Mount Kinabalu Expeditions: Summit Sabah Tours
Embark on an iconic climb up Southeast Asia's highest peak, a journey offering breathtaking vistas and a profound sense of accomplishment.
Mount Kinabalu, the majestic guardian of Sabah, Borneo, stands as a formidable yet achievable challenge for adventurers. This granite massif, rising to a staggering 4,095.2 meters (13,435.7 feet), is not merely a mountain; it's a UNESCO World Heritage Site teeming with unique biodiversity, from montane forests to alpine scrub. Expedition tours to Mount Kinabalu offer a structured approach to conquering this iconic peak, catering to a range of fitness levels and providing essential support for a safe and rewarding ascent. These excursions typically involve a two-day, one-night climb, with most participants staying overnight at hostels halfway up the mountain, allowing for acclimatization and a well-paced summit push in the early morning hours. The journey promises spectacular sunrises from the summit, diverse flora and fauna, and a profound connection with nature. Beyond the summit itself, the expedition provides an immersive experience into Kinabalu Park's rich ecosystems. As you ascend, the vegetation dramatically shifts, revealing rare orchids, pitcher plants, and various rhododendron species. The air thins, and the landscape transforms into rugged, windswept terrain as you approach the summit plateau. Tours are designed to manage the logistics, including park permits, accommodation, guiding services, and essential meals, allowing climbers to focus on the physical and mental aspects of the climb. For those seeking to tick a major accomplishment off their travel list, a Mount Kinabalu expedition is a highly sought-after adventure that delivers an unparalleled sense of achievement and memories that will last a lifetime. It’s an experience that blends physical exertion with natural wonder, making it a cornerstone of any Sabah itinerary.
Featured Mount Kinabalu Expeditions Tours
Discover our top picks for mount kinabalu expeditions in Sabah
Inhale the freshness of air in the morning while paddling along the mangrove path towards the sunrise point. Along the way, you could see the indigenous villagers tribe catching fish, crabs and commuting to ports to carry their daily life. At the sunrise point you will be served with the majestic view of Mt Kinabalu right in front of your eyes (breath taking view) and you will be relaxing and enjoying the beauty of the bay (sunrise point)
Mount Kinabalu is the Borneo’s highest peak in Sabah and it is renowned world heritage site. It stands 4,095m Height with breathtaking views. Find ideal mount kinabalu package with best rates and get tips to climb mount kinabalu from our experts. Climb with us with private arranged Mount Kinabalu Climbing Tour
For this tour we will provide an experience and nature specialist tour guide to take our guests around the park. It will be not only for sight seeing the nature but it is also can be a knowledge sessions during the tour about the nature and history as well as back ground of this National Park area. This tour will be made flexible for the guests to make several stops also for taking pictures and enjoying the nature depending on time availability. We will make sure our guide to help our guests to take photos too
Mount Kinabalu is the highest peck in Southeast Asia.The diversity of plant life in Kinabalu Park ranges over four climatic zones. Tour A:ATV and Paragliding 1:Arrive the ATV Base 2:Dariy Farm 3:Stop by at the Nabalu Fruit Market to buy some fruits and souvenir. 4:Lunch 5:Arrive the Paragliding Base 6:Return to Hotel(About 19:30PM) Tour B:Dairy Farm+ATV Riding 1:Arrive Dairy Farm 2:Stop by at the Nabalu Fruit Market to buy some fruits and souvenir. 3:Lunch 4:Arrive the ATV Base 5:Return to Hotel(About 17:30PM) Tour C:DairyFarm+Paragliding 1:Arrive the Paragliding Base 2:Lunch 3:Arrive Dairy Farm 4:Stop by at the Nabalu Fruit Market to buy some fruits and souvenir. 5:Return to Hotel(About 18:30PM)
Journey to the heights of the Crocker Range – the highest peaks in Sabah – and submerge into calming sulfuric baths at Poring Hot Springs. Marvel at majestic sights along the mountains, stroll through beautiful Poring Nature Reserve Park, and walk along the treetops of the rainforest canopy. - Kinabalu Park is Malaysia's first World Heritage Site - Spectacular biodiversity of flora & fauna in the rainforest - Impressive views from a 134-foot (41-m) canopy walk - Chance to take a dip at Poring Hot Springs & Nature Reserve - Serene natural surroundings of the countryside, hills & park - Views of highest peak in Malaysia at 13,435 feet (4,095 m)
We combined the scenic nature trails of UNESCO World Heritage Site Kinabalu Park with a treetop adventure taking you 40 meters above the spectacular wilderness of Borneo’s ancient rainforest on a canopy walk in Poring Hot Springs. On this full-day guided tour, you will drive through the picturesque countryside and stop at a local market. Enjoy the ride through the rolling hills of Kundasang, Ranau and take a soak in Poring’s well known mineral rich hot springs. Check with your tour guide, because if you're in luck, the giant rafflesia may be in bloom at Poring.
