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Kota Kinabalu is best known as the gateway to the Malaysian state of Sabah, offering exceptional access to a range of incredible scenery, perfect for those hoping to explore Borneo’s enchanting wildlife.

Nestled on the north coast of Borneo, Kota Kinabalu is an intriguing blend of modernity and tradition, and its sleek skyline and bustling streets are balanced by the warm, welcoming charm of its historic districts. In Old Kota Kinabalu, lively fish markets and fresh produce stalls offer a glimpse into daily life, with friendly locals going about their routines.

While the city itself may not have beaches, it’s perfectly positioned for boat trips to nearby tropical islands, where you can relax on pristine sands. Plus, its coastal setting offers unforgettable sunsets over the ocean. Just beyond the city, Borneo’s dense rainforests begin, making Kota Kinabalu an ideal stop for those exploring Sabah’s incredible wildlife.

View suggested itineraries

Key info

  • Where: Malaysian Borneo, Borneo

Wildlife trips

This location is featured in the following itineraries:

Borneo ‘Buganza’ Macro Photography Workshop

Join award-winning photographers Nick Garbutt, Alex Hyde and Chien Lee and venture to some of Borneo’s most biodiverse sites. With a focus on macro photography, this specialist tour reveals a hidden world of captivating insects, amphibians, reptiles and flora, perfect for capturing beautiful close-up images. Find out more about Borneo ‘Buganza’ Macro Photography Workshop

  • Price (inc. flights): 18 days from £13,995
  • Trip type:
    Group Tour
  • When to go:
    • S

Borneo’s Wildlife

Explore the lower slopes of Borneo’s highest mountain, navigate Malaysia’s second longest river, and delve deep into the world’s oldest rainforest on this wildlife trip to encounter Sabah’s hidden secrets and spectacular wildlife including endemic primates and colourful birdlife. Find out more about Borneo’s Wildlife

  • Price (inc. flights): 14 days from £7,995
  • Trip type:
    Group Tour
    Tailor-made can be arranged
  • When to go:
    • M
    • J

Sabah Wildlife Special

Travel to Borneo on a trip that visits some of the best places to see Sabah’s wildlife. Enjoy boat trips to discover the extraordinary wildlife on the Kinabatangan River, including proboscis monkey, orangutan and Bornean pygmy elephant, and spend four nights at one of our favourite lodges in the Danum Valley. Find out more about Sabah Wildlife Special

  • Price (inc. flights): 14 days from £5,995
  • Trip type:
    Tailor-made Holiday
  • When to go:
    • J
    • F
    • M
    • A
    • M
    • J
    • J
    • A
    • S
    • O
    • N
    • D

Borneo Rainforest Photography Workshop

Join acclaimed photographers Nick Garbutt and Alex Hyde to explore Borneo's fascinating habitats and photograph the incredible diversity that lives within them. The forests, rivers and caves of Sabah are home to a huge variety of wildlife that provides no end of photographic opportunities. Find out more about Z) Borneo Rainforest Photography Workshop

  • Price (inc. flights): 19 days from £11,995
  • Trip type:
    Group Tour
  • When to go:
    • M
    • A
    • M
    • J
    • J
    • A
    • S
    • O
    • N
Suggested accommodation is shown below. Please contact us for further recommendations.

The Luma Hotel

The Luma Hotel

The Luma Hotel offers a slice of luxury in Kota Kinabalu with rooms featuring an elegant, minimalist environment inspired by the tropical Bornean surroundings. It's situated in a fantastic location close to the waterfront and the airport, while guests can also enjoy the on-site gym, café and restaurant. Find Out More about The Luma Hotel