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Kota Kinabalu

Adventure capital of Malaysia, gateway to iconic Mt Kinabalu and the oldest rainforests in the world

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Top things to do in Kota Kinabalu

Climb Mt Kinabalu, Malaysia's Highest Peak

Mt Kinabalu is one of our fave SEA hikes! The varied views keep things exciting, and the summit feels you're walking on the moon. Beginners can do it with training. Highly recommended!

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Explore UNESCO Kinabalu Geopark

If you don't fancy climbing Mt Kinabalu, you can still see the gorgeous UNESCO Kinabalu geopark on a easy day trip. You'll also get to see local villages and get to know Dusun culture.

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Spot Probiscus Monkeys + Fireflies at Klias River

This is a surprisingly fun one! Spot cheeky probiscus monkeys (with the long nose), crocodiles and fireflies on a cruise down Klias river. It's chill and adventurous at the same time.

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Historic Colonial Train Ride

For train lovers! Ride a historic colonial-era train through Sabah’s scenic countryside for great views. For more adventure, combine it with Padas white-water rafting on the same trip!

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Catch sunset from the water!

Kota Kinabalu has some of the best sunsets we’ve ever seen (and it’s even been voted one of the world’s best!). Catch sunset from the water—it’s fiery and stunning!

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White water rafting - easy to intermediate!

One of the most fun ways to explore the lush countryside around Kota Kinabalu is by river rafting! The rapids range from beginner friendly to intermediate - so anyone can enjoy them!

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Snokelling & Diving at TARP Marine Park

Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park is popular spot for snorkelling & diving. However it's not well maintained (not much coral + trash), so if you go, try to avoid the more touristed islands

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Jungle survival in Ancient Rainforest

For off-grid lovers! Head into the ancient Borneo rainforest with a jungle expert, learn survival techniques, camp and enjoy dinner under the stars. You won't forget this!

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Deramakot: Clouded Leopard & Pygmy Elephants

Borneo’s best kept wildlife secret, Deramakot, is a few hours from Kota Kinabalu. Spend 3D2N here and spot clouded leopards, pygmy elephants, flying squirrels, and civet cats!

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Maliau Basin: World's Most Untouched Rainforest

Maliau Basin is the world's most untouched rainforest, 130M years old (much older than the Amazon!) and a day's drive from Kota Kinabalu. Spend 3D2N here for hiking & wildlife spotting.

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Start Planning

Choose individual experiences or stack them to complete your trip.