The mountain of Mount Kinabalu, referred to as Gunung Kinabalu in Malay, is a well-known mountain in Southeast Asia located on the island of Borneo. It is located in the Eastern state of Sabah in Malaysia and has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known as Kinabalu National Park.

The peak of Mount Kinabalu, called Low's Peak, sits at an altitude of 4095.2 meters (13,435 feet) above sea level. As the highest mountain in Malaysia and on the island of Borneo, it ranks as the 20th tallest mountain globally in terms of topographic prominence. Additionally, it is considered one of the highest peaks that can be easily climbed by the majority of people.

The optimal period for climbing Mount Kinabalu is from March to September due to the dry season. However, due to changes in the global climate, it is no longer possible to determine the best time to climb because of the closure statistics of the Mount Kinabalu summit gate in the past four years. It is recommended to review a detailed analysis for more information.

The temperature at the top of Mount Kinabalu (4,095.2 meters) can fall to freezing 0°C to 3°C, whereas the temperature in the Timpohon to Panalaban area ranges from 6°C to 16°C and at the base of the mountain, Kinabalu Park, it is around 15°C to 26°C. Despite being in a tropical rainforest, it is common to experience showers and heavy rain at any time of the year.

Although rare, it is possible to see snow on Mount Kinabalu due to its high elevation. Despite temperatures at the summit sometimes dropto below freezing level, and climbers may encounter some ice or frost at the peak, snow will only occur when the conditions are favourable.

Yes, if you follow the guidance of your mountain guide and stay on the designated path, there is reduced risk of injury or accidents, excluding those caused by natural disasters. Although there have been reports of climbers becoming lost, injured, or losing their lives on the mountain, these incidents typically occur when individuals wander off the marked trail or become separated from their group. Moreover, additional safety measures have been implemented since September 1st, 2015.

Panalaban serves as a pit stop or base camp for climbers on their journey to the summit of Mount Kinabalu. It is situated between 3,230 and 3,323 meters above sea level. The base camp at Panalaban includes a collection of huts, such as Laban Rata Resthouse, Pendant Hut, Lemaing Hut, Panalaban Hostel (Mokodou and Kinotoki Huts), etc. These huts offer overnight accommodation for climbers, complete with shower facilities and meals (hot meals are only available at Laban Rata Resthouse).

Climbing the mountain usually takes a minimum of two days and one night. The trek begins in the morning at the Timpohon gate, taking approximately 5 to 7 hours to reach Panalaban where you will spend the night. On the second day, the ascent to the summit starts at 2am, allowing climbers to reach the Low's Peak summit and witness the sunrise around 5.30am. Once at the summit, those who are not participating in the Via Ferrata activity will immediately return to Panalaban, check out and descend straight to Timpohon gate. You will then be transported to the Kinabalu Park HQ, where you can collect your climb certificate before departing for Kota Kinabalu City or any other desired destination.

No. Climbing Mount Kinabalu requires the standard 2 Days 1 Night itinerary, which is mandatory for all climbers. Since the trail's reopening in September 2015, Sabah Parks no longer issues permits for a one-day climb.

Yes. You can opt not to reach the summit. While reaching the top is the ultimate goal for many climbers, the trip to Mount Kinabalu can still be a highly fulfilling experience even for those who do not make it to the peak. In such a scenario, you can choose to stay at the Panalaban Basecamp and wait for others to return from the summit.

Yes, you have the option to cancel or stop the climb before reaching the basecamp. Our mountain guide will assist you in descending to the Timpohon Gate, which is the starting point. However, please note that no refunds will be provided for cancellations made after the tour has begun. In such a case, you may need to bear the additional expenses for accommodation and transportation arrangements.

Staying overnight at mountain accommodations during your climb is both compulsory and highly recommended for safety reasons and to prevent any potential injuries. In the event of an emergency, your mountain guide will assess your condition and determine if activating the Mountain Search and Rescue Unit (MOSAR) is necessary. This decision is subject to the approval of the authorities and may result in additional costs being incurred.

