Adventure in Kundasang, Sabah!

Kinabalu National Park

Why Visit?

Embark on a thrilling adventure to Kinabalu National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a paradise for nature enthusiasts. Nestled on the northern end of Borneo in Malaysia, this park is home to the majestic Mount Kinabalu, Southeast Asia"s highest peak.

Day 1: Arrival and Trek to Timpohon Gate

Fly into Kota Kinabalu, the closest city, and make your way to the park headquarters, approximately 90 minutes by road. After checking into one of the lodges within the park, spend your afternoon acclimatizing with a gentle trek to Timpohon Gate, the starting point for the summit climb. The lush trails offer a sneak peek into the biodiversity that awaits.

Day 2: Conquer Mount Kinabalu

Start early for the challenging climb to the summit. The path covers 8.5 kilometers to the top and can take between 4 to 6 hours. As you ascend, the vegetation transitions from tropical rainforest to alpine meadows. Overnight at Panar Laban Hut and prepare for an early morning final ascent.

Day 3: Sunrise at Low"s Peak and Descent

Wake up around 2:30 AM to continue your trek to Low"s Peak (4,095 meters). Reaching the summit for sunrise is an ethereal experience, with the sky painted in hues of orange and purple. Descend back to the base, enjoying different views and possibly spotting endemic species like the Kinabalu giant red leech and pitcher plants.

Day 4: Explore the Park

Recover from your climb by exploring the park"s other attractions. Visit the Botanical Garden to learn about the diverse flora, including over 800 species of orchids, or take a refreshing dip in the Poring Hot Springs. Don’t miss the canopy walkway for a bird’s eye view of the rainforest.

Day 5: Departure

After a leisurely breakfast, make your way back to Kota Kinabalu or continue your journey exploring the wonders of Borneo.

This journey not only offers a physical challenge but also an intimate encounter with some of the world’s most fascinating biodiversity.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

Manukan Island (Pulau Manukan)

Why Visit?

Embark on an exhilarating journey to Manukan Island, a tropical paradise nestled in the heart of the Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park, just off the coast of Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia. Renowned for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs, Manukan offers adventure seekers a myriad of captivating experiences.

Day 1: Arrival and Snorkeling Adventure

Start your adventure by catching a 20-minute speedboat ride from Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal in Kota Kinabalu. Upon arrival, check into one of the charming chalets on the island, then gear up for an underwater escapade. Dive into the inviting turquoise waters for snorkeling. Explore the rich marine life and coral formations that make this island a snorkeler"s haven. The West End beaches provide the best snorkeling spots, where you might even spot sea turtles and a kaleidoscope of tropical fish.

Day 2: Hiking and Sunset Views

After a refreshing breakfast, lace up for a trek along the island’s trails. The main footpath leads you through dense tropical forests to the island"s highest point. This moderate hike is a fantastic way to observe the lush flora and fauna, including vivid butterflies and exotic birds. The viewpoint offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding islands and the vast South China Sea. In the evening, head to Sunset Point, aptly named for the spectacular sunsets that paint the sky in fiery hues. It’s the perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploration.

Day 3: Water Sports and Departure

On your final day, indulge in adrenaline-pumping water sports such as jet skiing, parasailing, or banana boat rides. Each activity offers a unique way to experience the island"s beauty at a thrilling pace. After a morning of high-energy fun, enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the beachside eateries before catching the boat back to Kota Kinabalu.

Interesting Fact

Manukan Island is the second largest of the five islands in the Tunku Abdul Rahman Park and it boasts a well-developed tourist infrastructure, making it a seamless blend of natural beauty and convenience for adventurers.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

Mt. Kinabalu (Gunung Kinabalu)

Why Visit?

Embark on a breathtaking adventure to the summit of Mount Kinabalu, the majestic peak soaring 4,095 meters above Northern Borneo. As Malaysia’s highest mountain, located in the UNESCO-listed Kinabalu Park, it offers not just a climb but an exploration into a vibrant ecosystem.

Day 1: Arrival and Preparation

Fly into Kota Kinabalu, Sabah’s coastal capital. From here, travel 88km (about 2 hours by road) to the Kinabalu Park Headquarters. Stay overnight in one of the lodges near the park to acclimatize and prepare for the early morning ascent. Utilize this time to explore the botanical richness of the park, home to thousands of plant species including the Rafflesia, the world’s largest flower.

Day 2: Ascend to Laban Rata

Start early and register with the park office. Begin your ascent from Timpohon Gate. The trek to Laban Rata Resthouse covers 6 km and can take 4-6 hours. The trail winds through lush rainforests, passing cascading waterfalls and exotic flora. Overnight at Laban Rata, enjoying the sunset above the clouds.

