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Exploring Sabah takes you to the impressive nature of mountains and seas. Plan your trip to this beautiful land with Klook Vietnam.
Sabah, a state located in Borneo, Malaysia, is a magnificent natural paradise with mountains, beaches, and diverse cultures. It is the only place in Southeast Asia recognized by UNESCO three times for World Heritage, Biosphere Reserve, and Global Geopark. In addition to its beautiful nature, it also attracts tourists with its preserved distinctive culture. Explore Sabah with Klook Vietnam, a paradise for nature and culture lovers!
Introduction to Sabah
Where is Sabah?
Sabah is one of Malaysia's largest states, located in northern Borneo - the largest island in Asia and the third largest in the world. Additionally, Sabah shares borders with the Philippines to the north and Indonesia to the east. This location not only facilitates trade and tourism but also contributes to Sabah's cultural diversity, resulting from the intersection of various cultures.
Thanks to its strategic location, Sabah is not only where the sea meets the mountains but also a rendezvous for diverse adventures and explorations, offering travelers unforgettable experiences. Exploring Sabah, #teamKlook embarks on a journey to discover the beautiful natural landscapes with rich flora and fauna, and unique cultural experiences.
Interesting Facts About Sabah Malaysia
- The island of Borneo is divided into 2 regions and managed by two different countries. On the island, there are 5 provinces in Indonesia, and 2 states (Sabah and Sarawak) in Malaysia.
- Sabah has a population of 3.5 million, ranking third in population among states in Malaysia, with the Chinese community accounting for nearly 10%.
- Sabah is also known as the 'Land Beneath the Wind' because it is located at latitude 6 degrees north of the equator, under the tropical storm region, so it is always sheltered from the impact of storms.
- The name 'Sabah' comes from the Pisang Sabaa tree, a common banana species in the region.
- The Borneo rainforest, over 130 million years old, is the oldest rainforest in the world, even older than the Amazon rainforest.
- Sabah is home to many rare botanical treasures such as the world's largest carnivorous flower - Rafflesia, the world's fourth most expensive flower - the Gold of Kinabalu orchid, and the world's tallest tropical tree - Yellow Meranti.
- The world's highest Via Ferrata mountain climbing route is located on Mount Kinabalu in Sabah.
Travel Experience in Sabah Malaysia
Guide on How to Travel to Sabah Independently
To travel independently to Sabah, #teamKlook can take flights from major international airports such as Noi Bai, Tan Son Nhat, or Da Nang. Airlines like Malaysia Airlines, AirAsia, Vietnam Airlines, VietJet Air, and many international airlines offer flights to Kota Kinabalu, the main center of Sabah. Before booking tickets, compare prices and flight times to choose the airline that suits your plans. After landing, you can use the Kota Kinabalu International Airport transfer service to conveniently reach your accommodation.
Modes of Transportation in Sabah Malaysia
- Taxi: In Sabah, taxi services are very popular, convenient for you to travel according to your own schedule.
- Motorbike: If you want to explore Sabah freely, you can use a motorbike as your main mode of transportation.
- Boat: Around Sabah, there are many beautiful islands, so boats are also a popular mode of transportation. If you easily get seasick, make sure to prepare motion sickness medicine in advance!
- Car rental: In Sabah, there are many car rental points convenient for you to explore independently. You can refer to Kota Kinabalu Private Car Rental Service and Suburbs, Private Car Rental with Driver in Kota Kinabalu conveniently on Klook Vietnam.
Best Time to Travel to Sabah?
February is the ideal time to explore the natural beauty of Sabah. With warm equatorial climate, temperatures range from 23°C to 30°C, allowing travelers to experience the vibrant beauty of tropical forests.
February also coincides with the Lunar New Year holiday in Vietnam, creating favorable conditions for extended exploration and relaxation trips. With beautiful nature and diverse tourist activities, Sabah during this season will surely provide memorable travel experiences for #teamKlook.
Famous Tourist Destinations in Sabah
1. Kota Kinabalu
Kota Kinabalu, the capital of Sabah, is a famous tourist destination with majestic beauty. If you're adventurous, #teamKlook shouldn't miss the chance to conquer Mount Kinabalu, the highest peak in Southeast Asia. Standing at 4,101 meters, this mountain will be an ideal spot for you to immerse yourself in nature and admire the stunning scenery of Sabah.
If mountain climbing isn't your thing, you can also explore Kinabalu Park, located at an altitude of over 1,520 meters, covering an area of 754 square kilometers. This park has been recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site due to its top-ranking biodiversity. Here, you'll discover a world-class nature reserve with diverse flora and fauna, including over 4,500 species of plants and over 300 bird species. Within the park area, there's also the Poring Hot Spring, allowing you to relax amidst the lush greenery.
In addition to mountains and parks, Kota Kinabalu is also famous for pearls and exquisite jewelry. At the traditional handicraft market, #teamKlook will have the opportunity to purchase affordable bracelets, necklaces, and rings. This is an experience not to be missed when exploring the culture and natural beauty of Sabah.
2. Mari Mari Cultural Village
Mari Mari Cultural Village, located a 30-minute drive from Kota Kinabalu, is an intriguing destination that takes #teamKlook back to the past of Sabah. Established in February 2008, the village is a living museum of the 5 Kadazan-Dusun, Rungus, Lundayeh, Bajau, and Murut tribes. Amidst the stunning nature, rustic stilt houses, visitors will learn more about the history and traditions of the indigenous peoples on the island.
At Mari Mari, you not only get to explore but also participate in joyful festivals, learn to cook traditional Bajau dishes in bamboo tubes, savor distinctive flavors, and understand the unique meanings of Sabahan tribal tattoos. It's an adventure full of experiences, giving you the opportunity to immerse yourself in Sabah's culture.
