Lush rainforests, sub-aquatic splendor, magnificent mountains, colorful cultures... Sabah is a rugged place for adventurers, a playground for divers, and a paradise for anyone with the adventure to explore.
83km from Kota Kinabalu, the Kinabalu National Park national park was added to the UNESCO list of World Heritage Sites in 2000. Designated as a Centre of Plant Diversity for Southeast Asia, the park is exceptionally rich in species of flora from China, Australia, Malaysia, and the Himalayas. And of course, the park surrounds the majestic Mount Kinabalu; at 4,095m, it’s the highest peak between the Himalayas and New Guinea.
The Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park is another must visit. 20 minutes away from Kota Kinabalu by speedboat, this marine park is comprised of Pulau Gaya, Sapi, Manukan, Marnutik, and Sulug, and characterized by white sand beaches, beautiful coral gardens, and a shallow-water reef that’s ideal for novice divers.
The islands off Sabah’s coasts are legendary among divers and eco-tourists. Each is known for its own niche: Mabul Island is one of the best ‘muck-diving’ sites in the world; Pulau Tiga is home to some very rare mammals and birds (and once the setting for the “Survivor” TV series); Pulau Layang- Layang has absolute isolation and excellent sub-aquatic visibility (one of the world’s top ten dive locations); and though visitation is now tightly regulated by the government, Sipidan is still one of the world’s foremost displays of marine habitat.
You would do yourself a disservice to visit Sabah and not dive. With some of the world’s best sites easily accessible (and affordable to most budgets), you won’t have to search the beaches long to find a dive shop that’s wanting you as a customer.
Known for hospitality and smiling faces, it’s no wonder many of the sub-ethnic groups of Borneo live in longhouses, and offer their warm welcome to anyone who comes along. With this hospitality, though, comes a few ‘taboo’ – never enter without an invitation, leave your sandals and shoes outside, etc. Following a few simple rules will give you the experience of a lifetime.
Another thing that drives people to Sabah is the the infamous climb of Mt. Kinabalu. Considered an adventurer’s challenge, the reward at the end of this two-day trek is paid in the tranquility and serenity captured within the endless view of Sabah.
More than just a landing strip and a stop off before heading on to further destinations, capital city Kota Kinabalu has its own list of attractions to keep your interest in its immediate area. Explore that Sabah museum and its Heritage Village, or take a short drive out to the Tambunan Rafflesia Reserve and trek out to see the Rafflesia (largest flower in the world).
Known as a gathering point for Boreno eco-tourism, Sandakan is the jumping off point for the Sepilok Orang Utan Sanctuary, the Danum Valley Conservation Area, Gomantong Caves, Turtle Islands National Park, and more.
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