A Guide to Climb Mount Kinabalu
Mount Kinabalu (Low’s Peak) is one of the wonderful, unique Sabah experiences that both visitors and local Sabahans can enjoy. At 4095 meters, Mount Kinabalu is the twentieth-highest mountain in the world, the highest peak in Southeast Asia, and one of the highest that can be climbed without mountaineering skills and specialist equipment. Reaching Low’s Peak just before dawn and watching the sun rise over Borneo Island is an exceptional experience to be treasured forever.
Your Mount Kinabalu Climb: Important Information
Please read this important information carefully before booking your Climb Mount Kinabalu tour package with Blue Kinabalu Travel. If you have any questions, please ask the Blue Kinabalu team. Please note that this information applies to all climbers, irrespective of which climb package is booked.
Friendly Note from Sabah Parks
It is recommended that all climbers should have themselves medically checked before attempting any mountain climb. Suppose you have a history of suffering from the following ailments. In that case, it is highly recommended that you SHOULD NOT CLIMB: Hypertension, Diabetes, Palpitation, Arthritis, Heart disease, severe anemia, Peptic ulcers, Epileptic fits, Obesity (overweight), Chronic asthma, Muscular cramps, Hepatitis (jaundice); or any other disease which may hamper the climber.
Upon registration at Park Headquarters, children below 15 must fill in the indemnity form.
This section includes: (click on the link to take you to the section)
· Climb Mount Kinabalu 2D1N sample itinerary
· Climb Mount Kinabalu 3D2N sample itinerary
· Your Mount Kinabalu Climb: Important Information
· How to book your Climb Mount Kinabalu tour package
· Climb Mount Kinabalu Check List (items you should/may wish to bring)
Climb Mount Kinabalu Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re contemplating climbing Mount Kinabalu, you’ll probably have many questions: here are some of the common FAQs that the Blue Kinabalu Travel team are regularly asked. If you have a separate question, please get in touch with us and we will be happy to answer!
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Mount Kinabalu as the ‘crow flies’ is 60km north-east of Kota Kinabalu, the State capital of Sabah, Malaysia. The nearest town is Kundasang that’s a 95km/two-and-a-half hour journey by road from KK. Kinabalu Park Headquarters is 6km west of Kundasang, and it’s at Park HQ where Mount Kinabalu climbs are administered, and where all climbs commence / end at Timpohon Gate that’s part of the park.
Mount Kinabalu is part of Kinabalu National Park that was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2000. It is one of the most important biological surroundings in the world with an astounding 5,000 plus species of plants, 326 species of birds and more than 100 mammalian species identified. An amazing location for your climb.
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March through to October tend to be the drier months but with Climate Change it’s less predictable. With limited climb slots, Mount Kinabalu is always busy but particularly so June – August / Christmas thru’ New Year.
What is the difference between the 2D1N & 3D2N tour package?
The 2D1N package departs KK circa 0600 hours with the climb commencing 0830 hours same day. The 3D2N package departs KK circa 1200 hours and guests night-stop in Kinabalu National Park with the climb commencing after breakfast on Day 2 circa 0830 hours. From that point both itineraries for climb/descent/return to KK are the same.
The key benefits of the 3D2N package are an opportunity to acclimatise and relax overnight in Kinabalu National Park at an altitude of circa 1900 metres prior to your climb.
Please note all Blue Kinabalu Travel “Climb Mount Kinabalu 2D1N & 3D2N Tour Packages” commence/end at your Kota Kinabalu city area hotel or Airbnb. See below for detailed sample itineraries.
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4095 metre Mount Kinabalu (Low’s Peak) can potentially be climbed by any person in reasonably good physical condition and there is no need for specialist mountaineering equipment, or mountaineering skills to climb but as with any mountain some people may experience altitude sickness.
It is recommended that all climbers should have themselves medically checked before attempting any mountain climb. If you have a history of suffering from the following ailments, it is highly recommended that you SHOULD NOT CLIMB: Hypertension, Diabetes, Palpitation, Arthritis, Heart disease, severe anaemia, Peptic ulcers, Epileptic fits, Obesity (overweight), Chronic asthma, Muscular cramps, Hepatitis (jaundice); or any other disease which may hamper the climber.
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I climbed at 50 years old: it was tough, challenging but a mix of preparation (4-5 months training) and determination together with the encouragement of our mountain guide got me to the summit. Any training undertaken prior to the climb will be handsomely repaid on your climb and make the experience much more enjoyable.
