Chinese Translation Page

Besides being a Tropical Island Vacation paradise, Sabah is also equally made for an adventure vacation from soft to hard as it brings you a variety of adventure vacation activities that is not only unique to this region but also unparallel in quality. Some of the adventure vacation activities you can contemplate includes:

Mountain Climbing - Conquer with relative ease the majestic Mount Kinabalu, the highest peak in South East Asia. As long as you are relatively fit, Mount Kinabalu is a must for an adventure vacation in Borneo as you do not need any special skills or mountaineering gears.

White Water Rafting - Brave the exhilarating ride down the river rapids on a White Water Rafting adventure. Along the more challenging Padas River (Grade 111-1V moderate rapids) or the family Kiulu River (Grade 1-111 simple rapids). 
 

Jungle Trekking - Take a guided hike/trek through million years old rainforest at Danum Valley or Maliau "The Lost World" Basin. Borneo's rainforest is the oldest in the world at around 130 million years compared to the 60 million years old Amazon rainforest.

FOR BOOKING , PLEASE EMAIL shirechinsabahtravelstation@gmail.com or fill in the web-form.

Borneo Tropical Island Vacation at Pulau Tiga Survivor Island

           Pulau Tiga means "Island of Three" in English as three islands actually make up Pulau Tiga Marine Park. They are Pulau Tiga itself, and two adjacent uninhabited islands of Pulau Kalampunian Damit or better known nowadays as Snake Island and Pulau Kalampunian Besar. Pulau Tiga is one of the more popular islands in Borneo courtesy of the CBS Reality Show "Survivor I", which was conducted and filmed there in 2000. Today, Pulau Tiga is also commonly known as Survivor Island.

If you are an ardent fan of the Survivor series, a visit to Survivor Island is a chance to relive the first Survivor series as some of the props utilising local and imported materials created for the show are still there. You may tend to imagine yourself as one of the contestants marooned on Pulau Tiga with Richard, Rudy, Kelly, Susan, Jenna and the rest of the gang. Your every move being filmed by television cameras. Your challenge is to be the last one standing after 39 days and win the 1 million dollars prize...

Back to reality for a second... There is no $1 million on offer and Jeff Probst won't be around to sent you home. Furthermore, You don't need 39 days to fully explore Pulau Tiga. It is only a tiny island about 4.5 km (2.8 miles) long and 1.5 km (1 mile) wide. A day or two will be sufficient. Check out Pagong Beach on the northeast side of the island and Tagi Beach on the southeast side of the island (which are names of the Survivor Tribes) as well as where the Tribal Council was located during the show, somewhere in the middle between both Pagong and Tagi beaches. You can even try out Survivor-style competitions at the island (subject to availability) or buy Survivor T-shirts as a proof that you "survived" Survivor Island.

Also, you may want to check out the Sand Spit, the beautiful white silver of land about 1.6 km (or a mile) from Pulau Tiga where a number of the land and sea based challenges were held. While you are there, you might as well hop over to the nearby Snake Island to catch a sight of banded sea snakes. It is advisable not to swim across to Snake Island unless you are insured by CBS. At Snake Island, be careful to lean or sit on the rocks as sea snakes may be hidden in between. There will be an additonal charge incurred if you plan to visit the Snake Island from Pulau Tiga.

But Pulau Tiga is more than just for the hardcore Survivor fan. The island is in fact, a unique tropical island paradise on its own right. There is always something to do whether action or relaxation is what you seek. The island is believed to have been formed by the eruption of several mud volcanoes triggered firstly by a large earthquake on the Philippine island of Mindanao in 1897. The eruption of mud and rock is said to have formed a new island 20 meters (66 feet) wide. Over the next 40 years or so, the island was expanded and formed into its current size thanks to subsequent mud volcano eruptions.

There is no significant eruptions since then. The only volcanoes the current generation knows about at Pulau Tiga is the loosely-termed "mud volcanoes". Not the eruptive kind but a pool of bubbling mud from deep inside the earth. The mud volcano was actually made famous by the TV show where one Survivor tribe had a volcano mud bath. But for visitors, many think that a soak in the pool of volcanic mud will cleanse and beautify your skin. It will make them look younger. You can be the judge to this claim when you submerge yourself inside the "mud volcano".

Since it is a Marine Park, the natural environment, flora and fauna and coral reef-filled sea at Pulau Tiga are well protected. There are several species of mammals, numerous birds (including the very rare megapode), a variety of reptiles and amphibians and hundreds of species of insects can be found on Pulau Tiga making it truly wild tropical island. But the island is not as wild as it appeared in Survivor I. Producers of the show actually rented non-indigenous animals such as tarantulas and lizards from Hollywood to make Pulau Tiga seemed more "dangerous" for the filming. So, there is no need to worry about giant tarantulas creeping from behind your back.

You can enjoy a nature trek around the island, which has a network of trails of about 11 km (7 miles) in total length. It is easy to trek or hike through the island. Popular trails include the Larai-Larai Trail (2,800m) and the Pagong-Pagong Trail (1,200m), which proceed to the mud volcanoes.

As for the waters, the surrounding coral reef-filled sea is excellent for water activities such as swimming, snorkelling, scuba diving and other sea sports. Water visibility within the beautiful reefs is recorded to be in the range of 6 metres to 20 metres. With marine life in abundance here (more than 130 species in the park including nudibranchs, bamboo sharks, cuttlefish, marbled stingray), you can snorkel and dive among a kaleidoscope of colors.

There are also excellent facilities at Pulau Tiga for a tropical picnic. Facilities for BBQ and sun bathing with complete shelter and toilet facilities are available at the island. If you are visiting Pulau Tiga for a day trip, you will need to pre-arrange your food and beverages with Pulau Tiga Resort, the only resort in the island, as they service in-house guest only. But if you follow a tour package, then your tour operator would have taken care of that.

