Strap on those hiking shoes and get ready to explore the untouched forest of Tawau's Bukit Gemok. Situated 10 km from the city centre, Bukit Gemok (Gemok Hill) has recently become a popular spot for avid trekkers and Hash runners who love the challenge of varied terrain. Bukit Gemok is approximately 428 metres above sea level and is part of the Bukit Gemok Forest Reserve, covering 445 hectares.

The hike begins with an easy trail of concrete stairs which eventually ‘disappear' and make way for natural ground. The uphill walk is fairly challenging, particularly for beginners. Watch out for rocks, bulging tree roots and the like. Some parts get steeper and more demanding, but the beautiful natural surroundings make it all worthwhile.

Along the way there is so much to marvel at, such as the giant trees that seem to stretch endlessly to the sky and the elusive creatures that scurry about. There are seven huts along the way for walkers to rest and relax. After hiking for about an hour (depending on your fitness level), you will arrive at the Titian Selara canopy walkway.

At 231 metres long, it is deemed one of the longest canopy walkways in Sabah. Your ‘struggle' to the top will be worthwhile once you get a glimpse of the breathtaking view of Tawau from this high up. The stunning scenery spans the town centre, the picturesque coastline and its surrounding areas. The trek down Bukit Gemok should take a shorter time, but be warned that the trail becomes muddy and slippery during the rainy season, so exercise extra caution.

The forest reserve was developed in the early 1990s and is now equipped with basic facilities such as washrooms and rest huts along the trail. Any land vehicle can be used to get to Bukit Gemok. Just be sure to dress comfortably, drink plenty of fluids and get ready to soak in the majesty of the lush greenery along the trails of Bukit Gemok.

Getting There: A taxi ride from Tawau town will cost around RM30.00 (one way). It is recommended that you make returns arrangement with your taxi driver. Public transport is not readily available in this area.

Opening hours: Daily 8am - 5pm

Admission fee: RM1.00 (for both MyKad holders and others)

Torn between luxurious beaches and lush jungles, what’s a traveller to do? Two words: Bunga Raya.

Combining the two elements Sabah is mostly famous for—rainforest and island—Bunga Raya Island Resort & Spa serves as the best destination for those wanting the best of both natural worlds. This resort’s rustic spirit makes the experience a lot like a visit to some epic fantasy kampong.

Bask in some sun-fun on the beach and have a warm dip in the sparkling azure water. The excellent water visibility also makes it perfect for snorkelling. In the evening, play a game of beach volleyball with other guests or simply lie on your beach towel with a good book. Those seeking for more challenging adventures will have a swell time kayaking, scuba diving and jet skiing.

Had enough of soaking in brine? Chill out by lounging at the sun deck or do a few laps in the gorgeous infinity pool. Alternatively, spice up your escapade by doing some jungle trekking to explore the verdant beauty beyond the beach.

For some TLC and personal pampering, hike up to Solace Spa and enjoy some serious decompression. If you think a massage on a tropical beach is passé, get novelty-stoked by having your treatment at this jungle-themed spa—the first of its kind in Sabah. Otherwise, you can still request for a soothing massage on the beach or at the pavilion overlooking the sea.

A fabulous place is nothing without fabulous food—and Bunga Raya has it too. The Koi Restaurant is apt for a romantic dinner for two as well as other formal events. Should you prefer a more laid-back and casual dining experience, head to Pantai Grill by the beach and order a plate of finger food with chilled fruit punch or soda. Ultimate bliss!

Getting there: Bunga Raya Island Resort & Spa is situated in Police Bay of Gaya Island—approximately 30 minutes away from Kota Kinabalu by speedboat. Transfers can be arranged at the Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal counter.

144 kilometers away from Kota Kinabalu is the Crocker Range National Park (CRNP), situated in the Crocker Range, Sabah. The Crocker Range Park is located 13 kilometers from Keningau town, approximately 25 minutes away by car.

The Crocker Range was designated to be a forest reserve in 1968. In 1984, Crocker Range Nature Park was then established in order to protect the water catchments area which was supplying clean drinking water to the West Coast and the interior of Sabah. It was renamed Taman Banjaran Crocker (Crocker Range Park) in 1996 and is managed by the Sabah Parks.

Located in the heart of Crocker Range Park, the newly developed Sabah Park’s facility which opened in February 2004 is ideal a place for meetings, camping, jungle trekking and outdoor educational activities. Among the attractions to found in the Crocker Range Park are the Rafflesia sites, trekking courses, and camping ground.

The rising concern for protecting its rich biodiversity and rare species of flora and fauna had been the prime propellant in the initiative to gazette it as a national park.

Tariffs: Upon entry, visitors are charged RM3 per person.

Those intending to rough it out on the camping ground are charged RM5 per person (adults) and RM1 for youth below 18 years of age.

The Crocker Range Park is open daily from 8a.m to 5p.m.

Getting There: The bus to Keningau can be taken at the long distance bus station near Merdeka Field (to reach Keningau bus station). Schedules for departure are at 7a.m, 8.am, 10p.m, 12p.m, 1p.m, 2p.m, and 5p.m; the bus fare to Keningau is RM16 per person.

Visitors can also take the taxi from Kota Kinabalu to the Keningau Taxi station for RM120 per taxi.

From the Keningau bus station/ Keningau Taxi station, visitors would have to take another taxi to reach the Crocker Range station. One way fare is RM40 per taxi. However, all prices are estimated and are subject to change.

On a sprawling 438 square kilometer undisturbed land, 70 kilometers (44 miles) west of Lahad Datu, lies nature’s jewel called the Danum Valley Conservation Area. This conservation area boasts one of the richest conservation areas in the world with over 200 species of tree per hectare thriving on it.

Recognized as one of the world’s most complex ecosystem, this forest serves as a natural home for endangered wildlife species such as the Sumatran rhino, banteng, Asian elephant, clouded leopard, orang utan, proboscis monkey, as well as a vast range of Sabah’s lowland fauna.

