Sabah, Malaysia: Best Things to Do, Places to Visit & Tour Packages

Sabah is one of Malaysia's top destinations for mountains, islands, wildlife and outdoor adventure. Located in Malaysian Borneo, Sabah is home to Mount Kinabalu, Kinabalu Park, Sepilok, Kinabatangan River, Danum Valley Conservation Area, Tabin Wildlife Reserve, Semporna and the islands of Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park.

Whether you want to climb Malaysia's highest mountain, explore ancient rainforests, spot orangutans and other wildlife, discover tropical islands or experience Sabah's rich indigenous culture, this travel guide helps you discover the best things to do in Sabah and find suitable tours for your trip.

Need help planning your Sabah trip? Chat with our travel specialists on WhatsApp for personalised recommendations based on your travel dates, interests and budget. 

Not sure which package is right for you? Chat with us on WhatsApp and we’ll recommend suitable Sabah packages for your trip.

Discover Sabah’s Wildlife

Sabah is one of the best places in Asia to experience Borneo's unique wildlife. Around Sandakan, visitors can see orangutans at Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre and Bornean sun bears at the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre. 

For travellers looking to venture deeper into the rainforest, Danum Valley Conservation Area and Tabin Wildlife Reserve offer exceptional opportunities to discover Sabah's rich biodiversity. These protected forests are home to a remarkable variety of birds, mammals and plant life, making them popular destinations for wildlife enthusiasts, birdwatchers and nature photographers.

Related Tours:

• Danum Valley: 3D2N Borneo Rainforest Lodge 
• 3D2N Sukau Rainforest Lodge – Kinabatangan River Cruises / Sepilok Orangutan & Sunbear Visit 
• 2D1N Tabin Wildlife Reserve - Jungle Trekking and Night Walk 

Explore Sabah’s Islands and Marine Parks

For easy island hopping, Kota Kinabalu is the best starting point. Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park is just a short boat ride from the city and is suitable for swimming, snorkeling, beach time and water sports.

For a more marine-focused trip, Semporna offers access to some of Sabah’s most famous island destinations, including Bohey Dulang, Mataking, Mabul and Kapalai. This area is especially popular for snorkeling, diving and island scenery.

Recommended Tours:

• Kota Kinabalu Island Hopping & Water Sports 
• 4D3N Semporna Island Hopping with 1-Night Stay at Mabul Island 
• Kapalai Island: Sipadan Kapalai Resort 

Join a River Cruise and Firefly Tour

River cruises are a relaxing way to experience Sabah’s mangroves, wildlife and sunsets. Depending on the location, travellers may spot proboscis monkeys, birds, fireflies and riverside scenery.

Popular river cruise areas include Bongawan, Klias, Weston and Kinarut. These tours are suitable for families, couples and travellers who prefer a slower-paced nature experience.

Related Tours:

• Klias River Wildlife Safari Cruise 
• Bongawan River Cruise & Sky Mirror Beach 
• Kawa Kawa Wildlife River Cruise (Kota Belud) 

Experience Sabah’s Culture

Sabah is home to more than 30 indigenous ethnic groups, each with its own traditions, languages, food and cultural practices. Cultural villages and local experiences offer visitors an easy introduction to traditional houses, music, food and community heritage. 

Mari Mari Cultural Village is one of the most popular cultural attractions near Kota Kinabalu.

Related Tours:

• Mari Mari Cultural Village (Guided Tour & Transport) 
• Borneo Cultural Village Guided Tour with Transport (Papar) 
• Monsopiad Heritage Village Tour

Best Time to Visit Sabah

Sabah is a year-round destination that is generally warm and humid throughout the year. Rain can happen in any month, including months often considered drier, but it rarely rains continuously for an entire day. Most rainfall comes in short bursts, so tours and outdoor activities can usually continue unless conditions are unsafe.

Travellers should prepare for both sun and rain, especially for island trips, mountain areas, rainforest tours and river cruises.

How Many Days Should You Spend in Sabah?

A 3 to 4-day trip is suitable for Kota Kinabalu, island hopping and a short Kundasang visit. If you plan to climb Mount Kinabalu, visit Kinabatangan or explore Semporna, allow at least 5 to 7 days. 

Travellers combining Mount Kinabalu, Sandakan, Kinabatangan and Semporna may need 8 days or more.

What to Pack for Sabah

Lightweight clothing, comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, insect repellent and rain protection are recommended throughout the year. 

For Mount Kinabalu climbs, bring warm clothing, gloves, a headlamp, proper hiking shoes and personal essentials for overnight mountain accommodation. For island and river tours, bring swimwear, sandals, dry bags and sun protection.