OVERNIGHT STAY: A day trip may not be sufficient for a true Tropical Island or Survivor enthusiast. You wouldn't be able to enjoy this marvellous island to the fullest if you did not spent a night or two. There is currently only one established private resort on the island, Pulau Tiga Resort, in addition to the Sabah Park's resthouse-type acommodations (note: there is another private accommodation provider but its chalet-type rooms are only targeted to be in operation in early 2006).

Pulau Tiga Resort provides chalet-type accommodations ranging from Standard to Superior air-conditioned rooms. There are also a restaurant, a bar called the Survivor Bar, a Game Room, and an Audio Room. A wide range of water sports activities are also offered by the Resort including snorkelling, diving, fishing, and such water kayaking, banana boating, jet skiing.

For scuba diving, Pulau Tiga Resort also offers PADI dive courses operated by Sipadan Dive Centre for for the novice. Experienced divers can explore the many dive sites around the island including some unexplored dive locations. You do not need to bring your own diving equipments to the island as dive as well as snorkelling equipments can be rented from the Resort.

Although a vacation at Pulau Tiga is possible at any time of the year, the best time is during the relatively drier months of March to July. However, due to the Greenhouse effect, the rainy season (or Monsoon) is harder to predict nowadays. As accommodations are limited, it is advisable that you make a reservation well in advance. A special permit to visit Pulau Tiga is also necessary. You can arrange this through the Sabah Parks office in Kota Kinabalu. Best that you arrange your trip through a travel company so that everything will be taken care and in order.

GETTING THERE: Pulau Tiga is located about 10 km (6 miles) offshore of Sabah near Kuala Penyu town on the tip of the Klias Peninsula. If you are in Kota Kinabalu, it will take about 90 minutes by road followed by a 20-30 minutes powerboat trip from town (a sub-district of Kuala Penyu) to the island and its marine park. If you are in Labuan, you can take the ferry to Menumbok and then the speedboat to Pulau Tiga. Alternatively, you can also charter a speedboat from Kota Kinabalu or Labuan.

Daily Standard Boat Transfer Schedule

Pulau Tiga Marine National Park has soared to world fame as 'Survivor Island' because of the popular Million Dollar Prize Money TV series 'Survivor' by the CBS TV network, USA. This is the exact island that the entire first series was filmed! The fact that this island was chosen was due to its untouched natural landscape and marine life.

The Pulau Tiga Park covers an area of 15,864 ha and was gazette as a National Park in 1978. As far back as 1933, the main island, together with the two smaller islands of Kalampunian Besar and Kalampunian Damit were designated as Forest Reserve.

Facilities
The Park Headquarters is situated in an open grassy clearing just behind the beach on the southern side of Pulau Tiga and consists of office, staff quarters and a resthouse for visiting scientists. A network of trails, marked at 50 meter intervals, leads to various points of interest. The island was initially developed jointly by the Sabah Parks Trustees and the Sabah branch of the University Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) as a marine research centre, but now there is also a new resort called "Pulau Tiga Resort," run by a private enterprise with chalets, diving and watersports facilities.

For day trips, Pulau Tiga has excellent facilities for BBQ and sun bathing with complete shelter and toilet facilities. You will need to pre-arrange your food and beverages with Pulau Tiga Resort as they only service in-house guest.

Other Island
There are two more islands in the Pulau Tiga Park, approximately 20 minutes by boat to the north of the main island, Pulau Tiga. They are very different. Kalmpunian Besar is a small sand cay built up from unconsolidated coral fragments, and the shape of the island shifts and changes with the prevailing monsoon winds and currents. Kalampunian Damit (also known as "Snake Island") is celebrated as a breeding ground for the amphibious sea snake Laticauda colubrina, which comes to the shores to lay eggs. The snakes can usually be seen coiled in a tangled mass under boulders or among tree roots.

Pulau Tiga Resort
The resort is an ideal retreat that offers opportunities to experience nature, become immersed in the beauty and serenity of the island. You may also experience the various water sport activities provided by the resort which includes snorkeling, scuba diving, jet-skiing, kayaking, banana boat ride, fishing and many more. The ample grounds surrounding the resort are suitable for group outings to carry out their activities.

The resort accommodation facilities ranges from Standard to Superior air-conditioned rooms with either twin or double beds and all fitted with ensuite bathroom facilities. For cost conscious travelers the triple sharing long house accommodation offers a comfortable alternative.

Accommodation Facilities

The resort restaurant offers good food and excellent company. Outdoor BBQ and picnic baskets can be provided for by the resort on request. With prior arrangement couples can make special request to enjoy a romantic interlude on the nearby Sand Spit.

The games room provide an array of board games, dart board, a pool table and karaoke facility for those who would like to try out their vocal talents. The TV viewing room is fitted with a satellite channel to catch on the latest development around the world. T-shirts and other souvenirs are made available at the nearby Novitan gift shop.

Pulau Tiga Park
Pulau Tiga's three low, forest covered hills barely up to 100 m in height, are largely the result of the mud flows from the mud volcanoes that have built up the island. Mud volcanoes from where natural gas builds up enough pressure to escape along cracks in the earth's surface, carrying with it mud, water and rocks. Normally the volcanoes bubble fairly quietly, but occasionally more violent eruptions do occur, as happened on Pulau Tiga in 1941 when an eruption of the eastern volcano was heard as much as 160 km away! The outburst smothered almost 30 ha of forest with boiling hot, liquid mud. These mud volcanoes are interesting and must be visited when you are on the island. Directions of trails are available from the Park or Pulau Tiga Resort, and the paths are well maintained and indicated.
Because of its history as a Forest Reserve, Pulau Tiga is one of the very few undisturbed offshore islands left in Sabah, and this is reflected in the luxuriant plant life. The shore is lined by trees with wide crowns and branches spreading low over the sand. Behind the shelter of the coastal fringe lies a fairly open forest of pole-like trees with the two giant 'ranggu,' easily recognized by their grayish-yellow trunks.
A mangrove lagoon with crystal clear waters lies near the Park Headquarters. Animal life on this islands is abundant with multiple species of birds such as the magnificent black-and-white Pied Hornbills, Nightjars, Magpie-Robins, and of course the curious megapodes. Flying foxes roost behind the mangrove inlet. These large, orange-brown bats are a magnificent sight at dusk when they flap slowly towards the mainland in search of fruits for their evening meal.
A troop of long tailed macques frequent the trees and Monitor Lizards are abundant. The Golden Skink is often encountered along the trails. Coral reefs fringing parts of the islands are easily accessible, with some species of corals not found elsewhere on the west coast!

