the stunning surroundings of Kundasang and Ranau. Plus, with an experienced tandem pilot by your side, your safety is assured, allowing you to fully immerse in the thrill and beauty of the moment. Don't miss this exhilarating opportunity to witness nature's grandeur from a perspective few ever do.

Here are some paragliding packages near Kundasang

Ranau ATV & Paragliding With Kundasang Highlights Tour

Ride an ATV through Kundasang 

An adventurous, fun-filled, and action-packed ATV (All Terrain Vehicle) ride with Mount Kinabalu as your backdrop. This is an alternative fun way to see the sights around Sabah's favourite destination you may miss out on when travelling the conventional way by car or van. 

Try out this  ATV Adventure At Mount Kinabalu where you can choose between the Earthquake Historical Site or Desa Dairy Farm Route

Visit Sably Goat Haven

Go to Ranau to meet the friendly goats at Sably Goat Haven, where you can get the freshest goat milk. Bring your kids and let them play, feed, and milk the baby goats, or try milking the goats for a fun learning experience you can't get anywhere else. After you're done, you can relax with a sip of their fresh and nourishing goat milk or walk over to the nearby café to try some of their other goat milk-based products.

Book a visit to Sably Goat Haven

Make a Pit-stop at Hooga Cafe / Visit Kundasang Farm Ville

The Red Bus from one of the newest attractions in Kundasang can easily be spotted from the roadside on your way to Desa Dairy Farm. Located only 3 kilometres from the dairy farm, Hooga Cafe is a nice and cosy restaurant suitable for lunch and dinner. It is connected to Kundasang Farm Ville, which is a great place for families with young kids or for couples. Apart from the many photo op locations in the Selfie Garden, Farm Ville grows hydroponic vegetables and strawberries that visitors can choose to harvest for a small fee. 

Take a Stroll through Spring Garden Kundasang

Located in Mesilou, Spring Garden boasts an array of beautiful flowers that bloom all year round. Visitors can enjoy the fantastic gardens and immaculate landscapes with amazing views of Mount Kinabalu. A great place to spend a quiet and relaxing time to soak up nature. If you’re up for a small hike to the river, there is a short trail that is easily doable.

Book a visit to Spring Garden Kundasang

Source: Farm Ville’s Facebook

Cuddle The Furry Alpacas

The Alpaca Club features adorable alpacas all the way from South America for visitors to interact with. Nestled in the foothills of Mesilou, the Alpaca Club is the first alpaca themed attraction in Sabah. Did you know that alpacas are the smallest members of the camel family? Visitors can get up close to these fluffy creatures and it is a great family-friendly activity in Kundasang that your kids will love! 

Visit Alpaca Club and many other attractions with Kundasang Highlight Leisure Family Tour

Soak Up the Goodness of Poring Hot Spring

A trip to Kundasang is never complete without visiting Poring Hot Spring. After a long day of walking and sightseeing, soaking your tired feet in natural springs can help to ease the tension while absorbing all of its health benefits. For those who need extra privacy, private indoor bathtubs are available for rent at MYR15 per hour (for standard bathtub) and MYR20 per hour (for deluxe bathtub).

Not only that, visitors can choose to go for a short trek and walk along the canopy treetop suspended bridge at a high of 60m above the ground. If you are lucky, you might even be able to spot the rare Rafflesia flower in full bloom.

Here are some relaxing packages to Poring Hot Spring

Kinabalu Park & Poring Hot Spring Tour

Sip Tea at the Sabah Tea Garden 

Sipping tea in a tranquil tea plantation is a great way to spend your day in Kundasang. The plantation is open from as early as 8:30 am giving visitors a chance to explore the vast gardens as part of their trip. They also get to taste different flavours of tea like lemongrass, cinnamon, geranium, ginger and pandan.

Additionally, you can book a tour of the factory to watch the process of making various teas from start to finish. Fortunately, entrance to the garden is free but the guided tour attracts an RM14 cost. After the tour, you can also stop by the cafe to sample their tea-infused cuisines such as Sabah Tea pancake, chicken soup, ice cream and many others.

