Mount Kinabalu
Mount Kinabalu, Borneo’s tallest mountain and a UNESCO heritage site, is one of the most prominent and fascinating tourist attractions that can be found in Sabah Island.
No visit to Borneo is complete without a trek to the famous Mt. Kinabalu, since the towering mountain exemplifies the beauty of Borneo itself: diverse species thrive in its rich greenery, stunning sceneries astound trekkers at every point, and flora and fauna of Himalayan, Indomalayan, and Australasian origin can make anyone stop and marvel. Two-day guided trips to Mount Kinabalu are limited and guests are often gathered in groups before heading out, a perfect opportunity to meet new friends while conquering the challenging trek. The highlight of the hike happens just as it ends: guests get the stunning view of the rising sun from the top of the mountain, and the panoramic beauty of sharp peaks, unique rock formations, and glass lakes they have somehow missed during the night trek.
Location
Mount Kinabalu is located in Ranau, Sabah, Malaysia, a two-hour bus ride from Kota Kinabalu.
Opening Days and Hours
Day 1 of the two-day trek starts at 07:30 and ends at 14:30. The second leg of the trek starts at 02:30 the next day.
Entry Fee and Bookings
Entrance fee to take part of the trek is RM 1,351 (USD 386) for foreign tourists, RM 972 (USD 237) for non-Sabahan guests, and RM 444 (USD 108) for Sabahan visitors. Book 6 months in advance so you can ensure a slot in the climb.
How to Get There
● Fly from Kuala Lumpur to Kota Kinabalu via Malaysia Airlines or Air Asia.
● From the Kota Kinabalu International Airport, avail of the Airport Taxi Service to Kota Kinabalu City for RM 15 (USD 3.67).
● Board a bus to Ranau for RM 20 (USD 4.89)
Suggested For
● Solo Travelers/Backpackers
● Couples
● Families
● Groups
Time to Spend
The trek to Low’s Peak of Mount Kinabalu takes two days.
Popularity and Best Time to Go
Mount Kinabalu is one of the most popular mountains in the world, yet because of environmental reasons, only 135 guests are accommodated daily so it is better to book six months in advance. The best time to visit Mount Kinabalu is between February to April since rain showers brought by monsoons are lesser during these months.
Food
Meals are included in the Mount Kinabalu fee. Tourists can have breakfast at Balsam Buffet Restaurant and dinner at Laban Rata Restaurant. Packed meals are also handed out to those participating in the trek.
Safety and Fraud
For the sake of safety, make sure to come to Mount Kinabalu prepared. Rule out any health concern, follow instructions from the guide, and do not forget to carry trek essentials in your bag.
Nearby Attractions
● Kinabalu Park
● Mount Kinabalu Botanical Garden
● Poring Hot Springs
Stay
While on trek, tourists are lodged in a little guesthouse where they can take their rest before resuming their climb at 02:30. Other houses are also available in Kinabalu Park and Ranau with rates ranging from USD 50 to 150.