Divers Heaven (can be arranged)
Come dive into the silent world of legendary clear waters and explore the 7-km coral reef that surrounds the island. It is home to many marine life including sharks, barracudas, school of colorful coral fish and sea turtles.
Whether you are a snorkel, beginner's diver or certified diver, the Dive Center offers you various underwater adventure to suit your needs. The team of expert instructors and fleet of comfortable dive boat will guide you on an experience you will treasure.
The Dive Center also offer scuba diving courses from a beginner level to a professional Divemaster.
With only one resort on Pulau Tiga, you can guarantee a relaxed and tranquil dive holiday. Pulau Tiga Resort offers PADI dive courses and many dive sites for the novice and experienced divers including some unexplored dive locations. A rich variety of marine life can be seen including nudibranchs, bamboo sharks, cuttlefish, marbled stingray and of course, a visit to nearby “Snake Island” guarantees sightings of banded sea snakes. The surrounding reefs are shallow with healthy coral and water visibility ranging from 6m to 20m. Several species of mammals, numerous birds (including the very rare megapode), a variety of reptiles and amphibians and hundreds of species of insects can be found on Pulau Tiga making it truly wild tropical island.

Accommodation
There are three styles of rooms to suit all budgets.

All rooms are modest twin or double air-conditioned rooms with ensuite bathroom facilities, designed to blend in with the local environment.

There is also triple sharing longhouse accommodation for budget travellers. All units have a panoramic view of the sea.
For current price and availability please make an enquiry above.
The facilities include the Pulau Tiga Restaurant and the Survivor Bar.

There is also a karaoke audio room and game room with a pool table, board games and a TV.

Facilities
Divers Haven
Come dive into the silent world of legendary clear waters and explore the 7-km coral reef that surrounds the island.

It is home to many marine life including sharks, barracudas, school of colourful coral fish and sea turtles.
Whether you are a snorkeller, beginner's diver or certified diver, our Dive Centre offers various underwater adventure to suit your needs.

Our team of expert instructors and fleet of comfortable dive boats will guide you on an experience you will treasure.
Our Dive Center also offer scuba diving courses from a beginner level to a professional Divemaster.
Activities
There is a huge range of activities on and around the island from high adventure to relaxing in the shade. Watersports available include
•jet-skiing
•kayaking
•banana boat rides.
Of course the big draw is snorkelling and scuba diving around the wonderful coral reefs which surround the island.

The resort offers scuba courses and hire use of all the equipment. However, the island itself is also worth a look around.

There are jungle trails, mud volcanoes, and hundreds of varieties of birds and wildlife to explore.
Food & Beverage
The resort restaurant offers good food and excellent company.

Outdoor BBQ and picnic baskets can be provided for by the resort on request.

With prior arrangement couples can make special request to enjoy a romantic interlude on the nearby Sand Spit.
Recreations
The games room provide an array of board games, dart board, a pool table and karaoke facility for those who would like to try out their vocal talents.

The TV viewing room is fitted with a satellite channel to catch on the latest development around the world.

T-shirts and other souvenirs are made available at the nearby Novitan gift shop.

THINGS TO BRING:
Personal Toiletries & medicines, a bathing towel, 2 pair of swim wear, a pair of trekking shoe, for example : Tennis shoes, a pair of sandals, cotton T-shirt (3), a short pants and long pants, sun block lotion, sunglasses, camera or video camcorder preferably waterproof, a cap or hat, a water bottle, a backpack and raincoat.

Location
Pulau Tiga is situated 10KM off the west coast of Sabah, Malaysia in the South China Sea.

It is a small island, roughly 20 square Kilometres. To get there, you can either charter a boat all the way from Kota Kinabalu, or drive 2 hours south to Kuala Penyu and hop on a boat for a short 20 min cruise to the island.
Location map of Pulau Tiga Resort

PRICE SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE

PLS EMAIL shirechinsabahtravelstation@gmail.com or CALL 0168217976 to check joining status 

2D1N Pulau Tiga + Snake Island Trip (EX-KK)
EXAMPLE ITINENARY :
Day 1 0800 meet at hotel lobby and transfer to Kuala Penyu which is a 2 hours drive. Arrive at jetty, depart to Pulau Tiga by boat at 10:00hrs. The boat takes about 35 minutes to reach the island. Arrive at Pulau Tiga registration for check-in. Lunch will be served at the island restaurant. After lunch, free at leisure or you may enjoy the jungle trail to the MUD VOLCANO which take an approximately 1 hour. Along the trail, you can view the lowland forest and the unique Megapode Bird. At the Volcano area, you can immerse yourself in the sulfuric Mud. This mud is not hot. It has a cooling effect after which you can rinse it off by having a late afternoon swims at the same time enjoy watching the sunset of Borneo. You will feel very much refresh and smooth, after having washed off the mud from your body. Dinner at island restaurant. Overnight at the cabin. (L/D)

Day 2 Breakfast at the island restaurant, visit Sand Pit & Snake Island by boat. Return back to Pulau Tiga Resort for lunch. Free at own leisure. Transfer back to Kuala Penyu by boat, return to Kota Kinabalu. (B/L)