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Approximately 28-32 hours total elapsed time from Climb Start at Timpohon Gate on morning of Day 1 to Climb Finish at Timpohon Gate on afternoon of Day 2. Don’t worry you won’t be climbing the whole time, there’s opportunity for rest en route!
What is the temperature on Mount Kinabalu?
Kinabalu National Park (15°C to 26°C)
On the Climb (3°C to 16°C)
Summit (0°C to -3°C)
It’s tropical of course, so can rain at any time
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Yes! Each Climb Mount Kinabalu package booked with Blue Kinabalu Travel includes a dedicated Mountain Guide(s) for you/your party, even if you’re a solo climber. For safety reasons, you can only climb Mount Kinabalu if escorted by an accredited Mountain Guid. Each Mountain Guide can only guide a maximum of five adult climbers. If the party contains one or two children under the age of 16 the maximum is three (2 Adult / 1 Child) or (1 Adult / 2 Child).
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There are circa 300 Mount Kinabalu Mountain Guides, the majority of whom are local Dusun people and who will usually make the climb five/six times per month. Climbers should always follow the instructions of Mountain Guides.
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No. However experienced you are as a climber you must follow the climb timetable as prescribed by Sabah Parks (climbing to reach the summit at dawn) and you must be accompanied by an accredited Mountain Guide.
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Yes, subject to availability and arrangement on the day of your climb. The cost is currently RM14 per kg, payable in RM cash.
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Climb slots are restricted and cost of climb is dependent on a number of factors including:
Type of package (eg 2D1N or 3D2N)
Time of Year
International / Local climber
Number of climbers
Contact Blue Kinabalu Travel for Climb Mount Kinabalu tour package price based on above information.
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As soon as possible, particularly if you’re a group! Our recommendation is to book at least 3-6 months prior to the climb and even at that point some dates can be fully booked.
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No, as part of Sabah Parks terms & conditions, no refund/partial refund is available should the climb be cancelled/ completed for any reason (e.g. bad weather)
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It is strongly recommended that you DO NOT book a flight departing KK on the same day that you complete the climb. There are numerous reasons why your arrival back in KK may be delayed e.g. weather, traffic, mechanical breakdown. We suggest you return to KK, and the following morning relax with a massage and then think about departing to your next destination.
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Yes, absolutely. Although Mount Kinabalu climb packages include a personal accident plan covered by Sabah Parks for all climbers, the coverage and claim value is very limited. We strongly recommend all visitors to have personal Travel insurance, not just for your Mount Kinabalu climb but to cover you for your entire stay in Sabah.
Climb Mount Kinabalu 2 day, 1 Night Sample Itinerary
Day 1 (Kota Kinabalu/Kinabalu Park HQ/Timpohon Gate/Ascend Mount Kinabalu/ Panalaban Base Camp) – (Packed Lunch / Dinner)
0600hrs - 0700hrs: Pick-up from your KK city hotel / Airbnb lobby and depart on a two-hour journey to Kinabalu Park Headquarters. Collect your packed lunch.
0900hrs: Our guide will arrange for all necessary registrations, assign you a mountain guide and apply for your ID TAG - Remember to wear your ID TAG at all times.
You'll then be transferred to starting point – Timpohon Gate – where your journey and quest to the summit of Borneo’s highest mountain begins! The climb to Panalaban Base Camp will take approximately 4-5 hours.
The trek will pass by different vegetation zones from Oak and Chestnut to mossy and eventually to alpine type of vegetations.
Arrive Panalaban Base Camp @ 3272m and check into your dormitory accommodation
Buffet Dinner at Laban Rata Restaurant and overnight.
Day 2 (Low's Peak / Descend Mount Kinabalu / Kota Kinabalu) - (Supper/Breakfast/Lunch)
0200hrs: Wake up for early supper and depart for continuation of journey towards the summit of Mount Kinabalu.
The journey up to the Low's peak @ 4,095m will test your fitness and determination. Depending on speed of trekking, you might be able to experience the glorious sunrise over the majestic Mount Kinabalu if weather permits.
0700hrs: Descend back to Panalaban Base Camp for late breakfast and check out.
Trek down to Timpohon Gate for transfer back to the Kinabalu Park Headquarters (est. arrival 1300hrs to 1500hrs)
Lunch will be served at Liwagu Restaurant in Kinabalu Park.
Transfer back to Kota Kinabalu City: journey takes approximately two hours.
