Visit Sabah, Malaysian Borneo
All you need to know when planning your holiday to Sabah…
Where is Sabah?
Sabah is a state located in the northern part of Malaysian Borneo. It is one of two Malaysian states on Borneo, the other being Sarawak. Borneo is the world’s third largest island and Malaysia shares the island with Indonesia’s Kalimantan region and the sovereign nation of Brunei.
What is the best way to get to Sabah?
Sabah’s main gateway is Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI), located in the Sabah state capital city, Kota Kinabalu. It receives direct international flights from cities such as Singapore and Kuala Lumpur, as well as domestic flights from other parts of Malaysia.
However, For those heading to eastern Sabah, Sandakan Airport (SDK) is the main entry point. Sandakan is ideal for those wishing to visit the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre and Kinabatangan River.
When is the best time to visit Sabah?
Sabah’s dry season usually runs from March to October. There is less rainfall during this period making outdoor activities more enjoyable. This is a good time for hiking, wildlife spotting and island hopping. However, being a tropical destination, and home to dense rainforests, Sabah can experience rain at any time of year. Typically, the wettest months in Sabah are from November to February, although this has varied in recent years.
Where is the best place to see orangutans in Sabah?
The Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, near Sandakan, is the best and most ethical place to see orangutans in Sabah. This sanctuary rehabilitates orphaned and rescued orangutans before releasing them back into the wild. Visitors can watch the primates at designated feeding platforms or explore the nearby Rainforest Discovery Centre (RDC) for additional wildlife encounters.
For a more immersive experience, you can also visit Kinabatangan River, where wild orangutans can sometimes be seen in the treetops, or the Danum Valley Conservation Area, home to a thriving population of these great apes in their natural habitat.
What other wildlife can I see in Sabah’s rainforests?
- Bornean pygmy elephants are the world’s smallest elephant species and can often be spotted along the banks of the Kinabatangan RIver
- Proboscis monkeys are endemic to Borneo and are most often seen from river cruises in the Sukau area
- Sun bears are rarely seen in the wild but are best viewed at the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre in Sepilok
- Sabah is home to eight species of Hornbills, and are most commonly seen in the Tabin Wildlife Reserve and along the Kinabatangan River
- Clouded leopards are extremely elusive, however they have been occasionally spotted in the Danum Valley.
- Gliding mammals, such as flying squirrels and colugos can be seen during night safaris throughout the Sabah rainforests
Can you climb Mount Kinabalu and do you need a guide?
You are required to book a licensed guide and a climbing permit to ascend Mount Kinabalu. Independent trekking is not allowed. Due to limited availability it is recommended to book at least six months in advance. Although the climb does not require technical mountaineering skills it is challenging. Typically it will take three days to climb Mount Kinabalu.
Are there luxury resorts near Kota Kinabalu?
There are several five star resorts around the Sabah regional capital of Kota Kinabalu.
- Gaya Island Resort – This eco-friendly resort offers stunning sea views, sandy beaches and nature experiences, including snorkelling and diving on protected coral reefs
- Shangri-La Rasa Ria Resort – Located on the extensive Pantai Dalit beach, the resort features a private nature reserve, wellness spa and golf course
- Shangri-La Tanjung Aru Resort – This family friendly resort offers fine dining, water activities and stunning sunset views
Freedom Destinations can create a customised Sabah holiday itinerary based on your interests…
Plan your holiday
