Sabah is praised for unspoiled, sandy beaches bordering azure waters, untouched rainforests, some of the most beautiful islands in Malaysia and a powerful river snaking far into the interior region. A stunning expanse of well-protected surroundings draws thousands of outdoor enthusiasts for exciting river rafting, water sports, jungle treks and other adventurous pastimes but the most renowned of all activities is the challenging climb up the majestic Mount Kinabalu. Mount Kinabalu climbing surpasses every activity in the area by a long shot. It is by far the most sought after of things to do in Kota Kinabalu.

One of the reasons Mount Kinabalu mountain climbing is so popular is because climbers of all levels can get to the summit without carrying a backbreaking load of climbing gear during their Malaysia vacation. Any fairly fit person can make the Mount Kinabalu ascent successfully within two days. Mount Kinabalu mountain climbing is where you'll get the best views of Kota Kinabalu and area as the trail climbs quickly through cloud forests laden with mist to lofty meadows and then to the end where a barren crest of gray-hued granite greets you.

In the history of Mount Kinabalu the name came about from the Kadazan words "aki nabalu" which means "the revered place of the dead." This name echoes a local axiom that ancestor spirits linger on the summit. Every year local mountain guides carry out religious rites to assuage the spirits during Malaysia tours. The first person to ever make the ascent in the history of Mount Kinabalu was the British crown colony of Labuan's Colonial Secretary. In 1851 Sir Hugh Low began his Mount Kinabalu climbing expedition and upon completion the peak he first mounted was named after him.

Malaysia Map

The tangle of the dense, surrounding jungle made it difficult for anyone to try Mount Kinabalu mountain climbing. In the history of Mount Kinabalu no average foreigner had ever attempted it before Sir Hugh Low. Some time after this first ascent a road was cut through the thickly forested area making Mount Kinabalu much more easily accessed. In 1964 the region enveloping the peak was catalogued as a national park more than a million travelers crowded in for a Mount Kinabalu climbing experience.

The best time to go is from February through April which is the dry season and when the conditions are best. Between August and September there are dry periods also good for Mount Kinabalu mountain climbing during Malaysia holidays. Transportation to Kinabalu Park can be had by taxi or bus from Inanam. Two hours will get you there by bus or you can hire a taxi which is only slightly faster. If your Mount Kinabalu climbing package is booked, a ride to the park will normally be included.

When planning the ascent, make sure to book well ahead. When you arrive at the park, you'll have to pay the climbing fee permit, entrance fee and mountain guide fee. You must take a guide as there is no other option. Porters are available for an extra cost as is accommodation and food on the mountain. Other fees include your transportation to the gate where the climb starts, insurance and the certificate upon completion. It is recommended to visitors to spend three days and two nights on Mount Kinabalu to properly acclimatize. Make sure to check all rates thoroughly before committing.

An ascent to the top of Mount Kinabalu is one of the most satisfying activities in Malaysia if you're an outdoor adventurer. The experience is something you'll remember for a lifetime. After the climb head over to one of the Malaysia beaches and take a load off! Or head into Kota Kinabalu and enjoy some leisurely dining, sightseeing and shopping while you reminisce about your new accomplishment.