The climb up Mount Kinabalu is strikingly barren, a welcome change from the thick jungle below, with about 12 prominent jagged peaks, including the highest point at Low's Peak, rising impressively above a vast, smooth rock face which scientists attribute to the last Ice Age spanning between two million to 10,000 years ago when moving sheets of ice called glaciers mopped out most of the soil, loose rocks and plants.

A well defined tourist trail graded with thousands of clay, rock, branch steps and rope  aided sections at the summit rock face, enables the physically prepared visitor to enjoy the tough challenge.

Most make it, feel satisfied by the sensation of height, and lifted by a sense of achievement.

In 1994, 29,644 climbers reached Low's Peak, out of whom 10,894 were international visitors.

Temperatures at the summit is about one or two degrees Centigrade above freezing point but a heated hostel at 11,000 ft makes the overnight rest comfortable.

Porters charge a modest fee to help carry heavy personal belongings. The mandatory use of mountain guides ensures safety.(With thanks to Sabah Tourism Promotion Corporation).

Park Headquarters: the government owns several lodges. Outside the park there is private accommodation too, which may prove a useful alternative.

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Jungle Trekking

For trekking, Sabah offers a wide range of activities.
From searching the biggest flower on earth, the Rafflesia, to discovering exotic culture in the heart of Borneo, learning the ecosystem in the oldest virgin jungle in the world or just wanting to disappear for days in the Borneo forest.

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White Water Rafting

For a thrilling adventure, you should not miss doing whitewater rafting in Sabah. From a leisurely rafting to a really wild ride, Sabah offers several rivers to fit your excitement threshold level.

For a steady and pleasant ride, the Papar River, about 30 minutes drive from Kota Kinabalu, the capital city of Sabah is the ideal river. Another popular river is the Kiulu River, an hour drive from Kota Kinabalu.

For a more rough and tumble rafting, the ultimate will be the Padas River, classified as grade IV for its spectacular ride.

How to get there:
From Kota Kinabalu, it is an hour and a half drive to Beaufort from Kota Kinabalu. From there, you will take a diesel railway train passing lush green jungles from Beaufort to Tenom. Before reaching Tenom, you will drop at the starting point at Padas River. After a safety briefing by your guide, you will then begin a really thrilling journey of your life. By the way, the Padas River has this affinity of being the most popular river for whitewater rafting.
(With thanks to Sabah Tourism Promotion Corporation.)

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Mountain Biking
Sabah offers a large variety of mountain biking opportunities.

Adventure Caving
Sabah has many large caves. Adventure caving tours can be booked with some tour operators.