Itinerary in brief:
- 1 night in Kota Kinabalu
- 1 night in Kota Kinabalu Park
- 1 night in Laban Rata
- 1 night in Kota Kinabalu
Day 1: Arrive Kota Kinabalu
On arrival in Kota Kinabalu, you will be met at the airport and driven to your hotel where you will check in for one night. The rest of your day is at leisure.
Day 2: Kinabalu Park
This morning you will begin your journey to the mountain by transferring to Mount Kinabalu National Park where you will check into your national park lodge. The rest of the day is yours to wander the trails of the park or attend a scheduled tour of the Botanic Gardens to learn more about the endemic flora of the park, like the “rafflesia” plants which have the largest flowers on earth. Enjoy dinner in a simple, local restaurant before getting an early night, ready to start the climb tomorrow.
Day 3: Ascend Mount Kinabalu
Today you’ll rise early to begin the trek. After meeting your guide, you will start your ascent – the best approach is slow and steady, with periodic stops to rest, as well as enjoy the stunning scenery that surrounds you as you make your way up to the rest house, Laban Rata at 3270m. Get another early night before attempting the summit tomorrow morning.
Day 4: Summit Mount Kinabalu
You’ll need to be up at 3am if you want to get to the summit of Mount Kinabalu in time for sunrise. Slowly climb up and watch the dawn break over the famous pointed peak before making your way back down, perhaps treating yourself to a ginger tea at Laban Rata to celebrate your achievement! You’ll make your way back down to the gate and be transferred back to Kota Kinabalu where you’ll be dropped at your hotel to rest.
Day 5: Depart Kota Kinabalu
Congratulations on conquering the mighty Mount Kinabalu! After breakfast you will be driven to the airport in time to catch your onward flight.