You might like this package at Sabah Tea Garden

2D1N Kinabalu Park, Poring Hot Spring and Sabah Tea Garden Tour

Have a Short Hike at Popular Trails in Kundasang

If you have a keen interest in climbing and hiking, Kundasang is the perfect place for you. Even if you don't have the time to climb Mount Kinabalu, you can still trek at some of these popular hiking spots in Kundasang, including Maragang Hill, Sosodikon Hill, Tinorindak Hill, Kimondou Hill, Lugas Hill and many others. These trails not only offer a good bit of exercise but also boasts an incredible view of the Kundasang highlands. Make sure to check out these 5 Best Hiking Trails and Its Nearby Attractions in Sabah.

Check out the 5 Best Hiking Trails and Nearby Attractions in Kundasang.

Here are some trekking packages at Kundasang

Maragang Hill - Crocker Range Trek Day Tour

Guas Nabalu Homestay with Nuluh Lingion Trek

Visit Kundasang War Memorial

Learning about the history of Kundasang is an excellent way of getting to know the local culture and its heritage. The best way to do so is by visiting the Kundasang War Memorial located right in the heart of the town.

The Kundasang War Memorial was set up in honour of the Australian and British prisoners of war who died during the infamous death marches from Sandakan to Ranau during the second World War. Additionally, the memorial honours the native population of Sabah who suffered and sacrificed their lives to aid Allied forces during this time. This is represented by the four peaceful gardens found throughout the memorial grounds.

The serenity the gardens exude serve as a place not just for walks but reflection and remembrance, to honour the heroes that gave their lives for our future.

Buy local snacks, handicrafts and souvenirs at Nabalu Handicraft Market

While en route to Kundasang, you might want to make a quick stop at the Nabalu Handicraft Market. Here you can find local snacks, crackers, delicious fruits such as the famous Tarap, pineapples and rambutan, as well as handmade bags and souvenirs at a great bargain.

Just 5 minutes walk from the street stalls, there is a viewing platform where you can catch a clear view of Mount Kinabalu standing majestically right in front of your eyes.

Try Sinalau Bakas, Smoked Wild Boar Meat (Non-Halal)

Making a trip up to Kundasang, visitors will be able to spot smoke from barbeque pits and signs on the stalls displaying “Sinalau Bakas”. In the local language, Sinalau Bakas translate to smoked wild boar - marinated wild boar meat smoked on an open barbeque pit. Sinalau Bakas is a traditional food for the Kadazandusun people of Sabah and they usually hunt for wild boars in the jungles near their villages. Some places serve wild boar soup too. Try it with “Linopot” - a traditional type of leaf-wrapped rice found in Sabah.

Source: kotakinabalu.info

What to Eat in Kundasang

Bw bus restaurant 小陈巴巴 (muslim friendly).

For a very unique dining experience, visitors get to eat inside antique buses that were converted into modern dining cafes serving delicious western food and good coffee.

Source: BW Bus’s Facebook

Restoran Puteri Nabalu (Muslim Friendly)

Puteri Nabalu serves Dusun/Kadazan cuisine. Among the many dishes available here are Pinarasakan Sada Takob-Takob, Om Sokok Bird Soup and Hinava Sada. Perhaps the name is a bit foreign to those who are not Sabahan? Try asking the servers about the local cuisine they serve - they will be more than happy to explain! You may be interested to try the Naig Totidong or Nasi Beras Bukit which is a form of mountain brown rice wrapped in the Tarap plant leaves. Unique and appetising!

Source: Foursquare

89 Station (Non-halal)

89 Station is located right after the Kinabalu National Park entrance, on the way to Kundasang town, right by the roadside. There are many choices of meat including pork, deer, ostrich and even seafood including fish and prawns. A value for money restaurant and highly recommended for those visiting the Kundasang area. Visitors can also try the fish maw soup and fried local mushroom dishes.

Source: KYspeaks.com

Where to Stay In Kundasang

Sutera sanctuary lodges at kinabalu park.

Situated within the UNESCO World Heritage Site at Kinabalu Park, Sutera Sanctuary Lodges offers a wide variety of lodges suited to every kind of traveller from backpackers to families and large groups. Guests staying here will also be treated to an incredible view of Mount Kinabalu and quality amenities provided in every lodge, including comfortable beds, hot showers and complimentary tea/coffee.

