Best Hiking Trails in Sabah for Wildlife and Nature

Sabah, located on the northern tip of Borneo, is a hiker’s paradise where lush rainforests, towering mountains, and diverse wildlife come together. From the legendary Mount Kinabalu to remote jungle treks in the Maliau Basin, Sabah offers hiking trails that showcase some of the world’s richest biodiversity. Whether you’re a casual hiker or an adventurous trekker, these trails promise unforgettable encounters with nature and wildlife.

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1. Mount Kinabalu – World Heritage Wonder

Location: Kinabalu Park, Kundasang
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Duration: 2 days (summit climb) or 1–3 hours (shorter trails)

Mount Kinabalu is Sabah’s most iconic peak and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. While the summit climb is a bucket-list adventure, Kinabalu Park also offers easier trails such as Silau-Silau and Bukit Tupai. The elevation gradient means you’ll pass through diverse ecosystems, from tropical rainforest to alpine vegetation. Expect to see pitcher plants, rare orchids, and endemic bird species.

Wildlife highlights: Mountain shrews, Bornean tree shrews, hornbills, and pitcher plants.

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2. Maliau Basin – The Lost World of Sabah

Location: Central Sabah
Difficulty: Challenging
Duration: 3–5 days

Nicknamed the “Lost World,” the Maliau Basin is a remote wilderness filled with unspoiled rainforest, waterfalls, and rare wildlife. Multi-day treks take you through dense jungle, river crossings, and the famous seven-tiered Maliau Falls. With minimal human impact, this is one of Sabah’s purest natural treasures.

Wildlife highlights: Clouded leopards, Bornean elephants, hornbills, and unique rainforest flora.

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3. Danum Valley Conservation Area – Pristine Rainforest Trails

Location: Lahad Datu
Difficulty: Moderate
Duration: Half-day to multi-day

Danum Valley is one of the best places in the world for wildlife spotting. Its well-preserved lowland rainforest offers guided treks, canopy walks, and night safaris. Expect encounters with orangutans, gibbons, hornbills, and other rare species. The jungle trails immerse you in Sabah’s biodiversity at its finest.

Wildlife highlights: Orangutans, proboscis monkeys, pygmy elephants, hornbills, and exotic insects.

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4. Rafflesia Forest Reserve – Home of the Giant Flower

Location: Tambunan
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Duration: 1–2 hours

This forest reserve is famous for the giant Rafflesia flower, the largest flower in the world. Trails through the montane forest provide opportunities to see these rare blooms alongside orchids and other native plants. The hikes are relatively short and suitable for families.

Wildlife highlights: Rafflesia blooms, butterflies, insects, and montane forest birds.

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5. Kinabatangan River Trails – Jungle and Wildlife Encounters

Location: Sandakan Region
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Duration: Flexible (1–3 hours per trail)

Although best known for river cruises, the Kinabatangan region also offers short jungle treks. Trails near the riverbanks provide close encounters with proboscis monkeys, hornbills, and even pygmy elephants. These walks are often combined with boat trips for a full wildlife experience.

Wildlife highlights: Proboscis monkeys, pygmy elephants, crocodiles, and birdlife.

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6. Crocker Range National Park – Waterfalls and Cool Forests

Location: Tambunan & Tenom
Difficulty: Moderate
Duration: Half-day to multi-day

The Crocker Range offers cooler climates and less crowded trails compared to Kinabalu. Highlights include the trek to Mahua Waterfall and village-to-village hikes that immerse you in local culture. The lush forests are alive with birds, small mammals, and refreshing streams.

Wildlife highlights: Forest birds, orchids, and smaller rainforest mammals.

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7. Short Hikes near Kota Kinabalu – Scenic & Accessible

Location: Kota Kinabalu & Kundasang
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Duration: 1–2 hours

If you’re short on time, trails like Bukit Kopungit, Bukit Perahu, and Bukit Botak are perfect for quick adventures. These hikes reward you with panoramic views of the city, sea, and surrounding forests. While not as wildlife-rich as deep jungle treks, they provide easy access to Sabah’s natural beauty.

Wildlife highlights: Local birds, butterflies, and forest flora.

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Tips for Hiking in Sabah

• Best time to hike: March to October (drier season)
• Permits required: Needed for Mount Kinabalu, Maliau Basin, and Danum Valley
• Hire a guide: Essential for remote treks and wildlife safety
• Pack smart: Rain jacket, sturdy boots, insect repellent, and leech socks are highly recommended
• Respect wildlife: Keep distance, avoid feeding animals, and follow conservation rules

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Conclusion

Sabah is one of Southeast Asia’s ultimate hiking destinations, offering everything from short scenic trails to challenging jungle expeditions. Whether you want to summit Mount Kinabalu, witness the mysterious Rafflesia flower, or trek through the untouched Danum Valley, every trail brings you closer to Borneo’s extraordinary wildlife and nature. For hikers and nature lovers, Sabah is truly an unforgettable adventure.