SABAH

Situated in Malaysian Borneo, Sabah has lush tropical rainforests and stunning tropical islands teeming with an incredible diversity of marine life. The 32 ethnic  groups here make it a land if colorful and intriguing cultures. Kota Kinabalu is Sabah’s vibrant capital and gateway to eco-adventures such as diving, river cruising, mountain climbing, white-water rafting and caving.

Sabah has a wide range of accommodation to suit any preference and budget. Several well-appointed beach resorts are located close to the capital city. Budget accommodation is widely available. Enjoy the wide variety of cuisine, from local delights to Continental fare.

Kota Kinabalu International Airport is the main entry point into the state. Sabah is easily accessible by frequent short-haul flights from the Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) in Peninsular Malaysia. Visitors can also fly in from the Kuching International Airport in Sarawak as well as major cities in Malaysia. The Kota Kinabalu Port welcomes tourists arriving by cruise ships. Private yachts can dock at Sutera Harbour Marina.

Sabah Museum 

This museum in Kota Kinabalu is built in the longhouse style of the Rungus and Murut communities. It showcases a wealth of ethnic treasures and handicrafts. History lovers will be charmed by the Sabah Tourism Building, one of the only three buildings in Kota Kinabalu to have survived World War II. Other attractions in the city include the State Mosque, Museum of Islamic Civilization, Atkinson Clock Tower and Signal Hill.

Mount Kinabalu

The  majestic Mount Kinabalu, standing at 4,095.2m, is one of the highest peaks in Southeast Asia. It is the main attraction of Kinabalu Park, Malaysia’s first World Heritage Site. This dense jungle contains one of the world’s richest assemblage of plants. Don’t miss a visit to the Poring Hot Springs, and natural health spa offering open-air Japanese-style baths. The annual Mount Kinabalu international Climbathon draws participants from around the world.

Sipadan  Island

Sabah has a number of excellent dive spots, with the jewel being the world-famous Sipadan. Its location at the heart of the Indo Pacific Basin makes it one of the richest marine habitats in the world. Here, fascinating sights of turtles, reef sharks and a thrilling 600m drop-off await experienced divers. The island was made famous by renowned oceanographer Jacques Cousteau in his documentary, ‘Ghosts of the Sea Turtle’.

Mabul and Kapalai Island

Situated near to Sipadan, these two islands are great destinations for macro-diving.

Other Dive Sites

A ring of 13 coral atolls, Layang Layang is another world-class dive site of unique character. It offers the best chance to spot hammerhead sharks along with many kinds of pelagic, A comucopia of fish life and wreck diving are major attractions in Mantanani. Other dive sites include Pulau Tiga, famed as the Survivor island as well as Lankayan and Mataking.

Tunku Abudul Rahman Park

Enjoy splashing fun at this marine park, situated just 20 minutes by speedboat from Kota Kinabalu. Made up of five islands, it is the ideal playground for swimming, snorkeling, diving and even parasailing. Don’t miss the unique experience of seawalking amidst clourful fishes.

Monsopiad  Cultural Village

Go back in time, to the era of the legendary Kadazan warrior Monsopiad. Founded by the direct descendant of Monsopiad, this living museum showcases traditional village houses, a sacred House of Skulls and several other attractions. Don’t miss the exciting cultural performance.

Sunday Gaya Street Market

This open-air market is the place to get handicrafts, local delicacies and fresh jungle produce. The Tamu Kota Belud is another popular Sunday market for all things traditional. Watch the vibrantly dressed Bajau horsemen riding gaily decorated ponies during ceremonial occasions. They are known as Cowboys of the East for their horsemanship.

White – Water Rafting

Enjoy the heart-stopping experience of contending the rapids! The Padas and Kiulu Rivers are popular for river rafting activities.

 Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre

Watch orang utans, known as the wild man of Borneo during the daily feeding sessions. Said to be the world’s largest orang utan sanctuary, the centre serves to rescue and retrain primates for jungle living. Off the mainland, Turtle Islands Park is reputed to be one of the most important turtle breeding spots in Southeast Asia.

Sukau

Situated on the Lower Kinabatangan River, Sukau has Malaysia’s greatest wildlife concentration. Prolific bird species and animals such as orang utans, crocodiles and proboscis monkeys live along the reverie Wetlands. Enjoy a boat ride to take a close look. En route, visit Gomantong Caves, home to millions of swiftlets. They are prized for the bird’s nest soup.

Danum Valley Conservation Area

Sabah’s largest expanse of lowland dipterocarp forest is haven to various bird species, reptiles, amphibians, fishes and over 110 mammals. Viewing platforms, a canopy walkway and nocturnal tours are not-to-be-missed adventures.

Tabin Wildlife Reserve

Hailed as one of the finest wildlife viewing areas in Borneo, Tabin is home to some of the largest mammals in Sabah such as the Borneo Pygmy Elephant and Sumatran rhino. A highlight here is the mud volcano, reputed to possess healing properties.

Lok Kawi Wildlife Park

The park  is located approximately 25km from Kota Kinabalu and comprises of zoological and botanical sections. It is home to various unique wildlife of Borneo such as the proboscis monkey, orange-utan as well as the Asian pygmy elephant. Other attractions include a children’s Zoo and a botanical trial which features numerous local plants.

Kudat Long House

Make a visit to the traditional long house of the Rungus tribe. Their traditional attire and intriguing culture will make your trip unforgettable. Home stays are fascinating  way to observe their lifestyle.

 

Golfing

The state boasts many superb golf resorts designed by world-renowned names such as Ronald Fream and Ted Parslow. Major resorts are situated in Kota Kinabalu, Bongawan, Tuaran, Karambunai, Tawau and  Kundasang.

The Tip of Borneo

Experience the thrill of standing at land’s end! Simpang Mengyau Bay is the northwestern tip of Borneo. It offers glorious views of the sea and surrounding islands.