Day 1 Kota Kinabalu / Kinabalu Park HQ Your journey begins with a convenient pick-up from your hotel lobby or Kota Kinabalu International Airport. Travel through scenic landscapes on a 2-hour drive to Kinabalu Park Headquarters, where your adventure awaits. Kinabalu Park, Malaysia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site (designated in 2000), is celebrated for its “Outstanding Universal Value.” This iconic destination is recognised as one of the world’s most significant biological sites. Situated at an altitude of 1,584 metres, the park offers an extraordinary ecological system that ranges from lowland forests to alpine ecosystems. Additionally, Kinabalu Park is part of the Kinabalu Geopark, declared a UNESCO Global Geopark in May 2023. Along with the Crocker Range UNESCO Biosphere Reserve (since 2014), this makes Sabah one of only three places in the world to hold the prestigious UNESCO Triple Crown title, alongside Jeju Island (Korea) and Shennongjia (China). After checking in to your lodge, the rest of the day is free for you to explore. Choose from a variety of activities: Stroll along well-maintained nature trails, such as the Silau Silau Trail or Bukit Burung Trail, to experience the region’s biodiversity. Keep your eyes peeled for cheeky squirrels along the way – they might try to sneak a bite of your snacks! Visit the Botanical Garden (at own expense) showcasing rare orchids, ferns, and endemic plant species that highlight the incredible richness of the park's ecosystems. Guided tours of the garden are available daily at 0900hrs, 1200hrs, and 1500hrs. Relax by serene streams or waterfalls, where the sounds of flowing water and cool mountain air provide a tranquil escape. Learn about the area’s history, geology, and biodiversity at the Kinabalu Geopark Gallery, featuring fascinating exhibits about Mount Kinabalu and the surrounding region. If you're unsure where to start, consult the friendly park staff for tailored activity recommendations. End the day with a hearty dinner at a local restaurant and rest up for more adventures to come. Dinner Sutera Sanctuary Lodges – Kinabalu Park (Hill Lodge or similar)
Day 2 Kinabalu Park / Free & Easy OR Optional Guided Tour Start your morning with a delicious breakfast at the Liwagu Restaurant, located within the park. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy, with multiple options to suit your interests: Spend your day exploring the park’s countless trails, soaking in the crisp mountain air and unique flora and fauna. Birdwatch in the park’s serene settings or simply relax and take in the natural beauty. Opt for an Optional Guided Tour (additional cost), where you can join fellow travellers to discover Kinabalu Park, Poring Hot Spring, and other nearby attractions like Kundasang’s dairy farms, cultural landmarks, and bustling markets. We recommend: Desa Cow Farm (Admission Ticket) Kinabalu Park & Poring Canopy Walk Tour Kinabalu Park with Rumah Terbalik & Desa Cow Farm Kinabalu Park & Kundasang Highlights (Private Tour) No matter your choice, the day promises to be both enriching and rejuvenating. Return to your lodge in the evening for a delightful dinner and another peaceful night in the cool highlands. Breakfast / Dinner Sutera Sanctuary Lodges – Kinabalu Park (Hill Lodge or similar)
Day 3 Check Out / Kota Kinabalu Enjoy one last breakfast at the Liwagu Restaurant and savour your remaining time at Kinabalu Park. Whether it’s a final walk through the park’s scenic trails, a moment of reflection by a stream, or simply soaking in the fresh mountain air, make the most of your stay. Check out from your lodge and board your transfer back to Kota Kinabalu in the afternoon. The 2-hour drive offers stunning views as you leave the highlands behind. Drop-off at your hotel in Kota Kinabalu marks the end of this incredible adventure. Breakfast Sutera Sanctuary Lodges – Kinabalu Park (Hill Lodge or similar)