Summiting 13,435-foot (4,095-meter) Mount Kinabalu, the peak that adorns Sabah’s state flag, is a Borneo must-do for many. To make the summit, you need to reserve your mountain guesthouse well ahead of time. Rather than piece the trip together independently, take it easy with this convenient 2-days package that includes a night at Laban Rata Resthouse, a climbing permit, guide, meals, and round-trip transfers
Summiting 13,435-foot (4,095-meter) Mount Kinabalu, the peak that adorns Sabah’s state flag, is a Borneo must-do for many. To make the summit, you need to reserve your mountain guesthouse well ahead of time. Rather than piece the trip together independently, take it easy with this convenient 3-days package that includes climbing permit, guide, meals, and round-trip transfers.
Mount Kinabalu is the Borneo’s highest peak in Sabah and it is renowned world heritage site. It stands 4,095m Height with breathtaking views. Find ideal mount kinabalu package with best rates and get tips to climb mount kinabalu from our experts. Climb with us with private arranged Mount Kinabalu Climbing Tour
Experience Kinabalu Park and Poring Hot Spring in this 10 hour tour! This exciting tour will begin when your guide picks your up at your hotel at 7:30am, or the Kinabalu International Airport. Designated by UNESCO in December 2000, Kinabalu Park covers an area of 754 square kilometres surrounding Mount Kinabalu which is the highest mountain on the island of Borneo. You will also have the opportunity to travel to the Poring Hot Spring, famous for it’s sulfur water. Lunch is included and this tour concludes with a ride back to your hotel.
Journey to the heights of the Crocker Range – the highest peaks in Sabah – and submerge into calming sulfuric baths at Poring Hot Springs. Marvel at majestic sights along the mountains, stroll through beautiful Poring Nature Reserve Park, and walk along the treetops of the rainforest canopy. - Kinabalu Park is Malaysia's first World Heritage Site - Spectacular biodiversity of flora & fauna in the rainforest - Impressive views from a 134-foot (41-m) canopy walk - Chance to take a dip at Poring Hot Springs & Nature Reserve - Serene natural surroundings of the countryside, hills & park - Views of highest peak in Malaysia at 13,435 feet (4,095 m)
Discover what makes Sabah a utopia for nature lovers on your visit to UNESCO World Heritage Site Kinabalu Park, explore the quirky side as your world is turned upside down at Rumah Terbalik and behold the scenic splendor of Desa Cow Farm, Kundasang— all in a day’s trip!
The traveler will see the mount view Kinabalu and can get more experience like feeding fish spa while massage leg. The first attraction Upside down house at Tamparuli , you can see all inside and outside the theme is that everything is upside down. You can feel the cool and fresh at Kundasang. Other than you can taste gelato ice cream and fresh milk from the cow farm. In addition, in the cattle dairy farm can make activities suitable for children and everyone such as activities feeding with cattle, milking the calf and witness the milking of cows.
Spend a week exploring remarkable Sabah, one of the most stunning corners of the planet with turquoise seas, unparalleled snorkelling and pristine natural jungles packed with hundreds of bird and animal species, plus over 5000 plant species, hot springs and caves to boast! Highlights: -Snorkel in the stunning Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park -Discover Mount Kinabalu National Park and Poring Hot Springs -Take river cruises and go trekking in Kinabatangan -Visit the Gomantong Caves & Sepilok Orangutan Sanctuary
Kedamaian River which stretches from the foot of Mount Kinabalu to the village areas in Kota Belud offers a scenic view closer to the mountain and a thrilling white water rafting experience. It will take you on a 10km ride, graded level 1-2 and is moderately adventurous and relaxing, great for beginners to the more experience rafters.
