There is no doubt that Kinabalu Park is a stunning holiday destination. As Malaysia’s first World Heritage Site and the Centre of Plant Diversity for South-East Asia, there is a lot to see and do in the region. One of the major attractions in the 75,000 hectares of thick rainforest is Mount Kinabalu, which is well known for adventurous types to try and conquer. But what if you aren’t feeling up to climbing the mountain? Don’t worry – the good news is that there’s still plenty for you to see and do in this stunning place, particularly if you’re a nature lover. In fact, there’s almost too much to go over in just one blog, so today we’re going to pick our favourite, and most popular, Kinabalu park activities to share with you.
The Pouring Hot Springs | Kinabalu Park
If you’re willing to travel, around an hour’s drive from the centre of Kinabalu Park you will find the pouring hot springs. Here, the natural sulphuric hot springs are bubbling away, waiting to cure all those aches and pains. There are public baths, which are included in your ticket, or you can pay RM15 to RM20 for a private, enclosed bath to soak in. If you struggle with the heat from the hot springs, there are also natural rock pools filled with cold water from the nearby river to complete the experience. If you’re looking for something a little more invigorating, there is also a pool with a waterslide and other waterpark facilities. Just bring your swimsuit, flip-flops and towel for a day of relaxing, water-based fun.
Proboscis Monkey Cruises
Kota Kinabalu is the home of a very rare breed of primate – the proboscis monkey. Most famous for its flat, droopy nose and orange fur, the proboscis monkey makes its home in the rainforests and river passages in Kinabalu Park. There are several tour operators (including us) who run riverboat tours and jungle expeditions to see these stunning animals in their natural habitat. You can find out more about them, and our tours, by reading this article.
Pulau Tiga Survivor Island
Take a day trip and make your way to the district of Kuala Penyu and hop on a boat to Pulau Tiga! The island boasts a claim to fame, having been the first-ever ‘secret’ location for the hit reality TV series ‘Survivor’. Hence it’s affectionate nickname, ‘survivor island’. The island has two resorts, along with locations for sunbathing, swimming, snorkelling, kayaking and diving. Pulau Tiga is also famous for its therapeutic natural volcanic mud, perfect for a pampering (if slightly dirty) day out.
Kota Kinabalu
The city of Kota Kinabalu is the perfect place to spend a morning exploring, shopping and drinking in the Malaysian culture. From learning about the area from a local guide to exploring the multiculturalism and diverse architecture of Sabah as you visit their beautiful mosque and temple. See the Wisma Tun Mustapha (also known as the Sabah Foundation building), and marvel at the great statutes of the Puh Toh Tze temple.
Scuba Diving And Snorkeling
If there’s one thing you can guarantee, it’s that you will be able to find the perfect spots for snorkelling and scuba diving in Kinabalu Park. The island shores offer crystal clear waters full of exotic fish and wildlife, vibrant corals and gentle waves. Plunge into the waters of the South China Sea and test your flippers in the cool waters. You can enjoy diving in the tropical waters and exploring the reefs, wrecks and wildlife, or try to find Nemo on a snorkelling expedition.
Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary
If you’re a nature lover, then the Kinabatangan wildlife sanctuary is one of the best places in Southeast Asia to observe wildlife. It’s known as the ‘corridor of life’, and aims to provide a balance between the growing demands of private land development and the need to protect and maintain wildlife. Embark by boat along the Sabah’s longest river, viewing wildlife and birds in this virgin rainforest habitat. See native animals up close, and learn about how the sanctuary is preserving endangered species and helping them thrive.
At Borneo Dream, we love every part of Kinabalu Park, from the tip of the mountain to the deepest roots of the rainforest. Our local guides are on hand to provide you with all the information you need to find the perfect holiday spots and activities for you, whether that’s relaxing on a beach or trekking up the mountain. To find out more about the various tours and activities we run in and around Kinabalu Park, just get in touch with us today.