Kota Kinabalu Borneo Malaysia 2 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring Kota Kinabalu City and Surroundings

Morning:

  • Breakfast at Warung Kanoi (Jalan Gaya, 88000 Kota Kinabalu): A local favorite for Sabahan cuisine. Must-try dishes include Nasi Lemak, Laksa Sabah, and Sotong Kochali.

Transportation: Taxis or Grab are widely available in KK. Renting a car is also an option if you prefer self-guided tours.

Visit Sabah State Mosque (Masjid Negeri Sabah) (Jalan Tun Razak, 88000 Kota Kinabalu): The largest mosque in Southeast Asia, featuring unique Malay and Middle Eastern architectural styles.

Lunch at Tuaran Mee Soup (Tuaran Town, 1 km off the highway to Kota Belud): Authentic Tuaran Mee is a must-try while in Sabah. You can find many stalls along the roadside.

Afternoon:

  • Marine Museum and Aquarium (Likas Bay, 88300 Likas) : Gain insights into Borneo’s marine life and its conservation efforts.

Visit Signal Hill Observatory (Jalan Kampung Air, 88996 Luyang): Enjoy panoramic views of Kota Kinabalu City, the Twin Islands, and Mount Kinabalu from this hilltop vantage point.

Dinner at Seafood Island Restaurant (Pulau Sulug, 88300 Likas): Indulge in fresh seafood cooked to your preference on a bamboo grill. You can reach the restaurant by taking a boat from Jesselton Point or Likas Bay.

Nightlife: Head back to KK city and explore night markets such as Central Market Night Bazaar (Jalan Tun Fuad Stephen, 88000 Kota Kinabalu) for local crafts, souvenirs, and street food.

Day 2: Adventures around Mount Kinabalu

Morning:

  • Breakfast at your hotel or accommodation

Transportation: Book a tour operator for a guided climb up Mount Kinabalu or hire a private car to drive you to Kinabalu Park (Pound Road, 89200 Ranau) if you prefer self-guided exploration.

Visit Kinabalu Park Headquarters and Sabah Parks (Pound Road, 89200 Ranau): Learn about the flora and fauna found in Kinabalu Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Don’t miss the Mountain Garden, home to many unique plants, including the world-renowned Rafflesia flowers.

Lunch at Kinabalu Park Canopy Walk Cafe: Tuck into local and international dishes while enjoying the scenic views of the rainforest canopy.

Afternoon:

  • Canopy Walkway (Kinabalu Park, 89200 Ranau) : Experience a birds-eye view of the tropical rainforest by walking along this suspended bridge system.

Visit Poring Hot Springs (Jalan Kinabalu, 89207 Ranau): Relax and unwind in the natural hot springs after an afternoon of adventure. There are also several nature trails nearby to explore.

Dinner at Kundasang Warung (Jalan Api-Api, 89200 Ranau): A popular eatery offering a wide variety of dishes, including local and western favorites.

Tips:

  • Bring insect repellent, sunscreen, and rain gear for your outdoor activities.
  • Be aware of the weather as it can change quickly, especially on Mount Kinabalu.
  • Hire a certified guide if you plan to climb Mount Kinabalu or explore Kinabalu Park independently.
  • Always respect local customs and traditions while traveling in Sabah.