Being remote from human habitation and almost alien to modern civilization makes the Danum Valley Conservation Area a naturalist paradise. Drink in the beauty of this virgin forest by taking nature walks with experienced naturalists through tranquil rivervine and lowland dipterocarp forest.

Avid birdwatchers will appreciate the 300-meter-long and 27-meter-high canopy walkway which offers a peek into abundant bird life in the forest canopy. The Danum Valley Conservation Area also has beautiful waterfalls and rivers including Sungai Purut 7-tiered pools—one of the most spectacular waterfalls and pools found in Danum Valley Conservation Area.

Here, visitors also get the chance to visit an ancient Kadazandusun burial site, complete with belian coffins and ceramic spirit jars. Three burial sites have been discovered in Danum Valley—two near the field centre and one below the cliff, overlooking Borneo Rainforest Lodge.

On the way down, visitors can take a dip in the jacuzzi pool that is leech-free and safe for swimming. Later in the evening, go for a wildlife watching night drive in an open jeep. Depending on luck, wildlife photography enthusiasts will get an excellent opportunity to catch snapshots of the elusive wild inhabitants of the Danum Valley Conservation Area.

Be more enlightened about nature and wildlife by watching an educational video and slide presentations. Those planning extensive wildlife photography are recommended to stay for at least 3 days to have better success at finding wild animals frolicking about.

Surrounded by the serene waters of South China Sea, Dinawan Island is reachable via speedboat from the Marina Sutera jetty in approximately 25 minutes.

This premier island resort is built on a lustrous tropical rainforest in the midst of clear, blue sea with warm and gentle blowing sea breeze. It is built with minimum disturbance to the natural surroundings - an excellent place to engulf oneself in tranquil island atmosphere.

A stay in the resort will give visitors a taste of untainted nature at its divine best! Be thrilled by the sights and sounds of squawking hornbills flying free in the rainforests, and enjoy a breathtaking view of the majestic Mount Kinabalu in the morning.

Guests can entertain themselves with a myriad of exciting activities such as snorkeling, sea walking, scuba diving, and other water sports. Other available activities include day and night fishing, a game of pool, and a game of mahjong. Guests can also enhance their zen experience by getting a traditional massage.

For queries regarding overnight accommodation, please refer to tour operator.

Tariff: Please refer to tour operator

Getting There: Pre-arranged tour is required through the tour operator

Described by WWF as 'the best-managed edible birds' nest cave in the world', Gomantong Caves in the heartland of the Gomantong Rainforest Reserve have been the focus for birds' nests for centuries.

Since the 13th century, Chinese traders have come to Sandakan in search of birds' nests, a prized delicacy among the Chinese and found nearly 100 metres up on the ceilings of the Gomantong Caves. Harvesters put their lives on the line literally, climbing networks of rattan ladders and ropes to get to the nests. The risky nature of nest collecting has only helped made the commodity a pricey one.

There are two cave complexes - Simud Hitam (Black Cave) soaring up to 90 metres high and the more accessible of the two, and Simud Putih (White Cave), where the more valuable nests are found. Simud Hitam is a five- minute walk from the registration centre. A well-maintained boardwalk gives you easy access to do some exploring or watch the skilled harvesters at work.

The resident creatures of the caves include swiftlets (from which the nests are collected) and bats among others. Outside, other birds such as serpent eagles, bat hawks and kingfishers can be seen. You might even spot an orangutan or two. You will need to make prior arrangements for exploring the more challenging Simud Putih which calls for more serious caving.

Facilities include a picnic area as well as the Gomantong Rainforest Chalet which can accommodate up to 30 people a night.

Getting There: A 1½ hour bus ride leaves from Sandakan to Sukau for the 95km trip. Fares are about RM17.00 each way. You can arrange your visit through local tour operators or the Forestry Department. Check our Directory for listings.

Visiting Hours: Daily from 8.00am till 6.00pm

One of the most prominent must-see stops near Kota Belud is Kampung Kuala Abai. It is a popular fishing village which is situated facing the South China Sea.

Kampung Kuala Abai is also the departure point for Mantanani Island; a famous spot for fishing, snorkeling and scuba diving. Located 20 kilometers away from Kota Belud and 90 kilometers from Kota Kinabalu, it is home to the Bajau Laut (Sea Bajau) community.

Getting There: Getting to Kampung Kuala Abai takes 1 hour and 30 minutes of car journey from Kota Kinabalu.

From Kota Kinabalu, visitors can take the Kota Belud bus at the bus station (near the Merdeka field) to the Kota Belud bus station. Bus fare is RM10 per person.

From Kota Belud bus station, take another bus heading to Kampung Rampayan. Bus fare is RM3 per person.

Please arrange with the bus driver regarding the return point.

Gorgeous Kelambu BeachFor beach lovers who opt for a more reclusive and less mainstream beach vacation, Kelambu Beach is the ultimate place to be.

Though less known, Kelambu Beach is indeed one of the best beaches in Sabah with its clear aquamarine sea and beautiful white sand engulfed by astounding verdant islands.

The inviting clear waters offer a variety of activities such as speed boating, water skiing, swimming, and snorkelling. The wonderful beach, on the other hand; is a perfect spot for family picnics, romantic strolls by the beach, seashells collecting or simply to enjoy a gorgeous sunset.

On the way to Kudat, be sure to make a detour to Kelambu Beach where you can sit back and delight in the beauty of nature’s best!

Stretching 560km from the Crocker Range in the southwest of Sabah to the Sulu Sea in the east, the Kinabatangan River sustains one of the world's richest ecosystems. The surrounding areas along the river consist of five distinct habitats - dipterocarp or dry, waterlogged and limestone forests, and freshwater and saline swamps. The lower basin of the river itself is the largest forest covered floodplain in Malaysia and has the largest concentration of wildlife in the South East Asian region.

