Sabah’s Hidden Gems
Sabah is probably most known for the iconic Mount Kinabalu but we’re here to guide you off the beaten path and explore some of Sabah’s best well kept secrets!
The second biggest state of Malaysia is paradise for nature lovers. With diverse marine life, cascading waterfalls and miles upon miles of pristine jungle, some parts of Sabah are even relatively unexplored, We’ve listed some of the wildest parts of Sabah:-
1. Maliau Basin Conservation Area
Also known as Sabah’s Lost World, Maliau Basin forms an almost circular bowl of pristine forests, and is one of the few remaining relatively untouched wilderness areas in the world. The site is sharply defined on all sides by steep slopes and cliffs and supports a virtually self-contained ecosystem of pristine forest. Accommodations are basic but functional for the intrepid travellers, but one of the best parts about Maliau Basin is the magnificent seven-tier Maliau Falls.
2. Bohey Dulang
Semporna is home to many islands, including the lesser-known Bohey Dulang, which is the second largest in Tun Sakaran Marine Park. Originally gazetted as a bird sanctuary, Bohey Dulang is an island rich in biodiversity and incredible views. At its highest point (approximately 353 metres above sea level), visitors are greeted with a surreal view of the archipelago, from the crystal clear waters to the coral reefs that lie beneath, even neighbouring islands!
Due to the island being a part of the marine park, a night’s stay on the island isn’t possible, but visitors can opt for water villas on the other islands and take a day trip to Bohey Dulang!
3. Polumpung Melangkap View Camp Site
Imagine falling asleep to a million stars above your head and waking up to the stunning view of Mount Kinabalu and the sounds of flowing water… all possible at Polumpung Melangkap View Camp Site! Situated in Kota Belud, Polumpung Melangkap is only an hour and a half away from the city centre, on the banks of the Panataran River. This valley is one of the most scenic places in Sabah (and that’s saying something!), with the bluest waters imaginable!
You can opt for an overnight stay at this campsite or just enjoy a fun day at Polumpung Melangkap, taking pictures, river tubing or just soaking in the river!
For more information, check out https://officialpmvcs.com/
4. Danum Valley Conservation Centre, Lahad Datu
Danum Valley is home to an ancient 130-million-year-old rainforest, the perfect place to immerse yourself in the untouched beauty of nature. Most visitors come to Danum Valley in search of Borneo’s wildlife, like the Bornean pygmy elephants, clouded leopards and orang-utans. The wildlife in Danum are more habituated to human activity, so sightings of them are more reliable, which is impressive, considering its sheer size.
For more information on Danum Valley Conservation Area, check out https://danumvalley.net/.
5. Hounon Ridge Farm
Hounon Ridge is located in the cooler highlands of Sabah, at Kampung Himbaan, Bundu Tuhan, Ranau. The camping ground is a stunning flat surface carpeted with grass, overlooking lush rainforests below and Mount Kinabalu at a distance. Complete with facilities on site, including a common kitchen, toilets, hot showers, BBQ pits, a cafeteria and picnic tables, Hounon Ridge is perfect for family outings, as you don’t need to compromise basic necessities for a nature-filled trip.
For more information and bookings, check out their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/hounonridge/.
6. Timba-Timba Island, Semporna
We’re not exaggerating when we say that Timba-Timba Island in Semporna is picture-perfect from every corner. Blessed with a kilometre stretch of white sandy beach surrounded by crystal blue waters, Timba-Timba Island is an Instagrammer’s playground, with plenty of decorated huts, photo booths, swings and hammocks placed all over the island. The island has 10 dive sites for scuba divers and focuses mainly on turtle conservation, which is probably why the island doesn’t provide accommodations. Instead, visitors can sign up for an island hopping tour that goes to the island.
7. Aura Montoria
Are you a fan of hiking, jungle trekking, rivers and caves in general? Aura Montoria, located in Kampung Sayap, Kota Belud is an eco-tourism spot for nature enthusiasts. The journey will take you through winding forest trails, various caves, waterfalls, rivers and lookout points. One of the best parts about Aura Montoria is Waig Minorol, where drinkable mineral water flows from the stones.
For more information and bookings, check out their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/auramontoria.
