Did you know that Malaysia is divided into two very diverse regions, East Malaysia and Peninsular Malaysia? In East Malaysia, you’ll be greeted with an authentic experience. Be closer to nature with places you can explore and be a part of Malaysia’s rural beauty. Kota Kinabalu, the capital of Sabah, is a part of East Malaysia and a beautiful place with the right mix of nature and modernization.

The city of Kota Kinabalu gets its name from Mount Kinabalu, a part of the Crocker Mountain range which stands high at 13,000 feet above sea level. The word “Kota” means “city” in Malay and “Kinabalu” means “revered place of our ancestors”, translating into the “City of Kinabalu”. Kota Kinabalu was historically known as “Jesselton,” named after the vice-chairman Charles Jessel of BNBC (British North Borneo Company). It was in 1967 when it was named as Kota Kinabalu by the then residing Chief Minister, Mustapha Harun. The city is a must-visit on any of your trips to Malaysia as it gives you the perfect experience of being in nature’s lap.

Are you arriving from Singapore to Malaysia via private transport? Here’s a list of the 4 must-do activities in Kota Kinabalu!

Conquering Mount Kinabalu

If you aren’t sure what to do in Kota Kinabalu, you can always traverse Mount Kinabalu. The Mount Kinabalu is located in the Kinabalu National Park and has been declared as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in December 2000 for bearing a huge variety of flora and fauna. This mountain is the highest peak of the Crocker Mountain Range and towers at the height of 13,000 feet above sea level. This makes it the 20th tallest peak in the world. Experience the natural beauty of this mountain first-hand by taking a trek and camping overnight to view the stunning sunrise the next morning.

Relieve your stress at Poring Hot Springs

The Poring Hot Springs contains hot sulphuric minerals that are perfect for you to de-stress after a long day. Where are they located? It is just a two-hour drive away from the city of Kota Kinabalu. Soak yourself in the hot waters, which are said to have natural healing qualities as you drive away your aches and sores. Relaxing and de-stressing at Poring Hot Springs is one of the many activities you do not want to miss on your next visit to Kota Kinabalu.

Help conserve wildlife

Unsure what to do in Kota Kinabalu? How about participating in an exclusive first-hand experience in helping to conserve wildlife? The Shangri–La Orangutan Conservation Project is the perfect place for you to visit in Kota Kinabalu. This project is exclusive and focused on the rehabilitation of Orangutans. It allows you to spend your day with these amazing creatures, learn about their daily habits, and give you an opportunity to feed these lovable creatures. If you are bringing along your kids, this tour is sure to be engaging for both you and the little ones, as you dive into the life of Orangutans.

Experience the village culture

The village culture is something that we all should experience once in our lives. Doing so allows us to get a deeper understanding of local traditions and culture. So why wait? Book yourself a day and visit the Mari Mari Cultural Village. This village tour gives you exclusive insight into the local food, culture and traditions that the local tribes of Sabah have been following for centuries. This first-hand experience of the village culture helps you to understand the history of the local tribes and the changes that have happened.