Other than being home to Borneo's indigenous orang utan and proboscis monkey, the surrounding forest is also one of only two known places in the world where 10 species of primates are found. All the eight species of hornbill found in Borneo make the area their home.

A trip up the river at dawn or dusk is the best opportunity to see the wildlife. You might even sight an Asian elephant or a Sumatran rhinoceros wandering through the trees. Optional tours can be arranged for night safaris as well to spot crocodiles, birds and nocturnal animals.

Many major local tour companies run lodges in the Sukau area with packages that include accommodation, transportation, meals and guided tours. Alternatively, you may want to experience the homestay programme which is available at surrounding villages and which provides a good opportunity to truly experience the life of the Orang Sungai. Join in their cultural activities or even try your hand at the local way of farming!

Getting There: The overland trip from Sandakan to Sukau covers 135km where 42km of the journey is on gravel road through palm oil plantations. A 350km drive from Kota Kinabalu is also possible but will take at least six hours. Transportation can be arranged with local tour operators.

For more info, please refer to directory listing for the list of tour operators.

An interesting escape that will only take you 1 ½ hour from the city of Kota Kinabalu to a breathtaking backdrop of Mount Kinabalu and placing you at the second most beautiful village in Malaysia.

Located somewhere on the northwestern part of Sabah, Kiulu River graded as Class I – II river is safe enough for children and gentle enough for the elderly.

Trip begins with a safety briefing session conducted by our professional raft guide that will demonstrates rafting techniques and proper handling of rafting equipment before rafting commences.

Excursion covers up to 15km, making it the longest white water rafting trip in Borneo. The journey will take about 1 ½ - 2 hours of rafting before reaching the ending point where delicious barbecue lunch prepared just by the riverbank.

While having your lunch, enthrall yourself with the pristine breathtaking surroundings or get a quick sun tan before heading back to your respective hotels.

Located at Kampung Beringgis, Kinarut; The KK Adventure Park is especially designed to suit the penchants of unremitting adrenaline junkies who thrive on adventures.

Visitors can look forward to a smorgasbord of adrenaline pumping activities such as quad biking, riding on the beach buggies, bungee trampolines, high rope challenges, kayaking, doing the flying fox, wall climbing, taking the high ropes course challenge, giant chess, miniature golfing, as well as participating in Ken’s hidden treasure hunting.

The KK Adventure Park is open daily from 9am to 6pm.

Be warned that the activities listed here all involve an element of risk. All participants are required to sign a liability waiver prior to jumping the gun.

Getting There: There are three means of transportations from Kota Kinabalu to KK Adventure Park; namely buses, taxis and shuttle buses.

The journey from Kota Kinabalu to KK Adventure Park takes approximately 30 minutes, the distance is circa 26.5 kilometers.

Lankayan, a tiny jewel-shaped island located on the northeastern coast of Sabah, is part of the Sugud Islands Marine Conservation Area (SIMCA) and is surrounded blue-green waters and coral reefs. It is also one of Sabah's top diving spots.

The availability of jungle interior and interesting diving attracts both divers and non-divers alike to Lankayan.

14 dive sites including the Lankayan Wreck, all only minutes away from the island, offer magnificent displays of marine life ranging from giant groupers to tiny ribbon eels. Enormous whale sharks are regularly sighted between March and May, and the island is also a nesting site for green and hawksbill turtles. You can watch as the baby turtles are released back into the sea.

The Langkayan Island Dive Resort has sixteen attractive wooden chalets with beach fronts and the common dining area extends to a sundeck jutting out to the beach.

Getting There: The transfer to Lankayan is by speedboat departing from the Sandakan Yacht Club and takes about an hour and a half.

Layang-Layang, known as "Swallows Reef" is an atoll situated in the South China Sea 300km north-west of Kota Kinabalu. The island is man-made and was constructed for the Malaysian Navy and later developed for the only dive resort, Layang-Layang Island Resort.

The island location offers absolute isolation, luckily there is an airstrip with regular flights from Kota Kinabalu, which is the only mode of transport for guests visiting Layang-Layang. The extreme location of Layang-Layang, the pristine reefs, excellent visibility, steep walls down to 2000km and regular sightings of pelagic has given Layang-Layang a much deserved reputation of being one of the top ten dive locations in the world.

With resident schools of barracuda and big-eye trevally and frequently seen green and hawksbill are plentiful and healthy with sea fans stretching to more than three meters across that filter plankton from the passing currents.

The 20m deep lagoon has some great macro creatures to be found including seahorses, cuttlefish and pipefish but it is the pelagic visiting the outer walls that truly excite divers. Schools of scalloped hammerhead sharks, grey reef sharks, leopard sharks and the occasional threshers and silvertip sharks can all be seen.

Stingrays are also regular visitors including manta rays, pygmy devil rays, marbled rays and eagle rays. Rare sightings such as whale sharks, orcas and melon headed whales have all been seen over the last few years. Spinner and bottlenose dolphins frequently follow the dive boats to each location and divers are sometimes rewarded with snorkeling and diverse fish life and visiting pelagic marine life.

Layang-Layang has rightly gained worldwide recognition.

In the northeast coast of Sandakan lies the island of Libaran. This small island is ideal for those searching for some quiet time and in need of a relaxing trip. Many agree that the charm of this island lies in its simplicity: a long stretch of beach, crystal blue waters and beautiful sunsets. In the evening, you can enjoy a river cruise in the mangrove forest or have the unique experience of night fishing. A great place to get away from it all!

Getting there: Take a boat from the Sabah Parks jetty located at Jalan Buli Sim Sim Sandakan. The boat departs at 10:00am and returns at 7:00am.

Mention Mabul Island and visions of swaying coconut trees and idyllic water villages come to mind. And that’s just above the water. Located only about 15 minutes by speedboat from the famous Sipadan Island, Mabul has gained its own recognition as one of the best muck-diving (a term used to describe limited visibility dives at shallow sites with usually sandy bottoms) sites in the world.

