Overview
Sabah, located in the Malaysian state of Borneo, is one of Southeast Asia’s top destinations for eco-tourism and wildlife adventures. With dense rainforests, towering mountains, and rivers teeming with life, Sabah is perfect for those looking to reconnect with nature.
This 3-day, 2-night (3D2N) itinerary is ideal for travelers seeking a well-balanced blend of highland exploration in Kinabalu Park and wildlife safaris along the Kinabatangan River. It’s a compact trip, yet rich in biodiversity, scenery, and local culture.
Tip: Travel light! A small backpack with essentials like a rain jacket, bug repellent, and walking shoes will make a big difference.
How to Get to Sabah
International Arrival
- Fly into Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI) – the main gateway to Sabah, with direct international flights from cities like Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, and Manila.
Tip: Choose morning arrivals if you want to maximize sightseeing time on Day 1.
Domestic Transfer
- To visit the Kinabatangan River, take a domestic flight from Kota Kinabalu to Sandakan (SDK).
- Flight duration: ~45 minutes
- Tip: Book domestic flights in advance, especially during holidays and dry season (March–October).
Land Transfers
- Kinabalu Park is just 1.5 to 2 hours from Kota Kinabalu by car or minivan.
- Tip: Vans leave from the city center (near the Night Market) and are an affordable option (RM15–18 one way).
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Kinabalu Park & Kundasang Highlands
Morning
Arrive at Kota Kinabalu (BKI) and head straight to Kinabalu Park Headquarters. The road to the park winds through scenic highland villages.
Tip: Stop along the way for views of Mount Kinabalu—early mornings offer the clearest skies.
Check into a cozy lodge in Kundasang, known for its fresh produce and cooler climate.
Afternoon
Explore Kinabalu Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with trails suitable for all levels. The Botanical Garden is a must-see for flora enthusiasts.
Tip: Ask park staff about trail conditions or sightings of blooming orchids and pitcher plants.
If time permits, visit Kundasang War Memorial, a peaceful historical site with beautifully maintained gardens.
Evening
Enjoy local food like fresh vegetables, wild fern stir-fry, and Sabah tea.
Tip: Pack a light jacket—temperatures in the highlands can drop in the evening.
Day 2: Poring Hot Springs + Kinabatangan River Safari
Morning
Transfer to Poring Hot Springs (~1 hour). Start your visit with the Canopy Walkway—a thrilling way to see the rainforest from above.
Tip: There’s a small fee for bringing phones or cameras on the walkway—bring some cash.
Afterward, soak in a natural hot spring, or explore the Butterfly Garden and Orchid Centre nearby.
Tip: Ask if any Rafflesia flowers are blooming—this rare event is unforgettable.
Afternoon
Return to Kota Kinabalu for your flight to Sandakan (SDK). Your Kinabatangan lodge operator will meet you at the airport for the transfer (~2–3 hours) to the river lodge.
Tip: Choose a lodge that includes all meals, guides, and activities—it simplifies everything.
Evening
After checking in, go on your first river safari. Sunset is ideal for spotting proboscis monkeys, hornbills, and—if you’re lucky—pygmy elephants.
Tip: Wear neutral-colored clothing for wildlife viewing, and bring binoculars for a closer look.
Enjoy dinner at the lodge. Some lodges offer optional night walks to spot slow lorises, civets, and even sleeping birds.
Day 3: Wildlife Encounters & Rehabilitation Centres
Morning
Start with a sunrise river cruise, when wildlife is most active.
Tip: Morning mist over the river adds a magical touch to your photos—charge your camera the night before!
Return for breakfast, then check out. Some tours include a short jungle trek or visit to an oxbow lake before heading to Sandakan.
Afternoon
Visit the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre to watch orangutans during feeding (10 AM or 3 PM). Right next door is the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre.
Tip: Arrive early to get a good viewing spot on the platforms.
Wrap up with a visit to Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary for up-close views of this uniquely bizarre species.
Tip: The 11:30 AM and 2:30 PM feeding times are less crowded than the early ones.
Evening
Transfer to Sandakan Airport (SDK) for your flight back to Kota Kinabalu (BKI).
Tip: Book a flight after 5 PM to ensure you don’t rush through the afternoon activities.
Alternatives & Customizations
- Add a Mount Kinabalu summit climb (2D1N) for a high-altitude adventure (must book permits early).
- Spend extra nights in Kinabatangan for more river cruises and jungle hikes.
- Visit Danum Valley or Tabin Wildlife Reserve for deeper, off-grid rainforest experiences (higher cost, more remote).
- If skipping Sandakan, focus on day trips near KK like Klias River Safari or Tunku Abdul Rahman Park for island hopping.
Recommended Stays
| Location | Lodges / Hotels |
|---|---|
| Kinabalu Park | Kinabalu Park Lodge, Sutera Sanctuary Lodges |
| Kundasang | Celyn Resort, Nikgold Garden Resort Kundasang |
| Kinabatangan | Sukau Rainforest Lodge, Borneo Natural Sukau Lodge |
| Sandakan | Sepilok Nature Resort, MY Nature Resort |
| Kota Kinabalu | Gaya Island Resort, The Jesselton Hotel |
Tip: Book accommodations with meals included if you’re staying in remote areas.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Diverse nature experiences in a short time
- Wildlife-rich river cruises and lush mountain trails
- Well-organized tour options with guides
Cons
- Multiple transfers (car + flights)
- Lodge stays may be basic (limited Wi-Fi, no A/C in some areas)
- Wildlife sightings aren’t guaranteed—nature is unpredictable!
Tip: Go with an open mind and focus on the whole experience, not just sightings.
Final Thoughts
With misty mountains, steamy rivers, and incredible wildlife, this 3D2N trip delivers a concentrated hit of Sabah’s natural beauty. It’s the perfect itinerary for travelers who want to unplug, discover rare animals, and explore one of Borneo’s last wild frontiers—all without needing a full week.