We suggest a 3 Days 2 Nights itinerary for climbing Mount Kinabalu. It's advisable for climbers to spend the night in high-altitude areas such as Kinabalu Park, Kundasang town, or Poring Hot Springs in Ranau before starting the climb. This allows for proper acclimatization to the high altitude and reduces the risk of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS).

The time of arrival varies greatly depending on the physical fitness of the climber and their group. Fit climbers can typically reach the Timpohon gate from Panalaban between 11am and 2pm, with many arriving between 1pm and 3pm. However, some climbers have been known to arrive as late as 10pm. The estimated travel time from Timpohon gate to Kinabalu Park HQ for certificate collection and then on to Kota Kinabalu city is approximately 3 hours.

It is not advisable for climbers to immediately head to the airport after descending from Mt Kinabalu. This is because there is a significant risk of missing a flight due to various reasons such as a slow descent, injury, landslides, traffic congestion, vehicle breakdowns, and others. MountKinabaluClimb.com cannot be held responsible for any financial losses incurred as a result of missed flights.

It is strongly recommended that you obtain a comprehensive travel insurance policy for the entire duration of your trip, which should be purchased in your home country. This insurance should cover personal accidents, loss of baggage, delays, changes to travel plans, cancellations, natural disasters, emergency medical evacuation, infectious diseases, epidemics, terrorism, and other related risks. While our Mount Kinabalu climbing packages do include a personal accident plan provided by Sabah Parks for all climbers, the coverage and payout amount is limited and subject to approval by the Sabah Parks Authority.

Before booking your flight tickets, it is advisable to verify the availability of Mount Kinabalu climbing slots and obtain a booking confirmation from us.

On working days, we typically respond to all emails within a 24-hour period. If you haven't received a response, please take a look at your Spam or Junk inbox to see if our message may have been filtered there. If you still can't find our email, feel free to give us a call or provide an alternate email address. It's not uncommon for our emails to be mistakenly classified as spam, particularly for those using Yahoo accounts, due to their internet security provider.

The price of a Mount Kinabalu climb can vary depending on the package you choose from MountKinabaluClimb.com. To see the different options, please visit the Mount Kinabalu packages section of our website and refer to the listed Mount Kinabalu climb packages.

To secure standard climb slots or accommodation, a deposit of 40% is required, and the remaining balance must be paid 45 days before the tour begins. 

For Via Ferrata climb slots or accommodation, a 50% deposit is necessary, with the balance due 45 days prior to the tour start date. 

If you make a last-minute reservation within 45 days of the tour, full payment is required to secure climb slots or accommodation and participation in the tour. 

Reservations for the Mount Kinabalu Climb package are only guaranteed for 2-3 days (unless stated otherwise) from the date of the client invoice. If payment deadlines are not met, your reservation may be automatically cancelled and your climb slots/accommodation/tours/other bookings may be released to others in line without notice.  

All bookings are subject to availability at the time of booking, and full payment is required for the purchase of airfares. 

Yes, it is safe to book with MountKinabaluClimb.com as we work with a professional ground handler, Amazing Borneo Tours, which is listed with the Sabah Tourism Board as a licensed local operator. 

However, it's important to be cautious of fraudulent websites that sell unlicensed Mount Kinabalu packages, often operating from other parts of the world. Some climbers have fallen victim to these scams and have been left without climbing permits, accommodation, or tours, despite having made payments. 

To avoid this, be sure to only book through legitimate local operators who provide proper invoices, confirmations, and tour itineraries with their company information, including address, contact numbers, and vehicle type. Don't let these scammers ruin your vacation.

If you have a request regarding your accommodation, please submit it during the booking process and be prepared to pay the price difference. It's important to note that all requests are subject to availability.

To climb legally at Panalaban, you must obtain a climb permit which is tied to your accommodation or bed. Therefore, securing your accommodation is necessary to obtain the permit. Additionally, it's important to note that climbers are required to have a minimum of 2 days and 1 night to climb Mount Kinabalu. After the discontinuation of the Climbathon, you can no longer climb the mountain in one day unless you are applying for a special permit from Sabah Parks.