Price: From MYR390

What you'll get: Comfortable beds, hot shower, complimentary tea/coffee and balcony. In some lodges, you'll also get living room, kitchenette and fireplace

Instant Book: Sutera Sanctuary Lodges at Kinabalu Park

Sutera Sanctuary Lodges' Garden Chalet offers premium accommodation catered for families and groups.

Kinabalu Pine Resort

Kinabalu Pine Resort, a 2-hour ride away from Kota Kinabalu, boasts a convenient location with a great view of Mount Kinabalu and valleys to boot. With a wide range of lodges to choose from, guests will get numerous room amenities including WiFi access, heated shower and balcony.

Price:  MYR154 - MYR230 per night

What you'll get:  Kinabalu Pine Resort stay, breakfast, mountain view & WiFi connection.

Instant Book: Kinabalu Pine Resort

Nabalu Lodge Kundasang

Strategically situated near to many tourist' hotspots, Nabalu Lodge Kundasang is a perfect place for families to stay after a day out full of fun activities in Kundasang. A stay in Nabalu Lodge Kundasang will let you enjoy a comfortable cosy bedroom at night and incredible views of Mount Kinabalu in the morning.

Price: From MYR90 per night

What you'll get:  Stay at Nabalu Lodge Kundasang, breakfast, garden / mountain view & WiFi connection.

Instant Book: Nabalu Lodge Kundasang

Gathering Village

Whether it's for a family weekend gathering, birthday party or just a catch-up with friends, renting a chalet is always a good choice. Gathering Village offers you a cool and cosy place that can accommodate up to 10-25 pax, loaded with numerous amenities such as comfortable bedrooms, a fully functioning kitchen, private balcony, BBQ & steamboat facilities and a beautiful garden. On top of these facilities, you will also get an unobstructed view of Mount Kinabalu as well as a tranquil scenery of the surrounding greenery. Get comfortable just like a home away from home!

Price: From MYR598 per night

What you'll get: Chalet for 10-25 pax, 3-5 bedrooms, kitchen, steamboat and BBQ facility, private dining, balcony and living room.

Instant Book: Gathering Village

Lokky Mountain High Homestay Villa Kundasang

Lokky Mountain High Homestay Kundasang offers a luxurious stay with a mesmerising vistas of Sabah’s highland. Enjoy the tranquillity of Kundasang and the majestic view of Mount Kinabalu while relaxing in the comfort of the homestay. During the day, take the whole family to nearby attractions such as DESA Dairy Farm, Alpaca Club, and Mesilau Strawberry Farm. Take out the BBQ grill and steamboat pot at night for a cosy get-together over warm meals. Lokky Mountain High Homestay Kundasang, with 5 spacious rooms and a large living room area, is ideal for large groups.

Price: From MYR1,870 per night

What you'll get: Villa for 10-12 pax, 5 bedrooms, kitchen, steamboat and BBQ facility, private dining, living room and majestic Mount Kinabalu view.

Instant Book: Lokky Mountain High Homestay Villa Kundasang

How to Go to Kundasang

Kundasang is located about 2 hours away from Sabah's capital, Kota Kinabalu. The best way to visit Kundasang is to self-drive, allowing you to explore the area to your liking and pace. There are plenty of car rental services that provide a wide range of vehicle types, including 4-seater cars and 12-seater vans.

If you prefer having someone else driving, you can also opt for a private charter service with a personal driver. This allows you to fully enjoy your trip comfortably without the stress of navigating unfamiliar roads.

Shuttle transfers between Kota Kinabalu and the park are also available for those who only plan to climb Mount Kinabalu or visit Kinabalu Park. The driver will pick you up from your hotel in the city, and all you have to do is sit back and relax while enjoying the view along the way. 

