Mt Kinabalu (4095m) is one of the tallest mountains in South-East Asia and is situated in the Kinabalu National Park in the province of Sabah in Malaysian Borneo. Thousands of tourists visit Kinabalu National Park each year and most come with the intention of climbing Mt Kinabalu.
Fortunately, Mt Kinabalu is one of the easiest peaks in the world to conquer. It takes just two days and climbers don't need any previous experience at mountain climbing. At sunrise, the views from the Mt Kinabalu's summit at Low's Peak are spectacular, making all the effort worthwhile.
Most climbers take two days to ascend and descend Mt Kinabalu. The eight-kilometre climb generally starts from the the Timpohon Gate near park headquarters (1800m), with an overnight stay at one of the guest houses at Laban Rata (3273m), before pushing on to the summit early next morning. Mt Kinabalu's summit is usually reached in time to view the sunrise, before returning to Laban Rata for breakfast. Climbers then descend the mountain, generally reaching the park headquarters by mid-afternoon.
Anyone with a reasonable level of fitness and the willpower to push through fatigue and discomfort can climb to the summit of Mt Kinabalu. It is achievable and incredibly rewarding.
This site contains all you need to know about climbing Mt Kinabalu: preparation, equipment, transport, costs, accommodation and a blow by blow account of the climb itself. Follow the links below to learn about climbing Mt Kinabalu - the climb of a lifetime.
Kinabalu National Park, about 90 kilometres from Kota Kinabalu, is one of the world's most significant natural environments.
The park is home to thousands of types of flora and fauna that are native to the area, and several hundred that are found only in the park.
As such, Kinabalu National Park was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2000, the first in Malaysia. While its tourist trails are well-worn, the majority of the park is an unspoilt paradise for rare flora and fauna.
For those who aren't keen on testing themselves on Mt Kinabalu's slopes, there is still much to enjoy from a visit to the park.
The presence of Mt Kinabalu, the highest mountain in South-East Asia, is one of the contributing factors to the wide variety of animal, bird, insect and plant life found in the park.
The stunning blooms of orchids
from Kinabalu National Park.The terrain ranges from lush, green rainforest at the park's lowest altitudes, while further up the mountain, rhodendron and coniferous forest is prevalent. At the highest altitudes, stunted plant growth and small marsupials survive in a harsh environment.
Orchids and carnivorous pitcher plants are among the park's most famous plants, although they are rare along the park's most worn tourist trails. However, they are all on display in a botanical walk near park headquarters, where visitors can view some of the area's most beautiful flora.
The most famous of the pitcher plants endemic to Kinabalu National Park is Nepenthes raja, a giant pitcher plant whose bell can hold more than three litres of water. There are a number of other species of pitcher plants in the park, and these can be seen just off some of the tracks in the park.
One of the many varieties of
pitcher plant in the park.Kinabalu National Park is also home to the world's largest flower, the Rafflesia, which blooms exceptionally rarely and then only for a matter of days.
Unlike most of its floral brethren, the Rafflesia emits a foul smell, reminiscent of rotting meat. The stench attracts flies and insects, which the plant then feasts upon.
With a diameter of up to one metres and a potential weight of 10 kilograms, the blooming of the Rafflesia is an event keenly awaited by botanists around the world.
You can read more about Kinabalu National Park at the Sabah Parks website.
Fortunately, Mt Kinabalu is one of the easiest peaks in the world to conquer. It takes just two days and climbers don't need any previous experience at mountain climbing. At sunrise, the views from the Mt Kinabalu's summit at Low's Peak are spectacular, making all the effort worthwhile.
Most climbers take two days to ascend and descend Mt Kinabalu. The eight-kilometre climb generally starts from the the Timpohon Gate near park headquarters (1800m), with an overnight stay at one of the guest houses at Laban Rata (3273m), before pushing on to the summit early next morning. Mt Kinabalu's summit is usually reached in time to view the sunrise, before returning to Laban Rata for breakfast. Climbers then descend the mountain, generally reaching the park headquarters by mid-afternoon.
Anyone with a reasonable level of fitness and the willpower to push through fatigue and discomfort can climb to the summit of Mt Kinabalu. It is achievable and incredibly rewarding.
This site contains all you need to know about climbing Mt Kinabalu: preparation, equipment, transport, costs, accommodation and a blow by blow account of the climb itself. Follow the links below to learn about climbing Mt Kinabalu - the climb of a lifetime.
