Best Road Trips in Sabah for Scenic Views
Sabah, the jewel of Borneo, offers some of Malaysia’s most breathtaking road trips. From misty mountains to lush rainforests and pristine coastlines, these drives provide unforgettable experiences for nature lovers, photographers, and adventure seekers alike. Discover the top scenic routes, wildlife hotspots, and cultural highlights Sabah has to offer.
1. Kota Kinabalu → Kundasang & Ranau
Drive from the coastal city of Kota Kinabalu to the highlands of Kundasang and Ranau. Enjoy panoramic mountain views, tea plantations, and tropical forests.
Distance & Duration
~90 km | ~2 hours
Difficulty & Surface Type
Moderate – winding mountain roads | Asphalt, well-maintained
Route
Kota Kinabalu → Penampang → Tambunan → Ranau → Kundasang
Why Nature Lovers Love It
- Stunning vistas of Mount Kinabalu
- Rolling green valleys and terraced farms
- Access to tropical forests and hot springs
Highlights Points
- Desa Dairy Farm – “Little New Zealand” with lush pastures
- Kinabalu Park – UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Poring Hot Springs – Natural thermal pools
- Sabah Tea Garden – Picturesque highland plantation
- Kundasang War Memorial – Scenic cultural landmark
Ideal For
Photographers, hikers, families, and nature enthusiasts
2. Kota Kinabalu → Kudat (Tip of Borneo)
A scenic coastal drive to the northernmost tip of Borneo with ocean vistas and local culture.
Distance & Duration
~190 km | ~3 hours
Difficulty & Surface Type
Easy to Moderate | Asphalt, some narrow stretches
Route
Kota Kinabalu → Tamparuli → Kota Marudu → Kudat → Tip of Borneo
Why Nature Lovers Love It
- Unspoiled coastal scenery and cliffs
- Ideal for sunrise and sunset photography
- Secluded villages with cultural charm
Highlights Points
- Tip of Borneo – South China Sea meets Sulu Sea
- Kudat Beach Villages – Secluded beaches
- Sunset Views – Perfect for photographers and couples
Ideal For
Couples, photographers, road trip adventurers
3. Kota Kinabalu → Sandakan
Long drive through eastern Sabah with tropical lowlands, river ecosystems, and wildlife encounters.
Distance & Duration
~430 km | ~6 hours
Difficulty & Surface Type
Moderate | Mostly asphalt, occasional rough roads
Route
Kota Kinabalu → Tamparuli → Ranau → Telupid → Sandakan
Why Nature Lovers Love It
- Tropical rainforest and riverine ecosystems
- Opportunities to spot wildlife in natural habitats
- Access to biodiversity hotspots
Highlights Points
- Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre – Observe rescued orangutans
- Kinabatangan River – River safari for proboscis monkeys and pygmy elephants
- Rainforest Discovery Centre – Birdwatching and canopy walks
Ideal For
Wildlife enthusiasts, adventure seekers, eco-tourists
4. Kota Kinabalu → Tambunan via Crocker Range
Scenic drive through Crocker Range mountains with cool highland climate and lush forests.
Distance & Duration
~73 km | ~1.5–2 hours
Difficulty & Surface Type
Moderate | Asphalt, narrow stretches
Route
Kota Kinabalu → Penampang → Tambunan via Crocker Range
Why Nature Lovers Love It
- Lush mountain forests and fresh air
- Rare flora including Rafflesia flower
- Peaceful highland landscapes
Highlights Points
- Crocker Range Scenic Drive – Panoramic views
- Tambunan Rafflesia Reserve – World’s largest flower
- Local Highland Villages – Cultural immersion
Ideal For
Botanists, photographers, nature enthusiasts
5. Kota Kinabalu → Klias River, Beaufort
Scenic river drive to mangrove forests and wildlife-rich wetlands in western Sabah.
Distance & Duration
~110 km | ~2 hours
Difficulty & Surface Type
Easy | Asphalt, well-maintained
Route
Kota Kinabalu → Papar → Beaufort → Klias River
Why Nature Lovers Love It
- Mangrove ecosystems teeming with wildlife
- Firefly sightings along the river at dusk
- Peaceful river landscapes for photography
Highlights Points
- Klias Wetland – Diverse mangrove ecosystem
- Firefly River Cruise – Magical firefly display
- Proboscis Monkey Sightings – Rare wildlife encounters
Ideal For
Families, wildlife photographers, eco-tourists
Tips for Sabah Road Trips
- Best Months: March to November (dry season)
- Driving: Exercise caution on winding mountain roads
- Vehicle: 4WD recommended for rural/off-the-beaten-path routes
- Etiquette: Respect local culture and natural habitats
Conclusion
Sabah’s road trips are perfect for adventure seekers, wildlife enthusiasts, and photographers. From coastal cliffs to misty highlands and riverine ecosystems, these drives offer unforgettable views and rich cultural experiences. Whether you want to relax in a hot spring, spot orangutans, or photograph the sunset at the Tip of Borneo, Sabah has a scenic drive for every nature lover.
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