Mabul is a small oval shaped island fringed by sandy beaches and perched on the northwest corner of a larger 200-hectare reef. The reef is on the edge of the continental shelf and the seabed surrounding the reef slopes out to 25–30m deep.

Mabul is also renowned for its amazing array of macrolife, making it an underwater photographer’s dream location to capture some of the rarest ecological species on film. Flamboyant cuttlefish, blue-ringed octopus, spike-fin gobies, frogfish and moray eels are just some of the spectacular critters you will encounter beneath the waters of Mabul.

Although all the excitement is underwater, you can always set your scuba gear aside for a day to laze on Mabul’s soft sand to work on your tan.

Where to stay: When in Mabul, opt to stay in any one of these excellent resorts:

1)Borneo Divers & Sea Sports (Sabah) Sdn Bhd
2)Explore Asia Tours Sdn Bhd (Sipadan-Mabul Resort)
3)Seaventures Tours & Travel Sdn Bhd
4)Sipadan Water Village Resort Sdn Bhd
* Resort rates may vary

How to get there: From Kota Kinabalu, take a 55-minute flight to Tawau and enjoy an hour’s drive to Semporna. From here, Mabul is another 45 minutes by speedboat. Be sure to pre-arrange transportation with your respective resort/dive operator.

The Maliau Basin is a place set on a sprawling 588.4 square kilometers land in Tawau, at the South Central Part of Sabah.

It contains an unusual assemblage of 12 forest types, comprising mainly of lower montane forest dominated by majestic Agathis trees, rare montane heath forest and lowland, and hill diperocarp forest. The highlight of the adventure is to trek the majestic 7 tiers Maliau Falls.

Keen visitors must, however, obtain a permission to enter the Maliau Basin in advance from Yayasan Sabah. Also bear in mind that Maliau Basin is a remote, atavistic and isolated area with limited access, communications and safety facilities.

Activities & Tariffs
Nature explorers will simply love the Maliau Basin as it is an excellent site for jungle trekking and bird watching. At night, visitors may also take a night drive for wildlife spotting. Water babies can also take a dip in the beautiful waterfall.

Trips to the Maliau Basin are best done in large groups. A 5-day, 4-night stay at Maliau Basin costs RM2730 nett for 2 pax adults (Malaysian) and RM3610 nett (non-Malaysian). For a group of 8 to 12 people, the rate for adults is RM1450 nett (Malaysian) and RM2270 (non-Malaysian).

The rates in Ringgit Malaysia (RM) are inclusive of meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner), returned transfer (overland – Tawau to Agathis Camp), conservation and user fee (Campsites), rental of VHF radio, forest ranger cum radioman and guide.

Getting There: Maliau Basin Conservation Area is reachable by road either via Tawau or Keningau. The journey is on four wheel drive and depends so much on the weather as most of the journey is on logging roads to reach the Maliau Basin Security Gate.

Journey from both Tawau and Keningau to the Security Gate of Maliau Basin Conservation takes 5 hours; the distance from Tawau to Maliau Basin Conservation Security Gate is 190 kilometers.

Flying is another fabulous option should you have extra allocations for this luxury. There are several helipads available which can be used for emergency evacuations or by visitors who prefer to fly rather than walk.

The demure island of Mantanani lies off the beaten tracks of other mainstream tourism destinations. The journey to the island begins with a two-hour drive to Kampung Kuala Abai jetty in Kota Belud, followed by another hour of riding on a speedboat.

The fun literally starts with the hour-long boat ride. Depending on the sea condition, the experience may even resemble that of white water rafting in Padas River—minus all the paddling. Don’t hesitate to ask your tour guide for seasick pills if you cannot handle the rough ride.

The term ‘diver’s paradise’ may sound trite, but Mantanani Island is exactly that and more. As you plunge into the Mantanani underwater world, you’ll be simply mesmerized by neon coloured fish in intoxicating swirls, adorable clownfish playing hide and seek amidst the sea anemones, vivid coloured finger corals waving about, and vast garden of living coral reefs.

Each dive site in Mantanani offers something unique. Other than sporadic encounters with dolphins, divers have also encountered some of the rarer underwater species such as the bumphead parrotfish, moray eel, sting ray, eagle ray, and several turtles. For underwater photography enthusiasts, the view is simply to-die-for—topped off with excellent visibility.

The sun also seems a lot prettier in Mantanani. After a whole day of diving, snorkelling or kayaking, sit back and feast your eyes on the gorgeous layers of orange hues penetrating the clouds as the sun sets. In the morning, nothing beats sitting on the jetty with your legs dangling over the water, watching the sun rising as gentle breeze caresses your skin and ruffles your hair. Be spellbound also by the magnificent view of Mount Kinabalu veiled in chiffon-like clouds and morning mist.

With its sparkling white sand, mesmerizing blue waters and top-class resort, Mataking Island is the ideal getaway for both the avid diver and non-diver. Divers can gear up and explore the Eel Garden, Coral Garden, Nudibranch Garden, Turtle Playground, Lobsters Lair and Hump Head Point.

Non-diving activities include a luxurious pampering experience at Jamu Spa, batik painting, kayaking, canoeing and jungle-trekking to name a few. A must-do during your time in Mataking is to take a leisurely walk to Pulau Mataking Kecil (literally meaning Small Mataking island) which is a 20-minute walk from the main island. The best time to take this walk is in the morning when the tides are low, allowing you to walk on a sandy stretch that leads directly to the smaller island. With the sea surrounding you on both sides, you will feel almost as if you are walking on water!

When you arrive back on the main island, climb up the wooden observation tower to get a breathtaking view of Mataking and its surrounding areas. Catch a glimpse of Mataking's famous ‘Underwater Post Office', the first of its kind in Malaysia. In March 2006, the resort decided to sink Mataking 1, an old 40-foot wooden cargo ship to create an artificial reef and also to serve as a unique underwater mailbox. Divers seal their mail in a waterproof vacuum bag and post it underwater. Picturesque, equipped with excellent facilities and complemented with friendly service at all times, your stay at Mataking will never be long enough.

