Malaysia
Sabah Malaysia – Land Below the Wind
Sabah is often referred to as “Land Below the Wind”, which is a nickname that was given to the state during the British colonial era. The name comes from the fact that Sabah is located below the typhoon-prone region of the Philippines, which is also known as the “Typhoon Belt”.
Sabah is a state located in the northern part of the island of Borneo, which is shared between Malaysia, Indonesia, and Brunei. It is one of the thirteen states of Malaysia and is known for its diverse culture, stunning natural scenery, and abundant wildlife.
Sabah has a population of over 3.9 million people, with a majority of the population comprising of the Kadazan-Dusun, Bajau, and Murut ethnic groups. The state’s capital city is Kota Kinabalu, which is also the largest city in Sabah.Sabah Malaysia
Tourism is a major industry in Sabah, with attractions such as Mount Kinabalu, the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, and the Sipadan Island marine park drawing visitors from all over the world. The state is also rich in natural resources, with oil and gas, timber, and palm oil being major contributors to the local economy.
Sabah offers a wide range of activities and attractions that cater to various interests. Here are some things you can do in Sabah:
- Climb Mount Kinabalu – Mount Kinabalu is the highest mountain in Malaysia and is a popular destination for hikers and climbers. The trek to the summit takes about two days, and the view from the top is breathtaking.
- Visit Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre – The Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre is a sanctuary for orphaned and injured orangutans. Visitors can watch the orangutans being fed and playing in their natural habitat.
- Explore the Kinabatangan River – The Kinabatangan River is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including proboscis monkeys, pygmy elephants, and various species of birds. Visitors can take a river cruise to observe the wildlife.
- Dive at Sipadan Island – Sipadan Island is one of the best dive sites in the world and is home to a rich diversity of marine life, including hammerhead sharks, turtles, and barracudas.
- Visit the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park – The Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park is a group of five islands off the coast of Kota Kinabalu. Visitors can go snorkeling, diving, and enjoy the beautiful beaches.
- Experience the Sabah Cultural Centre – The Sabah Cultural Centre showcases the traditional costumes, music, and dances of the various ethnic groups in Sabah.
- Explore the Danum Valley Conservation Area – The Danum Valley Conservation Area is a rainforest reserve that is home to many endangered species such as orangutans, gibbons, and clouded leopards. Visitors can take guided tours and hikes to explore the reserve.
These are just a few of the many things you can do in Sabah. The state offers something for everyone
Sabah is a state located in East Malaysia, on the island of Borneo. There are a few ways to get to Sabah, depending on where you are coming from.
If you are coming from within Malaysia, you can fly to Sabah’s capital city, Kota Kinabalu, from Kuala Lumpur, Penang, or other major cities in Malaysia. There are several airlines that offer daily flights to Kota Kinabalu, including Malaysia Airlines, AirAsia, and Malindo Air.
If you are coming from outside Malaysia, you can fly to Kota Kinabalu International Airport directly from several cities in Asia, including Singapore, Hong Kong, Taipei, and Manila. There are also direct flights to Kota Kinabalu from some cities in Australia, such as Brisbane and Perth.
Cheap flights to Kota Kinabalu
| Origin | Departure at | Return at | Find tickets |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kuala Lumpur | March 16, 2024 | March 21, 2024 | Tickets from 65 |
| Singapore | January 11, 2024 | January 14, 2024 | Tickets from 91 |
| Hong Kong | January 7, 2024 | January 11, 2024 | Tickets from 151 |
| Beijing | May 13, 2024 | May 17, 2024 | Tickets from 159 |
Alternatively, you can also take a ferry from the neighboring state of Sarawak to Sabah. There are several ferry operators that offer daily services between the two states, including Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal and Menumbok Ferry Terminal.
Lastly, you can also drive to Sabah if you are already in Borneo. Sabah shares a border with the Indonesian province of North Kalimantan, and there are several land border crossings that allow you to drive from Indonesia to Sabah. However, do note that this option may not be feasible for all travelers due to various travel restrictions and regulations.
The cost of a trip to Sabah, Malaysia can vary widely depending on factors such as the duration of the trip, the activities planned, the type of accommodation chosen, and the time of year.
Here are some approximate costs to consider:
- Flights: The cost of flights to Sabah will depend on your location, the time of year, and how far in advance you book. On average, flights can range from around $200 to $800 USD round-trip.
- Accommodation: Accommodation in Sabah can range from budget guesthouses and hostels to luxury resorts. On average, budget accommodation can cost around $20 to $50 USD per night, while mid-range hotels can range from $50 to $150 USD per night. Luxury resorts can cost upwards of $200 USD per night.
- Food and drinks: Food and drinks in Sabah can be quite affordable, especially if you stick to local street food options. Expect to pay around $3 to $5 USD for a meal from a food stall or local restaurant.
- Activities: The cost of activities in Sabah can vary widely depending on what you want to do. For example, a guided trek up Mount Kinabalu can cost around $300 to $400 USD, while a day trip to Kinabalu Park can cost around $50 to $100 USD. Diving packages can cost around $300 to $500 USD for a 3-4 day package.
Overall, a 7-day trip to Sabah can cost anywhere from $500 to $2,000 USD or more, depending on your travel style and itinerary. It’s important to budget carefully and research costs in advance to ensure that you have enough funds to enjoy your trip.
