Beaufort Travel Guide

Discover the rich culture and natural beauty of Beaufort, Malaysia with our comprehensive travel guide. Find the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay and what to eat in Beaufort.


Introduction to Beaufort

Beaufort, situated in the southwestern part of Sabah, is a hidden gem of Malaysia that possesses incredible natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. The town is famous for its scenic landscapes, crystal clear rivers, lush paddy fields, and the vibrant cultural diversity of its people. Exploring Beaufort would be a dream come true for nature lovers, adrenaline junkies, and culture enthusiasts alike.

List of Places to Visit in Beaufort

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Beaufort has a vibrant cultural heritage that is evident in the museums and historical places scattered throughout the town. Here are some of the must-visit cultural attractions:

  • Beaufort Railway Station: Built-in 1905, the station is one of the oldest railway stations in Malaysia and an iconic landmark of the town. It is also the starting point for the North Borneo Steam Railway, a heritage train ride that takes you through Beaufort’s picturesque countryside.
  • Gong-making Village Kampung Sumangkap: Kampung Sumangkap is a small village located about 20 kilometers from Beaufort Town. The village is famous for its locally-made gongs, an essential musical instrument of Sabahan culture. Here, visitors can watch the artisans make gongs by hand, and also purchase some as souvenirs.
  • Rumah Betangas Kg Pandasan: A “Betang” is a traditional longhouse made of wood and bamboo. The Rumah Betangas in Beaufort is the only one of its kind in Sabah, and it holds significant cultural value to the Murut community that built it. The Betang is a unique architectural masterpiece that will transport you back in time and give you a peek into the social and cultural life of the Murut tribe.

Natural Attractions of Beaufort: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

The natural wonders of Beaufort are a treat for the eyes, and visiting them should be on every traveler’s itinerary. Here are some of the top natural attractions:

  • Klias Wetlands River Cruise: Located roughly 45 minutes from Beaufort town, the Klias Wetlands river cruise is a must-do activity. The cruise offers visitors the chance to spot various wildlife species, including the elusive proboscis monkeys, fireflies, and crocodiles. The boat ride will take you down the Klias river while admiring the scenic views of the mangrove forest along the way.
  • Pulau Tiga Island: Pulau Tiga is one of the lesser-known but stunning islands in Sabah, located an hour’s boat ride from Beaufort town. The island is famous for its volcanic mud baths, snorkeling, and beach activities. Visitors can also take a dip in the natural mud pools, which are believed to have medicinal properties.
  • Padas River Whitewater Rafting: Padas River is one of the best places in Sabah to go whitewater rafting. The river has Grade III-IV rapids, making it ideal for adrenaline enthusiasts. The trip starts with a scenic train ride from Beaufort to Pangi station, and then visitors paddle down the river while enjoying the beautiful scenery.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Beaufort

Beaufort’s scenic countryside landscapes offer several hiking and biking trails for visitors to choose from. Here are some of the popular routes to explore:

  • Gunung Rengit Trail: Gunung Rengit is one of the most prominent mountains in the Beaufort district, and the Gunung Rengit Trail is a popular hiking trail. The trail offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside and is highly recommended for avid hikers.
  • Kuala Penyu Trail: Kuala Penyu is a beautiful coastal town in Beaufort district that is perfect for biking. The trail is relatively flat and offers stunning views of the coast and the surrounding paddy fields.

Best Things to Do in Beaufort: Activities and Tours

Beaufort offers visitors a wide range of fun-filled activities and exciting tours. Here are some of the best things to do:

  • North Borneo Steam Railway: The steam train ride is a must-visit, nostalgic attraction in Beaufort. Visitors can embark on various steam train tours starting from Beaufort station, which passes through scenic and historic parts of Sabah.
  • Kuala Penyu Beach: Kuala Penyu beach is a serene and beautiful spot to relax and unwind. Visitors can take a dip in the sea, sunbathe, or try some of the beach activities, including kayaking and paddleboarding.
  • Sukau Proboscis Monkey River Cruise: The Sukau Proboscis River Cruise is a unique river experience that takes you along the Kinabatangan River, home to several proboscis monkeys.
  • Murut Cultural Experience: Murut culture is unique and fascinating, and visitors can indulge in the vibrant cultural experience by visiting local villages and learning about their way of life.

Week-Long Itinerary for Beaufort

A week-long itinerary would give you ample time to explore Beaufort, its cultural heritage, and natural beauty. Here is a suggested itinerary:

Day Activity/Attraction
Day 1 Arrive in Beaufort. Take the afternoon North Borneo Steam Railway.
Day 2 Visit the Beaufort Railway Station in the morning, afterward head to Kg Sumangkap to witness gong-making.
Day 3 Take the Klias Wetlands river cruise.
Day 4 Hike up Gunung Rengit Trail and enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding countryside.
Day 5 Whitewater rafting at Padas River.
Day 6 Take a day tour to Pulau Tiga Island for some beach activities.
Day 7 Depart Beaufort.

