Home / Destinations / Sabah

Sabah

Overview

Turn your 'adventure mode' on in Sabah, a place where wild rainforests, rich traditions, and tropical magic come to life. Nicknamed as "The Lost World," Sabah sits proudly on the northern edge of Borneo, where wild nature and human heritage reside side by side.

Home to Mount Kinabalu, Southeast Asia's highest peak, and the world's oldest rainforests (some over 130 million years old), this isn't your typical beach holiday (although, yes, the beaches are extremely beautiful).

Sabah is a place where orangutans swing above you, tribal music plays in the background, and tasty spicy seafood makes every bite exciting. It's full of fun, flavor, and adventure. It's perfect for solo adventurers, culture seekers, wildlife lovers, and families. So, grab your backpack (or your suitcase on wheels – no judgment!) and get ready to experience Malaysia's best-kept secret!

The Real History of Sabah

Sabah's history goes way back. Why? Because humans have been living here for over 28,000 years. Over time, powerful empires like Sri Vijaya and Majapahit ruled the region, followed by the Brunei Sultanate. Trade flourished, Islam spread, and Sabah became part of a rich cultural melting pot.

Then came the Europeans. The British tried (and failed) a few times to set up shop in Sabah before finally handing things over to the British North Borneo Chartered Company in 1881. They ran Sabah like a business until World War II when Japan invaded and caused major destruction.

After the war, Sabah became a British Crown Colony, and efforts to rebuild the state began. Finally, in 1963, Sabah joined Malaysia alongside Sarawak and Singapore (though Singapore left in 1965).

What's the Best Time to Visit Sabah?

If you are looking forward to blue skies and jungle treks without any rain, then you should plan your trip between March and September. This is the perfect time for island hopping, mountain hiking, diving with turtles, and exploring Sabah's lush national parks in their full sunny glory.

That said, Sabah doesn't have any unpredictable weather like some of its Southeast Asian neighbors. Its special spot below the monsoon belt has earned Sabah a poetic name, "The Land Below the Wind." So, even during the wetter months, like October to February, you will likely still get a good dose of sunshine between showers.

Things to do in Sabah

Let's discuss some of the exciting activities and things that you can do in Sabah.

1. Scuba Diving and Snorkelling

If you are into marine life, Sabah can be your underwater playground. The coral reefs here are teeming with colorful fish, sea turtles, reef sharks, and even giant clams.

World-famous dive spots include:

Sipadan
Mabul.

And if you are someone who prefers staying closer to the surface. Snorkeling gives you front-row seats to a living aquarium!

2. Golfing

Yes, you read it right: golfing in Sabah is a thing. The golf courses here are well-maintained, scenic, and surprisingly challenging. It's a good option for both beginners and seasoned players.

3. Spa and Wellness

Need a break from all those activities? Then, Sabah's spas are your go-to. It is rich in healing herbs and essential oils.

Local wellness practices are infused into:

Massages
Scrubs
Steams

4. Trekking in the Jungle

Sabah is a nature lover's paradise. It has lush rainforests that are wild and still largely unexplored, making it perfect for jungle trekking.

As you hike, you must keep your eyes out for —

Exotic birds
Monkeys
Orangutan

Oh, and don't forget to sniff out the Rafflesia; they are the world's largest (and stinkiest!) flower. The trails are dotted with waterfalls, rivers, and greenery that no Instagram filter can do justice to.

5. Bird Watching

Sabah is home to over 600 bird species, including some you won't find anywhere else in the world. If you are an expert with a zoom lens, you will love spots like Kinabalu Park and the Danum Valley.

Things to do in Sabah

6. Cruises

Hop on a river cruise and drift along Sabah's winding waterways. These serene journeys take you to mangroves, wildlife, and sometimes even fireflies that light up the night.

It's peaceful and perfect for –

Couples
Families
Solo explorers

7. Try Camping at Kabulongou Eco-Camp

For those craving an off-the-grid adventure, Kabulongou Eco-Camp might be intriguing. It's located deep in the Sabah rainforest near Pagalungan.

After a longboat ride and a 40-minute jungle hike (yes, you must earn that bliss), you'll arrive at the camp. The campsite consists of tents with cozy sleeping bags, tree planting on the way in, and evening dips in the natural stream nearby.

8. Hike Till the Vangkaakon Waterfall

Now, this is your jungle fairytale moment. Hidden deep within Sabah's pristine Class 1 Protected Forest Reserve, Vangkaakon Waterfall is a rare gem. Only select local operators like Orou Sapulot can bring you here, making it one of Sabah's most exclusive nature spots.

To get there, it's a mix of roads, jungle trails, and a short, scenic hike. But it's all worth it in the end.

