SABAH
Traveling to the Heart of Borneo: A Comprehensive Guide to Sabah
Sabah, fondly known as the 'Land Below the Wind,' is a paradise for nature and adventure lovers.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Sabah depends on your preferences and the activities you plan to engage in. Sabah generally experiences a tropical climate throughout the year, with warm temperatures and high humidity. However, there are a few factors to consider when choosing the ideal time for your visit:
Dry Season (April to October): This period is considered the best time to visit Sabah, as it offers relatively dry weather with lower chances of rainfall. The months of April to October are ideal for outdoor activities, such as climbing Mount Kinabalu, exploring national parks, wildlife spotting, and diving/snorkeling. It's worth noting that even during the dry season, rain showers can still occur, particularly in the rainforest areas.
Wet Season (November to March): Sabah experiences increased rainfall during the wet season, which may result in occasional heavy downpours and more humid conditions. While some travelers prefer to avoid this period, it can still be a good time to visit if you don't mind the rain. The rainforests are lush and vibrant, and the waterfalls are at their most impressive. Additionally, this is the low tourist season, so you may encounter fewer crowds and potentially enjoy discounted rates.
Considerations for Specific Activities: If your main focus is diving and snorkeling, the months of April to June and September to October are generally recommended when the seas are calmer and visibility is better. However, diving is possible year-round in Sabah, with some sites being accessible even during the wet season.
Ultimately, it's important to check the weather forecast and plan accordingly based on your interests and activities. Whether you choose the dry or wet season, Sabah offers breathtaking natural beauty and unique experiences throughout the year.
How to Get There
There are several ways to get to Sabah, Malaysia, depending on your starting point and preferred mode of transportation. Here are the common methods of reaching Sabah:
By Air: The most convenient way to reach Sabah is by air. Sabah has an international airport, Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI), which receives direct flights from major cities in Malaysia, as well as international destinations such as Singapore, Hong Kong, China, South Korea, and more. You can book flights to Kota Kinabalu from your nearest airport or connect through Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL), which serves as a major hub.
By Sea: If you prefer a more scenic route or are coming from nearby islands or countries, you can reach Sabah by sea. There are ferry services operating between Labuan, an island off the coast of Sabah, and Kota Kinabalu. Labuan also has connections to Brunei and mainland Malaysia via ferries.
Overland: If you are traveling from other parts of Malaysia, you can consider taking an overland route to Sabah. This typically involves traveling by bus or car. From major cities like Kuala Lumpur or Johor Bahru, you can take a bus to Kota Kinabalu or other cities in Sabah. The journey can be long and may require multiple transfers, so be prepared for the duration.
Once you arrive in Sabah, you can explore the state by utilizing local transportation options like taxis, ride-hailing services, buses, or renting a car if you prefer more independence and flexibility.
Top 10 Attractions and Activities
Mount Kinabalu: This majestic mountain is the highest peak in Malaysia, towering over 4,095 meters above sea level. It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its rich biodiversity. Hiking up Mount Kinabalu is a popular activity, offering a challenging yet rewarding experience with a breathtaking sunrise view from the summit.
Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre: Located in Sandakan, this centre rescues and rehabilitates orphaned orangutans, preparing them for re-entry into the wild. Visitors can witness feeding times and learn about conservation efforts.
Sipadan Island: Recognized as one of the best diving spots in the world, Sipadan Island boasts stunning underwater biodiversity, including turtles, sharks, and vibrant coral reefs. It's a diver's paradise, but note that a permit is required due to conservation measures.
Kinabatangan River: The second-longest river in Malaysia, it's renowned for its remarkable wildlife and unique ecosystems. River safaris are popular here, providing opportunities to spot proboscis monkeys, orangutans, pygmy elephants, and numerous bird species.
Danum Valley: This conservation area is one of the world's most complex ecosystems, housing a multitude of tropical flora and fauna. Here, you can embark on jungle treks, night safaris, and canopy walks, experiencing the rich biodiversity up close.
Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park: Comprising five islands, this marine park is only a short boat ride from Kota Kinabalu. It's an ideal spot for snorkeling and diving, with crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life.
Poring Hot Springs: Located in Ranau, these natural hot springs are believed to have therapeutic properties. You can relax in the hot sulphuric minerals, reputed to heal skin diseases and soothe aching muscles. The area also has a canopy walkway, offering a fantastic view of the rainforest from above.
Sabah Tea Garden: Nestled in the cool foothills of Mount Kinabalu, it's the only organic tea farm in Borneo. You can tour the plantation, learn about tea processing, and enjoy the panoramic views with a cup of locally brewed tea.
Mari Mari Cultural Village: This cultural village serves as a museum preserving Borneo's ethnic culture. You can explore traditional houses, witness cultural performances, and try local food, offering a glimpse into the rich heritage of Sabah's indigenous tribes.