Here are some Kundasang transport packages

Car & Vehicle Rental In Kota Kinabalu (Self-Drive)

Private Charter With Personal Driver In Kota Kinabalu

Shuttle Transfers To Kinabalu Park (Mount Kinabalu)

Motorcycle, Motorbike & Scooter Rental In Kota Kinabalu

Best Time to Visit Kundasang

The weather in Kundasang comprises a tropical climate with varied amounts of rainfall throughout the year. Its average temperature is about 21 degrees annually which is quite pleasant for its location. Due to its wonderful weather, the town sees an influx of both local and international tourists all year round.

The excellent weather in Kundasang may make it look like you can arrive at the destination in any month of the year. However, some periods are considered the best time to visit Kundasang, which is from January to April. The first four months of the year have minimal rainfall, allowing visitors to explore and enjoy their trip fully.

Recommended For You

11 Kundasang Hotels & Homestays with Mount Kinabalu View

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2D1N Kinabalu Park, Poring Hot Spring & Sabah Tea Garden Tour

Gathering Village Kundasang

2D1N Mount Kinabalu Climb

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Sabah City Info

Sign up to our newsletter, things to do, sabah, malaysian borneo » entertainment » attractions.

Sabah is the easternmost state in Malaysia, located on the third-largest island of the world - Borneo. It has much to offer the tourists/visitors, from Mt. Kinabalu - one of South-East Asia's highest peaks, pristine national parks like Kinabalu National Park, exotic wildlife, one of the best scuba diving in Malaysia and a few of Malaysia's best beaches. Sabah also has historic sites and museums, and a lot more. Sabah is fast emerging as an attractive holiday destination.

Book a tour !!

Lankayan Island Lankayan Island, a practically virgin island in the Sulu Sea, is just a 1.5-hour boat ride from Sandakan. The island is one of the best tourist getaways. Situated within the Sea Turtle Corridor, the clear blue waters of the island proffer an excellent chance to spot the Whale Shark, nestings of Hawksbill Turtle, and the colourful fauna. The island is also home to the famous Lankayan Wreck, a popular diving station for divers.

Madai Caves The Madai Caves are famous because of the nests of Swiftlets birds. These nests are harvested annually by the Idahan tribe for a special Chinese delicacy called the 'bird's nest soup'. Every year a festival is held at the main cave entrance when the male members of the tribe remove the nests from the high cave roof by risking their lives. The Idahan tribe has held this ritual and the rights to the Madai caves for over twenty generations, and one has to obtain their permission to visit the caves.

Pulau Tiga Marine Park Located opposite the swampy Kilas Peninsula are three small coral reef islands, Pulau Tiga, Pulau Kalampunian Besar, and Pulau Kalampunian Damit. The Park has been named after 'Pulau Tiga', the biggest of the three islands. The reserve covers 158sq.km and has a unique and vibrant marine flora and fauna.

Sipadan Island Sipadan Island is amongst the top five diving sites in the world. It is an oceanic island, home to some of the most assorted variety of beautiful marine life. For divers, this island is a paradise in itself. It was also declared a bird sanctuary in 1993, providing tourists with a glimpse of migratory birds such as the wood sandpiper, greater sand plover and common sandpiper.

Turtle Island Park Founded in 1977 to protect endangered species of turtles, the Turtle Island Marine Park consists of three islands - Selingan, Gulisan, and Bakugan Kechil. The Park encompasses 1,740-hectares, which includes the islands, seas, and the surrounding reefs. Its main attractions are the 'Greens' and 'Hawkbill's' turtles that come ashore to lay their eggs every night.

• Sabah Destinations

SABAH DESTINATIONS

Sabah, malaysian borneo: south east asia’s raw & wild side.

Where dense and luscious mountainous terrain reveal unparalleled views; marine life reside in clear, turquoise waters; and unbelievable striking hues of the sunset cross paths with idyllic beaches, the Malaysian Borneo state of Sabah is a tropical paradise travellers can turn to for spectacular and pristine natural ambience.

Unlock your adventures and embark on your journey from Sabah’s capital city, Kota Kinabalu, through a boulevard of a rich spectrum of greenery and overarched by ultramarine skies.