Why Choose Mount Kinabalu Expeditions in Sabah?
Conquer Southeast Asia's Highest Peak
Reach the summit of Mount Kinabalu, a significant achievement and a highlight of any Borneo adventure.
Incredible Biodiversity
Explore diverse plant and animal life within the UNESCO World Heritage Kinabalu Park, from montane forests to alpine zones.
Breathtaking Panoramic Views
Witness unforgettable sunrises and sweeping vistas from the summit, a truly rewarding spectacle.
Guided and Supported Ascent
Benefit from experienced guides and organized logistics, ensuring a safe and well-managed climb.
Well-Paced Itinerary
Typically a 2-day, 1-night climb, allowing for acclimatization and a manageable pace for most hikers.
Sense of Accomplishment
Experience the profound satisfaction of completing a challenging and iconic mountain expedition.
Types of Mount Kinabalu Expeditions in Sabah
Standard 2D/1N Summit Climb
This is the most popular option, a classic two-day, one-night expedition designed for reaching the summit and returning. It includes overnight accommodation at mountain hostels and typically covers all mandatory permits and guiding.
Kinabalu Park Nature Treks
For those not aiming for the summit, shorter guided treks within Kinabalu Park offer a fantastic way to experience the mountain's lower slopes and rich biodiversity. These tours focus on nature walks, botanical exploration, and scenic viewpoints.
Private Group Expeditions
These tours cater to families, friends, or corporate groups seeking a more personalized climbing experience. They offer flexibility in scheduling and often include additional services like private guides and customized meal plans.
What to Expect on Mount Kinabalu Expeditions Tours
Duration
The most common expedition is a 2-day, 1-night climb to the summit. Shorter nature treks within Kinabalu Park range from a few hours to a full day.
Weather
Weather on Mount Kinabalu can change rapidly. Expect cool to cold temperatures at higher altitudes, with potential for rain, fog, and strong winds. The summit day can be very cold, especially before sunrise.
Group Size
Standard group tours typically range from 10-20 participants per guide. Private tours will have a guide dedicated to your specific group, the size of which depends on your booking.
What's Included
Most 2D/1N summit tours include park permits, climbing permits, accommodation at Laban Rata, meals (dinner on Day 1, breakfast and packed lunch on Day 2), and a certified mountain guide. Entrance fees to Kinabalu Park are usually covered.
Meeting Point
Tours typically start at the Kinabalu Park Headquarters, located at the base of the mountain. Some operators may offer transfer services from Kota Kinabalu city, which should be confirmed when booking.
Costs
Expedition tours to Mount Kinabalu typically range from $300 to $600 USD per person, depending on inclusions, operator, and group size. This covers permits, accommodation, meals, and guiding. Budget for personal expenses, porter services (optional), and gratuities.
Expert Tips for the Best Experience
Book your expedition well in advance, especially during peak seasons (March-September), as climbing slots and permits are limited.
Physical preparation is key. Engage in regular cardiovascular exercise and strength training in the months leading up to your climb.
Pack appropriate gear, including layers of warm clothing, waterproof outerwear, sturdy hiking boots, gloves, a hat, and a headlamp for the summit push.
Acclimatize properly. The first day involves a significant ascent; listen to your body and stay hydrated.
Porter services are available to carry your main backpack, allowing you to hike with a lighter daypack. This comes at an additional cost.
Bring plenty of water and high-energy snacks. You can purchase some food and drinks at Laban Rata, but prices are inflated.
Inform your guide of any medical conditions you have. Altitude sickness is a potential concern; be aware of the symptoms.
Respect the mountain and its environment. Follow Leave No Trace principles and dispose of waste responsibly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q:Is Mount Kinabalu difficult to climb?
A: The climb is challenging due to its length and steepness, especially the final ascent on granite slabs. While achievable for most people with good fitness, it requires perseverance. The two-day itinerary helps manage the exertion.
Q:What is the best time of year to climb Mount Kinabalu?
A: The dry season, from March to September, generally offers the best weather conditions. However, weather can be unpredictable at any time of year, so always be prepared for rain and cooler temperatures.
Q:Do I need to be very fit to climb Mount Kinabalu?
A: A good level of cardiovascular fitness is recommended. Regular hiking, running, or cycling in the weeks before your trip will significantly improve your experience and chances of reaching the summit comfortably.