Lok Kawi Wildlife Park: This family-oriented park hosts a variety of Borneo's wildlife, including orangutans, proboscis monkeys, Malayan tigers, and Bornean elephants. You can enjoy animal shows, feed the animals, or simply walk around observing these creatures in their enclosures.
Top 10 Shopping & Entertainment
Gaya Street Sunday Market: Located in the heart of Kota Kinabalu, Gaya Street transforms into a bustling marketplace every Sunday from as early as 6:30 AM until 1:00 PM. This is a great place to pick up unique local crafts, antiques, textiles, and even pets. You'll find a wide variety of street food stalls serving local delicacies, making it a paradise for foodies as well. Remember to haggle to get a good deal!
Imago Shopping Mall: Considered one of the most stylish shopping malls in Kota Kinabalu, Imago Shopping Mall offers a modern shopping experience. It houses a variety of retail outlets from international brands to local boutiques, making it perfect for fashion, electronics, and cosmetic shopping. In addition to retail therapy, the mall features a range of dining options, a cinema, and an indoor playground for kids.
1Borneo Hypermall: Billed as the largest lifestyle shopping mall in Borneo, 1Borneo Hypermall is a one-stop destination for shopping, dining, and entertainment. With hundreds of stores spanning high-end brands to local crafts, everyone is sure to find something they love. The mall also houses a supermarket, a variety of restaurants and cafes, a cinema, a bowling alley, a karaoke lounge, and even an aquarium. Its location on the outskirts of Kota Kinabalu offers stunning views of the sea and Mount Kinabalu.
Central Market (Pasar Besar) Kota Kinabalu: This is a vibrant wet market where you can find local produce, fresh seafood, and a variety of tropical fruits. It's a great place to experience local life and try exotic fruits like durian and mangosteen.
Handicraft Market (Formerly Filipino Market): This market is a haven for souvenir hunters. You can find a wide array of local handicrafts, including pearl jewelry, traditional musical instruments, hand-woven baskets, and Sabah's famous batik (wax-dyed cloth).
Suria Sabah Shopping Mall: Another popular shopping destination in the heart of Kota Kinabalu. The mall houses a mix of international and local brands, a supermarket, a food court, and a cinema.
Tanjung Aru Beach: If you're looking for leisure and entertainment, head to Tanjung Aru Beach. It's one of the best spots to catch a sunset in Kota Kinabalu. There's also a food court where you can try local seafood dishes.
Coco Cabana Miri: This entertainment venue offers a beautiful sunset view, various food and beverage outlets, and frequent live performances. The iconic Seahorse Lighthouse here is a popular photo spot.
Night Markets: Sabah's night markets, such as the Sinsuran Night Market and the Segama Waterfront Night Market, offer an array of local street foods. It's a great place to sample delicacies like satay (grilled skewered meat), grilled fish, and various local desserts.
Nightlife: Sabah, specifically Kota Kinabalu, offers a vibrant nightlife with a variety of entertainment options. Notable spots include Shenanigan's Fun Pub for live music and dancing, BED, one of the top clubs in the city, and The Waterfront Kota Kinabalu, a popular boardwalk area with numerous bars and restaurants. Sky Blu Bar, a rooftop bar with spectacular views, and Q Bar Sabah, known for its extensive cocktail menu, provide upscale experiences. KK Times Square is another buzzing area with trendy bars and eateries. Visitors should remember that the legal drinking age in Malaysia is 21 and are advised to respect local customs and traditions.
Local Cuisine and Restaurants
Sabah's cuisine is a delightful fusion of indigenous, Malay, Chinese, and Indian influences.
Hinava: A traditional Kadazan-Dusun dish, Hinava is essentially a pickled fish salad. Fresh raw fish is marinated in lime juice, which 'cooks' the fish, and then mixed with shallots, ginger, and bird’s eye chillies for a zesty, tangy flavor. It's often served as a starter or side dish.
Amplang: These are crunchy fish crackers that are a favorite snack in Sabah. Made from Spanish mackerel, tapioca starch, and other spices, Amplang is deep-fried until crispy and usually served with a chilli dip.
Ngiu Chap: Also known as Sabah beef noodle soup, Ngiu Chap is a comforting bowl of noodle soup loaded with tender beef slices, beef balls, and parts like stomach and intestines. The rich broth, flavored with star anise, cinnamon, and other spices, is a highlight of this dish.
Restaurants:
Welcome Seafood Restaurant: A popular seafood restaurant in Kota Kinabalu, it's known for offering fresh seafood at reasonable prices. You can pick your choice of seafood from their tanks and have it cooked to your liking. Signature dishes include the steamed grouper with soy sauce, butter prawns, and chili crabs.
