Trekking and Hiking in Kota Kinabalu
Another amazing way to groove on the nature and its gifts to mankind is jungle trekking in Kota Kinabalu. The idea of jungle trekking in order to appreciate the bounty of nature might sound perplexing but besides being a thrill-filled activity, it actually takes travelers close to nature so that they can sense it at its best.
Kota Kinabalu is bestowed with some of the most exotic rainforests which are brimmed with abundant flora and fauna. The easy-to-find, conveniently available and friendly English-speaking guides make the experience even more worthwhile. Zealots of nature adventure will surely love engaging themselves in jungle trekking at Kota Kinabalu. Below are some of the worth trying avenues:
Kinabalu Park
Profound species of flora and fauna to be seen here besides the majestic Mount Kinabalu make jungle trekking in Kinabalu Park a memorable experience. Trained and experienced guides make the adventure easy even for the first timers. The all new Ranau Trail takes trekkers through most panoramic views of the Kinabalu National Park- the very first World Heritage Site of Malaysia.
Salt Trails Jungle Trekking
Ages ago, locals of Sabah used to travel through these jungle paths to carry out barter trade in which salt used to be the main commodity. This is the reason that this trail has been named as Salt Trail. Being a difficult trek, it requires a decent fitness level for the trekking aspirants. Trekking through the entire trail requires 4 days. On the way trekkers can find some of the most ravishing views of nature and encounter exceptional hospitality by the people.
Kiansom Waterfall Trekking
A place of wonderful natural beauty, this is an unscathed jungle which has seven enchanting waterfalls and numerous tiny creatures. Also there is a pool taking a swim in which can provide respite from the heat after an adventurous trek. Only 20 km away from the city of Kota Kinabalu, this place offers amazing opportunities of some fun-filled trekking.
Gaya Island Jungle Trekking
A boat ride of 15 minutes from Jesselton Point jetty is required to reach Gaya Island- the largest island of Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park.
It is a complete experience of jungle trekking but packed up in a short trek of 2 km.
Nano Jungle Trek
A short track starting from the edge of KK going upwards to the Signal Hill Observatory is the Nano Trek. Though a short trek of only about 7 minutes, this one takes trekkers through a typical tropical rainforest. And the best part of this path is that it more or less lies inside the city.
The trekking packages offered by several travel operators usually include transfers, entry fee, guide, activity equipment and lunch/meals. To be on a safer side, anything that is not mentioned as inclusive of in the package should not be presumed as complimentary. Trekking aspirants are however required to make pre-arrangements for water bottles, hat, mosquito repellent, sleeping bags, pillow, sunscreen, toiletries, leech socks and the like.
