Kota Kinabalu Borneo Malaysia 2 Day Itinerary

2-Day Itinerary: Kota Kinabalu Adventure

This itinerary focuses on the highlights of Kota Kinabalu for a short trip. It’s a mix of nature, culture, and relaxation, perfect for experiencing the best of what Kota Kinabalu has to offer in just two days.

Accommodation:

  • Where: For this itinerary, we’ll recommend the Shangri-La Rasa Ria Resort. It’s a beautiful 5-star resort with stunning beaches and rainforest views. It offers luxurious accommodations, diverse dining options, and various activities for all budgets and interests.
  • Why: This allows you to experience both the vibrant city and the natural beauty of Sabah in one location.

Day 1: Nature & Adventure

  • Morning: Start your day with a breathtaking sunrise hike up Mount Kinabalu, Malaysia’s highest peak (4,095m).
    • Things to know:
      • The climb is strenuous and requires preparation, so book a guided climb in advance.
      • Transportation:
        • Organized Climb: Most likely included with your booking. Check with the tour operator for details.
        • Independent Hike: You can hire a taxi or driver to take you to the base of the mountain and back (consider negotiating a round-trip price). Consider using a private car service or Grab/taxis for transportation.
  • Breakfast: Enjoy a hearty breakfast at your resort before embarking on your adventures.

Activities:

  • Climb Mount Kinabalu: Choose a challenging hike up to Via Ferrata for an exciting adventure and stunning views, or opt for a more leisurely trail down the mountain.
  • Lunch: For a casual lunch after your climb, head to Kedai Kopi Yee Fung near the base of the mountain. They serve delicious local food at affordable prices.

2-Day Itinerary:

  • Afternoon: Relax on the beach and enjoy the beautiful scenery of the South China Sea.
  • Dinner: Indulge in a traditional Malaysian meal at Rasa Ria Resort’s Saffron Restaurant, featuring authentic dishes with fresh, local ingredients.

Things to do after your climb (if time permits):

  • Dine at the Mountain Garden Restaurant: This restaurant offers breathtaking views of Mount Kinabalu and the surrounding rainforest, making it a perfect spot for a relaxing meal and drinks.
  • Explore Kota Kinabalu’s Night Markets: Immerse yourself in the local culture and sample fresh seafood, street food, and souvenirs.

Day 2: Culture & Cuisine

  • Morning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel while taking in the beautiful scenery.
  • Morning: Relax on the beach, swim in the crystal-clear waters, or try out water sports like kayaking or snorkeling.
  • Lunch: Have a picnic lunch at the base of Mount Kinabalu, enjoying the unique flavors of this region.

Things to consider for both days:

  • Book in advance: If you’re planning on climbing, book your guide and permit through the Sabah Parks website or a local tour operator.
  • Weather: Be prepared for unpredictable weather as it can change quickly on the mountain.
  • Weather app: Download a weather app that provides hourly updates for Kinabalu, as the weather conditions are crucial to know before climbing.

Things to do while staying at the resort:

  • Visit the Mari Mari Cultural Village: Immerse yourself in the traditions and cultures of Sabah’s indigenous peoples.

  • Explore the local flora and fauna: Immerse yourself in the rainforest with a guided tour and learn about its biodiversity.

  • Enjoy traditional meals: Indulge in the rich flavors of Sabah’s cuisine at a local restaurant like “Rasa Ria Seafood Restaurant” or “Rasa Ria Cafe”.

  • Relax by the pool: Take a dip in the resort’s swimming pool after your meal and savor the beautiful surroundings.

Things to see & do:

  • Kinabalu Park: Explore the lush trails, waterfalls, and botanical gardens of this stunning national park.

  • Mari Mari Cultural Village: Immerse yourself in the cultural heritage of Sabah by visiting the traditional houses of different indigenous groups. Enjoy a cultural performance and learn about their unique customs and traditions.

  • Kinabalu National Park Headquarters: Discover information about the park’s history, geology, and ecology.

  • Sabah State Museum: Explore the rich cultural and historical heritage of the state.

Food:

  • Rasa Ria Resort’s Restaurants:

    • The Shangri-La Rasa Ria Resort itself offers a variety of dining experiences.

  • Things to Know:

    • Weather: Be prepared for rain and humidity, especially if you are hiking in the rainforest.

  • Weather App: The “Rasa Ria Beach” restaurant near the mountain is a great choice.

  • Stay at a nearby hotel: Consider the Shangri-La Rasa Ria Resort, which boasts stunning views of the South China and offers luxurious accommodations to suit all budgets.

  • Things to do: Enjoy the beautiful beaches and the stunning scenery around the resort.

Things to do in the afternoon (if you have time):

  • Visit a local market:
    • Kota Kinabalu’s Night Markets: Explore the vibrant stalls of the Sabah State Museum, showcasing artifacts and exhibits that highlight the region’s history, culture, and biodiversity.
  • Attend a cultural workshop: Learn traditional crafts like weaving or wood carving at the Rasa Ria Beach resort.

Day 1 & Day 2:

  • Things to do:

  • Local Experiences: Explore the local village, learn about their customs and traditions, and enjoy traditional activities like:

    • Visiting the local market: Experience the vibrant culture of the area by visiting the Sabah Parks headquarters. Enjoy a meal at the park’s restaurant while learning about the local flora and fauna.

  • Things to know:

  • Weather: Download a weather app for Sabah or check the weather forecast online for accurate information.

Food:

  • Seafood: Experience fresh seafood at a local restaurant, like “The Ocean Breeze Restaurant”, offering a variety of local dishes in a relaxed atmosphere.

  • Accommodation:

  • Local Restaurants: Enjoy delicious and authentic food while exploring the diverse culinary offerings of Sabah.

  • Traditional Cuisine: Consider attending a cultural dinner show with a traditional Kadazan-Dusun dance performance.

Things to do for both evenings:

  • Enjoy local cuisine: Indulge in a traditional Malaysian meal at “The Ocean Breeze Restaurant”.

  • Relax and enjoy the experience:

  • Dining:

    • Restaurant:
      • Enjoy the breathtaking views of the Kinabalu Mountain while enjoying a buffet dinner.

  • Activities:

    • Traditional Performances: Learn about the local culture through traditional dance performances.

  • Visit the Rasa Ria Cultural Village: Experience the cultural heritage of Sabah’s indigenous groups by exploring the park’s history and natural environment.

Things to know for both days:

  • Book a tour: It is recommended that you book your stay in advance, as the resort can get busy.
  • Enjoy the beach: Spend time swimming, sunbathing, or enjoying water sports at the beautiful beach.
  • Try local delicacies: Indulge in dishes like Sabah Laksa, Nasi Lemak, and Kinabalu tea, a local specialty.

Things to consider:

  • Book your accommodation accordingly: The hotel offers a variety of restaurants within its grounds, so make sure to book a reservation at one that suits your budget.

  • Enjoy the local beaches: Relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery, but be aware that they are public and can get crowded.

  • Enjoy Local Activities: Consider exploring the local culture and biodiversity by visiting the nearby Kinabalu Park.