Kinabalu National Park, about 90 kilometres from Kota Kinabalu, is one of the world's most significant natural environments.
The park is home to thousands of types of flora and fauna that are native to the area, and several hundred that are found only in the park.
As such, Kinabalu National Park was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2000, the first in Malaysia. While its tourist trails are well-worn, the majority of the park is an unspoilt paradise for rare flora and fauna.
For those who aren't keen on testing themselves on Mt Kinabalu's slopes, there is still much to enjoy from a visit to the park.
The presence of Mt Kinabalu, the highest mountain in South-East Asia, is one of the contributing factors to the wide variety of animal, bird, insect and plant life found in the park.
The stunning blooms of orchids
from Kinabalu National Park.The terrain ranges from lush, green rainforest at the park's lowest altitudes, while further up the mountain, rhodendron and coniferous forest is prevalent. At the highest altitudes, stunted plant growth and small marsupials survive in a harsh environment.
Orchids and carnivorous pitcher plants are among the park's most famous plants, although they are rare along the park's most worn tourist trails. However, they are all on display in a botanical walk near park headquarters, where visitors can view some of the area's most beautiful flora.
The most famous of the pitcher plants endemic to Kinabalu National Park is Nepenthes raja, a giant pitcher plant whose bell can hold more than three litres of water. There are a number of other species of pitcher plants in the park, and these can be seen just off some of the tracks in the park.
One of the many varieties of
pitcher plant in the park.Kinabalu National Park is also home to the world's largest flower, the Rafflesia, which blooms exceptionally rarely and then only for a matter of days.
Unlike most of its floral brethren, the Rafflesia emits a foul smell, reminiscent of rotting meat. The stench attracts flies and insects, which the plant then feasts upon.
With a diameter of up to one metres and a potential weight of 10 kilograms, the blooming of the Rafflesia is an event keenly awaited by botanists around the world.
You can read more about Kinabalu National Park at the Sabah Parks website.
EQUIPMENT NEEDED IN CLIMBING MT. KINABALU
One of the main attractions of climbing Mt Kinabalu is its accessibility. Prospective climbers don't need any previous experience at high altitude, nor do they require any specialised equipment.
However, weather conditions can change rapidly on the mountain. A clear, warm day can suddenly turn into heavy sleeting rain in a matter of minutes. Climbers must be well prepared for any eventuality.
All bedding requirements are provided at Laban Rata, so there's no need to take sleeping bags and the like. Meals can be purchased relatively cheaply at Laban Rata, so climbers need only provide snacks and lunch on the first day (if it's not provided by a tour group).
As such, the trip can be completed comfortably with a small backpack of about 35-40L. A larger pack will be fine, but keep weight to a minimum. After all, it's hard enough climbing the mountain without lugging any unnecessary weight!
Here's a list of items and equipment that every climber should carry:
Clothing
A backpack about this size is ideal, but bigger is OK.
Head-mounted torches are highly recommended.All your gear should be packed inside waterproof plastic bags in case of rain on the mountain. The last thing you want when you arrive tired and sweaty at Laban Rata is for all your clean, dry clothes to be soaking wet!
Keep in mind that the above list of equipment does not include what you wear on the trail as you set out from park headquarters. What you wear on the trail is really a matter of personal preference. Some climbers prefer to go light and just wear a t-shirt and shorts for the early stages, adding a jumper as they reacher higher altitude. Others prefer to wear pants and a long-sleeved shirt - it's up to you. The climb is strenuous and you will get very warm, simply through your exertions. Layering of clothes is always a good strategy, so you can adjust your clothing depending on the situation.
Suggested walking clothes for early stages (not carried in pack)
Wear your warm socks, pants, shirt, warm jumper and waterproof jacket when you head off. Gloves and beanie are also essential. Carry a litre of water, snacks and a camera in your jacket, or in a very small day pack. You may get quite warm in the early stages of the climb after Laban Rata, but you'll be glad of the protection as you trek above the tree line.
Good, sturdy trail shoes are essential.Permits and other requirements
All climbers must purchase a climbing permit from the park headquarters before they depart. This will be checked at both Laban Rata and the Sayat-Sayat hut closer to the summit, so there's no way around it! Permits cost RM100 for non-Malay adults (RM40 for children), while Malay adults pay RM30 (RM12 for their children).