Rate : Rm 750.00p.p (min2 paxs)

ADVENTURE & TREKKING EXCURSION

Mt. Kinabalu Summit
Duration: 02 Days 01 Night
(EXAMPLE )
Itinerary
DAY 01KOTA KINABALU / MOUNTAIN RESTHOUSE(PL,D)
Depart at 0630 hours for 2 hours drive to Kinabalu Park HQ known for its diverse range of flora and fauna and the majestic Mount Kinabalu. The local KadazanDusun named it Aki Nabalu or “Revered Place of the Death”. It is believed that the spirits of the tribe’s dead ancestors dwell among the forbidden peaks. You will register for the climb at the Park HQ and proceed to Timpohon Gate, the starting point of your mountain scaling trip. One extraordinary sight is that you will notice the change of vegetation from Oak and Chestnut to mossy forest and eventually to alpine vegetation when you finally reach your overnight based at 2,800m.
Overnight at MOUNTAIN REST HOUSE

DAY 02SUMMIT / KINABALU PARK / KOTA KINABALU__(B.L)
At 0230 hours, you start ascending to the summit of Mount Kinabalu (4092.5m) above sea level. This will allow you to catch the spectacular sunrise and beautiful photographs at the summit called Low’s Peak. We will return to Laban Rata Resthouse and descend to the Timpohon Gate. Transportation will await you and bring you to the Park Headquarters to collect certificate of achievements. After lunch, head back to Kota Kinabalu.

PRICE : RM 950/PAX (MIN.2PAX) VALID TILL 31/03/08, PLEASE KINDLY EMAIL OR CALL TO CHECK LATEST UPDATE PRICE
Package includes
• Transfer between each destination
• Climbers permit
• Certificate
• Entrance fees
• Insurance
• Mt. Guide English speaking tour guide (transfer only)
• Accommodation and meals as indicated

Things to wear & bring
• Suitable walking shoes and Sandals
• Warm clothing Windbreaker / Raincoat / Change of clothes
• Drinking water high energy food (chocolates, raisins, nuts, glucose)
• First aid kit
• Basic Toiletries
• Binoculars
• Camera for unforgettable moments

Tour Name: PORING HOT SPRING & KINABALU PARK TOUR 

 Duration:  FULLDAY
Description:  Located 120 KM from Kota Kinabalu, the Hotspring is surrounded by lowland forest and dotted with pools and bathtubs filled with running sulphurated water rising from the depth of the earth. A little jungle trekking up to the Canopy Walkway to get more closer and better appreciation of our forest. Take a dip in one of the tubs and soak in the self-mixed warm hot spring water, which is believed to have therapeutic effect.
Tour includes a stopover at Kinabalu Park.
*** Kinabalu Park is a World Heritage Site ***
(NOTE: Please bring along walking shoes, sweater, insect repellent & raincoat)
 
Includes:  Tourist Guide, Transportation & One Lunch & ENTRANCE FEES
Excludes:  other items not described
Price:  RM 275.00 Per Person
Child Price: RM 195.00 Per Person
Minimum:  2 Adults Per Order
Surcharge:* RM 40.00 Per Person for pick up from Out of City Area Hotels  
  
    PRICE SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE
PLS EMAIL shirechinsabahtravelstation@gmail.com or CALL 0168217976 to check joining status

 Duration: FULL DAY
Description: PADAS RIVER is one of the best and well known river in Malaysia for rafting. This river is located at the southern part of Sabah and you also get the opportunity to experience the only train services in Borneo Island.
Kiulu River is another location we can offer for river rafting and it is suitable for all ages.
*** Required to sign Liability Release Form prior to tour commencement ***
(NOTE: Please bring along Sandals, Towel, Sun block lotion, Insect repellant and change of clothes. Children below 12 years (Depend on body size) are not advisable for PADAS river)

Includes: Transfers, Safety equipment (e.g. helmet & life jacket), One Lunch
Excludes: Other items not described
Price: RM 250.00 Per Person
Minimum: 2 Adults Per Order (MIN.4PAX)
Surcharge:*RM 40.00 Per Person for pick up from Out of City Area Hotels

 PRICE SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE

PLS EMAIL shirechinsabahtravelstation@gmail.com or CALL 0168217976 to check joining status

Padas River is situated in the interior of southern part of Kota Kinabalu that is only accessible by train (used since the late 19th century in Borneo). Basically, this trip will give you two experiences advantages - 1) Excursion of Class III-IV river, 2) A ride in an antique train in this new millennium.

The adrenaline rush excursion covers a distance of 9km of this rather muddy 200 km river that holds 7 exciting and tough rapids!

These rapids carries amusing names such as Merry-Go-Round Rapid, Break Point Rapid, Scooby Doo Rapid, Cobra Rapid, Curve Rapid, Lambada Rapid and Head Hunter Rapid. Each rapid will give you the feel of the motion as what the name means.

The journey will first take 1-½ hours overland through the countryside to Beaufort town. From there upon, adventure begins with 1-½ hours train rides tracks along the Padas River that gives glimpses of the thrills and excitement to come. Upon arriving at the starting point, participant will be given safety briefing before going down the river.

The ultimate challenge will speak for itself as one shoots through and experiences the nerve tingling excitement which crescendos rapid after rapid while getting a closer look at the Borneo's amazing flora and fauna.

After rafting, enjoy a sumptuous barbecue lunch by the river. Wind down with a sunset view of the return journey to Kota Kinabalu, along with presentation of certification of achievement.

Package includes:
Return transfer, Registered English Speaking Guide, White Water Rafting Equipment approved by American Coastguard, BBQ lunch, Insurance, state-of-art facilities at the ending point, covers up to 15km of rafting excursions.

Indemnity Form
Each participant is required to sign an indemnity form before the tour commences. This should be clearly advised by you to the participant.

Age Requirement
Children aged 12 years old and below are not permitted at Padas river. However, a child although meeting the minimum age requirement may not allowed to raft subject to our absolute discretion.

