Welcome to Sabah, where the excitement never takes a day off! If you thought going to paradise was only about lying on beaches and sipping coconut water, then you must think again because Sabah is here to change it all. Just imagine this: one minute you are in the jungles relaxing among orangutans, and the next you are deep diving into one of the world’s best underwater wonderlands or climbing the tallest mountain in Southeast Asia.
Things to do in Sabah: A Travel Guide
Can it get any more exciting? Yes, it is! With its breathtaking sunsets and island-hopping adventures that would make your followers jealous, Sabah doesn’t lag in coolness. From sheer adrenaline to the most extreme relaxation, if it’s Sabah, it’s all here, wrapped up nicely in nature’s finest. Ready to dive into the wild? Let’s go! So, continue reading to learn about some of the best things to do in Sabah that will ensure you make full use of your trip.
Climb Mount Kinabalu
If you don’t feel the grandeur of Mount Kinabalu, at 4,095 meters the highest peak in Southeast Asia, you will not be able to have a complete tour. It is an area of Kinabalu Park, a natural wonder and haven for biodiversity, which UNESCO designates. Climbing Mount Kinabalu is a thrilling and physically hard experience. Hiking the area provides amazing views of granite peaks and lowland forest.
From the Timpohon Gate, treks typically take as long as two days. You trek up to base camp at Laban Rata on the first day, nap and then depart early the next morning to the summit. As the sun rises over the clouds, a breathtaking view of the horizon is revealed, creating an incredible sunrise scene close to its highest point.
Be prepared, as climbing Mount Kinabalu needs stamina and determination. Although technically not difficult, the altitude and steep ascent may present some challenges to the complete beginner. If you are reasonably fit and prepared, however, this once-in-a-lifetime experience is well worth the effort.
Kinabalu Park
The idea of scaling Mount Kinabalu may be a bit too much for many, so rest assured that the splendor of Kinabalu Park is not exclusively reserved for hikers to the summit. Kinabalu Park is Malaysia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasting thousands of plant species, varied wildlife, and dozens of hiking trails suitable for every level of physical fitness.
You can take easy walks through the park’s lowland rainforests, go to the botanical gardens, or take a hike along any of the numerous well-marked trails. These will include pitcher plants, carnivorous orchids, and several species of birds. Guided tours can also be availed of; these give information about the rich biodiversity of the park.
The park also offers Poring Hot Springs, a complex with thermal baths within a garden setting, for those seeking only some relaxation. You can soak in hot sulfur baths amidst lush greenery after a day of hiking or exploring. Hot springs are believed to have therapeutic effects, thus helping to dispel muscle pains and tiredness; all such things make them ideal for relaxation.
Dive in Sipadan Island
Sipadan Island is rated as one of the best dive sites in the world and a force not to be missed by diving enthusiasts. Lying off the east coast of Sabah, the island is surrounded by crystal-clear waters, vibrantly colored coral reefs, and an astounding variety of marine life. From advanced divers down to mere beginners, this underwater world of Sipadan will surely leave you aghast.
The marine life at Sipadan ranges from the incredible sightings of green sea turtles to reef sharks, schools of barracuda, and colorful coral gardens. Additionally, this is a location where one can occasionally catch a glimpse of larger animals, such as whale sharks and manta waves. The island is a protected marine park, and only a limited number of divers are allowed each day, which helps it maintain its pristine condition.
If you are a beginner diver, the surrounding islands like Mabul and Kapalai have some great dive resorts and offer a chance to get certified. Even if one is not into diving, snorkeling around the islands will also give a great underwater experience.
Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre
The Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre is a must-visit location for anybody who enjoys the outdoors. This center near Sandakan takes orphaned and injured orangutans in and nurses them back to health before releasing them to the wild once again. This world-famed sanctuary allows a rare opportunity to glimpse these endangered animals close by in their natural habitat.
This can be witnessed by visitors during feeding at the feeding platforms set within the rainforest of the center. It is an emotional feeling to realize these gentle creatures are swinging from tree to tree, knowing full well that the center is playing a big role in their survival.
In addition, the park organizes several educational programs whereby one gets to learn about works of conservation and challenges facing this population of orangutans. This will be a great opportunity to learn more about the importance of the preservation of Sabah’s wildlife and rainforest.
