Plan a 5-day Kota Kinabalu itinerary that includes some of Borneo’s top attractions and best-kept secret getaways. This seaside capital of Sabah, Malaysia, features activities like hiking up Mount Kinabalu and tattoo-making demonstrations at Mari Mari Cultural Village. This adventure-packed list of itinerary ideas guarantees a stop at all the best things to do in Kota Kinabalu!
December through April is the coolest season in Kota Kinabalu. These are great months to hike Mount Kinabalu and enjoy outdoor activities, but this time of year also warrants crowds of tourists. Travelers who want the same type of weather but fewer tourists should consider a trip to Kota Kinabalu between September and November.
Kota Kinabalu is home to several historic landmarks, religious sites and museums, not to mention one fantastic beach. Visitors should spend at least one day exploring the top attractions in Kota Kinabalu.
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If there are two things travelers can count on experiencing in Kota Kinabalu, it’s culture and shopping. The two go hand in hand at the many markets and shopping districts in the city. At the end of a shopping spree in Kota Kinabalu, travelers can relax on a cruise down the Klias River.
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Kota Kinabalu is surrounded by picturesque islands, making watersports, diving and boating some of the most popular things to do in Kota Kinabalu. Tourists wanting to get a glimpse of some of the majestic isles should consider a trip to nearby Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park. This marine park consists of five islands – Gaya, Manukan, Sapi, Sulug and Mamutik, and guests have the option of boating around to each of them, hiking through rainforests or snorkeling in coral gardens. Gaya Island even offers a 5-star resort for travelers who want to spend more time “out to sea.”
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Tourists should save the best for last by planning a hike up Mount Kinabalu during days four and five of their Kota Kinabalu itinerary. This beautiful peak – the tallest in Borneo – is the reason many tourists visit Kota Kinabalu in the first place. Trekkers can choose from two trails: Ranau Trail and Kota Belud. Most guests opt for the Ranau Trail because much of the pathway is equipped with handrails and man-made steps. Kota Belud is a more rugged trail better for advanced hikers. Plus, trekkers must obtain special permission to hike Kota Belud.
Mount Kinabalu is open for hiking year-round but closes occasionally due to weather conditions. If you’re visiting Kota Kinabalu during inclement weather, check with park authorities before traveling to the hiking trail entrance.
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From candlelit rivers in Laos to volcano pilgrimages in Indonesia, every festival in ASEAN tells a story. These standout cultural events in each of the region’s 10 countries reflect a mix of each nation’s unique traditions. Whether you’re building an ASEAN itinerary or just curious about what’s out there, this month-by-month guide highlights the best ASEAN festivals to catch throughout the year.
Ehime Prefecture offers an abundance of nature and culture. It is full of exciting sea and mountain activities, such as cycling the 70 km Shimanami Kaido route around the islands in the Seto Inland Sea, trekking the Shikoku Pilgrimage, and climbing Mt. Ishizuchi—the highest peak of western Japan. You can also relax at Dogo Onsen, one of Japan’s most famous hot spring areas, or explore Ehime’s historical spots, like Matsuyama Castle and the Edo Period towns. It takes around 30 minutes to travel from Matsuyama Airport to Matsuyama City by airport bus. And with trams that travel within Matsuyama City and to Dogo Onsen, accessing tourist attractions around the area couldn’t be easier!
This article is sponsored by “Kyoritsu Maintenance Co., Ltd.” Presented by Kyoritsu Maintenance Co., Ltd. / The Beach Tower Okinawa Chatan Town is located in the central region of Okinawa’s main island. Along the west coast facing the East China Sea, a series of beaches offers the perfect setting to soak in the vivid blue […]
Where you stay in Singapore will play a big role in how you experience the city. Here is a look at some of the best hotels in Singapore highlighting standout stays across the city and Sentosa Island. From stylish urban retreats to family-friendly resorts, you’ll find top-notch options to match your itinerary, travel style, and budget.
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Whether you’re drawn to Taiwan for its street food, hiking trails, or vibrant cultural history, finding the right place to stay can make your trip even more memorable. The best hotels in Taiwan offer more than just a place to sleep; they help complete the whole experience. Whether you’re staying for a weekend or a few weeks, these hotel recommendations will help you find the right fit for your travel style.
From tech-forward business hubs in Shenzhen to scenic water towns like Suzhou, this overview of the best hotels in China will help you figure out where to stay in China, no matter your travel style. With options ranging from sleek skyscraper suites to tranquil garden resorts, there’s truly something for everyone.
Indeed, the shopping scene is legendary in South Korea, and knowing what to buy in Seoul is key to planning a fantastic shopping spree. In a way, the city of Seoul is almost like a big department store, with various sections boasting a reputation for being the premier place to haul in certain goods. Explore […]
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