The park also requires that all climbing groups hire a guide to accompany you on your trek up the mountain. The actual cost of hiring a guide varies from RM70-100, depending on the size of your group, but a guide can be responsible for eight people at most.
Finally, each climber must also pay an insurance fee (RM7) before they embark on the climb.
However, weather conditions can change rapidly on the mountain. A clear, warm day can suddenly turn into heavy sleeting rain in a matter of minutes. Climbers must be well prepared for any eventuality.
All bedding requirements are provided at Laban Rata, so there's no need to take sleeping bags and the like. Meals can be purchased relatively cheaply at Laban Rata, so climbers need only provide snacks and lunch on the first day (if it's not provided by a tour group).
As such, the trip can be completed comfortably with a small backpack of about 35-40L. A larger pack will be fine, but keep weight to a minimum. After all, it's hard enough climbing the mountain without lugging any unnecessary weight!
Here's a list of items and equipment that every climber should carry:
Clothing
- Waterproof jacket
- Warm, lightweight jumper (polarfleece or windfleece is ideal)
- Warm, lightweight pants (not denim, as it remains cold when wet)
- Spare socks and underwear
- Beanie/woollen hat
- Sturdy woollen or fleece gloves
- Snacks (chocolate, dried fruit, nuts, jelly beans) for the climb
- Water bottles (at least one litre, preferably in small bottles)
- Water purification tablets
- Sunscreen cream
- Small first aid kit
- Headache tablets
- Bandaids
- Antiseptic cream
- Crepe bandage
- Triangular bandage
- Safety pins
- Cotton buds
- Plastic bags (large black garbage bags are good)
- Whistle (in case of emergency in bad weather and visibility)
- Camera
- Torch (head-mounted is ideal for the night climb to the summit)
- Spare batteries
A backpack about this size is ideal, but bigger is OK.
Head-mounted torches are highly recommended.All your gear should be packed inside waterproof plastic bags in case of rain on the mountain. The last thing you want when you arrive tired and sweaty at Laban Rata is for all your clean, dry clothes to be soaking wet!
Keep in mind that the above list of equipment does not include what you wear on the trail as you set out from park headquarters. What you wear on the trail is really a matter of personal preference. Some climbers prefer to go light and just wear a t-shirt and shorts for the early stages, adding a jumper as they reacher higher altitude. Others prefer to wear pants and a long-sleeved shirt - it's up to you. The climb is strenuous and you will get very warm, simply through your exertions. Layering of clothes is always a good strategy, so you can adjust your clothing depending on the situation.
Suggested walking clothes for early stages (not carried in pack)
- Shorts (or lightweight pants)
- T-shirt or long-sleeved shirt
- Woollen socks
- Sturdy shoes with good grip and ankle support - runners or sneakers are far from ideal
- Cap or hat to keep the sun off your face
- Sunglasses
Wear your warm socks, pants, shirt, warm jumper and waterproof jacket when you head off. Gloves and beanie are also essential. Carry a litre of water, snacks and a camera in your jacket, or in a very small day pack. You may get quite warm in the early stages of the climb after Laban Rata, but you'll be glad of the protection as you trek above the tree line.
Good, sturdy trail shoes are essential.Permits and other requirements
All climbers must purchase a climbing permit from the park headquarters before they depart. This will be checked at both Laban Rata and the Sayat-Sayat hut closer to the summit, so there's no way around it! Permits cost RM100 for non-Malay adults (RM40 for children), while Malay adults pay RM30 (RM12 for their children).
The park also requires that all climbing groups hire a guide to accompany you on your trek up the mountain. The actual cost of hiring a guide varies from RM70-100, depending on the size of your group, but a guide can be responsible for eight people at most.
Finally, each climber must also pay an insurance fee (RM7) before they embark on the climb.
That's the question that every prospective climber needs to ask themselves. There's nothing more disappointing than attempting the climb, only to have to turn back with the peak in sight. As unlikely as it sounds, a few climbers on my trip simply couldn't continue climbing, with less than a kilometre to go to Low's Peak.
To avoid disappointment, it's best to know what you're letting yourself in for.