Test your luck in search of natural foliage and wildlife unique to Borneo at Danum Valley; hit wetlands like the Kinabatangan River and Weston River abuzz with rare water bird species and speckled with twinkling fireflies; submerge yourself in Semporna, Sabah’s pinnacle of dive spots among diverse marine life; venture up to Low’s Peak Summit at Mount Kinabalu where the highest Via Ferrata is set; or have yourself a sedentary inland trip in the tranquil rainforest of Malaysia’s first UNESCO Heritage Site and recently crowned Global Geopark, Kinabalu Park.

Whether you’re looking for a luxury vacation by the coast or a secluded wonderland in the jungles, get acquainted with Sabah and its wonders with our curated list of only the very best array of tours & packages catering to travellers from all walks of life.

• Mount Kinabalu

Described as the Top 10 epic hikes by Lonely Planet, Mount Kinabalu stands tall at 4,095.2 metres & attracts climbers from all walks of life all year round.

• Kinabalu Park

Home to the majestic Mount Kinabalu, Kinabalu Park flourishes abundantly with unique Bornean wildlife & is Malaysia’s first UNESCO Heritage Site.

• Sipadan Island

Sipadan Island remains a diver’s paradise, where living corals grow atop an extinct undersea volcano rising 600 metres above the seabed.

• Danum Valley

Step into 43,800 hectares of the quintessential Bornean experience – Danum Valley, boasting a variety of wildlife wonders and peppered with adventures.

• Kota Kinabalu City

Before exploring the rest of Sabah, first set foot in the bustling Kota Kinabalu city, where one gets the best of an urban vibe set in tropical paradise.

• Tabin Wildlife Reserve

Spread across 123,000 hectares, Tabin Wildlife Reserve is guaranteed to feed the curiosities of all and give you a taste of Borneo’s nature like nowhere else.

• Turtle Islands

(Selingan/Libaran)

A haven for sea turtles, Turtle Island grants you a rare opportunity to witness turtle landings & hatching as they make their grand dash into the Sulu Sea.

Kudat – Tip of Borneo

Head to the Northernmost Tip of Borneo - where views of both the Sulu & South China Seas are extravagant & the blazing sunset dramatically righteous.

Kinabatangan River - Sukau/Bilit

The Kinabatangan River flows through a remarkably varied terrain within Sandakan & is endowed with one of the richest biodiversities in the world.

Maliau Basin (The Lost World)

Experience and uncover an astounding natural beauty when you enter Maliau Basin - Sabah's Lost World for a jungle adventure beyond your wildest dreams.

• Mount Trusmadi

Presenting its own arduous trek, Mount Trusmadi stands tall & equally proud at 2,642 metres and is Borneo & Malaysia’s second highest mountain.

Poised at the north of Kuala Penyu, Pulau Tiga (Survivor Island) is Borneo’s slice of paradise with its mud volcano ‘spas’, encompassing a tropical getaway.

• Orou Sapulot

A trip to Sapulot will bring you to the Sabah-Kalimantan border where the Murut tribe will transport you back to simpler times more attuned to Mother Nature.

Sabah & Sarawak Dual States

Be it a relaxing getaway or an exciting adventure, the east Malaysian states Sabah & Sarawak checks off all your tropical paradise bucket list & more.

Discover Sabah Multi-Day Full Packages

Commence your discovery through the unmatched wonders of Sabah, Malaysian Borneo with multi-day tours within & departing from the vibrant Kota Kinabalu city.

• Via Ferrata

Mount Kinabalu Via Ferrata is listed by the Guinness World Records as the world’s highest Via Ferrata, and located in the UNESCO World Heritage site of Mount Kinabalu.

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Sabah on track to reach 2.8 million tourist arrivals target, says Liew

• Sabah & Sarawak

Saturday, 27 Apr 2024

Related News

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Liew (third left) accompanied by Wahida (third right) and other officials launching the Matta Fair Sabah 2024.

KOTA KINABALU: Sabah is well on its way to reaching its goal of receiving 2.8 million tourists in 2024 after attaining roughly a fifth of that target in the first two months of this year, said Datuk Christina Liew.

The state Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister said Sabah had received approximately 532,227 international and domestic visitors in January and February.

This has subsequently generated tourism receipts amounting to RM1.2bil, she said.

“Sabah has set a target of welcoming 2.8 million visitors for 2024 that I believe we can achieve,” she said at the launching of the Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA) Fair Sabah 2024 here on Saturday (April 27).

