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Sabah Travel Guide

Sabah

Mt Kinabalu © Tourism Malaysia
Evocatively named, 'Land below the wind', Sabah is situated at the northeast corner of Borneo, below the typhoon belt in East Malaysia. Most visitors to Sabah are lured by the natural splendor of the state and the unique experience of its national parks. The rugged landscape is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts with some of the highest mountains in Malaysia to climb, and one of the richest and least spoilt underwater ecosystems in the world to dive in. Other extreme sports like paragliding and skydiving are adding to Sabah's growing reputation as an adventure destination.

Its spectacular environment boasts one of the largest rainforests in the world and the highest mountain peak in South East Asia, Mt Kinabalu, stands at 13,500ft (4,101m) within Kinabalu Park. The park is the most visited and has been declared a World Heritage Site in recognition of its incredible variety. A popular trek is the two-day summit trail. Sabah's diversity extends to the indigenous people of the area that comprise 31 different groups speaking more than 50 indigenous languages. These ethnic differences form a rich culture of music, dance and handicrafts that are unique to the region.

Sabah is an expensive travel destination with the only real 'budget' accommodation located at Kinabalu National Park and Poring Hot Springs. Direct flights to Sabah are routed to the capital, Kota Kinabalu.




Attractions

Mt Kinabalu © Tourism Malaysia

Mt Kinabalu

Mount Kinabalu rises from the Kinabalu National Park at an impressive 13,500ft (4,101m), the highest mountain between the white peaks of the Himalayas and those of New Guinea. Despite its formidable height, it is a comparatively easy climb that has been enjoyed by tourists...  see full details



Sepilok Orang-Utan Sanctuary © Tourism Malaysia

Sepilok Forest Reserve and Orang-Utan Sanctuary

This vast equatorial rainforest is an enchanting excursion that is best explored through self-guided trails. The most interesting diversion from these trails is provided by a trip to the Orang-Utan sanctuary. Here Orang-Utans that have been rescued find temporary shelter before their release into...  see full details



Bullocki nudi off Sipadan © blue_planet

Sipadan Island

This mushroom-shaped island is known amongst divers around the world for its unique seascape and exceptional beauty. A rich variety of marine life shimmers through the translucent waters surrounding this oceanic island.  ...  see full details



Pulau Gaya © Wikimedia Commons

Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park

Five pristine islands comprise this 4,929-hectare (12,100 acre) park. The islands are: Gaya, Mamutik, Manukan, Sapi and Sulug. Each is an idyllic composition of white beaches and offshore coral reefs hugging inland forests teeming with animal life. Visitors are welcome to camp, trek, swim...  see full details



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