Climbing Mt Kinabalu is tough - but achievable
As I alluded to on the homepage, there are a number of accounts of the climb that rate it a small step above physical and emotional hell. Likewise, there are others that gloss over the sheer physical effort required to complete the trek. In my experience, neither of these is true.
Here it is in plain, simple language: climbing to the summit of Mt Kinabalu is difficult. For most regular tourists, it is likely to be one of the most physically demanding things you will ever attempt. But, it is eminently achievable with preparation and care once you're up on the mountain.
As you would expect, the trek is predominantly uphill, except for a brief section just after the starting point at Timpohon Gate. The track alternates between steep stairs and regular sections of uneven inclined track. Without the effects of high altitude, the walk would be physically taxing. With the lack of oxygen, climbers become more fatigued far more quickly.
How fit do I need to be?
That said, you don't have to be an elite athlete to complete the climb. If you undertake regular exercise - power walking, jogging, social or competitive sport - on a weekly basis, you're more than likely going to be fit enough to reach the summit.
On the climb I completed, I was passed on occasions by groups of geriatric Koreans, who put most of the younger climbers to shame! Age is no barrier - fitness is the only determining factor.
How fit? Not as fit as this guy.
Take it easy at first.Even if you consider yourself pretty fit, every little bit of preparation will help. In the weeks leading up to the climb, go on a couple of walks where sharp inclines make up a large part of the trail. It'll help your muscles become aware of the efforts required.
If you're looking to climb Kinabalu, but you're a bit concerned about your ability to do so, don't panic. Three months out from the climb, start going for a brisk walk for 45 minutes, at least twice a week. Just around your local neighbourhood will do for a start. Build up to some incline walks in the last six weeks before you depart and you should be fine.
Also, don't attempt the climb with any hint of an injury. Your legs will take enough of a beating ascending and descending the mountain without being compromised by an existing ailment.
How many people make it?
To give you an idea of the attrition rate, more than 95 per cent of the climbers who attempted the summit on my expedition were successful. They ranged from 15-year-old teenagers to enthusiastic tourists in their 70s, and everything in between. There was a small number of climbers who felt they'd achieved enough by reaching Laban Rata - no small feat in itself! But, a handful of climbers attempted the summit walk and were forced to turn back, either pre-empting their own difficulties or suffering greatly from altitude sickness.
Effects of high altitude
A final word of caution on the climb: high altitude can bring even the fittest climber undone. Take it easy from the beginning of the walk. While it might feel easy in the first hour, you'll need those energy reserves later. The same applies for the summit attempt the following morning. Keep it slow and steady and you should be fine.
Some people are affected more than others by altitude sickness. It tends to take effect on the Mt Kinabalu climb in the last couple of kilometres to the summit. All climbers will experience an elevated heart rate, even when resting, and a feeling of breathlessness near the summit. For most, a slight headache will be their only other symptom. It's more than manageable with paracetamol and plenty of water.
You'll need plenty of rests.However, others can be overcome by nausea. Other than climbing at a slow, steady pace, there is little that can be done to avoid altitude sickness if you're prone to it. The only remedy for altitude sickness is to return to lower altitude - there is no magic pill, unfortunately! Of course, the fitter you are, the more likely you are to be able to cope.
To avoid disappointment, it's best to know what you're letting yourself in for.
Climbing Mt Kinabalu is tough - but achievable
As I alluded to on the homepage, there are a number of accounts of the climb that rate it a small step above physical and emotional hell. Likewise, there are others that gloss over the sheer physical effort required to complete the trek. In my experience, neither of these is true.
Here it is in plain, simple language: climbing to the summit of Mt Kinabalu is difficult. For most regular tourists, it is likely to be one of the most physically demanding things you will ever attempt. But, it is eminently achievable with preparation and care once you're up on the mountain.
As you would expect, the trek is predominantly uphill, except for a brief section just after the starting point at Timpohon Gate. The track alternates between steep stairs and regular sections of uneven inclined track. Without the effects of high altitude, the walk would be physically taxing. With the lack of oxygen, climbers become more fatigued far more quickly.
How fit do I need to be?
That said, you don't have to be an elite athlete to complete the climb. If you undertake regular exercise - power walking, jogging, social or competitive sport - on a weekly basis, you're more than likely going to be fit enough to reach the summit.
On the climb I completed, I was passed on occasions by groups of geriatric Koreans, who put most of the younger climbers to shame! Age is no barrier - fitness is the only determining factor.