“Our ultimate goal is three million arrivals by December this year,” Liew added.

The Minister also said that Sabah will focus more on the immense potential of community-based tourism (COBT).

“In light of this, I urge all stakeholders to collaborate with my ministry for the advancement of our industry.

“We eagerly anticipate partnering with airlines, hotels, tour operators, and all related industry players to develop value-added packages that will further enrich the visitor experience,” Liew said.

On the fair, MATTA Sabah chapter chairman Christina Wahida Kong said they had 90 booths offering various tour and travel packages to visitors.

“We are seeing the largest participation (from tour and travel operators) this year. We believe the sales target will exceed expectations,” she said.

Liew commended the continuous efforts through MATTA Fair Sabah not only to stimulate and grow the travel industry but also to help recover the state economy.

She said she was excited to see the tremendous response from the people who would visit the three-day fair starting Friday (April 26) at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC) here.

“This is a good sign because it shows the travel and tour sector is growing. It means it is active and moving,” she said.

On another note, Liew said work is in the pipeline to establish an elephant corridor in the state’s east coast Kinabatangan district with help from a Japanese wildlife enthusiast.

She, however, did not specify who this person was but only referred to the person as a “lover of wildlife”.

“Nothing is finalised, but we are connecting with him. He believes in the preservation of wildlife and nature, so we are very happy to work with him.

“He is not an investor but a lover of wildlife. We welcome people, whether locally or internationally, who are interested in participating with us in the preservation of wildlife,” she said.

Liew said she would instruct the Sabah Tourism Board to further engage with the individual on the possibility of the elephant corridor.

“Now wild elephants are everywhere. Sometimes, they go into people’s plantations in search of food.

“But if we have an area where we plant their food, they will frequent that area more as there is food there. And we will also be able to protect them,” she said.

Tags / Keywords: Tourism , Matta Fair , Tourist Arrival , Elephant Corridor , Christina Liew

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This Quaint Town in Portugal Was Just Named the Best Place to Invest in Europe — and It Has Stunning Beaches

Lush pine forests, cobblestone streets, endless ocean views, and low real estate prices await in this quaint community in northern Portugal.

Xurxo Lobato/Getty Images

Portugal is on everyone's mind these days. The country's sunny weather , many beaches , and affordable cost of living have made it a popular choice for retirees and digital nomads. However, as is often the case, real estate prices in some of its most sought-after regions, like the capital, Lisbon and Algarve , have soared. But that doesn't mean you should give up on your dream of owning property in Portugal.

A new report by International Living ranked the small, under-the-radar- town of Caminha the best place to invest in real estate in Europe for its value and growth potential. 

The community is located in the northwest along the mouth of the Minho River, which separates Portugal from Spain, and is home to about 16,000 residents. International Living gave Caminha a perfect score of 10 in the relative value category and nine for quality of life and stability.

"Caminha, which is only separated from Spain by a river, completely charmed me," Ronan McMahon, founder of Real Estate Trend Alert and author of International Living's Global Real Estate Index, told Travel + Leisure . "It has a beautiful Old Town surrounded by a verdant and bucolic countryside, with mountains, rivers, forests, and fields overflowing with brightly colored flowers and fruit trees heavy with their bounty. And then there are the stunning Atlantic beaches."

The ancient town has plenty of character, with fountains, churches, and other buildings dating back to the 16th and 17th centuries. And it's easily accessible from Porto, which is just an hour and 15 minutes south, providing access to an international airport. 

Jeff Opdyke, International Living's personal finance editor, called Caminha a "holdover of Portugal before tourism and modernity swept over Lisbon, the Algarve, and Porto," where affordable real estate is still the norm. 

Potential buyers can find apartments downtown for as low as $150,000 and stand-alone houses for $280,000 .

And while Caminha is the best place to invest in Europe, another destination took the top prize for global real estate value: Mexico's Los Cabos. International Living ranked first with almost perfect scores in categories such as income potential, climate, and international appeal. Riviera Maya and Estepona in Spain, a town in the country's famous Costa del Sol region, are tied for the third place.