Day 3: Summit and Descent

Depart around 2-3 AM to reach the summit for a mesmerizing sunrise. The final climb is challenging but rewarding, with panoramic views of the Crocker Range. After summiting, descend to the base, a journey that tests endurance but is invigorating.

Interesting Facts

- Mount Kinabalu is sacred to the local Kadazandusun tribe, believed to be the resting place of the spirits.

- The mountain is renowned for its biological diversity, hosting over 5,000 vascular plant species and more than 90 lowland mammal species.

Travel Tips

- Book your permits early as they are limited and required for climbing.

- Pack warm clothing for the summit, where temperatures can drop below freezing at night.

This journey not only challenges your physical limits but also immerses you in the natural and cultural tapestry of Borneo.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park (TARP)

Why Visit?

Embark on an exhilarating adventure at Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park (TARP), a cluster of five tropical islands off the coast of Kota Kinabalu, Sabah. This picturesque park is named after Malaysia"s first Prime Minister and offers a delightful escape for thrill-seekers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Getting There

Your adventure begins with a short 10 to 20-minute speedboat ride from Kota Kinabalu. Boats depart regularly from Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal, whisking you away to the islands of Gaya, Sapi, Manukan, Mamutik, and Sulug.

Day 1: Jungle Trekking on Pulau Gaya

Start your tour with a challenging trek through the dense jungles of Pulau Gaya, the largest island in the park. Explore marked trails that reveal hidden coves and stunning sea vistas. Wildlife abounds, so keep your eyes peeled for curious macaques and vivid hornbills.

Day 2: Snorkeling and Water Sports at Pulau Sapi

Next, head to Pulau Sapi, renowned for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs. Dive into an underwater adventure with snorkeling or try your hand at parasailing for breathtaking aerial views of the park. Pulau Sapi is also perfect for a relaxing swim or simply sunbathing on its white sandy beaches.

Day 3: Scuba Diving around Pulau Manukan

Conclude your adventure at Pulau Manukan, where experienced divers can explore the rich marine life through scuba diving sessions. The coral gardens here are teeming with tropical fish and offer some of the best underwater photography spots.

Interesting Facts

TARP’s waters are home to over 500 species of marine life and offer visibility up to 50 meters during the peak season. Conservation efforts include coral reef restoration projects, making your visit a support to environmental sustainability.

This adventure-packed itinerary promises unforgettable memories and thrilling encounters in one of Malaysia’s natural paradises.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

Mari Mari Cultural Village

Why Visit?

Embark on an enthralling adventure to the heart of Borneo with a visit to the Mari Mari Cultural Village, a treasure trove of ancient traditions and vibrant indigenous culture. Nestled amidst the lush, tropical forest just 25 minutes away from Kota Kinabalu, this hidden gem offers an immersive experience that adventure seekers won’t want to miss.

Getting There

To reach Mari Mari Cultural Village, you can take a taxi or arrange a pick-up service through your hotel or directly with the village. The journey itself, with views of verdant paddy fields and distant mountains, sets the stage for the cultural feast that awaits.

Your Adventure Itinerary

Morning Arrival

Start your visit in the morning to make the most of the cooler weather. Upon arrival, you"ll be greeted with a traditional welcome ceremony that is as enchanting as it is profound. This sets the tone for a day of exploration and understanding.

Cultural Exploration

As you wander through the village, you’ll visit the traditional homes of the Bajau, Lundayeh, Murut, Rungus, and Dusun tribes. Each house offers a unique glimpse into the daily lives and crafts of these communities, from fire-starting demonstrations to intricate beadwork. Don’t miss the Murut headhunter’s house, where you can learn about their not-so-gruesome history and try your hand at blowpipe hunting.

Interactive Activities

For the thrill-seekers, participate in traditional games like the catapult or the “lansaran” (a traditional trampoline-like floor). These activities not only provide fun but also a deeper appreciation for the ingenuity of these indigenous people.

Culinary Delights

No adventure is complete without tasting the local cuisine. Enjoy a buffet spread featuring native dishes prepared using traditional methods. This culinary experience will surely be a highlight of your visit.

Evening Send-Off

As the day winds down, witness a cultural performance showcasing the vibrant dances and music of the indigenous tribes, a perfect ending to your cultural adventure.

Interesting Fact

The Mari Mari Cultural Village operates as a self-sustained entity, with proceeds going directly back to preserving the culture and lifestyle of the five tribes represented here.

Wrap up your visit filled with enlightening experiences, having not only witnessed but participated in the living history and rich cultural tapestry of Borneo’s native communities.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.