You're welcome to book only the Panalaban accommodation, such as the Laban Rata Resthouse, by submitting your request during the booking process. However, please note that you'll need to make your own arrangements for transportation, mountain guide, and payment of miscellaneous fees. It's important to be cautious when booking your climb, as there have been reports of climbers being scammed by unlicensed or untrustworthy individuals and left without proper permits or accommodations. If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. For your safety, it's always best to book your Mount Kinabalu climb through a licensed and trustworthy tour operator. For more information, see our Booking Tips.

Certainly! If you'd like to arrange transportation, simply include your request during the booking process and the charges will be deducted from your package rate. Please note that you'll be responsible for making your own way to the Kinabalu Park HQ registration counter at the designated time.

It's recommended that you book your climb as soon as you've made the decision to do so. While it's often suggested that you book your Mt Kinabalu climb slot 3-6 months in advance, it's still possible for MountKinabaluClimb.com to accommodate last-minute bookings based on availability.

A climb slot refers to a bed in Panalaban that's linked to a climbing permit. The number of available beds equals the number of issued climb permits. So, if MountKinabaluClimb.com secures a climbing slot for you, it means that you'll also be granted a climbing permit and a bed for an overnight stay. However, please exercise caution when booking Mt Kinabalu accommodation from unknown sources, as there have been reports of climbers paying for their accommodations but being unable to obtain climb permits.  

Starting from January 2023, there will be an increase in the climb permit fee. You can find more information about it HERE.

There are two climb packages available:  

The via ferrata climb package, which includes a permit for via ferrata climbing. 

The non-ferrata climb package, which includes a permit for non-ferrata climbing.  

Both packages enable you to reach the summit of Mount Kinabalu (Low’s Peak) regardless of whether you choose to participate in via ferrata climbing. To see the various climb packages, please click HERE.

If your preferred climb package is fully booked on your desired date, you can provide us with alternative dates. Alternatively, if you must climb on your preferred date and have no other dates available, we suggest that you consider switching your climb package from non-ferrata to via ferrata or vice versa.  

 Although there is a possibility that your preferred climb permit may become available at a later date due to cancellations, it is recommended that you book immediately if either type of climb package is available. This ensures that you have a guaranteed climb permit to climb Mount Kinabalu. MountKinabaluClimb.com encourages all guests to book as soon as possible to secure their climb permit, rather than waiting for their preferred climb package. 

After making a reservation, a deposit must be paid before the due date provided by our sales coordinator. Typically, we require payment to be made within 2-5 working days in order to secure your climb slot and permit. If payment is not received within this time frame, your reservation will be released from our climb booking system and made available to other guests. 

Full payment is required for special promotional rates or for climb dates that are less than 30 days from the time of booking. Once payment has been received, we will issue a payment receipt and tour itinerary prior to the start of your tour. 

Once your booking has been confirmed, we will require a photocopy of your passport, including your full name, passport number (for non-Malaysians) or IC number (for Malaysians), nationality, date of birth, and contact number (if available). We will email you a climber details form that must be completed and returned to us as soon as possible. 

If the completed form is not returned to us, we may not be able to secure your climb permit from Sabah Parks authority. In addition, the Via Ferrata climb operator may impose an RM100 penalty fee per climber for late submission, which is beyond our control.

Indeed, there is an administrative fee for changing the name on a climb permit. For Non-Ferrata climb permits, the fee is RM50.00 per climber, and for Via Ferrata climb permits, the fee is RM100.00 per climber. Please be aware that name changes and postponement of climbing dates are not permitted for any packages except for MK201 and MK202.

Yes, it is mandatory to have a climbing permit issued by Sabah Park Authority. During the climb, the climb permit (including a visible ID tag) must be worn at all times as you will be checked periodically at certain checkpoints. The number of climbing permits available is equal to the number of beds available in Panalaban.

