Below are some of the best things to do by category.
SABAH
TripAdvisor
Mount Kinabalu situated at the Kinabalu National park, Malaysia’s first World Heritage Site by UNESCO
Wildlife
Danum Valley
Want to go where the royal couple has trekked? Ranked #4 in Sabah on TripAdvisor, Danum Valley is a vast tropical forest, covering close to 44,000 hectares of lush flora and fauna. Often recognised as one of the most complex ecosystems in the world, it is a wonderful retreat for those looking to be at one with nature.
As one TripAdvisor traveller said, "The Danum Valley without a fraction of a doubt is one of the best places I have ever visited. Its unspoilt beauty and rich flora and fauna coupled with its diverse animal life make it a treasure to visit time and time again."
Turtle Island Park
Another wildlife park not to be missed is Turtle Island ranked #2 in Sandakan. Turtle Island provides an opportunity for animal-lovers to watch endangered green and hawksbill turtle landings. It consists of Selingan which is home to a turtle hatchery, as well as Bakumgan Kecil and Gulisan islands which have conservation activities. Plan an overnight stay to watch the turtles come ashore after dusk to lay their eggs.
As one TripAdvisor traveller said, "Saw turtles in their natural environment and the island was good to stay on. The food was good and the rangers informative."
Water Sports
Downbelow Marine and Wildlife Adventures
Learn scuba diving with Downbelow Marine and Wildlife Adventures ranked #2 for tours in Kota Kinabalu on TripAdvisor.
As one TripAdvisor traveller said, "Downbelow Marine & Wildlife Adventures are fantastic to dive with. Their instructors are friendly and great fun to be around."
Mountain Trekking
Mount Kinabalu
One of the tallest mountains in Southeast Asia, Mount Kinabalu which ranks #2 in Kota Kinabalu, stands at 4,095 metres and is situated at the Kinabalu National park, Malaysia's first World Heritage Site by UNESCO. You can have hikes lasting for a day or more than two days with certified guides.
As one TripAdvisor traveller said, "The fantastic view of the surrounding valleys, the flora and fauna and being rewarded with the sight of Mount Kinabalu as you reach the top of the route is enough to take your breath away."
History Museum
Ranked #5 in Kota Kinabalu, Mari Mari Cultural Village transports you to ancient Borneo with its indigenous architecture and rituals. From blow pipe making demonstrations to sampling traditional delicacies, travellers will be able to experience Sabah's culture then and now.
As one TripAdvisor traveller said, "Very entertaining - well worth a visit. The staff were excellent - they took much pride in their job and willingly explain anything to us inquisitive tourists."