You can see the full ranking at internationaliving.com .

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The 7 Best New and Affordable Places To Travel in 2024

Posted: March 16, 2024 | Last updated: March 16, 2024

Planning your 2024 vacation? If your wanderlust has you eager to go where you've never been, consider one of these new and affordable destinations for 2024.

Find Out: 8 Tips to Fly Business Class for the Price of Economy Read More: 5 Genius Things All Wealthy People Do With Their Money

Amboseli National Park, Kenya

Most safari vacations offer rustic accommodations, and a stay at Angama Amboseli does mean you'll be sleeping in a tent. But you'll also be able to gaze on the majesty of African elephants in the shadows of Mount Kilimanjaro. The resort celebrates the local indigenous community in its architecture and its culinary offerings.

For You: Dave Ramsey: 7 Vacation Splurges That are a Waste of Money Try This: 11 Expensive Vacation Destinations That Will Be Cheaper in 2024

Sponsored: Owe the IRS $10K or more? Schedule a FREE consultation to see if you qualify for tax relief.

Busan, South Korea

While the K-pop stars BTS may have put Busan on the map, an influx of new resorts keeps it there. A new Windham property joins many beachfront resorts on the Sea of Japan. Foodies will want to consider Busan as it will welcome a new Michelin guide this year.

Check Out: I'm a Luxury Travel Agent: 10 Destinations My Wealthy Clients Are Booking for 2024

Halifax, Nova Scotia

Ocean views and a thriving maritime economy have long been associated with Nova Scotia, but this seaport now boasts an emerging technology industry. The newly redeveloped waterfront area features the Queen's Marque, with restaurants, art galleries and a five-star hotel.

Kangaroo Island, Australia

This Australian destination has rebuilt much of its lost in bushfires in 2020, and several new resorts will open this year. Cabn X is an affordable option, with small homes with a modern feel, and Southern Ocean Lodge, destroyed in the fires, has been rebuilt and is now open.

Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

The DR has long been known as an affordable Caribbean destination, but it is now being recognized for luxury as well. Several new resorts in Punta Cana will open this year, including the St. Regis Cap Cana, the Sanctuary Cap Cana, and a new W hotel. Many resorts are all-inclusive, and some only welcome adults.

Find Out: 7 Cheap, Beautiful Places for a Winter Vacation

Quito, Ecuador

Most travelers visit Quito on their way to the Galapagos Islands, but the Ecuadorian capital has undergone a recent renaissance that makes it a destination in and of itself. An expanded subway has reduced traffic congestion and made it easier for non-locals to get around. New shops, galleries and restaurants have much to offer visitors, and its weather is mild year-round.

Transylvania, Romania

Beautiful castles and a rich history will prove that Transylvania is known for more than just vampires. Try Bethlen Estates near many historical sites, including Dracula's Bran Castle, for luxury. For a retreat experience, Matca offers walking safaris and praying with monks, all with views of the Carpathian Mountains.

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'No place to go': Supreme Court debates cities' leeway to crack down on homeless camps

The supreme court sounded as if they think cities are in a better position than the federal courts to decide how to address homeless encampments..

WASHINGTON − The Supreme Court on Monday wrestled with how far cities can go in cracking down on homeless encampments as it heard arguments in the case of an Oregon tourist town that banned sleeping in public with a blanket.

Homeless residents of Grants Pass, Oregon, faced fines of $250 and jail time for breaking the city’s strict anti-camping laws until a federal appeals court said the ordinances violate the Constitution’s ban on cruel and unusual punishment. 

Now the city says its parks will be overrun by unsanitary homeless encampments unless the justices reverse the appeals court's decision. Lawyers for homeless residents of Grants Pass said police have plenty leeway to enforce disruptive behavior without turning people into criminals when they have nowhere to stay.

"Where do we put them if every city, every village, every town lacks compassion and passes a law identical to this? Where are they supposed to sleep? Are they supposed to kill themselves, not sleeping?" Justice Sonia Sotomayor asked.

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Justices look for ways to avoid a big decision

Several justices seemed to lean toward giving local governments discretion − and limiting the federal courts' involvement in local decisions − while also showing sensitivity to the no-win plight of homeless residents.