Food and Drink Scene of Beaufort

Beaufort has a unique food and drink scene that is influenced by its diverse cultural heritage. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Ngiu Chap: A traditional beef noodle soup that originated from the Sabah Chines community. The soup comes with beef broth and various beef parts, including meatballs, tendons, and offal, served with noodles and greens.
  • Bambangan: A unique Bornean fruit that has an unmistakable sour taste. It is typically eaten fresh or processed into pickles or jams.
  • Bosou: A traditional Kadazan dish that is made from fermented freshwater fish. It is often served with rice and vegetables.

Local Beverages

  • Teh Tarik: Tea is an essential beverage in Malaysia, and Beaufort is no exception. Teh Tarik is a Malaysian-style milk tea that is prepared by pulling the tea and milk through the air to achieve a frothy texture.
  • Tuaran Coffee: A traditional coffee variety that originated in the Tuaran district of Sabah. The coffee has a robust, slightly bitter flavor and is commonly served with condensed milk.

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

Beaufort offers several accommodation options that cater to different budgets and preferences. Here are some top recommendations:

  • Hotel Darul Ta’zim: A budget-friendly hotel centrally located in Beaufort town.
  • Fintan Lodge: A boutique hotel located near the Beaufort Railway Station. It offers excellent views of the surrounding countryside and comfortable rooms.
  • Borneo Golf and Country Club: A high-end resort located a short distance from Beaufort town. The resort offers posh rooms, a golf course, and other amenities.

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

Beaufort offers several souvenirs and local products that visitors can take back home. Here are some items worth considering:

  • Beaded Jewelry: Sabah is renowned for its intricate beaded jewelry, and Beaufort has several stores that offer unique beadwork.
  • Gongs: Beaufort is famous for its locally-made gongs, which make for excellent souvenirs.
  • Handicrafts: Beaufort has a vibrant handicraft scene, with several stores offering handmade wooden carvings, baskets, and other handicrafts.

Local Culture and Customs of Beaufort

Beaufort has a unique cultural heritage influenced by the diverse ethnic communities that call the town home. Visitors should be respectful of local customs and traditions, including dress codes when visiting religious sites.

Best Time to Visit Beaufort

The best time to visit Beaufort is between April and October when the skies are clear, and rainfall is minimal. The weather during this period is conducive to outdoor activities and exploring the natural beauty of the town.

Do’s and Don’ts of Beaufort

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Try local food and drink.
  • Take care of the natural environment.

Don’t:

  • Wear revealing clothing in public.
  • Litter or leave trash in natural and public places.
  • Disrespect cultural sites and monuments.

Safety and Health

Safety in Beaufort

Beaufort is a safe town, and visitors can move around without any significant security concerns. Visitors should take the usual precautions against petty crime, including pickpocketing and theft.

Health in Beaufort

Visitors should take the usual precautions to avoid getting sick. These include drinking bottled water, avoiding street food, and taking mosquito repellent.

Getting to Beaufort: Transportation Options and Logistics

Beaufort is well-connected by road, rail, and air. Here are the various transportation options:

Airports Near Beaufort

The nearest airport to Beaufort is the Kota Kinabalu International Airport located about 94 kilometers away.

Bus Stations Near Beaufort

Beaufort has a bus station with several bus routes connecting various towns and cities in Sabah.

Other Options

Visitors can also take a train from Kota Kinabalu to Beaufort. The North Borneo Steam Railway, a heritage train, also operates from Beaufort town.

How to Get Around in Beaufort

Beaufort is a small town, and most of the attractions are within walking distance. Visitors can also rent a bicycle or motorcycle to explore the surrounding countryside.

Where to Go Next from Beaufort: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Beaufort is an excellent base to explore other nearby destinations and excursions. Here are some recommendations:

  • Kota Kinabalu: The capital city of Sabah is just a couple of hours away and is a great option for city sightseeing, nightlife, and dining.
  • Kudat: Kudat is a beautiful coastal town that is famous for its stunning beaches, cultural heritage, and craft markets.
  • Gunung Kinabalu: Mount Kinabalu is one of the highest peaks in Southeast Asia and a popular hiking destination.

Conclusion

Beaufort is a hidden gem of Sabah that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and adventure activities. Whether you are a nature lover, culture enthusiast, or adrenaline junkie, Beaufort has something to offer. Plan your trip to this charming town to experience the best that Sabah has to offer.

Old shophouses near the train station Old shophouses near the train station Guan Yin Temple Guan Yin Temple Colonial house with wooden roof tiles Colonial house with wooden roof tiles