Insurance
It is necessary to provide a list of participants’ name, age, sex and nationality from your company, one day before the tour for Insurance purposes.

Remarks:
1. Participant must be physically fit as this tour is for those who love adventures.
2. Liability Release Form MUST be signed and understood by the participant before the tour commences.
3. Age limit is for child is 12 years old and above.
4. Please let us know if you have dietary request, e.g. vegetarian.

EXAMPLE 3D2N MOUNT KINABALU ADVENTURE

Day 1                                                                                                         No Meals

Depart from your hotel at 0700 hours then proceed about 2 hours towards the Kinabalu Park’s Headquarters – along the way, a brief stop at Nabalu market for local handicraft shopping – a chance for a panoramic view from the observation area – after the tour, continue journey towards Fairy Garden for your check in and overnight stay                 

Day 2                                                                     Breakfast/Packed Lunch/Dinner

Depart from your hotel at 0830 hours then proceed towards the starting point – upon arrival proceed to counter for registration – packed lunch will be provided – get your name tag & meet your local Mt Guide – proceed to the timpohon gate for your climb – upon arrival at the mt hut, check in & relax for next day’s climb

Day 3                                                                                                Breakfast/Lunch

Wake up at 0200 hours for your early light breakfast – 0300 hours meet your mt guide for critical briefing then depart for the summit – descend to laban rata for your breakfast -  descend back to timpohon gate – transfer to the headquarters for your certificate – lunch at restaurant – after lunch, proceed towards Poring Hot springs for your relaxing dip in the hot sulfur sauna tub – by late afternoon, transfer back to kota kinabalu for your transfer out.

RM 1300/PAX (MIN.2PAX)  VALID TILL 31/03/09

Tour includes:

1. All transfer as stated
2. All meals as stated
3. English speaking guide
4. Entrance fee, certificate, permit fee, climbing insurance, Mt guide
5. 1 night stay at Mt hut
6. 1 night stay at Fairy Garden Resort  / Grace Hostel / D’Villa

Tour excludes:

1. Items not mentioned
2. Air tickets
3. Life insurance
4. Alcohol / Beverages consumed
5. Tipping for guide/drivers
6. Porter services etc.

Remarks: Should there be of any extra request during the ongoing tours, charges will be imposed on the clients unless informed otherwise.

Tanjung Aru Beach

Located 5km south of Kota Kinabalu, Tanjung Aru Beach is particularly popular at weekends. It is a place where one can relax with family and friends, as well as enjoy the breezy atmosphere.

Tanjung Aru

Getting There

Take the buses with the sign 'Tanjung Aru Beach' from the bus terminal across from the City Hall (DBKK) Building / State Library / Court House. Bus fare is RM$1.20 per person and takes about 20 mins.

Activities

• Jog or stroll along the stretch of sandy beach in the evenings.
• Enjoy the sunset and sea breeze.
• Dine at the various hawker stalls and open-air seafood restaurant, or quench your thirst at the coconut stalls. Try out the pickled fruits and other local snacks sold at the roadside facing the beach bus stop.
• Walk about the Tanjung Aru Beach Park (formerly known as the Prince Philip Park).
• Good play ground fro kids

Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park

A cluster of 5 islands lying off the coast of Kota Kinabalu formed the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park. These islands are Manukan, Mamutik, Sapi, Sulug and Gaya. The Marine Park is a popular destination for day-trippers, picnickers, divers and nature lovers.

Sapi Island

Getting There

Go to the Sabah Parks Jetty just right at the end of Jalan (about 8-10 mins walk from Trekkers Lodge Kota Kinabalu) to purchase your ticket. Boat fare is RM$15 per person (return).

It is best to go before noon as the boat operators usually fill their respective boats up before leaving the jetty. More guests leaves in the morning therefore making waiting time for the boat to be filled shorter. Tell the staff at the ticket counter which island you wish to visit, and what time you want to be picked up. Please note that the boats leave the KK jetty from 7:00am onwards, and the last boat from the island leaves at about 4:00pm.

Boat ride takes about 15 to 20 minutes, depending of which island you are visiting.

Accommodation

Only 3 islands have accommodation:

• Manukan Island – Chalets managed by Sutera Sanctuary Lodges
• Mamutik Island – A diving resthouse managed by Borneo Divers and camping ground managed by Sabah Parks
• Gaya Island – A 4 star resort managed by Gayana Resort Bay

Activities

• sunbathing, swimming, snorkeling, diving
• picnics, barbeque
• bird-watching, nature walks along guided forest and mangrove trails, and beach fishing (only hook and line permitted)
• camping (only on Sapi and Mamutik, with prior permission from the Sabah Parks office in KK or the Park Ranger at the islands. Cost is about RM5.00 per person per night)
• beach and water sports (volleyball, Frisbee, beach football, wind surfing, water polo, etc.)

Tunku Abdul Rahman (TAR) Marine Park

Pulau Manukan - This 51 acres boomerang shaped tropical island is the second largest of the TAR Marine Park. Manukan has good stretches of beaches especially on the southern coastline. Ideal for snorkeling, diving and swimming. There are also accommodation available with excellent facilities (i.e., 20 unit chalets, a clubhouse, restaurant, souvenirs, diving centres and recreational facilities such as a swimming pool, football field, squash and tennis courts), and good infrastructure support (i.e., water, electricity, desalination plant, sewerage system, and even a solar powered public telephone).

The largest tropical island of the Park at 140 hectares with 25km of shoreline. It derived its name from the Bajau word "Gayo" which means big. The major beach area includes Bulijong Bay (Police Beach), which has a quarter mile of fine white sand sloping gently into the crystal clear bay making it ideal for swimming. The coral reefs along the entire coast of the island are in excellent condition. There is one tropical resort on this island called the Gayana Island EcoResort. The untouched coastal dipterocarp forest is ideal for trekking and studying unique species of plant and animal life.Borneo Tropical Island Vacation at Gaya Island

The first thing most visitors will notice when they are approaching Gaya Island is the sheer size of a tropical island covered by lush green landscape but seems more like a mini rainforest. Then you will fully understand why the motto of the island is "where the tropical forest embraces the tranquil sea".