Getting there: The journey to from Tawau to Semporna by road takes approximately one hour. The transfer to Mataking by speedboat takes about 45 minutes.

Bored with the routine of comfort living? Sign up for Miki Survival Camp and let nature propel your survival skills to the next level.

A camp that is all about going back to basics, Miki Survival Camp is set in Kiau Nuluh Village, about an hour drive from Pekan Nabalu, Ranau plus another two-hour trek from the house of Sadib Miki, founder of this camp.

The hilly terrain leading to Miki Survival Camp is scattered with rocks, muck, and the occasional resident leeches. You will need a pair of leech socks and hardy hiking boots to brave this wild adventure. It is recommended that you invest in a pair of rubber soccer studs, locally known as kampung Adidas, and leave the fancy keds at home.

The two-hour hike will provide ample opportunities to marvel at the beauty of untouched nature—complete with the soothing symphony of chirping birds and insects. There’s also something very curative about the cool and misty mountain air, an instant pick-me-up to boot.

Along the journey, your friendly guide will introduce you to the edible fruits and vegetables in the jungle such as the longugan (something remotely similar to passion fruit, but smaller) and the cucumber-like tegiung. The guide will also point out the plants with medicinal values and those which are poisonous.

Upon reaching the camp, you will be served with delicious homemade food local style. Your guide will then take you on a tour to see the inner part of the jungle where another half of the mesmerizing flora and fauna dwell. After dinner, get your torch light and camera ready for a night tour where you’re bound to see nocturnal creatures such as some species of frogs and insects, as well as things that are only visible in the dark like the luminous fungi and fireflies.

Before leaving, your guide will give demonstrations on how to use and make animal traps and household utensils from bamboos.

Avid mountaineers and adventure seekers take heed! If it’s a challenge that you're looking for, look no further than Mount Trusmadi.

The Trus Madi Forest Reserve is bordered by three districts—Ranau up north, Tambunan on the west, Keningau down south, and Sook in the east. The forest reserve is classified as a Class 1 Forest Reserve and it covers 184, 527 hectares of land.

Situated circa 70 kilometers southeast of Kota Kinabalu and standing at 2, 642 meters (8, 668 feet) tall, Mount Trus Madi is the second highest mountain in Sabah and Malaysia after Mount Kinabalu. However, it is said to offer a tougher challenge to its climbers compared to Mount Kinabalu.

To reach the summit from the starting point, climbers will be trekking through 4.9 kilometers of heavily foliaged virgin rainforest. Mount Trus Madi consists of five different types of vegetations—lowland mixed dipterocarps, hill mixed dipterocarp forest, lower montane forest, upper montane forest, and summit scrub.

The slopes of Mount Trus Madi are steep, winding, and often mucky. The forest’s rich vegetation acts as a habitat for birds, wild animals, as well as a number of exotic floras such as orchids and several types of medicinal plants. Another interesting thing to spot is the unique pitcher plant, Nepenthes x trusmadiensis—natural hybrid between Nepenthes lowii and Nepenthes macrophylla which is endemic to Mount Trus Madi alone.

Walking along the Taman Bunga (Flower Garden), which blooms with colourful flowers at certain times of the year, you will be able to see the beautiful aerial view of Tambunan town. Having reached the summit of Mount Trus Madi at dawn, weather permitting, you will be enraptured by a breathtaking vista of Mount Kinabalu that lies approximately 40 kilometers north—an absolutely rewarding climb!

Getting There: Getting to Trus Madi Forest Reserve takes 2 hours by 4 wheel drive from Kota Kinabalu.

The name via ferrata, or via ferrate (plural) originates from an Italian word ‘Via Attrezzata’ (fully equipped road), which means routes that are secured by handrails, ladders, cables or lifelines.

Mountain Torq’s activities are run by Moutain Torq Sdn Bhd which is based in Sabah, Malaysia. Launched in mid-December 2007, The Mountain Torq Via Ferrata is a mountain ‘trail’ made up of iron rungs, palettes (footholds), cables and rails that are wrapped around the North Face of Mount Kinabalu.

Mountain Torq Via Ferrata starts at Mount Kinabalu Panar Laban Rock Face (approximately 3,300 meters) and reaches its highest point at 3,800 meters.

Thrill seekers adrenaline junkies will get their sufficient fix from the available packages at the via ferrata, namely: Walk the Torq, The Low’s Peak Circuit, The Preamble, The Balancing Act, The High Path, and Conquer the Torq.

Other activities available are intro to sports climbing (single pitch), intro to sports climbing (multi pitch), sports climbing level 1, sports climbing level 2, intro to rappelling (abseiling), rappelling (abseiling) level 1, and intro to rope ascending.

Accommodations are available at the Pendant Hut—3,270 meters above sea level, which can accommodate at least 30 people at one time, with a dormitory-bunk bed type.

The Sayat-Sayat—3,668 meters above sea level, which accommodates 10 people at a time, with a dormitory-bunk bed type.

Getting There & Tariffs
The Mountain Torq Via Ferrata is 88 kilometers away from Kota Kinabalu, or 1 hour and 30 minutes away by road transportation.

By bus, visitors can take a bus headed to Kundasang or Ranau at the City Bus Terminal (North). Buses from Kota Kinabalu to Ranau are available from 7.30a.m to 5p.m; bus fare is RM15 per person.

To return to Kota Kinabalu, take a bus across road outside Kinabalu Park (reconfirm with Kinabalu Park reception counter) headed to Kota Kinabalu.

By taxi, visitors can take the Ranau taxi at the Ranau taxi stand (next to the Merdeka Field) or request from the hotel lobby. From Ranau Taxi station, taxi fare charged is RM160 per taxi; while from hotel lobby, taxi fare charged is RM300 per taxi.

For a return trip to Kota Kinabalu, take a bus from Poring Hot Springs to Ranau town. From Ranau town, find a taxi back to Kota Kinabalu.