How fit? Not as fit as this guy.
Take it easy at first.Even if you consider yourself pretty fit, every little bit of preparation will help. In the weeks leading up to the climb, go on a couple of walks where sharp inclines make up a large part of the trail. It'll help your muscles become aware of the efforts required.
If you're looking to climb Kinabalu, but you're a bit concerned about your ability to do so, don't panic. Three months out from the climb, start going for a brisk walk for 45 minutes, at least twice a week. Just around your local neighbourhood will do for a start. Build up to some incline walks in the last six weeks before you depart and you should be fine.
Also, don't attempt the climb with any hint of an injury. Your legs will take enough of a beating ascending and descending the mountain without being compromised by an existing ailment.
How many people make it?
To give you an idea of the attrition rate, more than 95 per cent of the climbers who attempted the summit on my expedition were successful. They ranged from 15-year-old teenagers to enthusiastic tourists in their 70s, and everything in between. There was a small number of climbers who felt they'd achieved enough by reaching Laban Rata - no small feat in itself! But, a handful of climbers attempted the summit walk and were forced to turn back, either pre-empting their own difficulties or suffering greatly from altitude sickness.
Effects of high altitude
A final word of caution on the climb: high altitude can bring even the fittest climber undone. Take it easy from the beginning of the walk. While it might feel easy in the first hour, you'll need those energy reserves later. The same applies for the summit attempt the following morning. Keep it slow and steady and you should be fine.
Some people are affected more than others by altitude sickness. It tends to take effect on the Mt Kinabalu climb in the last couple of kilometres to the summit. All climbers will experience an elevated heart rate, even when resting, and a feeling of breathlessness near the summit. For most, a slight headache will be their only other symptom. It's more than manageable with paracetamol and plenty of water.
You'll need plenty of rests.However, others can be overcome by nausea. Other than climbing at a slow, steady pace, there is little that can be done to avoid altitude sickness if you're prone to it. The only remedy for altitude sickness is to return to lower altitude - there is no magic pill, unfortunately! Of course, the fitter you are, the more likely you are to be able to cope.
Getting there
Kinabalu National Park is about 90 kilometres from Kota Kinabalu, Sabah's capital city and is easily accessible by road.
Most tourists to the park arrive on private buses with tour groups, but there are several public bus routes that travel from the bus station at Kota Kinabalu to the island's east coast. Many of these routes bypass the park. When purchasing a ticket on these buses, be sure to mention that you are only travelling to Kinabalu National Park.
The bus trip can take anything from two to four hours and costs RM10-15.
Long-distance taxis are also available for hire from Kota Kinabalu, generally near the bus station. Although, many drivers will wait until they have a full vehicle before departing. The cost is reportedly about RM250 per trip.
Large tour groups are common at the start of the trek.Staying there
Accommodation in and around Kinabalu National Park takes a little more planning. More than 40,000 people climb the mountain each year, so the park is almost always busy and the availability of accommodation reflects this. The earlier you can book your accommodation, the better.
For this reason, many climbers opt to book their trek through a tour group months before they climb, leaving the tour group to organise all the accommodation and permits required for the trek. However, if you prefer to organise things yourself, it's still possible.
Many climbers choose to depart Kota Kinabalu early on the morning they start the climb, arriving at the park by about 10am. This allows plenty of time to complete the trek to Laban Rata (about four to six hours) before the weather inevitably closes in late in the day.
But, if you choose to stay in or near the park on the night before you climb, there are a number of options, ranging from basic to luxury. This is by no means an exhaustive list, but it will give you an idea of what's available.
Wildlife Mountain Lodge, one of the many guest houses near the park.All climbers must stay overnight at one of the huts at Laban Rata and places are strictly limited. If you're not booking your trip through a tour operator, it's best to get your accommodation at Laban Rata organised before you do anything else, as that will ultimately determine when your climb will take place.
Kinabalu National Park is about 90 kilometres from Kota Kinabalu, Sabah's capital city and is easily accessible by road.
Most tourists to the park arrive on private buses with tour groups, but there are several public bus routes that travel from the bus station at Kota Kinabalu to the island's east coast. Many of these routes bypass the park. When purchasing a ticket on these buses, be sure to mention that you are only travelling to Kinabalu National Park.
The bus trip can take anything from two to four hours and costs RM10-15.