Climb Mount Kinabalu (2D1N): Tour Includes
· Meals as stated (1 Breakfast, 1 Packed-Lunch, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner & 1 Supper)
· 1 Night Accommodation
· Entrance Fee
· Return Transfer from KK City Area Hotels / Airbnb (Seat-In-Coach)
· Return Transfer (Park HQ - Timpohon Gate - Park HQ)
· Mountain Guide
· Climbing Insurance
· Climbing Permit
· English Speaking Support Team
Climb Mount Kinabalu (2D1N): Tour Excludes
· Airfares
· Porter Fee
· Beverages
· Personal Travel Insurance
· Any Items Not Mentioned
Climb Mount Kinabalu (2D1N): Tour Information
Accommodation:
DAY 1 - 1 Night Panalaban Assorted Huts (Non-Heated Dormitory Bunk-bed room with sharing bathroom & toilet)
Note on Meals Arrangement:
Lunch will be converted to packed meal on Day 2 (Mt Kinabalu Descent) for climbers who arrive after 1600 hours.
Climb Mount Kinabalu 3 day, 2 Night Sample Itinerary
Day 1 (Kota Kinabalu / Kinabalu Park HQ) – (Dinner)
Pick-up from your KK city hotel / Airbnb lobby and depart on a two hour journey to Kinabalu Park Headquarters en route passing by villages and (weather permitting) a panoramic vista of the valleys of the Crocker Range.
Along the way, take a brief stop at Nabalu Market where locals gather to sell local produce, fruits, home grown vegetables and handicraft souvenirs.
Check into your accommodation at Kinabalu Park Headquarters (Private room with shared bathroom: run-of-house) and the rest of the day is free ‘n’ easy with dinner be served at local restaurant and overnight.
Day 2 (Park HQ / Timpohon Gate/ Ascend Mount Kinabalu/ Panalaban Base Camp) – (Breakfast/Packed Lunch/Dinner)
Breakfast at Liwagu Restaurant in Kinabalu National Park; before you leave collect your packed lunch.
Proceed to the Park HQ to register for the climb.
Our guide will arrange for all necessary registrations, assign you a mountain guide and apply for your ID TAG - Remember to wear your ID TAG at all times.
You'll then be transferred to starting point – Timpohon Gate – where your journey and quest to the summit of Borneo’s highest mountain begins! The climb to Panalaban Base Camp takes approximately 4-5 hours.
The trek will pass by different vegetation zones from Oak and Chestnut to mossy and eventually to alpine type of vegetations.
Arrive Panalaban Base Camp @ 3272m and check into your dormitory accommodation
Buffet Dinner at Laban Rata Restaurant and overnight.
Day 3 (Low's Peak / Descend Mount Kinabalu / Kota Kinabalu) – (Supper/Breakfast/Lunch)
0200hrs: Wake up for early supper and depart for continuation of journey towards the summit of Mount Kinabalu.
The journey up to the Low's peak @ 4,095m will test your fitness and determination. Depending on speed of trekking, you might be able to experience the glorious sunrise over the majestic Mount Kinabalu if weather permits.
0700hrs: Descend back to Panalaban Base Camp for late breakfast and check out. Trek down to Timpohon Gate for transfer back to the Kinabalu Park Headquarters (est. arrival 1300hrs to 1500hrs)
Lunch will be served at Liwagu Restaurant in Kinabalu Park.
Transfer back to Kota Kinabalu City: journey takes approximately two hours.
Climb Mount Kinabalu (3D2N): Tour Includes
· Meals as stated (2 Breakfasts, 1 Packed Lunch, 1 Lunch, 2 Dinners & 1 Supper)
· 2 Nights Accommodation
· Entrance Fee
· Return Transfer from KK City Area Hotels / Airbnb (Seat-In-Coach)
· Return Transfer (Park HQ - Timpohon Gate - Park HQ)
· Mountain Guide
· Climbing Insurance
· Climbing Permit
· English Speaking Support Team
Climb Mount Kinabalu (3D2N): Tour Excludes
· Airfares
· Porter Fee
· Beverages
· Personal Travel Insurance
· Any Items Not Mentioned
Climb Mount Kinabalu (3D2N): Tour Information
Accommodation:
DAY 1 - 1 Night Kinabalu Park HQ Accommodation - Private twin-share room with shared bathroom (run-of-house)
DAY 2 - 1 Night Panalaban Assorted Huts (Non-Heated Dormitory Bunk-bed room with sharing bathroom & toilet)
Note on Meals Arrangement:
Dinner will be converted to packed dinner on Day 1 (Arrival Day) for any arrival to the resort after 21:00hrs.