Indeed, Gaya Island's lush forest is the richest of the five islands in wildlife. Long-tailed macaques, pied hornbills, wild boar, and monitor lizards can be sighted here. You can also hike across 20 km of graded nature trails, and even camp in the island forest (with prior permission from the Marine Park warden).

For the typical tropical island vacation, Gaya Island has one of the best island beaches in Borneo. Gaya Island's advantage is its calm turquoise waters given the many private bays and secluded beaches (some are said to be untouched by man) on the island. It is also a perfect destination for a tropical getaway. Gaya Island's Bulijong Bay (or more popularly known as Poice Beach) located on the northern end of Gaya has one of the best fine sandy beaches in Sabah. Its semi-circular bay shaped creates the perfect atmosphere for swimming, snorkeling, and picnicking.

National Park Vacation in Sabah, Malaysia Borneo

 Kinabalu National Park

For a unique national park vacation in Borneo, you must make sure that you drop by at Kinabalu National Park, about 90 km or about 2-hour drive from Kota Kinabalu, Sabah. In fact, a vacation in Sabah or Borneo will be incomplete without a visit to Kinabalu National Park. Kinabalu National Park gives you an opportunity to escape from the hot tropical sun and enjoy the cool and refreshing mountain air as it is in the heart of the montane oak-chestnut-conifer forest.

Gazetted since 1964, Kinabalu National Park is well protected with one of the richest diversity of plant, animal, insect and bird life in the world. It carries lowland, montane and alphine vegetation on a scale that is not seen between the Himalayas and the New Guinea. The world’s largest pitcher plant (Rajah Brooke) and the world's biggest flower (the Rafflesia) can also be found here.

Mesilau Nature Park

Mesilau Nature Park is located within the Kinabalu National Park area on the Pinosok Plateau near Kundasang town. It is about 30 minutes by road away from Kinabalu National Park (about 108km from Kota Kinabalu). The stretch of the road from Kundasang to Mesilau Nature Park, which is about 2,000 metres above sea level, is extremely steep and some parts of it are in bad condition (at this point of writing).

On the way, you will surely be captivated by the spectacular views of the Kundasang valley with terraced hill slopes planted with highlands vegetables, and parts of the scenic beauty of the Kundasang Mt. Kinabalu Golf Course, a challenging 18-hole golf course for avid golfers, undeniably, the highest golf course in South East Asia.

National Park Vacation at Poring Hot Springs

Another interesting natural wonder fit for a wonderful national park vacation is the Poring Hot Springs, located approximately 47 km from Kinabalu National Park passing Kundasang and Ranau towns. Poring is situated on the Kinabalu National Park's boundary at the edge of the Mamut River. The name Poring, stands for the tall bamboo plant that is abundant in that area.

Poring's main attraction is undoubtedly its natural spring where hot sulfurous water emit from the ground. There are open-air Japanese Baths or or enclosed tubs where you can soak yourself and be invigorated by the sulfurous water. Many climbers, after conquering Mount Kinabalu, tend to visit Poring to take a dip in the hot spring. The therapeutic sulphur baths will stimulate, soothe and relieve your aches and pains after a hard climb.

But for a national park leisure vacation, there are many activities to do at Poring besides the hot spring. One of the must-do activity is to explore the lowlands forest (a 500 metres trek) on your way to the popular Canopy Walkway, where suspension bridges are suspended at the top of the tropical jungle canopy from tree to tree (built about 40 metres high and 155 metres in length). From the top of the canopy walkway, you will have a bird's eye view of some wildlife including birds and butterflies down below.

Speaking of butterflies, don't forget to check out the Butterfly Farm where you can watch some rare butterflies. There is also an Orchid Conservation Center which boosts a wide variety of lowland orchids, and a Tropical Garden within the Nature Reserves. For those lucky fews, you may even may see a Rafflesia, the world's largest flower, in bloom. There are also several trails where you can do a guided trek through nature trails of the lowland forest.

On top of this, there is a Gallery at Poring Hot Springs, one of the latest addition to the hot spring area. Constructed in 2004, it displays a range of photo exhibitions.

Schedules of National Park Vacation Activities

The following are the schedule of the audio-visual shows and guided trail walks organized by Park Naturalists at the Headquarters of Kinabalu National Park, Mesilau Nature Park and Poring Hot Springs:

Kinabalu National Park

Maliau Basin or Meliau Basin, or also Maliau Basin Conservation Area, is a region in the Malaysian State of Sabah, which represents a geological catchments surrounding the Maliau River.

Located in the South central part of Sabah in the Sandakan Division, it was designated as a conservation area by the Sabah Foundation (Yayasan Sabah) in 1981.

Dubbed as Sabah's "Lost World", the 588.4 square kilometers Maliau Basin Conservation Area was upgraded to a Protected (Class 1) Forest Reserve by the state government in 1997. The region also features Mount Lotung (1,667 metres), Maliau Falls, and Lake Linumunsut.

The Maliau Basin contains an unusual assemblage of 12 tropical forest types, comprising mainly of lower montane forest dominated by majestic Agathis trees, rare montane heath forest and lowland and hill dipterocarp forest. The incredible Maliau Basin rim is about 25 km in diameter, which is slightly bigger than the Island of Singapore.

The main gateway for visitors to Maliau Basin Conservation Area is the Shell Maliau Basin Reception and Information Building, which was officially opened in April 2007. This building aims to strengthen the role of Maliau Basin as a centre of knowledge and learning on biodiversity conservation.

