Situated close to the northernmost level of Borneo, the Malaysian metropolis of Kota Kinabalu is likely one of the premiere locations the island has to supply. Stunning, luxurious, and extremely secure, town performs residence to a number of the finest issues to do in Kota Kinabalu Borneo. Whether or not it’s orangutan encounters, mountain climbing up a mountain, or absorbing sunshine on a distant seashore, Kota Kinabalu has all of it.
What To Know
For such a distant island, Borneo is surprisingly straightforward to succeed in…when you get to Asia. Flights from hubs comparable to Guangzhou, Seoul, and Kuala Lumpur present entry to Kota Kinabalu, and as per my data in the intervening time of writing, the least costly flights are available in just below $800 (USD). Though, offers can probably be discovered for cheaper than that in the event you’re keen to e-book as far upfront as doable. Needless to say low prices on the bottom will assist to mitigate the airfare considerably.
Please make certain to get all essential vaccinations, particularly in the event you’re planning on going into the jungle itself. Moreover, convey insect repellent, even in the event you’re merely going to the seashore. And naturally, convey loads of sunscreen!
The place To Keep
In most locations, resorts might supply a pool, or maybe easy accessibility to the seashore. Borneo’s resorts go far past these normal facilities, going as far as to supply full-on wildlife encounters. Probably the greatest locations to come across orangutans in Kota can be among the finest locations to remain: the Shangri-La Rasa Ria Resort and Spa. Whereas the resort has its personal personal seashore, the true draw right here is the Rasa Ria Nature Reserve that surrounds the whole resort.
Run along with the native state authorities, the Reserve works as a rehabilitation space for rescued endangered animals. Ultimately, most animals (and orangutans particularly) are moved to Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre earlier than being launched again into the wild. The reserve supplies nice alternatives for youngsters and adults alike to study orangutans and rise up near them in encounters which are secure for all concerned. This is likely one of the few locations in Kota Kinabalu (and Borneo) that you’re assured to see orangutans, and it’s a possibility that shouldn’t be missed!
When you desire to remain nearer to town and all of the actions it presents, think about staying at Shangri-La Tanjung Aru. This resort not solely has its personal seashore and swimming pools, however presents free shuttles to go to Rasa Ria as nicely. Whereas each inns are someplace between $150-$300 an evening, the comfort every resort presents is definitely worth the price ticket.
(Observe: Non-guests can go to the Nature Reserve, however numbers are restricted and tickets will have to be booked a number of days upfront. If staying off Shangri-La property, seek the advice of your lodge to rearrange a go to.)
Island Experiences
When you get away from the resorts, Kota Kinabalu takes on a wholly completely different persona. That is the place you get to essentially dig into the tradition of the world, which takes cues from native and Malaysian heritage in addition to the encompassing pure panorama.
A very fashionable pastime with vacationers right here is to climb Mt. Kinabalu. Take observe: the mountain is a two day hike alongside nontechnical trails that may however show difficult at occasions. Relaxation assured that the views alongside the best way are attractive and nicely definitely worth the effort and time. Be sure you convey loads of water, and don’t overlook the layers you’ll want for the upper altitudes.
Highlights at decrease elevations embody a cruise alongside the Kilas River to view monkeys, mangroves, and night fireflies, in addition to snorkeling off of Tanjung Aru seashore or in Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park. After having your fill of journey, there’s no higher option to finish the day than kicking again on the seashore and watching the solar fade into the horizon.
Header photograph by Wallula on Pixabay