Q:What happens if I get sick or can't continue?
A: Your guide is trained to assist you. If you're unable to continue, the guide will assess the situation and help you descend safely to a point where you can get assistance. Safety is prioritized.
Q:Can I hire a porter?
A: Yes, porter services can be arranged at the Kinabalu Park Headquarters. Porters can carry your main backpack, making the climb less strenuous. This service incurs an extra fee, typically charged per kilogram.
Q:What kind of accommodation is available on the mountain?
A: Accommodation is usually in basic dormitories or rooms at hostels like Laban Rata Resthouse. These are functional and designed for climbers to rest, rather than luxurious stays. They offer shared facilities and dining areas.
Q:Are meals included in the tour price?
A: Most standard 2D/1N summit expedition tours include dinner on the first day and breakfast and a packed lunch on the second day. Confirm the specific meal inclusions with your chosen tour operator.
Q:What should I do if I experience altitude sickness?
A: The best way to combat altitude sickness is to ascend slowly and stay hydrated. If symptoms like headache, nausea, or dizziness occur, inform your guide immediately. Descending is often the most effective remedy.
Why Visit Sabah?
Discover incredible biodiversity, from orangutans to vibrant coral reefs, on an adventure in Sabah.
Experience the warmth of Borneo's indigenous cultures in unique villages and traditional longhouses.
Affordable adventure awaits, with trekking, diving, and wildlife encounters accessible to most budgets.
Explore ancient caves and historical sites that whisper tales of Sabah's rich past.
Savor the unique flavors of Sabah, a culinary melting pot of Malay, Chinese, and indigenous influences.
Uncover the wild heart of Malaysia, where lush rainforests meet pristine, sun-drenched coastlines.
Best Time to Visit
Weather
Sabah generally enjoys a tropical rainforest climate, meaning it's warm and humid year-round with consistent temperatures around 27-32°C. Rainfall is distributed throughout the year, though there can be slightly wetter periods depending on the region.
Best Months
The dry season from March to October generally offers sunnier days and lower humidity, making it ideal for outdoor activities. However, visiting during the shoulder months like March or October can mean fewer crowds.
Peak Season
The peak season typically falls between April and September, coinciding with drier weather and school holidays. Expect higher prices for accommodation and tours, and more bustling tourist spots.
Off Season
The period from November to February can see more rain, particularly on the east coast. However, this often means lower prices, fewer tourists, and lush, green landscapes.
Related Travel Guides for Sabah
Explore comprehensive guides to plan your perfect trip, including food tours, cultural experiences, and more.
Sabah Cultural Village & Homestay Tours
Immerse yourself in Sabah's rich ethnic tapestry with authentic village and homestay tours.
Sabah Diving & Snorkeling Tours | Explore Coral Reefs
Discover vibrant underwater worlds and encounter diverse marine life on Sabah's premier diving and snorkeling excursions.
Sabah Jungle Trekking & Hiking Tours
Discover Borneo's ancient rainforests and diverse wildlife through guided jungle treks and hikes in Sabah, Malaysia.
Sabah Orangutan & Wildlife Safaris: Your Borneo Adventure Guide
Discover Borneo's iconic orangutans and diverse wildlife on guided safaris, offering unique encounters in their natural habitats.
Sabah Food & Culinary Tours: Taste Borneo's Best
Embark on a delicious exploration of Sabah's unique flavours, from indigenous delicacies to vibrant street food, all on curated food and culinary tours.
Plan Your Sabah Trip
Transportation Tips
Getting around Sabah is an adventure in itself. For longer distances between cities like Kota Kinabalu and Sandakan, express buses are affordable and relatively comfortable. Within cities, taxis and ride-sharing apps are readily available. For island hopping, ferries are the primary mode of transport. Renting a car offers the most flexibility for exploring remote areas, though road conditions can vary. Consider hiring a local driver for a more authentic and stress-free experience, especially when venturing off the beaten path in Sabah.
Car Rental Deals in Sabah
Rent a car for maximum flexibility and explore at your own pace on Expedia USA.
Where to Stay
Find the perfect accommodation for your Sabah adventure. From luxury resorts to cozy hotels, we've got you covered.
Best Hotel Deals in Sabah
Discover top-rated hotels with exclusive rates and special offers on Trivago USA.