9. Experience the Hot Spring

After a day full of climbing, trekking, or just soaking in Sabah's wild beauty, nothing feels better than slipping into a natural hot spring. Sabah's hot springs offer the perfect combo of relaxed and healing vibes. These mineral-rich waters are believed to soothe tired muscles and energize the body.

Pro Tip: Find a quiet spot, dip your feet (or your whole self!), and let the warmth melt everything else away.

Cultural Experiences in Sabha

When you visit Sabah, you are stepping into centuries-old traditions, tribes, and celebrations. Here's a list of the cultural activities that's waiting for you in Sabah:

Sabah Festival: Held throughout May, this is the celebration where more than thirty ethnic communities of Sabah represent what makes them so unique. This vibrant festival features traditional dances, music that gets your feet tapping, and a marketplace of indigenous crafts and local food.

Pesta Kelapa: This festival is held in June and is said to be Kudat's way of saying, "We love our coconuts, and you should too!" From coconut climbing competitions and games to delicious coconut-based dishes, this event showcases how deeply rooted this tropical fruit is in local life. Expect fun, food, and a fresh appreciation for what coconuts can do.

Sabah Dragon Boat Race: Every June, the peaceful waters of Likas Bay come alive with drums and dragon-headed boats racing. Rooted in Chinese tradition, this festival blends speed, teamwork, and cheering crowds. You will want a spot by the water (and maybe a camera ready for all those action shots).

Regatta Lepa: Usually held in April, this eye-catching event celebrates the Bajau community's seafaring legacy. "Lepa" are traditional single-mast wooden boats, and during this festival, they are in flags and ornaments. It has become one of Sabah's most iconic celebrations.

Attractions in Sabah You Should Not Miss Out

From mesmerizing peaks to magical marine parks, here are some of the must-see highlights you will want to pin on your travel map:

1. Mount Kinabalu: Mount Kinabalu, located in Kinabalu Park (a UNESCO triple-crowned site), is Malaysia's highest peak at 4,095.2 meters. Just 90 km from Kota Kinabalu, it's one of the world's most sought-after climbs. Known for its rich biodiversity and six distinct vegetation zones, it's both a natural wonder and a sacred site in local folklore.

2. Madai Caves: Located near Kunak in East Sabah, this 3,436-hectare protected forest is perfect for cave exploration, forest walks, and waterfall dips. Madai Cave is the main attraction, home to thousands of swiftlets whose nests are harvested thrice yearly by the local Ida'an people. It's also an important archaeological site with evidence of ancient human life.

3. MunorAulai Integrated Farm: This is a community-powered sustainability model that teaches villagers how to grow their own income from small plots. At MunorAulai, you can learn traditional farming methods, fish in a local pond, and even take a cooking class. It's hands-on, educational, and a perfect way to get to know the local way of life up close.

4. Kundasang War Memorial: The Kundasang War Memorial honors the brave souls, Australians, British, and locals, who died during WWII's tragic Sandakan Death Marches. Divided into four themed gardens (English, Australian, Bornean, and Contemplation), this memorial offers a moment to reflect and soak in stunning mountain views.

5. Desa Dairy Farm: Located in Kundasang, the Desa Dairy Farm is a slice of alpine charm with Mount Kinabalu looming in the backdrop. Visitors can sample fresh dairy products, watch the milking process, or just take in the crisp mountain air with an ice cream in hand.

Attractions in Sabah You Should Not Miss Out

6. Adenna Rafflesia Garden: The Rafflesia, known as the corpse flower (yes, it stinks!), is rare, massive, and beautiful. At Adenna Rafflesia Garden, you might just be lucky enough to witness it in bloom. The park is also home to other exotic plants and insects, making it a dreamland for nature photographers and botany geeks alike.

7. Pulau Tiga Marine Park: Yes, this is the original filming location for the first season of Survivor! But Pulau Tiga is an escape with mud volcanoes, snorkeling reefs, and lush jungle trails. Whether you are looking to soak in volcanic mud or dive into turquoise waters, this is your tropical paradise.

8. Maliau Basin: Maliau Basin, known as Sabah's "Lost World," is a remote, saucer-shaped rainforest basin famed for its untouched beauty and biodiversity.

These caves feature:

12 forest types
Numerous waterfalls (including the stunning 7-tier Maliau Falls)
Rare species like pygmy elephants, sun bears, and orangutans

It's ideal for jungle trekking and bird watching, and it also houses a research center for conservation and ecotourism.

9. Turtle Island Park

Located about 45 minutes by boat from Sandakan, Turtle Island Park is a protected marine sanctuary made up of three islands:

Selingan
Bakkungan Kechil
Gulisan

It's where you will find endangered Green and Hawksbill turtles.