Danum Valley Conservation Area
For those in search of real wilderness, Danum Valley Conservation Area offers an intact rainforest exposure to a few others. The unspoiled jungle is host to a spate of wildlife that includes orangutans, pygmy elephants, and clouded leopards, among many other species that say nothing of the literally hundreds of bird species.
Your nature lover’s dream will only be partly exploring Danum Valley. Guided tours deep in the heart of the rainforest do trails, swim in waterfalls, and visit some of the ancient burial sites of the Kadazan-Dusun tribe. The treetop canopy walk provides a unique perspective, walking among the treetops and seeking views of wildlife from above.
Accommodation within the conservation ranges from basic to luxury eco-lodges, providing a comfortable place to rest after a day of trekking and wildlife spotting.
Discover Kadazan-Dusun Culture
Sabah has always been a culturally enriched region, and there’s no better way to look at its culture than through its very own indigenous Kadazan-Dusun people. As the largest ethnic group in Sabah, the Kadazan-Dusun are very attached to the land and all its natural resources, with customs based around rice farming and animism.
The Monsopiad Cultural Village, located near Kota Kinabalu, allows one to catch glimpses into the life and customs of the Kadazan-Dusun people. One can see the traditional longhouses, the rice barns, and the cultural performances through traditional dances and musical expressions.
Pada bulan May, jika anda berada di Sabah, anda dapat menyaksikan Festival Kaamatan sebagai perayaan panen padi. It is essentially filled with gaiety, songs, dances, and feasts, promising an immersive cultural experience to its visitors.
Island Hopping in Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park
Located not too far off the coast from Kota Kinabalu, a few minutes by boat, Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park comprises five picturesque islands, namely Gaya, Sapi, Manukan, Mamutik, and Sulug. Perfect for island hopping with immaculate beaches, glistening clean seas, and abundant marine life are these islands. From snorkeling to diving, or just relaxing on the beaches, this marine park offers it all.
The islands have a very well-preserved coral reef environment, and as such, it is the perfect place for snorkeling and diving. You can enjoy several water sports, like jet skiing, kayaking, or parasailing. If you are not into so much adventure, you can come to the beaches to sunbathe, swim, or have a picnic by the sea.
Most island hopping tours will let you visit multiple islands in one day, so you can easily explore the different beaches and different marine habitats. Take your time to enjoy the beauty of each island.
The Night Market in Kota Kinabalu
Despite experiencing the local cuisine and culture, Kota Kinabalu’s night markets are well worth a visit. These include the Filipino Market and Sinsuran Night Market, which sell almost everything from local delicacies to fresh seafood and handicrafts.
Walking around the nighttime market will be an adventure. The whole atmosphere is filled with the sounds of the vendors announcing their special deals and the smell of grilled seafood and local delicacies. You can taste satay, grilled fish, and nasi lemak or try some of Sabah’s unique fruits such as rambutan and durian.
The night markets are also great places to pick up souvenirs, from handicrafts to traditional textiles. Do not be afraid to haggle a little; in fact, bargaining is expected in these markets.
The Tip of Borneo
The Tip of Borneo is located in Kudat, the magnificent spot where both the South China Sea and Sulu Sea merge. From this northernmost point of Borneo, one can enjoy an extraordinary ocean view. The area is serene and never as crowded as other tourist destinations, thus making it perfect for those seeking to escape the hustle and bustle.
Take a leisurely walk along the coastline, visit nearby villages, or sit and enjoy the breathtaking sunset. The Tip of Borneo also has quiet beaches, suitable for swimming, picnicking, or relaxing with a view.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, Sabah is indeed the site with everything from breathtaking natural splendor to heart-pumping adventures, varied wildlife, and colorful culture. Be it conquering Mount Kinabalu, diving into the crystal-clear waters of Sipadan, or merely sitting and enjoying the sunset on a pristine beach, Sabah offers unforgettable experiences tailored for every kind of traveler. From lush rainforests to bustling night markets, every corner of Sabah promises thrills, relaxation, and something new.
Sabah should be at the top of your list if you’re planning your next vacation. In this blog post most of the things to do are listed out, so, pack your bags, lace up the hiking boots, and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime in Sabah, Malaysia!