Prior to the Covid-19 pandemic, Sabah Parks would issue 185 climbing permits per day. This was done for safety reasons in order to monitor climbers' safety while ascending to the Low's Peak summit in total darkness and to prevent overcrowding at the summit. However, in the wake of Covid-19 pandemic, Sabah Parks has reduced the number of daily climbing permits to 163 as of January 25th, 2023. We advise climbers who are interested in securing a permit to book early to avoid disappointment. To view available climb packages, please click HERE.

As with any other country, local citizens are entitled to certain privileges. For climbing Mount Kinabalu, Malaysians receive substantial subsidies from the government while international visitors are required to pay regular rates. To see the difference between the climbing fees for Malaysians and international visitors, please click HERE.

Only 10 climb slots per day are reserved for Sabahans at Sabahan rates, and these slots are typically reserved more than 6 months in advance. If you are interested in Sabahan rate packages, you may contact SSL to check availability. However, it is important to be cautious of scams perpetrated by unlicensed individuals. To ensure a hassle-free and worry-free climb experience, we recommend securing your booking with a reliable tour operator by clicking HERE.

Only individuals who possess a Malaysian passport or the Malaysian Identity card (MyKad) are eligible. Those who are foreigners and have permanent residence in Malaysia are not qualified.

Despite your experience in climbing, Sabah Park safety regulations mandate that all climbers and hikers must be accompanied by a licensed mountain guide from the local Mountain Guide Association. The ratio for the guide to climber is at least 1 to 5 for climbers who are over 16 years old and 1 to 2 for those who are under 16 years old.

To ensure the safety of all climbers, particularly children and young climbers, Sabah Parks Authority has established guidelines for hiring a mountain guide for the Mount Kinabalu Climb. To simplify, climbers who are 16 years old or older are referred to as adults, while climbers who are 15 years old or younger are referred to as children. 

• One mountain guide is allowed to take a maximum of five climbers aged 16 years and above in the same group. 

 Guide : Climbers (5 Adults) = 1 : 5 

• One mountain guide is allowed to take a maximum of three climbers if there is a child aged below 16 years old in the same group. 

 Guide : Climbers (2 Adults + 1 Child) = 1 : 3 

 Guide : Climbers (1 Adult + 2 Children) = 1 : 3 

•  One mountain guide is allowed to take a maximum of two children aged below 16 years in the same group. 

 Guide : Climbers (2 Children) = 1 : 2 

At MountKinabaluClimb.com, climbers from different groups are not combined and made to share mountain guides. Every individual or group booking is assigned the necessary number of mountain guides according to Sabah Parks guidelines. This allows you and your group to trek at your own pace and ensure safety. In the unlikely scenario of a shortage of mountain guides by Sabah Parks, leading to the mixing of climbers from different groups, MountKinabaluClimb.com will provide a reasonable refund to our climbers.

The size of your group pertains to the number of individuals in your final booking order with us, and not the size of our company's group, which may include other travellers for the same tour. The cost per person decreases as the number of individuals in your group increases. If the size of your group decreases, the corresponding costs will also adjust accordingly. CONTACT US for big group discounts!

Regrettably, refunds are not possible in any circumstances, including but not limited to, closure of the summit due to inclement weather, acts of God, being declined permission to climb by Sabah Parks rangers or mountain guides due to personal health and safety concerns, or any other factors that could influence the authorities' decision to prohibit you from reaching the summit.

In the event that your tour has not yet begun, the refund amount will be determined by our Cancellation Policy. However, refunds will not be granted if less than four (04) days' notice is given, if the tour has already begun, or if any of the tour services, such as transfers, meals and accommodation, guiding, the climb itself, or any other unused services, have not been utilized.

In the event that your tour has not yet begun, the refund amount will be determined by our Cancellation Policy. However, refunds will not be granted if less than four (04) days' notice is given, if the tour has already begun, or if any of the tour services, such as transfers, meals and accommodation, guiding, the climb itself, or any other unused services, have not been utilized.

In the event that your tour has not yet begun, the refund amount will be determined by our Cancellation Policy. However, refunds will not be granted if less than four (04) days' notice is given, if the tour has already begun, or if any of the tour services, such as transfers, meals and accommodation, guiding, the climb itself, or any other unused services, have not been utilized.

