About the Place
Located on the northern tip of Borneo, Sabah is one of Malaysia’s most naturally blessed states. It’s a sanctuary of ancient rainforests, rare wildlife, towering mountains, and diverse marine ecosystems. Home to Bornean orangutans, proboscis monkeys, pygmy elephants, and over 6,000 plant species, Sabah is a hotspot for eco-tourism and biodiversity.
Whether you’re trekking to misty mountain peaks or cruising through riverine jungles, Sabah delivers unforgettable nature experiences with a focus on sustainability and conservation.
Highlights
- Mount Kinabalu – Malaysia’s highest peak (4,095m)
- Kinabatangan River – Best for river safaris and wildlife cruises
- Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre – Up-close orangutan encounters
- Danum Valley – 130-million-year-old rainforest with clouded leopards
- Poring Hot Springs – Canopy walks and natural hot baths
- Maliau Basin – The “Lost World” of Borneo
Things to Do
- Jungle trekking through Danum Valley and Maliau Basin
- Join a river safari in Kinabatangan for elephants, monkeys, and crocs
- Soak in natural hot springs at Poring Hot Spring
- Walk among the treetops with rainforest canopy bridges
- Observe orangutans at Sepilok or Lok Kawi Wildlife Park
- Camp and stargaze at Mondikot Deer Camp
- Explore limestone caves like Gomantong and Agop Batu Tulug
Top Places to Stay
| Location | Accommodation | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Danum Valley | Borneo Rainforest Lodge | Luxury eco-lodge |
| Kinabatangan | Sukau Rainforest Lodge | Riverfront lodge |
| Kinabalu Park | Sutera Sanctuary Lodges | Mountain retreat |
| Sepilok | Sepilok Nature Resort | Garden chalets |
| Maliau Basin | Maliau Basin Study Centre | Expedition-style |
How to Get There
Primary Gateway:
Fly into Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI), which connects to major Malaysian and international cities.
Local Transport Options:
- Domestic flights to Sandakan, Lahad Datu, or Tawau
- Express buses to Sandakan, Kinabatangan, and Keningau
- Taxis and car rentals for flexible travel
- Boat transfers for river lodges in Kinabatangan
Top Attractions
Kinabalu Park
- Malaysia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Entry point to Mount Kinabalu and canopy walks at Poring Hot Springs
Lok Kawi Wildlife Park
- Family-friendly zoo with pygmy elephants, tigers, and gibbons
Mondikot Deer Camp
- Rustic getaway in Papar with fruit orchards, fishing ponds, and bonfires
Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre
- Home to 60–80 semi-wild orangutans
- Feeding sessions at 10AM & 3PM
Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary
- Spot 10 species of primates on river cruises
- Birdwatching, night hikes, and trips to Gomantong Cave
Danum Valley Conservation Area
- Trek through primary rainforest with sightings of leopards, hornbills, and orangutans
Maliau Basin
- Remote conservation zone with 7-tier Maliau Falls, montane forests, and rare wildlife
Top Food Point: Welcome Seafood Restaurant, Kota Kinabalu
One of the most popular dining spots for travellers and locals alike, Welcome Seafood Restaurant is known for its live seafood and authentic Malaysian-Chinese cooking.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Kam Heong Crab
- Butter Prawns
- Salted Egg Squid
- Steamed Grouper
- Stir-fried Sabah Vegetable (Sayur Manis)
Location: Asia City, Kota Kinabalu
Nature and Wildlife Adventures in Sabah Opening Hours: 11AM – 11PM daily
Final Thoughts
Sabah is a dream destination for eco-travellers and wildlife enthusiasts. From its majestic mountains and protected rainforests to its teeming rivers and conservation centres, the state represents the best of Malaysia’s natural heritage.
By choosing Sabah, you’re not only embarking on an unforgettable adventure—you’re also supporting efforts in wildlife protection and sustainable tourism. So pack your gear, grab your camera, and let Sabah’s wild beauty leave you in awe.
