Things to do in Sabah
Covered in dense jungle and surrounded by ocean, Borneo's enduring reputation for danger repels many would-be visitors, but also adds to its mystique. Sabah occupies the northern part of the island and its many natural splendours will speak to nature lovers. Hikers, divers and extreme sports fanatics will find lots to do, and animal lovers can enjoy the region's incredible biodiversity.
Sabah's list of attractions includes the Sepilok Orangutan Sanctuary, where visitors can watch and sometimes interact with the loveable animals in their natural habitat, and the Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park. The park comprises five gorgeous islands, which offer white beaches, coral reefs and jungle hikes. Sipadan Island is touted as the best dive site in the world, and is a bucket list item for any serious scuba diver. Sabah is also home to Malaysia's highest mountain: the impressive Mount Kinabalu. The two-day hike to the summit is one of the most popular activities in Malaysia.
Apart from its wealth of parks, reserves, and sanctuaries, Sabah has a number of interesting cultural attractions. Village tours and treks to tribal settlements in the rainforest are fascinating, and the North Borneo Steam Railway offers a round-trip from Kota Kinabalu. The route takes passengers through the Sabah landscape and back in time, as the experience is distinctly colonial. Travellers who are interested in World War II history should visit the extremely moving Sandakan Prison Camp Memorial. It delves into the experiences of prisoners of war and the Sandakan death marches.
Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park
Five pristine islands make up Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park, with each idyllic setting comprising white beaches, offshore coral reefs and inland forests teeming with animal life…
Sipadan Island
This mushroom-shaped island is known among divers around the world for its unique seascape and exceptional beauty. Around 3,000 varieties of fish, hundreds of coral species, and nu…
Mount Kinabalu
Mount Kinabalu rises from the Kinabalu National Park and, at an impressive 13,500-foot (4,101m), is one of the highest peaks in Southeast Asia. It's a relatively easy climb, though…
Sepilok Forest Reserve and Orangutan Sanctuary
Sabah District's vast, enchanting equatorial rainforest is home to the Sepilok Orangutan Sanctuary, where orphaned orangutans find temporary shelter and rehabilitation before their…