In the event that your tour has not yet begun, the refund amount will be determined by our Cancellation Policy. However, refunds will not be granted if less than four (04) days' notice is given, if the tour has already begun, or if any of the tour services, such as transfers, meals and accommodation, guiding, the climb itself, or any other unused services, have not been utilized.

If the Client needs to cancel their booking, they must provide written notice. The Client and their travelling companions will be responsible for the following cancellation charges based on the number of days between the tour commencement and receipt of cancellation notice: 

• 30 days or more: 40% of tour cost forfeited
• 15 to 29 days: 75% of tour cost forfeited 
• 08 to 14 days: 85% of tour cost forfeited 
• 04 to 07 days: 95% of tour cost forfeited 
• Less than 04 days or No Show: 100% of tour cost forfeited 

If any tour products or individual components are supplied by third parties, such as air tickets, hotel or lodge bookings, etc., the respective third-party cancellation fees and a minimum handling charge of MYR50 per service per person will apply as per their terms and conditions. 

Requests to change the climb date will be considered only in certain circumstances, which include emergency family matters like death or sudden sickness, personal health problems, and pregnancy. If a climber wants to request an amendment due to these reasons, they must provide written notice and supporting documents, such as a death certificate or a doctor's letter, to prove their situation. The amendment will only apply to the climber and their dependents, such as children climbing with affected parents. 

Any other requests to change the climb date that do not fall under these categories will be treated as a cancellation request, and the climbers will need to book a new climb slot if available for the new requested dates. In such cases, cancellation fees per climber will be charged.  

Please note that approval from the mountain authorities or accommodation, and permit providers will also be required. 

If you want to make changes to your non-Ferrata climb-related bookings after you have paid, you will be charged a minimum of MYR50 per service amendment per person. This fee is in addition to any charges imposed by the airlines, hotels, climb operators, or service providers involved. For Via Ferrata climb-related bookings, the minimum charge for an amendment after payment is made is MYR150 per service amendment per person. 

However, transferring to another package less than 30 days before departure is not considered an amendment. Instead, it means cancelling the original booking, and you will be subject to the appropriate cancellation fees as specified in the "Cancellation Policy" clause.

Climbing activities have recommenced since 1 October 2021, albeit with certain changes to the Standard Operating Procedures. Sabah Parks has now imposed a daily limit of 163 climbers, and children under the age of 12 may climb as long as they are accompanied by a parent or guardian. However, climbers who are over 70 years old are not advised to participate in climbing activities.

Please read up on the latest Sabah Parks' Covid-related SOPs.

To climb, you must show the climb provider with legitimate proof of your Covid-19 health status, including a screenshot of your MySejahtera risk status and Covid-19 test results, if you test positive one day before the climb.

If you have been diagnosed with Covid-19 one day before your scheduled climb, you cannot climb according to Sabah Parks' SOPs. However, you may reschedule your climb for a later date after recovering from Covid-19, subject to availability of climb slots. The earliest you may reschedule your climb is 10 days from the date you tested positive for Covid-19.

A postponement charge of RM300 per person will apply, unless you have previously booked "Covid-19 Protect."

It is possible for your group to reschedule to a later date, but there will be charges for postponement, which will be RM300 per person, unless the entire group has previously booked "Covid-19 Protect."

Refunds are not permitted. However, you may reschedule your climb for a later date. If you choose to reschedule, you will be subject to postponement charges of RM300 per person, unless you have already booked "Covid-19 Protect.

By purchasing Covid-19 Protect at a cost of RM 150/pax, you can have peace of mind for your climb. The coverage for Covid-19 Protect is as follows: 

• You may postpone your climb if you test positive for Covid-19 between 1 to 60 days before your scheduled climb. 
• You may postpone your climb if any member of your group who has booked with the same booking details test positive for Covid-19 between 1 to 60 days before the actual climb. 
• It's important to note that new climb slots are subject to availability on the requested date, and the new date must be within one year of the original climb date. 

