Borneo's Peak: Mount Kinabalu Climb

Meet your guide in Kota Kinabalu and drive 2 hours overland (55 mi.) from sea-level to the foothills of Mt. Kinabalu at 5,000 feet. Make a short stop along the way at the Nabalu market to savor local fruits. As you wander the market stalls, peek through the trees to catch a glimpse of the impressive Mount Kinabalu towering on the horizon. Arrive at Kinabalu National Park this afternoon, home to over 6,000 plant species, of which 1,000 are orchids. The majority of Borneo's mammal, bird, amphibian, and invertebrate species are also represented within the park, creating one of the most biologically diverse places on the planet and rightfully claiming UNESCO World Heritage Status. Visit the Education Centre and Mountain Garden in Kinabalu National Park with your guide, then head to your hotel for a good night's sleep before beginning your climb. Temperature at the park is around 14°C - 25°C. Stay overnight in the park.

Wake this morning to the sound of the montane rainforest, listening for the calls of one of Kinabalu National Park's 326 bird species. Meet your certified Mountain Guide and drive to the trailhead at Timpohon Gate, 6,000 feet above sea level. Climb for 4 - 6 hours, hiking into the higher cloud forest and eventually ascending into the alpine meadows, finally arriving at the Laban Rata Resthouse. This dormitory-style refuge clings to Mount Kinabalu at 10,700 ft., providing a halfway point on your journey to the summit and a cozy atmosphere to gather your strength for the next day. Take in the spectacular view while you eat a hot meal after a long day of hiking. Don't forget to look around for some of the carnivorous pitcher plants along the trail! Temperatures tonight range from 50°F - 65°F. 

Start your ascent at 3 am to reach the summit in time for the sunrise - a view you never forget. While the sun peeks above the sea of clouds, watch Borneo come to life as daylight takes hold. At 13,435 feet, you are standing on the highest point between the Himalayas and Papua New Guinea. Take photos and soak up the view, then return to Kinabalu National Park Headquarters for late high tea and transfer back to Kota Kinabalu.