For tourists, the highlight of the adventure is to trek through the rainforest to reach the Camel Trophy Camp and later, to reach the Luba Camp, all the way to the majestic 7 tiers Maliau Falls.

It must be noted that Maliau Basin is a remote, rugged and isolated area with limited access, communication and safety facilities. Hence, permission to enter must be obtained in advance from Yayasan Sabah. Other important notes for guests or visitors include:

• Guest MUST submit a copy of their latest personal insurance policy that covers emergency Helicopter evacuation.

• Guest MUST submit their latest certificate confirmed by physician or doctor.

• Special permission is needed and separate charges are levied for professional photography or filming.

• Guest is to be accompanied by guide at all times and not allowed to wander on their own.

Efforts are underway to nominate the area as a World Heritage Site, but the Sabah government is currently promoting the Maliau Basin Conservation Area as the third world heritage site in Malaysia.

This would certainly help in promoting concrete international support and partnership for the conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity and the ecosystems of Maliau Basin, as well as on the initiatives for a balanced and sustainable development of national and regional ecological networks and corridors.

Once a World Heritage Site status has been acquired, it will definitely augur well for Sabah where its ecotourism industry is promoted internationally as a tropical destination icon.

Related Tour Packages

• 5D/4N Maliau Basin "The Lost World" Adventure Vacation

Itinerary

Day 1

• 0945hrs - Pick up at Tawau Airport. Proceed on 4-wheel drive to the Maliau Basin Security Gate, 180KM away. Weather permitting, journey will take about 5 hours.

• 1330hrs - Stop at Tibow for lunch

• 1400hrs - Proceed to Maliau Security Gate

• 1430hrs - Arrive at Maliau Security Gate for short briefing

• 1500hrs - Drive on to Agathis Camp, 26KM away for the night stay. Settle in and enjoy the surrounding environment.

• 1900hrs - Dinner

• 2000hrs - Weather permitting, go on a night drive in search of nocturnal animals. Possible encounter/sightings of Sambar Deers, Bearded Pigs, Malay Civets, Flying Squirrels and Borneo抯 Wild Ox, the Banteng.

• 2200hrs - Settle in for the night.

(Lunch & Dinner)

Day 2

• 0730hrs - After breakfast, begin the 7KM trekking through the rainforest to reach the Camel Trophy Camp. This will take about 6hours of trekking over the rim of the Basin. The first two hours is the most challenging uphill trek for this adventure..

• 1130hrs - Stop for packed lunch and relax enjoying the surrounding rich vegetation

• 1230hrs - Continue trekking

• 1430hrs - Arrive at the Camel Trophy Camp. Settle in.
  OPTION A: Walk to the Giluk Falls about 1hour away and back to Camel Trophy Camp. A dip in the pool is possible or walk
  to the spectacular, about 100M in height (10 storey building) Takob-Akob Falls which is about 2hours away and back.
  OPTION B: Enjoy the surroundings at the Camel Trophy Camp. Have a swim at a nearby stream.

• 1900hrs - Dinner and settle in for the night.

(Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)

Day 3

• 0730hrs - After breakfast, start trekking through heath/montane forest and further down through highland dipterocarp forest for roughly about 5hours to reach the Luba Camp, about 8KM away. (Packed Lunch).

• The first few KM upon entering the heath discover the abundance of Nepenthes plants or locally referred to as 搈onkey cup?and wild orchids.

• 1200hrs - At the helicopter pad near Luba Camp, enjoy the full view of the Maliau Basin rim which is about 25KM in diameter (slightly bigger than the Island of Singapore). Settle in and enjoy the panoramic view of the Maliau Basin.

• 1400hrs - Descend for about 1hour to the highlight of the adventure i.e. the Maliau Basin. Have a picnic and take out a camera to snap beautiful shots and enjoy a dip in the falls.

• 1700hrs - Trek uphill back to the Luba Camp for dinner and settle in for the night.

(Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)

Day 4

• 0700hrs - After breakfast, trek along the forest making a loop back to the Agathis Camp.

• This will take about 6-8hours. (Packed Lunch)

• Settle in at the Agathis Camp for the last night of the adventure in the forest.

• After dinner, weather permitting, a second night drive looking for nocturnal animals.

(Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)

Day 5

• 0730hrs - After breakfast, drive back to Tawau Airport through the Maliau Basin Security Gate.

• End of Tour.

(Breakfast)

IMPORTANT NOTICE:-
?Guest MUST submit a copy of their latest personal insurance policy that covers emergency Helicopter evacuation.
?Guest MUST submit their latest certificate confirmed by physician or doctor.
?Special permission is needed and separate charges are levied for professional photography or filming.
?Guest is to be accompanied by guide at all times and not allowed to wander on their own.

MALIAU BASIN
Checklist for Trekkers

1. A compass or Global Positioning System (GPS)-Maliau Basin map given upon request.
2. Personal First Aid Kit (anti malaria pills as a preventive measure)
3. Whistle and Pocket knife
4. Sleeping bag and Insect Repellent
5. Flaslight (spare bulb and extra batteries)
6. Camera (extra films and batteries)
7. Leech socks and extra socks
8. Hat and Rain Coat
9. Long Sleeved T-Shirts (Maliau is cool at night) and towels that can dry fast
10. Extra pants
11. Slipper, Trekker Boots or 揂didas?Shoes (useful when trekking on slippery trails)
12. Spare Plastic Bags (to store camera in case of rain and to pack clothing in plastic bags before putting it in inside backpack)
13. Drinking Water
14. Garbage Bag (useful protective shield from rain)
15. Heavy Duty Backpack-guests are encourage to carry their own backpack
16. Matches / Lighter and Candles
17. Personal Toiletries (tooth brush, paste, body soap, shampoo, toilet paper and etc)
18. Personal Items (plastic food container i.e. lunch box, fork, spoon and cup)
19. High energy snacks food e.g. chocolate nuts and etc


MALIAU BASIN
Do抯 and Don抰抯
?No hunting is allowed. Fire arms are absolutely forbidden
?No collecting or trapping of any plant or animal specimens
?No slashing of vegetation or cutting of new trails
?No graffiti on rocks or trees
?All litter / rubbish must be brought out
?Visitors must only stay in the designated campsites
?Campfires can be lit only under the supervision of Ranger

Itinerary

Day 1

• Guests are suggested to take the early flight from Kota Kinabalu to Tawau (MH 2127, ETD 0815 hrs, ETA 0900 hrs).

