Explore Mount Kinabalu: A Biodiversity Paradise in Borneo
One of the world’s most prominent peaks, Mount Kinabalu soars up from sea level to 4095m, making Borneo the planet’s third highest island (after Hawaii and New Guinea) and a popular destination for climbers and hikers alike.
Adding to Mount Kinabalu’s appeal are the distinct climatic zones and pronounced variation of soils that create one of the richest habitats for plant life anywhere on earth. Over 5000 species of plants have been identified here, outnumbering those found in Europe and North America combined. Additionally, 326 bird species and 100 mammals inhabit the slopes of this stunning mountain in the region of Sabah.
Outside the protected and UNESCO World Heritage-listed area of Kinabalu National Park, much of Borneo’s forest has been logged or replaced by oil-palm plantations. Mount Kinabalu’s intact habitat offers an inspiring journey through one of nature’s last Edens, allowing hikers to traverse from steamy rainforests to alpine meadows.
Mount Kinabalu’s Rainforest Riches
The mountain’s lower slopes present trails beneath a dense rainforest canopy with towering hardwoods, tangled fruiting figs, palms, bamboo, and giant tree ferns above. The forest floor showcases the largest mosses on earth, while the mountainsides host over 608 species of fern, a figure greater than that found on the entire African mainland.
As you trek, catch a whiff of the parasitic rafflesia plant; its giant flowers – although rarely visible due to their brief bloom every year – can measure up to one meter in diameter and emit a scent reminiscent of rotting flesh. You may encounter the vibrant orange-billed rhinoceros hornbill in the forest canopy or spot Mühler’s Bornean gibbon swinging through the trees, and, if lucky, a glimpse of an ochre-pelted orangutan.
The Flora and Fauna You’ll Encounter
As the route to the summit ascends, lowland rainforest transitions to temperate montane and coniferous forests (1300 to 2100m). Here, trees dwindle in size, many becoming deciduous. It is within this region where the stunning variety of species from different vegetation zones manifests. You will find rhododendrons from the Himalayan region, Sino-European oaks and chestnuts, and eucalyptus and tea trees typical of Australasia.
As hikers ascend, they enter the realm of carnivorous pitcher plants, uniquely adapted to trap and digest insects. Five species are native to Mount Kinabalu, including the Nepenthes rajah, the world’s largest insect-eating pitcher plant. This remarkable plant lures insects with nectar, causing them to slip into a pool of fluid where they are digested. Some pitcher plants can hold up to two and a half liters of fluid, capable of drowning small animals like mice.
The forests are also home to foraging squirrels, wild pigs, and two of Mount Kinabalu’s unique endemic animals: the grey-blue giant earthworm reaching lengths of up to 70cm, and the coral-hued giant red leech, both of which often surface during rain.
Walking Through the Clouds
Walking through the clouds presents a mystical experience; mist swirls through a gnarled fairyland of miniature trees layered with mosses, lichens, and liverworts. In Mount Kinabalu’s cloud forests (2200m to 3300m), rhododendrons flourish in vibrant clusters of red, white, yellow, and pink, with five species endemic to the mountain. Orchids become more abundant in this region, with an astounding 800 species, including the elegantly ornate Paphiopedilum genus. The tracks are also adorned with wild begonia, giant yellow buttercups, and wild raspberries.
A well-deserved rest can be found at the high refuge of Laban Rata (3272m), providing both beds and meals. From this point, the trek to the summit traditionally begins at 3 am to catch the breathtaking sunrise.
Reaching Mount Kinabalu’s Summit
A mere 15 million years old, Mount Kinabalu is one of the youngest non-volcanic mountains globally. Its glacier-scoured geology is evident upon nearing the summit, which features a crown of bare, wild granite spires. Here, bonsai pines, rhododendrons, and rare orchids thrive in cracks between the raw rocks. In places where the thinnest layer of soil exists, grassy meadows burst with wildflowers like gentians, potentillas, and eyebrights.
Upon reaching the rocky apex, with breaths heavy in the thin mountain air, you will be inspired by the panoramic views and the accomplishment of reaching the summit. The journey here emphasizes vibrant, abundant, and immeasurably diverse life—Mount Kinabalu remains unparalleled in this aspect.
Practical Information for Your Climb
Getting to Mount Kinabalu
For those looking to climb the mountain, it’s advisable to plan six months in advance. While this may seem excessive, the limited number of climb permits available each day leads to extended waiting periods.
Climbers should check in at the Park Headquarters by 9 am. If departing from Kota Kinabalu (KK), located 60km away, a 7 am departure is necessary to ensure timely arrival. To ease the process, consider staying overnight at nearby guesthouses before your ascent.
Express buses (RM30) depart from KK every hour from 7 am to 10 am, along with midday and evening services. Alternatively, caught by a Ranau-bound minivan (RM25) from central KK at Padang Merdeka bus terminal, asking the driver to drop you at a bus shelter near Kinabalu National Park’s gate. Minivans leave once full and run daily from early morning until around 2 pm. Shared taxis from KK are another option, priced at RM30 per person or RM120 per vehicle.
Should I Go for Two Days or Three?
Today, the climbing possibilities have shifted, allowing only two or three days for the ascent. The three-day option is an excellent choice for exploring beautifully marked trails around the park headquarters and visiting the nearby Botanical Garden, showcasing many plants seen on your mountain ascent.
Costs of a Mount Kinabalu Climb
A park fee, climbing permit, insurance, and guide fee are required for Mount Kinabalu’s ascent. All bookings and guide services should be arranged at the Sabah Parks office just past the park’s main entrance. Ensure all fees are settled at park headquarters before embarking on your climb, as permits are rigorously enforced. Most tour operators in Kota Kinabalu offer trips to the mountain, with solo travelers typically charged around RM1400. Although it’s possible to arrange a more economical solo experience, ensure thorough planning.