Long-distance taxis are also available for hire from Kota Kinabalu, generally near the bus station. Although, many drivers will wait until they have a full vehicle before departing. The cost is reportedly about RM250 per trip.
Large tour groups are common at the start of the trek.Staying there
Accommodation in and around Kinabalu National Park takes a little more planning. More than 40,000 people climb the mountain each year, so the park is almost always busy and the availability of accommodation reflects this. The earlier you can book your accommodation, the better.
For this reason, many climbers opt to book their trek through a tour group months before they climb, leaving the tour group to organise all the accommodation and permits required for the trek. However, if you prefer to organise things yourself, it's still possible.
Many climbers choose to depart Kota Kinabalu early on the morning they start the climb, arriving at the park by about 10am. This allows plenty of time to complete the trek to Laban Rata (about four to six hours) before the weather inevitably closes in late in the day.
But, if you choose to stay in or near the park on the night before you climb, there are a number of options, ranging from basic to luxury. This is by no means an exhaustive list, but it will give you an idea of what's available.
- Kinabalu Pine Resort is located in the foothills near Kundasang, 10 minutes from the national park. Prices for a standard room start from RM100 (twin share) per night. Packages with breakfast and dinner included are also available.
- Kinabalu Rose Cabin is also near Kundasang, just a short trip from the park. Similar to the Pine Resort, rooms start from RM70 per night in the normal season.
- Wildlife Mountain Lodge is run by Wildlife Expeditions, an excellent and reliable tour company.
- There is a range of accommodation inside the park itself, all of which is operated by Sutera Sanctuary Lodges.
- Sutera Sanctuary Lodges, which has a head office at the eastern end of Kota Kinabalu's central business district, also runs the bookings for the huts at Laban Rata on Mt Kinabalu.
Wildlife Mountain Lodge, one of the many guest houses near the park.All climbers must stay overnight at one of the huts at Laban Rata and places are strictly limited. If you're not booking your trip through a tour operator, it's best to get your accommodation at Laban Rata organised before you do anything else, as that will ultimately determine when your climb will take place.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Where is Mt Kinabalu?
Mt Kinabalu is in Kinabalu National Park in the Malaysian state of Sabah on the island of Borneo. Sabah's capital city, Kota Kinabalu, is about 90 minutes by air from Malaysia's capital, Kuala Lumpur.
How high is Mt Kinabalu?
The summit of Mt Kinabalu, Low's Peak, sits at 4095m (13,435ft) above sea-level. The mountain is the tallest in South-East Asia and is one of the highest trekkable peaks in the world.
How long does it take to climb Mt Kinabalu?
The climb takes two days. Climbers trek 6km to Laban Rata on the first day, taking four to five hours, before climbing to the summit early on the following morning. The return trip from Laban Rata to the summit can take anything from six to nine hours. Climbers then descend to the park headquarters that afternoon, which takes three to four hours. See The Climb for a detailed account of the ascent.
Do I need any special equipment for the climb?
No. One of Mt Kinabalu's main attractions is that climbers don't need any special climbing equipment. Good walking shoes, a headtorch and a sturdy windproof jacket are the only essentials. See Equipmentfor more details.
How much does it cost to climb Mt Kinabalu?
There are a range of fees imposed by Sabah Parks for all climbers. For the typical non-Malay adult tourist, it will cost about RM250 ($80 AUD).
This is made up of a climbing permit (RM100), guide fee (RM70-100, depending on route and group size), insurance (RM7), transfer to Timpohon Gate (RM10-30, depending on group size), accommodation at Laban Rata (RM50-60) and entry to Kinabalu National Park (RM15). Transport to and from Kinabalu National Park, food and equipment costs are not included in this price.
Is there a limit on how young or old you can be to climb Mt Kinabalu?
No, but it is a difficult climb and young children may become quite tired early in the climb. Similarly, elderly climbers need to be in good health and boast a very good level of fitness to attempt a successful climb.
Do I have to do any special training to climb Mt Kinabalu?
No. A reasonably fit and healthy person can attempt the climb with confidence. As long as you do some regular exercise as part of your lifestyle and you are injury-free, you can reasonably expect to complete a successful climb. Of course, the fitter you are, the better. And, the more experience you have at trekking in hilly terrain, the easier you will find it. See Physical Fitness for more information.
