Kota Kinabalu (Borneo), Malaysia-6-day-itinerary

Kota Kinabalu, Borneo 6-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and City Exploration

  • Morning: Arrive at Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI) and take a taxi or Grab ride to your hotel.
  • Stay: Check-in at Hotel Eden54 or similar, located in the heart of KK city.
  • Lunch: Head to Fatt Kee Seafood Restaurant for a delicious seafood lunch.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Sabah Museum to learn about Borneo’s history and culture.
  • Evening: Take a stroll along the Waterfront and enjoy the sunset.

Day 2: Islands and Snorkeling

  • Morning: Take a ferry from Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal to Manukan Island (approximately 20 minutes).
  • Activity: Go snorkeling or swimming at the island’s beautiful beaches.
  • Lunch: Enjoy a seafood BBQ lunch on the island.
  • Afternoon: Return to Kota Kinabalu and visit the Gaya Street Sunday Market (if you’re there on a Sunday).
  • Dinner: Try some local street food at Tamu Tamu Night Market.

Day 3: National Park and Hot Springs

  • Morning: Drive to Kinabalu National Park (approximately 2 hours).
  • Activity: Take a guided hike through the park’s lush rainforest.
  • Lunch: Enjoy a packed lunch at the park.
  • Afternoon: Soak in the natural hot springs at Poring Hot Spring (approximately 30 minutes from Kinabalu National Park).
  • Dinner: Head back to Kota Kinabalu and dine at Little Italy, serving delicious Italian cuisine.

Day 4: Cultural Experience

Day 5: Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre

  • Morning: Take an early morning flight from Kota Kinabalu to Sandakan (approximately 1 hour).
  • Activity: Visit the world-renowned Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre and observe orangutans up close.
  • Lunch: Enjoy a simple lunch at the centre’s café.
  • Afternoon: Return to Kota Kinabalu on an evening flight.
  • Dinner: Feast on some delicious seafood at Welcome Seafood Restaurant.

Day 6: Departure

  • Morning: Spend some time shopping for last-minute souvenirs or exploring the city.
  • Departure: Take a taxi or Grab ride to Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI) for your departure flight.

Things to Know

  • Best time to visit: March to October
  • Language: Malay, English widely spoken
  • Currency: Malaysian Ringgit (MYR)
  • Weather: Tropical rainforest climate with high humidity and occasional rain showers

Transportation

  • Taxi: Available at the airport and around the city
  • Grab: A popular ride-hailing service in Kota Kinabalu
  • Bus: Public buses available for shorter distances
  • Car Rental: Available at the airport or in the city

Tips

  • Respect local customs and traditions
  • Try to avoid traveling during peak hours (7-9 am, 4-6 pm)
  • Bring sunscreen, insect repellent, and comfortable shoes
  • Be mindful of your surroundings and keep valuables secure

I hope you enjoy your trip to Kota Kinabalu!