If you wish to purchase "Covid-19 Protect" for your climb, it must be purchased for all members of your booking. For those who choose not to opt for "Covid-19 Protect", their booking will be processed separately, resulting in separate booking confirmations.

In the event that any members of your climbing group test positive for Covid-19 before the climb and would like to postpone, they will be subject to postponement charges of RM300 per person, unless they have booked "Covid-19 Protect." However, climbers who have booked "Covid-19 Protect" are able to postpone their climb without incurring any postponement charges.

To proceed with your climb, you must present valid evidence of your MySejahtera Covid-19 health status, which includes a screenshot of your MySejahtera risk status and Covid-19 test results, to the climb provider. Afterward, you must inform the climb provider of your preferred new climb date. Please bear in mind that climb slots are subject to availability.

There isn't a specific age restriction for those wishing to climb Mount Kinabalu, provided that they are in good health. If you are taking any medication, it is recommended that you consult with your doctor beforehand. MountKinabaluClimb.com has facilitated the ascent of climbers spanning a wide age range, from seven-year-olds to octogenarians. Nonetheless, we recommend that children under ten years of age do not attempt the climb due to the abundance of steps and steep inclines. Likewise, older climbers should be in good physical condition to tackle the ascent.

While Kinabalu Park does not conduct physical health assessments during registration, it is advisable for all climbers to undergo a medical check-up before embarking on any mountain climbing. Climbing is not recommended for those who are pregnant or have a history of the following medical conditions: hypertension, diabetes, palpitations, arthritis, heart disease, severe anaemia, peptic ulcers, epileptic fits, obesity (overweight), chronic asthma, muscular cramps, hepatitis (jaundice), or any other ailment that may impede the climber's ability. Ultimately, you are the best judge of your body's capabilities.

No, you do not require any specialized climbing expertise or gear to climb Mt Kinabalu, even though it is an adventure destination. Climbing up Mt Kinabalu is similar to ascending a never-ending staircase, and you can get by with a sturdy pair of walking or trekking shoes, a waterproof jacket, a head torch, and gloves. As long as you are in reasonably good health and fitness, you can confidently attempt the climb. Regular exercise is recommended as it can provide you with an extra advantage in successfully completing the climb.

Ascending Mt Kinabalu typically requires a minimum of two days, with the first day being relatively easy - a 6km trek on a step-like track to an altitude of 11,000 feet above sea level. The second day is somewhat more challenging, involving a climb to the summit using ropes at an inclination of approximately 15-20 degrees. If you can comfortably ascend and descend a 12-story staircase several times in a day, it indicates that you are adequately prepared for the climb!

Altitude sickness, also known as Acute Mountain Syndrome (AMS), affects individuals differently, regardless of their fitness level. While most climbers may experience mild symptoms such as light-headedness or a headache, a small percentage may experience more severe symptoms such as nausea or vomiting. Symptoms of AMS vary among people but may include dizziness, fatigue, confusion, difficulty walking, laboured breathing, and feeling extremely unwell. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is recommended that you avoid physical exertion and breathe slowly and deeply. It is critical to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. If your symptoms persist or worsen, descend to a lower altitude and seek medical assistance from your guide who will advise you on what steps to take.

Altitude sickness is primarily caused by ascending to high altitudes too quickly, which prevents the body from adjusting to the lower oxygen levels. To prevent altitude sickness, it is recommended to spend a night before climbing at Kinabalu Park, Kundasang, or Poring Hot Springs in Ranau area, which are around 1,500m above sea level, to aid in gradual acclimatization. Alternatively, you may take altitude sickness tablets such as Acetazolamide (Diamox) to help with acclimatization rates, periodic breathing, and recovery from AMS. However, it is essential to consult a doctor for proper dosages as it is a prescription drug.

Additionally, it is advisable to keep the three golden rules in mind when attempting the climb. First, drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. Second, acclimatize to the altitude gradually by spending a night at highland areas before ascending Mount Kinabalu. Third, avoid rapid ascents by trekking at a normal pace and resting at the shelters (pondoks) along the way if necessary. It is recommended to rest longer for acclimatization at Layang-Layang hut, which is 2702m above sea level.