3. Semporna
Located on the east side of Sabah, Semporna attracts visitors with its tranquil atmosphere and stunning island beauty.
The unique feature of Semporna lies in its famous islands: Mabul and Maldives with their blue sea, white sand, and diverse coral reefs; Selakan, a peaceful place with gentle white sand beaches and rich marine life; and Bohey Dulang with its 353m high mountain peak offering an exhilarating climb and breathtaking views.
#teamKlook also has the opportunity to visit luxury resorts, explore traditional craft villages, or participate in activities such as diving, stargazing, and immersing in the pristine beauty of Semporna. With its majestic nature and diverse experiences, Semporna is a must-visit destination when exploring the famous tourist spots of Sabah.
4. Sepilok Orangutan
For those wishing to experience the wild side of Sabah, #teamKlook must not overlook the Sepilok conservation area. This renowned tourist spot in Malaysia attracts millions of visitors from around the world every year.
Sepilok is located 25 km west of the city of Sandakan, covering an area of up to 4,300 hectares. It is home to orangutans, a species on the brink of extinction due to illegal hunting. Visitors here can immerse themselves in the wilderness, observing the daily lives of orangutans and other wildlife.
The conservation center is a pride of Sandakan and continues to evolve with local government investment. It's an ideal destination for those seeking peace amidst nature. When in Malaysia, take the time to explore Sepilok for unforgettable experiences.
5. Kinabatangan River
The 560 km long Kinabatangan River winds its way from the heart of Borneo Island to the Sulu Sea, alluring travelers with lush virgin forests along its banks. Here, #teamKlook can explore the diverse ecosystem of mangrove forests with adorable wildlife species.
The riverbanks serve as conservation corridors, hosting up to 10 primate species coexisting harmoniously. Drifting gently on a small boat, you'll encounter the iconic Proboscis monkeys, playfully swinging from branch to branch. Moreover, it's the habitat of the adorable Pygmy elephants and various other animals.
6. Tanjung Aru Beach
Tanjung Aru Beach is a captivating destination in the capital city of Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, renowned for its fine white sand and gentle coastline. The name Aru originates from the Casuarina tree, which shades the beach. Surrounding the beach are numerous resorts, offering a variety of accommodations from mid-range to upscale, along with renowned restaurants. Hence, it's an ideal resort destination for #teamKlook when traveling to Sabah.
With its long coastline, visitors can indulge in surfing, diving, or relaxing on the gentle sands. Tanjung Aru is known for its stunning sunsets in Kota Kinabalu, creating a magnificent scenery. Dining and beverage options near the beach area offer unique culinary experiences at affordable prices. Tanjung Aru Beach is not just a tourist destination but also a journey to explore the pristine beauty of Sabah.
7. Kundasang
Kundasang, a marvelous town in Sabah, Malaysia, is an attractive tourist destination with unique experiences. Here, #teamKlook can immerse themselves in the lush greenery and learn about the history of Sabah.
Through the lush green fields of Desa Dairy Farm, visitors can savor the pure taste of fresh milk. The Kundasang War Memorial is a place of remembrance for the brave soldiers, allowing you to learn about the past and cherish the current peace. The gateway to Kinabalu Park opens up a journey to conquer the highest peak in Southeast Asia, captivating adventurous souls. With its unique beauty spots and rich history, Kundasang is not just a stopover but also a marvelous journey to explore the distinctive beauty of Sabah.
Sabah Dining Guide
Exploring Sabah's unique cuisine is a journey to discover Malaysia's diverse and delicious flavors. Here, you'll experience the blend of traditional and modern tastes, creating an enticing dining guide.
Among the must-try dishes is Tuaran noodles, renowned for its combination of fried eggs, grilled pork, boiled eggs, and green vegetables, creating an exquisite flavor. Beaufort noodles with special sauce are also a tasty choice, and Ngiu Chap beef noodles are a delicate blend of noodles and flavorful beef.
Sabah is not only famous for its noodles but also a haven for fresh seafood. At the Kota Kinabalu seaside night market, you can indulge in dishes like Hinava raw fish or Latok seaweed, paired with green mangoes, lime, and chili.
Famous Hotels in Sabah
Shangri-La Tanjung Aru: Shangri-La Tanjung Aru transports guests into a world of luxury with spacious rooms, swimming pools, and diverse restaurants.
- Address: No. 20, Jalan Aru, Tanjung Aru
- Price: From 4,016,000 VND/night
Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu: This hotel stands out with its modern architecture, comfortable rooms, and stunning views from the higher floors.
- Address: 18, Jln Haji Saman, Pusat Bandar Kota Kinabalu
- Price: From 2,497,000 VND/night
Hilton Kota Kinabalu: Hilton Kota Kinabalu offers a luxurious resort experience, catering to diverse needs, from conferences to relaxation, along with modern amenities such as fine dining restaurants and a fitness center.
- Address: Jalan Tunku Abdul Rahman, Asia City
- Price: 1,803,000 VND/night
Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu: Located in the city center, this hotel is convenient for exploring tourist attractions and enjoying unique local cuisine.
- Address: Jalan Tun Fuad Stephens, Sinsuran
- Price: From 2,138,000 VND/night
Kudat Riviera: With its superb seaside location, Kudat Riviera offers a tranquil retreat amidst pristine nature.
- Address: Jalan Pantai Kelambu
- Price: From 12,479,000 VND/night
Sabah Travel Guide offers an amazing journey with diverse experiences. With impressive natural beauty ranging from sea, river, mountain to diverse ecosystems, #teamKlook will enjoy endless fun activities.
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Pack your bags and embark on a Sabah trip, #teamKlook!