• Pick up guests at Tawau airport / hotel and drive for about 4 - 5 hours to Maliau Basin Security Gate via Kalabakan.

• Stop for early lunch at Maskur Restaurant, Marotai.

• Continue your journey for about 4 hours to Maliau Basin Security Gate and proceed to Agathis Camp where you will stay for the night.

• After dinner (if weather permits) go for a night drive in search of nocturnal animals through the 27km access road along the Agathis Camp to Belian Camp.

• Possible encounters of Sambar Deers, Bearded Pigs, Malay Civets, Flying Squirrel, Porcupine and the Banteng or locally known as "Tembadau".

• Additional porter can be arranged at guests own account payable at Agathis Camp before departure the next day to another camp.

(Lunch & Dinner)

Day 2

• Wake up by the call of the Borneon Gibbon as part of the morning chorus in the rainforest.

• After breakfast begin trekking through the rainforest towards Camel Trophy Camp.

• The trek will go through a steep ascend of the formidable Maliau Basin escarpment and into a gentle slope of inner Basin.

• Vegetation varies from the Lowland Dipterocarp, Highland Dipterocarp forest and further into the Heath forest.

• Break for a packed lunch at the "Sambung Ayam" rest station.

• Continue trekking to reach Camel Trophy Camp and along the way enjoy the varieties of plants and orchids.

• Overnight at Camel Trophy Camp.

(Breakfast, Packed Lunch)

Day 3

• After breakfast, day trek to the nearby waterfalls, Takob Akob and Giluk Falls (so called the Terrace Garden of Maliau).

• Enjoy swimming and have your packed lunch.

• Overnight at Camel Trophy Camp.

(Breakfast, Packed Lunch)

Day 4

• After breakfast, continue trekking to the Lobah Camp for 6 hours journey, an adventurous hard trek through the dense Heath forest of Maliau Basin.

• Discover the abundance of Nepenthes plants growing beautifully from the floor of the Heath forest to the treetop along the "Jalan Babi".

• In the evening (if weather permits) enjoy the panoramic view of the Maliau Basin rim at the Lobah Helipad, possible sighting of hornbill flying in pairs.

• Over night at Lobah Camp, the most exciting of all, listening to the cry of wild in the wee hours or early morning, music serenading while you are still in bed which make one feels so relaxed and peaceful.

(Breakfast)

Day 5

• Early morning, enjoy the sunrise at the Lobah Helipad.

• After breakfast, take along packed lunch, trek down to the spectacular Maliau Falls about 1 hours journey.

• Enjoy packed lunch at the Maliau Basin.

• 1530 hrs ascend back to Lobah Camp.

• Take a break again at the helipad for a scenic view of the Maliau Basin rim.

• Overnight at Lobah Camp.

(Breakfast, Packed Lunch)

Day 6

• After breakfast, leave Lobah Camp (0700 a.m.) for Agathis Camp.

• Journey will take about 6 - 8 hours.

• Stop for packed lunch at any station along the trail to Agathis Camp.

• Expected to arrive at Agathis Camp in the evening.

(Breakfast, Packed Lunch)

Day 7

• After breakfast, pack and leave for Tawau airport / hotel.

• Recommended to take the evening flight from Tawau to Kota Kinabalu (MH2149, ETD 1740 hrs, ETA 1825 hrs) to avoid rush.

• End of tour.

(Breakfast)

IMPORTANT NOTICE:-
?Guest MUST submit a copy of their latest personal insurance policy that covers emergency Helicopter evacuation.
?Guest MUST submit their latest certificate confirmed by physician or doctor.
?Special permission is needed and separate charges are levied for professional photography or filming.
?Guest is to be accompanied by guide at all times and not allowed to wander on their own.

MALIAU BASIN
Checklist for Trekkers

1. A compass or Global Positioning System (GPS)-Maliau Basin map given upon request.
2. Personal First Aid Kit (anti malaria pills as a preventive measure)
3. Whistle and Pocket knife
4. Sleeping bag and Insect Repellent
5. Flaslight (spare bulb and extra batteries)
6. Camera (extra films and batteries)
7. Leech socks and extra socks
8. Hat and Rain Coat
9. Long Sleeved T-Shirts (Maliau is cool at night) and towels that can dry fast
10. Extra pants
11. Slipper, Trekker Boots or 揂didas?Shoes (useful when trekking on slippery trails)
12. Spare Plastic Bags (to store camera in case of rain and to pack clothing in plastic bags before putting it in inside backpack)
13. Drinking Water
14. Garbage Bag (useful protective shield from rain)
15. Heavy Duty Backpack-guests are encourage to carry their own backpack
16. Matches / Lighter and Candles
17. Personal Toiletries (tooth brush, paste, body soap, shampoo, toilet paper and etc)
18. Personal Items (plastic food container i.e. lunch box, fork, spoon and cup)
19. High energy snacks food e.g. chocolate nuts and etc


MALIAU BASIN
Do抯 and Don抰抯
?No hunting is allowed. Fire arms are absolutely forbidden
?No collecting or trapping of any plant or animal specimens
?No slashing of vegetation or cutting of new trails
?No graffiti on rocks or trees
?All litter / rubbish must be brought out
?Visitors must only stay in the designated campsites
?Campfires can be lit only under the supervision of Ranger

Share on Facebook