Selingan Island is the only one open to visitors for turtle watching, usually at night. You can watch turtles lay eggs, see hatchlings released into the sea, and even adopt a turtle nest.

How to Travel to Sabah?

Reaching Sabah is easiest by air, with Kota Kinabalu International Airport being the main entry point. Most international travelers arrive via Kuala Lumpur with connecting flights to Sabah operated by airlines. Be sure to carry a printed copy of your visa, as soft copies are not accepted at immigration.

Getting around Sabah can be challenging, especially for those unfamiliar with the region. Attractions are often located in remote areas, so while taxis, ridesharing (like Grab), and car rentals are available, they may not always be convenient. It's highly recommended to use licensed tour operators or book guided itineraries, particularly for exploring offbeat destinations like jungles, islands, and mountainous areas.

Best Eateries in Sabah

Selera Soborong	Borneo Spice	My Happy Meals
Kedai Kopi Baru Bar Lock Yuen	Housia Café	Anjung Lepa
Empire Seafood Restaurant	Little Sulap	My Native, Hotel No.5

Places to Stay in Sabah

Places to Stay in Sabah

Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu
The Pacific Sutera
Shangri La Rasa Ria, Kota Kinabalu
The Magellan Sutera Resort
Nexus Resort & Spa Karambunai
Hilton Kota Kinabalu

What is all to pack for your Sabah trip

Now that everything is set for your Sabah trip, the last thing to do is to pack. Here's a list of things that you must be packing on your trip.

Vitamin C and other Supplement
Sunscreen
Common medicines for nausea, upset stomach, painkillers, and headache
Personal hygiene products
Necessary gears and swimming wear
All the legal documents like passport
Insect replicant

Day 1,2, 3 and 4

Day 1: Arrival and Leisure

Land at Kota Kinabalu (KKIA) and settle in your accommodation.
Then, explore Gaya Street Sunday Market, stroll along the waterfront, and check out the Kota Kinabalu floating mosque at sunset.
Sample local street eats, such as tuaran mee and fresh seafood.
You can even enjoy a spa or massage session and relax for the day.

Day 2: Tembara River Cruise

The first thing that you will do in the morning is to get to Tuaran (about 45 minutes).
Then, take the Tembara River Cruise that floats through serene mangroves. The tour ends with a magical firefly-lit night cruise.
In the evening, return to Kota Kinabalu.

Day 3: Kinabalu Park

Depart Kota Kinabalu early for the 2hour drive to Kinabalu Park. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site.
You can follow the forest trails for hiking and visit the mountain garden to enjoy a picnic.
Opt for longer trails like Poring Hot Springs and canopy walk, or simply relax around the park.
Stay the night in Kundasang or near the park.

Day 4: Mari Mari Cultural Village and Return to Kota Kinabalu

Buckle up and head to Mari Mari Cultural Village to learn about five indigenous tribes - Dusun, Rungus, Murut, Lundayeh, and Bajau. Enjoy hands-on demos (fire-starting, blowpipe, tattoo-making, rice wine) and cultural performances.
Return to Kota Kinabalu. Relax at the beach or explore local galleries and shops.
Dine at a waterfront café with live music.
Island Hopping or Kota Kinabalu Exploration

Day 5,6 and 7

Day 5: Island Hopping or Kota Kinabalu Exploration

For today, we have two options:

Option A: Island Hopping

Take a full-day cruise to Manukan, Sapi, or Pulau Tiga for snorkeling, swimming, and beach time.

Option B: City and Nature Sights

Visit the Upside-Down House and Tamparuli Suspension Bridge in Tuaran.
Enjoy riverside walking trails and local handicrafts.

Day 6: Summit Village and Kundasang

Visit Desa Dairy Farm for fresh ice cream and mountain views.
Pay respects at the Kundasang War Memorial and wander its peaceful gardens.
Stop at Adenna Rafflesia Garden (seasonal blooms) or try trekking to a nearby waterfall.
Return to Kota Kinabalu.

Day 7: Departure

You can visit Sepilok Orangutan Sanctuary or a river cruise (Kinabatangan) to spot proboscis monkeys, hornbills, and crocodiles.
Then, return to Kota Kinabalu, shop for souvenirs, or enjoy a final local meal.
Head to the airport.

Take a Quiz

Can't finish the course?

Can't finish the course?

Overview

The Real History of Sabah

What's the Best Time to Visit Sabah?

Things to do in Sabah

Things to do in Sabah

Cultural Experiences in Sabha

Attractions in Sabah You Should Not Miss Out

Attractions in Sabah You Should Not Miss Out

How to Travel to Sabah?

Places to Stay in Sabah

What is all to pack for your Sabah trip

Day 1,2, 3 and 4

Day 5,6 and 7

Existing Agents Login Here

Reset Password