Visitors can also rent a car and drive by themselves. Cars can be rented either directly from car rental companies or requested via hotel lobby car rental service. Rental charge is from RM180 and above per car/ day. Please refer to car rental list for more information.

Looking for some serious wet and wild fun? Then get ready to strap on your life jacket and safety helmet to brave the raging Padas River for some rafting adventure.

With cutesy names such as Merry-Go-Round and Scooby Doo, don’t judge the rapids by their names as each of the seven swollen rapids will ultimately challenge your survival (and paddling) skills to the very core. The tumble of this Grade III to IV river is guaranteed to put even the biggest adrenaline junkie’s heart in his mouth.

This exhilarating excursion covers a distance of 30 kilometers—making it the longest rafting route in Borneo by far. Padas River has also been rated to have some of the best and safest rapids in South East Asia. It is suitable for rafters aged 12 to 55.

When not screaming over whiplashes of water, take the time to drink in the beauty of unadulterated nature at its best. With chirping birds and scrims of majestic trees engulfing the river, Padas white water rafting should be high on your list of nature-adventure must-dos in Sabah.

At the end of the journey, you’ll feel quite warrior-like for your feat in conquering the Padas rapids. Three cheers for courage!

Looking for a secluded island to just kick back and relax? Hop on a Pom Pom-bound speedboat from Semporna and let your serenity journey begin!

An island with a laid back and casual ambience—as the name alludes—Pom Pom is situated circa 45 minutes away from Semporna. Apart from the gorgeous glittering white sandy beach that surrounds it, Pom Pom Island is also filled with lush green mangroves that keep it shady and cool.

Simply climb into a hammock to enjoy the beautiful sea view with a good book and a glass of pina colada, or get into your bathing suit and enjoy a dip in the clear aquamarine water. Either way, you can’t go wrong in Pom Pom. Being one of Semporna’s many dive havens, scuba diving aficionados can also spend the day underwater fawning over the vivid marine lives.

Equipped with rustic-chic resort accommodation, visitors can chill in the air conditioned room after a long day at the beach or book a massage session for the ultimate island decompression experience. The dreamy atmosphere of the resort is also made for couples desiring a grand beach wedding, and honeymooners looking for a romantic destination to celebrate their love.

Getting there: The journey to from Tawau to Semporna by road takes approximately one hour. The transfer to Pom Pom Island by speedboat takes about 45 minutes.

Make your way to the district of Kuala Penyu and hop on a boat to Pulau Tiga! The island’s claim to fame is none other than being the first ever ‘secret’ location for the hit reality series, ‘Survivor’. Hence, many refer to Pulau Tiga as Survivor Island. Located just 10km off shore on the West Coast of Sabah, you can enjoy a day trip to the island but many recommend spending at least a night or two.

The island has two resorts, Pulau Tiga Resort and Borneo Survivor Resort (see contact details). There’s plenty to see and do here: spend the sunny days swimming or snorkeling in its surrounding clear waters or go kayaking. Divers can explore its underwater treasures (diving courses are available).

Pulau Tiga is also famous for its therapeutic natural volcanic mud. Looking for some wildlife? Say hello the island’s famous residents: snakes! Facilities on the island include a restaurant and camping site.

Getting There: Kuala Penyu is 120km from Kota Kinabalu city. Take a bus from the Segama overhead bridge (next to the Post Office) and a one way-trip will cost you approximately RM18.00. A taxi ride from the taxi stand next to the Merdeka Field should cost around RM180.00 (up to groups of four) per way.

*Kindly note that boat transfers must be arranged through tour packages. Contact your travel agent for more information.

With its sprawling tea plantation surrounded by pristine rainforests in the cool mountain air, the Sabah Tea Garden beckons you to indulge in its beautiful surroundings, away from the hustle and bustle of the city life. A mere 2-hour drive from the city of Kota Kinabalu, the Sabah Tea Garden boasts a beautiful backdrop, Mount Kinabalu.

Sabah Tea is the only organic tea farm in Borneo and one of the few in the world. A trip to the tea garden is both educational and fun, one where visitors can enjoy a variety of recreational activities such as obstacle-crossing in the Sapaon Recreational Area, trekking along the trails to the peak of Kamunsu Hill or embarking on a night walk to check out the unique insect life. Highly recommended is the 2-day 1-night Sabah Tea Adventure package, which incorporates a tea factory and plantation tour, a course on basic jungle survival skills, understanding rivers and how to safely get across them and obstacle training. This package has been awarded the Best Tour Programme for Educational Tourism at the Malaysia Tourism Awards in Kuala Lumpur.

Visitors can opt to stay in a range of accommodation, be it a traditional long house, a cosy bungalow or-those who wish to sleep under the stars, a campsite. Other facilities include an event hall, restaurant, souvenir shop and a soccer field. A stone's throw away from the garden are various places of interests, including the historical Kundasang War Memorial , Kinabalu Park and rejuvenating Poring Hot Spring . A new attraction is the Quailey’s Hill where a plaque is erected in memory of an Australian soldier who died on site during one of the Sandakan-Ranau Death Marches, 1942-45. Freshly-made tea pancakes and Sabah Tea Pandan teh tarik are popular menu items available only at the Tea House. Ask the friendly staff for directions and they will be more than glad to help you out. Be it for business or pleasure, the Sabah Tea Garden awaits you with unforgettable experiences and adventures. A friendly reminder: No trip to the Sabah Tea Garden would be complete without a taste of Sabah's finest tea!

Getting There: If you are not joining a tour group, take a bus from the Terminal Bas Bandaraya-Utara (City Bus Terminal-North) for around RM15.00 per person (the bus stops at Ranau town). You can also take a taxi from the station near Merdeka Field for approximately RM160 per taxi. Fares may range around RM300 if departing from your hotel. Note that all fares cited are one way.