Is Mt Kinabalu a safe mountain to climb?
As long as you stay on the track, there is little to no chance of suffering any injury. There have been incidents where climbers have become lost, injured or killed on the mountain but this has only happened when they leave the marked track in poor weather. Listen to your guide's instructions and take care at all times and you will be fine.
How bad are the effects of high altitude?
Altitude sickness affects every person differently. Most climbers will experience at least a mild headache, while a very small minority of climbers will be overcome by nausea and vomiting. Others will suffer these symptoms to varying degrees. The headaches can be helped with paracetamol or similar, and plenty of water. But, if you suffer badly from altitude sickness, the only remedy is to return immediately to lower altitude. Your guide is experienced in this area and he will tell you if it's not safe for you to continue.
Does it snow on top of Mt Kinabalu?
Very rarely, if at all. There have been isolated reports of snow on top of the mountain, but the summit and its surrounds are almost always bare rock with sparse vegetation. It rains regularly, though, particularly in the afternoon, and can become very cold and windy.
Mt Kinabalu is in Kinabalu National Park in the Malaysian state of Sabah on the island of Borneo. Sabah's capital city, Kota Kinabalu, is about 90 minutes by air from Malaysia's capital, Kuala Lumpur.
How high is Mt Kinabalu?
The summit of Mt Kinabalu, Low's Peak, sits at 4095m (13,435ft) above sea-level. The mountain is the tallest in South-East Asia and is one of the highest trekkable peaks in the world.
How long does it take to climb Mt Kinabalu?
The climb takes two days. Climbers trek 6km to Laban Rata on the first day, taking four to five hours, before climbing to the summit early on the following morning. The return trip from Laban Rata to the summit can take anything from six to nine hours. Climbers then descend to the park headquarters that afternoon, which takes three to four hours. See The Climb for a detailed account of the ascent.
Do I need any special equipment for the climb?
No. One of Mt Kinabalu's main attractions is that climbers don't need any special climbing equipment. Good walking shoes, a headtorch and a sturdy windproof jacket are the only essentials. See Equipmentfor more details.
How much does it cost to climb Mt Kinabalu?
There are a range of fees imposed by Sabah Parks for all climbers. For the typical non-Malay adult tourist, it will cost about RM250 ($80 AUD).
This is made up of a climbing permit (RM100), guide fee (RM70-100, depending on route and group size), insurance (RM7), transfer to Timpohon Gate (RM10-30, depending on group size), accommodation at Laban Rata (RM50-60) and entry to Kinabalu National Park (RM15). Transport to and from Kinabalu National Park, food and equipment costs are not included in this price.
Is there a limit on how young or old you can be to climb Mt Kinabalu?
No, but it is a difficult climb and young children may become quite tired early in the climb. Similarly, elderly climbers need to be in good health and boast a very good level of fitness to attempt a successful climb.
Do I have to do any special training to climb Mt Kinabalu?
No. A reasonably fit and healthy person can attempt the climb with confidence. As long as you do some regular exercise as part of your lifestyle and you are injury-free, you can reasonably expect to complete a successful climb. Of course, the fitter you are, the better. And, the more experience you have at trekking in hilly terrain, the easier you will find it. See Physical Fitness for more information.
Is Mt Kinabalu a safe mountain to climb?
As long as you stay on the track, there is little to no chance of suffering any injury. There have been incidents where climbers have become lost, injured or killed on the mountain but this has only happened when they leave the marked track in poor weather. Listen to your guide's instructions and take care at all times and you will be fine.
How bad are the effects of high altitude?
Altitude sickness affects every person differently. Most climbers will experience at least a mild headache, while a very small minority of climbers will be overcome by nausea and vomiting. Others will suffer these symptoms to varying degrees. The headaches can be helped with paracetamol or similar, and plenty of water. But, if you suffer badly from altitude sickness, the only remedy is to return immediately to lower altitude. Your guide is experienced in this area and he will tell you if it's not safe for you to continue.
Does it snow on top of Mt Kinabalu?
Very rarely, if at all. There have been isolated reports of snow on top of the mountain, but the summit and its surrounds are almost always bare rock with sparse vegetation. It rains regularly, though, particularly in the afternoon, and can become very cold and windy.
PHILIPPINE NATIONAL MOUNTAINEERING SOCIETY
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