D'Place Kinabalu: This restaurant specializes in traditional Kadazan dishes. It's a great place to try Hinava and other local dishes like Tuhau (a type of local ginger), Butod (sago worm), and Bamboo Chicken. The restaurant's interior, adorned with indigenous artifacts, provides an authentic dining ambiance.
Suang Tain Seafood Restaurant: Located in the city center, this restaurant is another excellent place for seafood. Their signature dish is the steamed fish with lime sauce.
Accommodations
In Sabah, you'll find a wide range of accommodations to suit different budgets and preferences. Whether you're looking for luxury resorts, city hotels, or budget hostels, Sabah has something to offer.
Luxury:
Shangri-La's Rasa Ria Resort & Spa: Located on the enchanting Pantai Dalit beach, this resort is the epitome of luxury. It boasts an 18-hole championship golf course, a spa, and a nature reserve where you can see Borneo's wildlife.
Bunga Raya Island Resort & Spa: Situated on Gaya Island, this resort offers villines nestled in the hillside with views of the South China Sea. You can indulge in the resort's spa, private beach, and jungle surroundings.
Gaya Island Resort: Another luxurious option on Gaya Island, this resort combines a stunning natural environment with high-end amenities. It's an excellent choice for travelers looking for tranquility and nature.
Mid-Range:
Horizon Hotel: Located in the heart of Kota Kinabalu, Horizon Hotel offers comfortable rooms, a rooftop pool, and easy access to local attractions and shopping centers.
Avangio Hotel Kota Kinabalu: A stylish hotel located in the city's bustling business district. It features modern rooms, a pool, a gym, and a restaurant serving local and international cuisine.
The Klagan Hotel: Centrally located in Kota Kinabalu, this hotel offers modern amenities and is within walking distance to the waterfront and local markets.
Budget:
Borneo Beachouse (Backpackers): Located on Tanjung Aru Beach, this is a great budget option, particularly for backpackers. It offers dormitories, private rooms, and a relaxed, communal atmosphere.
Masada Backpacker: Situated in the heart of Kota Kinabalu, this budget accommodation offers clean dormitories, free breakfast, and friendly service. It's a short walk from local attractions and eateries.
Stay-In Lodge: Another budget-friendly option in Kota Kinabalu, this lodge offers both private rooms and dormitories. It's a popular choice for backpackers and solo travelers.
Regardless of where you choose to stay, you'll find Sabahan hospitality to be warm and welcoming. Remember to book in advance, particularly during peak travel seasons, to secure your preferred accommodation.
Itineraries
3-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Explore Kota Kinabalu and Visit Mari Mari Cultural Village
Start your day exploring Kota Kinabalu, the state's capital. Visit the Sabah State Museum to learn about Sabah's history and culture. Then, head to the Kota Kinabalu City Mosque and the Signal Hill Observatory Platform for panoramic views of the city. For lunch, try local delicacies at a restaurant in the city center. In the afternoon, visit the Mari Mari Cultural Village. Here, you'll get a glimpse into the life of Sabah's indigenous tribes, with traditional houses, craft demonstrations, and cultural performances. End your day with a waterfront dinner at the city's vibrant Waterfront district.
Day 2: Visit Kinabalu Park and Poring Hot Springs
Take a day trip to Kinabalu Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Enjoy the cool climate and explore the many nature trails, the Botanical Garden, and the canopy walk. Then head to Poring Hot Springs, where you can relax in the sulphuric mineral waters believed to have healing properties. If you're feeling adventurous, try the canopy walkway high up in the trees. Return to Kota Kinabalu for dinner.
Day 3: Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park
Spend your final day in the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park. Take a boat from Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal in Kota Kinabalu. You can island-hop between the five islands in the park - Gaya, Sapi, Manukan, Mamutik, and Sulug. The park is a paradise for snorkeling and diving, with vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. After a day in the sun, return to Kota Kinabalu.
5-Day Itinerary
Day 1 and 2: Same as the 3-day itinerary
Day 3: Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre
On the third day, take a flight or bus to Sandakan, then a short taxi ride to the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre. Watch as the orangutans are fed and learn about conservation efforts. Don't miss the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre next door.
Day 4: Kinabatangan River Safari
Travel to the Kinabatangan River for a wildlife safari. It's Sabah's longest river and home to a wide variety of wildlife, including elephants, crocodiles, and proboscis monkeys. River cruises take you close to the action, especially around dawn and dusk when animals are most active.
Day 5: Gomantong Caves and Rainforest Discovery Centre
Visit the Gomantong Caves, famous for their edible bird's nests. Then, head to the Rainforest Discovery Centre in Sandakan. Walk along the canopy walkway, explore the botanical gardens, and learn about Borneo's rainforests.
These itineraries cover a mix of cultural, natural, and wildlife experiences, showing the diversity that Sabah has to offer.
