Sabah Travel Guide (Malaysia/Southeast Asia/Asia)

Introduction to Sabah
List of Places to Visit in Sabah
- Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- Natural Attractions of Sabah: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
Hiking/Biking Routes of Sabah
Best Things to Do in Sabah: Activities and Tours
Week-Long Itinerary for Sabah
Food and Drink Scene of Sabah
- Must-Try Dishes
- Local Beverages
Where to Stay in Sabah: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
Budget-Friendly Accommodation Options
Luxury Accommodation Options
What to Buy in Sabah: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
Local Culture and Customs of Sabah
Best Time to Visit Sabah
Do’s and Don’ts of Sabah
- Do:
- Don’t:
Safety and Health
- Safety in Sabah
- Health in Sabah
Getting to Sabah: Transportation Options and Logistics
How to Get Around in Sabah
Where to Go Next from Sabah: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
Conclusion

Introduction to Sabah

Sabah is a beautiful state located in the northern part of Borneo island of Malaysia. It is a land of abundant natural beauty, home to picturesque islands with pristine beaches, untamed rainforest loaded with wildlife, towering mountains, and diverse culture. Sabah offers a wide range of activities and sights for visitors to explore, making it a perfect destination for adventurous travellers. This guide provides comprehensive information about Sabah to help you plan your trip.

List of Places to Visit in Sabah

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Sabah has an extraordinary cultural background. The state is home to various museums and historical sites that will provide you with insight into the local culture and history. Visit the following places to learn about the history and cultural heritage of Sabah:

Sabah State Museum: This museum provides insight into the history, culture, and traditions of Sabah’s indigenous people, particularly the Kadazandusun and Murut communities.
Monsopiad Cultural Village: Experience the culture and traditions of the Kadazandusun people at the Monsopiad Cultural Village. This attraction offers visitors an excellent opportunity to learn about the customs of local people.
Mari Mari Cultural Village: This living museum is an excellent place to learn about the lifestyles of different Sabah communities. It features various traditional houses that visitors can explore.

Natural Attractions of Sabah: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Sabah’s natural beauty is awe-inspiring, with lush rainforests, mountain ranges, and unique wildlife. No visit to Sabah is complete without a visit to the following natural attractions:

Kinabalu Park: The region is famous for the Kinabalu Mountain, the highest peak in Southeast Asia. This impressive mountain is located in Kinabalu Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park is also home to an array of plant species and animals.
Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park: The park is situated on the coast of Sabah and is composed of five splendid tropical islands. Visitors can indulge in activities such as snorkelling, diving, and swimming.
Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre: The centre is a haven for orphaned and injured orangutans. Visitors can witness efforts to rehabilitate and preserve the species.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Sabah

Sabah’s natural beauty makes it a perfect spot for hiking and biking activities. Here are some of the beautiful sites and trails where you can enjoy hiking and biking:

Mount Kinabalu: This climb provides an awe-inspiring experience and unparalleled vistas of the surrounding natural beauty. However, it’s advisable to go prepared and with trekking guides as it is difficult to climb.
Crocker Range Park Trails: The crocker range park is home to several hiking trails of various levels of difficulty, providing adventurers the perfect opportunity to explore Sabah’s dense forests and diverse wildlife.
Kota Kinabalu City: Exploring the city on a rented bike is an excellent way to explore the area without any time restrictions.

Best Things to Do in Sabah: Activities and Tours

Sabah offers an extensive range of things to do and see for visitors. The following are the top activities to indulge in when in Sabah:

Island hopping: Visit the beautiful islands in the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park. The islands offer various activities such as snorkelling, diving, and swimming, providing visitors with a chance to explore different marine life.
White-water rafting: The rushing water of the Padas and Kiulu rivers make it an ideal spot for adventures in Sabah. Rafting here is a popular activity that will surely give you an adrenaline rush.
Wildlife watching: Sabah is home to a plethora of unique wildlife species. Visitors can visit the Kinabatangan River, the Lower Kinabatangan-Segama Wetlands, and the Danum Valley to see unique animals, including orangutans, Bornean Pygmy elephants (Dwarf Elephant), crocodiles, and proboscis monkeys.

Week-Long Itinerary for Sabah

Here is a comprehensive itinerary for a week-long visit to Sabah:

Day 1: Kota Kinabalu city tour, exploring the major attractions.
Day 2: Visit Kinabalu Park and trek the trails that suit your convenience.
Day 3: Take a boat tour from Kota Kinabalu to Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park and explore the stunning islands.
Day 4: Enjoy an adrenaline rush with rafting on the Padas River.
Day 5: Explore the Lower Kinabatangan-Segama Wetlands and observe the unique flora and fauna.
Day 6: Get a chance to see wildlife up close at the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre.
Day 7: Visit Manukan Island, Sunken Cemetery, and the Sabah State Museum.