Opening hours
Daily 8:00am - 4:30pm Tea factory tour is not available on major Public Holidays *The best time to visit is between 8am to 12noon.

Admission fee
RM10.00 for a guided tour of the tea factory RM30.00 for a guided tour + lunch No admission fees applicable for entrance only.

The internationally famous island of Sipadan lies five degrees north of the equator in the Sulawesi Sea (Celebes Sea). Lying 35km south of Semporna, on Sabah’s mainland, like many tropical islands it is thickly forested and surrounded by sandy beaches. Sipadan is an oceanic island and was formed by living corals growing on top of an extinct undersea volcano, which rises 600m from the seabed.

The geographic position of Sipadan puts it in the centre of the richest marine habitat in the world, the heart of the Indo-Pacific basin. More than 3000 species of fish and hundreds of coral species have been classified in this richest of ecosystems. Sipadan is well known for its unusually large numbers of green and hawksbill turtles which gather there to mate and nest and it is not unusual for a diver to see more than 20 turtles on each dive. Another unique feature to divers visiting Sipadan is the turtle tomb, an underwater limestone cave with a labyrinth of tunnels and chambers that contain many skeletal remains of turtles that became disoriented and then drowned.

The residential schooling barracuda and big-eye trevally, which often gather in thousands forming spectacular tornado-like formations, are one of the highlights of every diver’s wish-list. With the possibility of seeing pelagic species such as mantas, eagle rays, scalloped hammerhead sharks and whale sharks, each dive at Sipadan is a highly anticipated event.

It is not only the big fish that amaze divers coming to Sipadan, the macro life is equally mesmerizing. Garden eels, leaf scorpion fish, mantis shrimps, fire gobies, and various pipefish are guaranteed at various dive sites. The diversity and abundance of marine found at Sipadan gives it its reputation of being one of the ten best dive locations in the world.

Conservation efforts in Sipadan
Sipadan Island was established as a bird sanctuary in 1933 and in 2004, the Government of Malaysia has decided that all onsite dive resort operators are to move their operations out of Sipadan Island by 31st December 2004. The island is open for divers from 6am to 4pm - no night dives are allowed. The number of divers allowed to dive in Sipadan daily has also been limited to 120 pax in an effort to preserve the island’s pristine state.

Sipadan is a treasure which we want to save for the generations to come, before Sipadan can be saved, it must first be truly appreciated - hence the conservation efforts. Nevertheless, a treasure amounts to nothing if it cannot be enjoyed. Therefore, Sabah welcomes everyone to enjoy and appreciate Sipadan, and this appreciation will hopefully incite a bigger desire to save.

Sipadan Dive Sites
There a total of 12 dive sites in Sipadan Island namely the West Ridge, North Point, The Drop Off, Turtle Cavern, Barracuda Point, Coral Gardens, Whitetip Avenue, Mid Reef, Turtle Patch, South Point, Staghorn Crest, Lobster Lair, and the Hanging Gardens. The most popularly recommended dive sites are the Turtle Cavern, Barracuda Point, South Point and Hanging Gardens.

Barracuda Point
The Barracuda Point is located at the north Coast of Sipadan Island. Famous for its astounding vortex of barracudas (hence the name Barracuda Point), divers have also reported sightings of white tip sharks, grey reef sharks, eagle rays, turtles, as well as the bumphead parrotfish. A caveat: currents can get too strong, so don't go too deep!

Turtle Cavern
This site is famous for its population of green turtles and smaller hawksbill turtles. This cavern which lies 20 meters underwater is believed to be the final resting place of turtles. Divers are reminded to be extremely careful when exploring the caves as visibility can be drastically reduced to zero should the silt be disturbed.

South Point
South Point is one of the most likely sites for the rarer sharks such as the hammerheads and thresher sharks which are normally only seen around the 40-meter point. Divers are advised to be wary of the strong currents at this site.

Hanging Garden
Named after the Hanging Gardens of Babylon, the topography of the Hanging Gardens consists of a 2-meter-deep reef that slopes down to a terrace at about 70 meters which subsequently plunges into an abyss. This is an excellent spot to view soft corals with dendronephthya alcyonarians in multifarious pastel colours encrusting the slope. Do keep an eye also for the diverse macro life.

Where to Stay
The Malaysian government has decided that all existing onsite dive resort operators were to move their operations out of the Sipadan Island by 31st December 2004. The move is aimed at conserving and maintaining a balanced marine and land ecosystem on Sipadan’s environments. However, Sipadan will remain as a dive site and divers are to be ferried by operators operating from the mainland or nearby islands other than Sipadan and Ligitan.

On an overnight trip to Sipadan, choose to stay in any one of these excellent resorts:

1)Borneo Divers & Sea Sports (Sabah) Sdn Bhd (KPL 1510)
2)Explore Asia Tours Sdn Bhd (Sipadan-Mabul Resort) (KPL 2941)
3)Seaventures Tours & Travel Sdn Bhd (KPL/LN 2639)
4)Sipadan Water Village Resort Sdn Bhd (KPL 3143)
* Resort rates may vary

Getting There: From Kota Kinabalu, take a 55-minute flight to Tawau and enjoy an hour’s drive to Semporna. From Semporna, Sipadan is another 40 minutes by speedboat. Be sure to pre-arrange transportation with your respective resort/dive operator.

Imagine a close encounter with wildlife as if starring in a National Geographic documentary; and getting in touch with Mother Nature in her purest, most untouched form-Tabin Wildlife Reserve gives you this and more.

Nestled amidst 120, 500 hectares of dipterocarp rainforest, Tabin Wildlife Reserve is home to various endangered wildlife such as the Borneo Pygmy elephant, the Sumatran rhino, Tembadau and exotic birdlife. Wildlife photography aficionados and birdwatching enthusiasts will find their visit to Tabin a truly priceless experience!

Enhance your life with the experience of rainforest life as you listen to the calming sounds of nature in Tabin. Covered in euryspecies lowland rainforest, Tabin nurtures a colossal number of tropical plants; some of which are rich in medicinal and therapeutic values.

