Highlights of Sabah
Sabah is a wonderful destination for scenery, wildlife and beaches. From the attractive coastal town of Kota Kinabalu it is possible to explore marine parks, the biodiversity of Kinabalu National Park and even trek to the summit of Mount Kinabalu. A short flight away is Sepilok’s Orang-utan rehabilitation centre, nesting sea turtles on idyllic tropical islands, unparalleled wildlife viewing on the Kinabatangan River and virgin rainforest at the Danum Valley Conservation Area.
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The Danum Valley Conservation Area protects a pocket of primary rainforest the size of Singapore with one of the world's most complex ecosystems. The only development in the reserve is a nature lodge and field centre.
Deramakot is a richly abundant Forest Reserve covering a large area of mixed dipterocarp forest. Around 75% of Sabah’s native mammal species can be found within the reserve, yet it receives a fraction of visitors compared to other protected areas, so this is a perfect retreat for dedicated wildlife enthusiasts or second time visitors.
Just 10 minutes by speedboat from Kota Kinabalu, Gaya Island or ‘Pulau Gaya' offers everything you would ask for in a tropical Island. There is plenty of surrounding reef for diving and snorkelling, sublime beaches an exciting, jungle-clad interior, teaming with wildlife, to explore.
Established in 1964, Kinabalu National Park was one of Malaysia's first National Parks and is now a World Heritage Site due to the diversity of habitats present on and around the slopes of South-East Asia's highest mountain, Mount Kinabalu.
At 560 km long, Kinabatangan is Sabah's longest river, and with extensive flood plains this meandering river has created several ox-bow lakes, making it an ideal environment for viewing some of the most interesting wildlife and bird life found in Borneo.
Formerly known as Jessleton, the capital of Sabah is located on the west coast of Borneo under the shadow of Mount Kinabalu, and is a good base from which to explore the more remote parts of Borneo.
Sepilok is most famous for being the home of the famous Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, the best place on the planet to experience a close encounter with these enchanting creatures. Just next door to the orangutans is the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre, established more recently.
Tabin Wildlife Reserve is located in the eastern part of Sabah and is one of the best places to see wildlife anywhere in Asia. If you spend a few days at Tabin, you are in with a good chance of seeing Wild Orang-utans, Pygmy Elephants and a wide selection of other wildlife.