Sabah is located on the northern tip of the stunning island of Borneoin Malaysia. The lush green state attracts tourists from all across the world, because of its rich biodiversity, exotic beaches, and abundant wildlife. It is well famed for Mount Kinabalu, the country’s highest peak with distinctive granite spires.
If you are looking for an out of the world vacation, well, Sabah is sure to exceed your expectations. What you are going to experience in Sabah is unparalleled as the state is well known for its diving spots, great food, wildlife, and fascinating cultural traditions. This is your chance to escape to an incredible new location and experience a unique culture.
Here are a couple of awesome things to do and explore in Sabah:
Sipadan for the best diving experience
Sipadan, just off the coast of Sabah is indeed a diver’s dream. You can look forward to some of the best diving spots in the waters that are teeming with abundant marine life like huge hawksbill and green turtles, big bumphead parrotfish, and whitetip sharks. Thousands of species of fish and pristine coral are found around Sipadan. The underwater cave system is loaded with the skeletons of sea turtleswhich got lost in its labyrinth. TheBarracuda Point dive site is famous for the barracuda tornado formation and underwater ecosystem.
Pulau Sipadan island is indisputably the dive mecca and one of the most famous scuba destinations in Malaysia. Scuba diving at Pulau Sipadan island allows you to enjoy and experience the diversity of marine life. Take advantage of the excellent macro dive sites at the nearby resort islands and enjoy the breath-taking big fish action of Sipadan.
An alternative famous dive destination 300km north of Kota Kinabalu is Layang Layang atoll, where you are sure to meet the hammerhead sharks during the mating season.
Danum Valley to see wild orangutans
For those looking for a jungle experience in Sipadan, should head straight for Danum Valley to see the wild orangutans in Sabah. The vast rainforest reserve is a protected area within the centre of Sabah near the Maliau Basin and offers protection to the endangered species due to deforestation and human-induced destruction.
Kinabatangan River to photograph Proboscis Monkeys
The Kinabatangan River is an enormous river that runs through Sabah and stretches across 560 kilometres. Take a river cruise to spot the threatened monkeys with a pot-belly and long red nose. Proboscis Monkeys live in large communities across the stretches of the river and along with the monkeys, one can even spot other wildlife like pygmy elephants, endemic birds such as hornbills and kingfishers, crocodiles, and wild oranutangs.
Maliau Falls for a spectacular trek
Take a trek into the complete jungle wilderness away from civilization and explore the lost world of Sabah in Maliau Basin. Just be with pure and unspoiled natureand wildlife, and the main highlight of the trek is the 7-tiered Maliau Falls. The majestic waterfalls are indeed stunning to look at, and one can spend some relaxing moments here.
Unusual flowers and unbelievable plants
Sabah is well famous for its carnivorous pitcher plants and stinky Rafflesia flowers. It is indeed unbelievable to look at those unusual species. The carnivorous pitcher plants live on insects and are merely huge. The Rafflesia, also known as Stinking Corpse Lily emits an unpleasant odour. Watching those incredible feats of nature is one of the top things to do in Sabah.
River cruises to see the fireflies
Kota Belud river cruises are top-rated amongst tourists who do not want to miss the chance to see the dancing fireflies. It is indeed one of the most interesting and romantic things to do in Sabah. There are regular tours to see the beautiful glittering fireflies late in the evening, and it feels like you are looking at Christmas lights.
Climb Mt Kinabalu for awesome views
Why not take the challenge of climbing Mt Kinabalu? While the trek is a challenging one, it is indeed an enriching experience. From the summit, you can enjoy 360-degree views of the surroundings rainforest of Sabah. However, it is a challenging night climb up 4000meters to be there at sunrise, so be prepared.
White-water rafting in Padas and Kiulu River
Another adrenalin pumping experience to go for is the white-water rafting, which is a very popular activity here in Kota Kinabalu. Head towards the picturesque Kiulu River a short distance away from the city. If you are interested in Grade 3 and 4 rapids, then the Padas River guarantees the wilder ride.
Sabah can guarantee a wonderful holiday escape for the entire family. So, why wait? Visit Sabah now!
