Malaysia: Sabah, Kinabalu Summit

Challenging climb to Malaysia's highest point

About this tour

Mt. Kinabalu is the highest point of Malaysia: a solid granite rock of 4095m, that is still pushed upwards and continues to grow several milimeters per year. A challenging and exhausting climb to the summit, that consists of 2 parts: the first part from 1800m to 3300m, overnight in a mountain cabin and then the second part to the summit. You can view the sunrise from the top and look over vast areas of Sabah. But be prepared: mountainering expertise is not necessary, but you do need to have an excellent condition, strong legs and knees and a good deal of 

What will you do
  • transfer to and from Kota Kinabalu
  • overnight near the entrance to Kinabalu National Park
  • the hike includes a (compulsoary) local guide
  • overnicht in a mountain cabin at 3300m
  • climb to the summit for sunrise
Where

Mount Kinabalu dominates the state of Sabah, in the northeastern corner of Borneo. From Kota Kinabalu city, it is a 2,5 hour ride to the entrance of Kinabalu National Park (85km). You will be transferred from the city to the entrance  ot the park, where you spend the first night in a hotel, before starting the climb the next day. After the climb, you will be transferred back to Kota Kinabalu.

Itinerary

Day 1

Transfer from Kota Kinabalu to entrance to Kinabalu NP | From Kota Kinabalu a transfer will drive you in around 2,5 hours to the entrance to Kinabalu National Park. You will make a stop at Nabalu market on the way. Rest of the to relax and get used to the altitude.

Day 2

Start of the climb to Laban Rata | After registration at the park's HQ, you will start the climb at 1850m altitude. The first day, you will walk around 6km, to the mountain cabin Laban Rata at 3300m. The first 4km will be through forests, the last 2km in open terrain with low bushes and rocky patches. Most climbers will take 3-5 hours to get to Laban Rata. You will spend the night in a mountain cabin, dormitory style. 

Day 3

Summit Trail, back to Kota Kinabalu | Early in the morning, you will start the final climb to the summit at 4095. The trail is 2,7km and passes through open terrain and vast rocky areas. At some parts, there are steep stairs and you can use ropes to find your way and pull yourself up. After reaching the summit, it is back to Laban Rata for breakfast and then continue the descent all the way back to the park HQ. Your transfer will drive you back to Kota Kinabalu

Additional info
  • based on 2 persons and low season prices
  • based on standard and mid range hotels, subject to availability
  • Including CO2-offset
  • the program can always be adjusted to your personal wishes

The trip connects with the Sabah hightlights tour and also with trips on mainland Malaysia and Sarawak. Catch a flight from Kota Kinabalu to your next destination (Kuala Lumpur, Miri, Kuching, Sandakan).