Food and Drink Scene of Sabah

Sabah’s food and drink scene is a delight for the foodies. The local cuisine is influenced by the Malay, Chinese, and indigenous cultures, making it diverse and flavourful.

Must-Try Dishes

Here are some of the must-try dishes when in Sabah:

Sambal Udang: A dish made with prawns cooked in chilli paste.
Ambuyat: A sticky Sabah delicacy made from sago flour. It’s usually eaten with local sauces and dishes.
Sinalau Bakas: Grilled wild boar, a traditional dish of the ethnic Kadazan-Dusun community.

Local Beverages

Sabah’s traditional drink, termed bambangan, is the local version of rice wine also known as ‘tapai.’ Other popular drinks in Sabah are:

Tea Tarik: A popular sweet tea found all over Sabah.
Lihing: A traditional alcoholic beverage made from rice.

Where to Stay in Sabah: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Sabah has a wide range of accommodation options, ranging from affordable to luxurious. To make the most of your stay, it’s best to book accommodation situated close to your preferred tourist spots.

Budget-Friendly Accommodation Options

Just right Capsule Hostel: It’s located close to the attractions of the Kota Kinabalu City and provides a comfortable stay at an affordable price.
Borneo Backpackers: The quaint Hostel offers affordable and comfortable accommodation in central Kota Kinabalu.

Luxury Accommodation Options

Shangri-La’s Rasa Ria Resort and Spa: The resort sits on Kota Kinabalu’s coastline and boasts exceptional beachfront views. Visitors can indulge in luxury services such as spa treatments and golf at the resort.
Bunga Raya Island Resort and Spa: The resort is located on Gaya Island, and visitors can enjoy the stunning views of Mt. Kinabalu and the South China Sea.

What to Buy in Sabah: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Sabah is famous for souvenirs such as handicrafts, pearls, and local produce such as coffee and cocoa. Other items to check out are:

Batik and Sarongs: Traditional Sabah attire.
Handicrafts: Sabah is home to many indigenous crafts such as wood carvings, beadwork, and hand-woven textiles.

Local Culture and Customs of Sabah

Sabah has a diverse culture, influenced by the Malay, Chinese, and indigenous cultures, providing visitors with a rich cultural experience. Visitors should follow proper dress codes in religious sites, observe local customs and traditions.

Best Time to Visit Sabah

Sabah experiences a tropical climate, with two monsoon seasons (between October and January and June and August). The best time to visit Sabah is during the dry season, from April to September.

Do’s and Don’ts of Sabah

Do:

Always cover up when visiting religious and cultural sites.
Try the local food and drink.
Learn about the diversity of the local community.

Don’t:

Do not make excessive noise and gestures in public areas.
Do not damage or litter the pristine environment.

Safety and Health

Safety in Sabah

Sabah is a safe destination for travellers. It’s always advisable to exercise caution when travelling to different areas of Sabah.

Health in Sabah

Sabah is prone to mosquito-borne diseases, and visitors should take precautions while traveling here. Visitors are also advised to get essential vaccinations such as Hepatitis A and B.

Getting to Sabah: Transportation Options and Logistics

Sabah is home to several international and domestic airports, which makes it accessible from various regions.

Airports Near Sabah

Kota Kinabalu International Airport: Located only seven kilometers outside the city centre and connects Sabah to other areas.
Sandakan Airport: Serves as an important domestic airport and located in the Sandakan region.

Bus Stations Near Sabah

The region has several bus stations, including:

Kinabalu Park HQ Bus Terminal: Provides a shuttle service to Kota Kinabalu city centre.
Keningau Bus Terminal: A hub for those travelling to inland regions.

Other Options

Ride-hailing services such as Grab are readily available and provide convenience to explore different parts of Sabah.

How to Get Around in Sabah

The most convenient and affordable way to explore Sabah is by using public transportation such as buses and taxis. Alternatively, visitors can hire a car or motorbike to explore Sabah’s different spots.

Where to Go Next from Sabah: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Sabah is surrounded by various exciting destinations and excursions from where travellers can explore other regions. The following are the places one can visit from Sabah:

Sarawak: Another state of Malaysia, located on the island of Borneo, offers various natural attractions, and is famous for its national parks, orangutan sanctuaries, and historical sites.
Brunei: A neighbouring country of Sabah, Brunei is famous for its rich Islamic history and is home to several mosques and palaces.

Conclusion

Sabah is a beautiful destination, with vast natural beauty and diverse culture, making it a perfect destination for those seeking adventure. The above guide will help you plan your visit to Sabah and explore the different sights, cultures, and attractions the area has to offer. Visitors to Sabah need to be aware of the health and safety requirements, as well as local customs and traditions. Above all, have an enjoyable and memorable trip to Sabah.