Pamper your skin by indulging in Tabin's mineral-rich mud volcanoes and salt springs. This gift of nature also serves as salt-lick for the wildlife and bird populations. Naturalists can drink in the best of nature's offering by trekking through the rainforest for a journey of 23 kilometers. Along the way, there are campsites for overnight stays.

After an exhilarating adventure, make your way to Sunbird Café to have your meal served, chill out, and share your venture experience with other like-minded visitors. Dubbed the "happening place" to eat, a must-try dish in this café would be the pakis dish-where tender tips of wild fern, a healthy vegetable abundantly growing in Tabin, are whipped to a meal of perfection. Following a sumptuous meal, sit back and relax as you sip coffee while enjoying the spectacular view of the forest and the river nearby.

Whether you're a wild adventure seeker, an environmentalist earth mother, a photography lover, an animal activist, or simply just someone looking out for something fun; Tabin extends her arms in welcome. Here, you'll get a taste of nature like nowhere else.

Getting There
By Air: Daily flights connect Kota Kinabalu to Lahad Datu. Flight duration is about 1 hour. From Lahad Datu, a 1:15 hour drive, part of it on gravel road, will take you to Tabin. By Road

Kota Kinabalu to Lahad Datu (7 hours)
Sandakan to Lahad Datu (4 hours)
Tawau to Lahad Datu (4 hours)

The marine park is a cluster of islands comprising Pulau Gaya, Pulau Sapi, Pulau Manukan, Pulau Mamutik and Pulau Sulug, all only 10 - 20 minute speedboat ride from the city of Kota Kinabalu. The five islands of the Marine Park are characterized by shallow waters, sumptuous coral gardens and all boast splendid white sandy beaches.

The reefs lie in shallow waters with little current making it an ideal location for novice divers, however, the diverse and sometimes rare marine creatures also make it an interesting dive location for experienced divers and underwater photographers.

To dive in the marine park you must contact one of the local dive centers based in Kota Kinabalu who also offer a full variety of PADI courses ranging from Discover Scuba to Instructor.

Among the sandy seabed a good variety of marine life can be found such as Scorpion fish, Blue-spotted rays, cuttlefish, mantis shrimps and the occasional green or hawksbill turtle. At some locations, rare creatures such as the harlequin ghost pipefish and mandarin fish can be found especially with the help from local dive guides.

During the cooler months from November to February, plankton blooms attract krill which in turn attract whale sharks, the world's largest fish. At times, the density of the krill can be so thick in these murky conditions underwater encounters with these colossal animals can be exciting as they suddenly appear out of the gloom.

Non-diving visitors can still have as much fun in the islands with other optional activities such as snorkeling in Pulau Sapi and Manukan and seawalking in Pulau Sapi. If water sport is your cup of tea, you may contact any local tour companies for more information regarding the water sport activities that are available.

The Tunku Abdul Rahman Park is open daily from 8.30am to 5pm.

Getting there: The Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park is accessible via 15 – 20 minutes speedboat ride from Kota Kinabalu. The departure and arrival point for the boat transfers is at the Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal, situated next to the Malaysia Royal Custom Department. Boat transfers to the islands are available daily from 7.30am to 5pm.

The Turtle Island Park (gazetted 1977) lies 40km north of Sandakan in the Sulu Sea and consists of Selingan, Bakungan Kecil and Gulisan islands. The park is a safe haven for the endangered green and hawksbill turtles and gives you the rare opportunity to watch turtle landings. Selingan, the largest of the islands, houses the park's headquarters, a turtle hatchery, tourist accommodation and basic facilities. The other two islands are more for conservation activities.

As turtle landings usually occur after dusk, an overnight stay would be the best plan to see the turtles as they come ashore to lay their eggs, but shining a light on them or using camera flashes should be avoided as either can be stressful on the creatures.

Turtles lay their eggs throughout the year, but the best time to head there is between July and October when the sea is calmer. Observe the collection of eggs, tagging of mother turtles and releasing of baby turtles into the sea.

Getting There The boat from the Sabah Parks jetty at Jalan Buli Buli Sim leaves at 9.30am and the ride to Selingan takes an hour.

Visiting Period: Throughout the year

Looking for a leisure destination to spend the weekend? Head over to Usukan Cove, and you might as well find your sweet escape!

Usukan Cove is situated in the coast of Kota Belud, right next to Kampung Kuala Abai where the jetty to Mantanani Island is located. From Kota Kinabalu, the journey to Usukan Cove takes approximately one-and-half hours. Throughout the journey, you will be delighted by the wonderful sights and sceneries of the idyllic Kota Belud countryside—passing endless plains of paddy fields, undulating hills, and rustic wooden village houses with a picturesque view of the majestic Mount Kinabalu in the background.

On a balmy evening, simply take a walk along the golden sandy beach or lie on a hammock under the shade with a good book or an iPod. For adventure seekers, opt for a leisure dive or go snorkeling to check out the plenteous natural attractions which include gorgeous coral reefs and diverse marine life. Like checking out the natural sceneries? Hop on a kayak and take yourself on a self-tour around the island.

One of the most interesting activities that can be done during your trip to Usukan Cove is fishing. A fishing yacht will take visitors to the middle of the sea—20 minutes away from the mainland—to fish. Expect to be able to catch garoupas, sting rays, or even puffer fish during this fishing expedition! You can bring back your catch to be cooked for dinner; otherwise, releasing the fish back to the sea would be a good option as well.

To unwind on a lazy afternoon, take a cruise down the Kawa Kawa River where you can sit back and enjoy the amusing sights of proboscis monkeys in harems, long tailed macaques swinging from tree to tree, and spot some rare species of birds. Later, witness the breathtaking Kota Belud sunset before cruising down Abai River where, depending on the weather, visitors will be enchanted by a wonderful spectacle of fireflies that form together around the trees, appearing like a network of twinkling colourlights!