“Sleeping is a biological necessity. It’s sort of like breathing,” said Justice Elena Kagan. “You can say breathing is conduct, too, but presumably you would not think that it’s OK to criminalize breathing in public. And for a homeless person who has no place to go, sleeping in public is kind of like breathing in public.”

At the same time, several justices sought ways to limit the scope of any decision they would ultimately take in the case.

“Many people have mentioned this is a serious policy problem,” said Chief Justice John Roberts , noting the many pressing issues local governments deal with. “Why would you think that these nine people are the best people to judge and weigh those policy judgments?”

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“How does a court make those judgments?” Kagan asked. “Because these are tough judgments. And, usually, they’re the kind of judgments that we think of as municipal officials make them.”

Kelsi Corkran a lawyer representing homeless residents, said the Grants Pass "blanket" law clearly targeted the homeless while residents who had permanent places to live escaped punishment when lying on blankets in public.

“The ordinances, by design, make it physically impossible to live in Grants Pass without facing endless fines and jail time,” Corkran said. “All the ordinances do is turn the city’s homeless problem into someone else’s problem by forcing its homeless residents into other jurisdictions.”

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A 'failed experiment,' lawyer says

In 2023 the California-based 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals sided with the homeless residents. The court said the city could enforce rules against fires, illegal drug use, unsanitary encampments and other problems, but it couldn't punish people for sleeping in a public place if they have nowhere else to stay.

The court made a similar ruling in 2018 against an anti-camping ordinance in Boise, Idaho.

Cities across the political spectrum have said the rulings set an unworkable standard and urged the Supreme Court to clarify what they can do.

Theane Evangelis, the attorney for Grants Pass, asked the justices to end a “failed experiment which has fueled the spread of encampments while harming those it purports to protect.”

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“Cities are struggling to apply arbitrary, shifting standards in the field,” Evangelis said. Without the court’s intervention, she said, cities will be forced to surrender their public spaces.

The Justice Department argued that the appeals court ruling was too broad, and didn’t take into account individual circumstances such as whether someone had access to a shelter and refused it.

Deputy Solicitor General Edwin Kneedler said cities need flexibility to implement rules about where, when and how someone can sleep in a public place, so long as they’re “reasonable.”

Open fires on a cold night

But Justice Kagan said it’s hard to draw that line. Are fires never allowed even if it’s a very cold night? Can tents be erected if it’s raining?

On the question of open fires, Justice Neil Gorsuch noted, "I'm totally sympathetic that that might be a necessity."

On any given night in the United States, more than 600,000 people are likely to be homeless, according to the federal government. Last year, 40% of homeless individuals slept under bridges, on sidewalks, in parks, cars, abandoned buildings and other public locations.

The challenge to Grants Pass’ rules is the most significant case on homelessness in decades.

The appeals court relied on a 1962 Supreme Court decision that said someone could be arrested for using illegal drugs – a behavior − but not for being addicted to them, a status. If someone is “involuntarily” homeless because no shelter beds are available, the 9 th Circuit said, then the camping bans are going after their status, not their conduct −a violation of the 8 th Amendment.

But Justice Neil Gorsuch said the difference between status and conduct is a “slippery one.”

“And they are often closely related,” he said.

Roberts likewise hammered away at whether that’s a useful distinction.

"You can remove the homeless status in an instant if you move to a shelter, or situations otherwise change,” Roberts said. “And, of course, it can be moved the other way as well, if you're kicked out of the shelter or whatever.”

Justice Brett Kavanaugh wondered whether a better way of determining the fairness of anti-camping rules is not the 8 th Amendment but allowing anyone charged with a violation to potentially raise a defense of “necessity” under state law.

Kavanaugh said the justices should consider whether state or local laws can address these question so federal courts aren’t left “micromanaging homeless policy.”

Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson likewise wondered if the court could narrowly decide the issue by saying that the Grants Pass’ rules aren’t allowed under a recent state law.

Corkran, the lawyer for the homeless residents, said she wouldn’t have a problem with the court avoiding the constitutional issue by deciding the case that way.

A decision is expected by the end of June.