At 4,095 metres above sea level, Mount Kinabalu is the highest mountain in Malaysia and the highest point between the Himalayas and New Guinea. Climbing Mount Kinabalu is a unique experience, taking you from the tropical rainforest of Kinabalu Park through montane forest and onto the rocky summit plateau of Low’s Peak.
The climb is physically challenging but requires no technical mountaineering experience, making Mount Kinabalu accessible to people with a good level of fitness. The trail is well established and all climbers are accompanied by a licensed mountain guide.
Reaching Low’s Peak at sunrise is the highlight of the climb, with panoramic views across Sabah and the surrounding Crocker Range. The mountain’s changing landscapes, cool temperatures and sense of achievement make it one of Borneo’s most memorable adventures.
Mount Kinabalu climbing packages
River Junkie offers a range of Mount Kinabalu climbing packages, from the quickest 2D1N summit climb to longer itineraries that include time in Kinabalu Park and Poring Hot Springs. There are also Via Ferrata options for those looking for an additional adventure after reaching the summit.
2D1N Mount Kinabalu Climb is the shortest way to reach the summit. You travel from Kota Kinabalu to Kinabalu Park on the first morning, climb to Panalaban and spend the night at Laban Rata Resthouse before making your summit attempt in the early hours of the following morning.
3D2N Mount Kinabalu Climb is our recommended option. It includes an additional night in Kinabalu Park, giving you a more relaxed start and some time to explore the park and acclimatise before beginning your ascent.
4D3N Mount Kinabalu Climb adds a night at Poring Hot Springs, allowing you to relax after your climb and explore another of Sabah’s natural attractions.
For a more adventurous experience, our Mount Kinabalu Via Ferrata packages combine the summit climb with a guided Via Ferrata experience on the mountain. No previous rock-climbing experience is required, although you should be comfortable with heights and have good stamina.
Where will I stay during the climb?
All standard Mount Kinabalu climbing packages include one night at Laban Rata Resthouse at Panalaban, at approximately 3,270 metres above sea level. Accommodation is in dormitory-style rooms, with private rooms available at an additional cost.
Those choosing the Via Ferrata stay at Pendant Hut, close to the Via Ferrata starting point.
If you choose a 3D2N or 4D3N package, your additional nights are spent at accommodation in Kinabalu Park or Poring Hot Springs. These extra nights provide a more relaxed itinerary and allow you to experience more of the area around Mount Kinabalu.
How long do I need?
The minimum time required to climb Mount Kinabalu is 2 days and 1 night. Day climbs are not permitted, so all climbers must spend at least one night on the mountain.
A 2D1N Mount Kinabalu climb is ideal if you are short on time and simply want to reach the summit as efficiently as possible.
For most travellers, we recommend 3D2N. The additional night in Kinabalu Park gives you more time to relax before the climb and explore the rainforest around the mountain.
If you have more time available, 4D3N combines the climb with a night at Poring Hot Springs, providing a more leisurely Mount Kinabalu experience.
Who can climb Mount Kinabalu?
Mount Kinabalu can be climbed by beginners as well as experienced hikers, provided they are in good physical condition. No technical climbing or mountaineering experience is required, but the ascent involves long periods of walking, steep sections and a significant change in altitude.
Children can also climb Mount Kinabalu, although parents should consider their child’s previous hiking experience, fitness and ability to cope with the cold and demanding conditions. Sabah Parks has specific guide-to-climber ratios for children, so families should provide children’s ages when booking.
The climb can be attempted throughout the year, although weather conditions can occasionally result in the summit trail being closed for safety reasons.
Planning your Mount Kinabalu climb
All River Junkie’s Mount Kinabalu climbing packages are fully inclusive, with scheduled transfers, accommodation, meals, climbing permit, entry fees, mandatory Sabah Parks insurance and a licensed mountain guide included. Bedding is provided, although climbers need to bring suitable warm clothing and a head torch for the summit attempt.
Climbing permits are limited, so we recommend booking 3–6 months in advance, particularly for popular dates. Your preferred dates should be confirmed before making other non-refundable travel arrangements.
Mount Kinabalu can also form part of a longer Sabah itinerary. After your climb, you can continue overland to Sepilok, Sandakan and the Kinabatangan River, or return to Kota Kinabalu. River Junkie’s West to East Shuttle provides an easy way to continue from Kinabalu Park towards Sabah’s wildlife destinations.
If you’re unsure which Mount Kinabalu climbing package is right for you, we can help you choose between the 2D1N, 3D2N, 4D3N and Via Ferrata options based on your available time and what you want to experience.