Lunch will be converted to packed meal on Day 2 (Mt Kinabalu Descent) for climbers who arrive after 1600 hours.
Important Information (Disclaimer Required)
If the National Park cancels the Mount Kinabalu climb in part, or full for any reason (e.g. heavy rain) then as per the Kinabalu National Park Terms & Conditions there is no refund. Similarly, if you, or any of your party have to cancel or cannot complete the climb for any reason then also there is no refund. Accordingly, and in order to be able to accept your booking, each climber will need to sign Blue Kinabalu Travel Agency “Climb Mount Kinabalu – Disclaimer Form” confirming a) “Fitness to Climb” and b) understanding of, and agreement to “Mount Kinabalu Cancellation Policy” at time of booking. Please note Blue Kinabalu Travel Agency requires payment in full by Bank Transfer before reservations can be confirmed.
Your Mount Kinabalu Climb: Other important information
Climbers who reach Timpohon Gate after 16:30 Hrs will be imposed a fee of MYR 15 per hour per guide and need to pay directly to mountain guide on the spot.
Tipping is like giving a hug. Although it’s never expected, it’s always very much appreciated
Do take note that your MyKad (for Malaysian) / Passport (for Non-Malaysian) will be required for verification during registration at the Kinabalu Park office. Please bring it along with you.
Laban Rata Resthouse does NOT provide boiled water for drinking/refill to climbers. Coffee & Tea will only be provided complimentary during Breakfast & Supper. However, mineral water, coffee, tea, and other hot drinks and Soft Drinks are still available for purchase at the Grocery Counter (Laban Rata Resthouse).
Pendant Hut provides filtered hot water for drinking/refill to climbers.
Check-out time for Laban Rata Resthouse is 10:00 Hrs. Should you check out later than 10:30 Hrs, a Late Check Out Fee of MYR100/hour applies, to be paid directly on the spot.
Effective as of 1st September 2017, the Tourism and Culture Ministry of Malaysia will be implementing a Malaysian Tourism Tax (TTX). Foreign tourists will be required to pay a flat rate of MYR 10 per room per night regardless of accommodation star level. The TTx is to be paid upon check-in. Malaysians or permanent residents residing in Malaysia are exempted from TTx and are required to present a valid identification upon check-in for the exemption.
How to book your Climb Blue Mount Kinabalu package with Blue Kinabalu Travel
To check availability/price
Email operations@bluekinabalu.com
WhatsApp +60 13 979 6782
Climb Mount Kinabalu Check List (items you should bring)
· Passport or Malaysian IC (you must bring this to be able to register on the morning of your climb!)
· Waterproof backpack to store your items
· Trekking or running shoe with good grip
· Warm clothing/Long sleeves shirt/Hiking pants
· Jacket/Wind breaker
· Extra clothing and socks
· Small towel
· Hand gloves and winter hat
· Disposable raincoats
· Head torch (compulsory)
· Personal toiletries
· Refillable water bottle (0.5 - 1 Litre)
· High-energy food such as chocolates, nuts, biscuits, sweets, energy bars
· RM Cash for Tourist Tax / Beverages / Incidentals e.g. tipping Mountain Guide
Climb Mount Kinabalu Check List (Items You May Wish to Bring)
· Medication such as headache tablets or altitude sickness tablets
· Tissue paper / Toilet roll
· Sunblock lotion, lip gloss, plasters
· Insect repellent / Mosquito Oil
· Camera/SmartPhone with water-proof bag
· Sandals / Slippers
· Plastic bags
Please note your extra luggage can be stored at Kinabalu Park HQ at a nominal fee of MYR 15 per piece prior climb
Climb Mount Kinabalu tips
· Train and prepare well – if you do this, the climb and experience will be so much more easy and enjoyable
· Pace yourself, it’s not a race – slow methodical steps will get you there
· When you reach the summit congratulations don’t ‘switch off’ – some say that the descent is the most difficult part of the climb
· It may rain at some stage – take a couple of disposable ponchos – they only way a few grams each
· Stay fed with protein / energy bars and hydrated
· Make sure you have a phone or camera (with battery charged!) for that all-important summit picture that your Mountain Guide will be delighted to take!
· Have fun!