Lastly, climbers may opt to purchase a portable oxygen inhaler bar as a precaution. As a lack of oxygen is the primary cause of altitude sickness, breathing oxygen with the aid of the inhaler may help slow the onset of symptoms and provide temporary relief. This is a useful option for climbers of all fitness levels.

It's possible to hike up to Panalaban as most of the route is a well-maintained track with steps, and shelters are available along the 6 km path, making it less affected by rain. However, the main concern is the climb to the summit of Low's Peak, which may be halted or even canceled in severe weather conditions with heavy rain and strong winds. If the Sabah Park Authority doesn't officially close the summit due to bad weather, climbers can still proceed if they sign an indemnity form as requested by the Park Rangers, but the final decision lies with the Sabah Park official, who may decide to close the summit for safety reasons. Typically, the summit climb is closed around 10 to 15 times per year on average.

In the event of unforeseeable circumstances and for the safety of climbers, no refunds will be issued, and MountKinabaluClimb.com will not benefit from such cases. This is considered an Act of God. However, climbers can still continue their ascent to Panalaban, where they can stay overnight and enjoy inclusive meals.

In the event of sustaining an injury during the climb, it is important to notify your mountain guide immediately. They will assess your condition and decide on the necessary course of action.

If the injury is serious and prevents you from walking, the guide will alert the Mountain Search and Rescue Unit (MOSAR) to carry out an emergency rescue operation. They will transport you down the mountain on a stretcher and take you to Hospital Ranau for treatment. Any costs associated with the hospital stay and registration will be the responsibility of the guest.

For minor injuries, you have the option to continue the climb or hire a porter to carry you down the mountain. Porter fees range from MYR 400 to MYR 600 per kilometer, depending on your weight, until you reach the starting point at Timpohon Gate.

It's important to note that not all injuries are covered under Sabah Park's climber insurance. Therefore, it is recommended that you purchase a separate personal travel insurance policy before embarking on your Mount Kinabalu trip for better coverage.

It's worth noting that the Mount Kinabalu region is designated as a no-fly zone, even in cases of emergency that involve life-threatening situations. Helicopter services may not be utilized due to the unpredictable climate and visibility conditions, which could pose a significant risk to the pilot and passengers. The visibility can change rapidly without warning, and the helicopter may even collide with trees if the visibility is near zero.

However, there was a rare and exceptional case in June 2010 where our ground handler was able to save a boy's life using a helicopter service after a severe fall near Low's Peak summit. This was made possible through the assistance and support of Sabah Park Authority, Sabah Air, and Sabah Medical Centre. We are grateful for their assistance in this difficult situation.

PIB offers Sabah Parks Climber's Personal Accident Insurance, which provides coverage for: 

• Death/Disablement up to RM50,000
• Medical expenses per accident up to RM5,000
• Repatriation expenses up to RM2,000

However, it's important to note that the default claim value is limited and may take up to two months to process. Therefore, climbers are strongly advised to purchase separate travel insurance in their own country to obtain better coverage.

To prepare for the mountain climb, a basic training routine of walking uphill or climbing stairs for a period of 2-4 weeks should be sufficient.

Please refer to the "Things to Bring" checklist for the typical items that you would need to bring for mountain hiking. While this is the standard packing list, you are free to make changes based on your individual needs and preferences. However, we do advise that you keep your backpack weight to a maximum of 6-8kg or less.

Wearing shoes is mandatory for the climb from Panalaban to the summit, and climbers who are not wearing shoes, sandals, slippers, or who are barefooted will not be allowed to ascend to the summit by the Sabah Parks rangers or mountain guides. Additionally, for your own safety, we strongly advise that you carry a head torch. It's highly likely that climbers without a head torch will not be allowed to ascend from Panalaban to the summit.

The Kinabalu Park Headquarters provides a luggage storage service at a cost of RM12.00 per piece. Upon depositing your luggage, you will be given luggage claim tags which you should keep safe to claim your belongings after your climb.

Since the power cable breakdown on 1st April 2019, the assorted huts in Panalaban, including private rooms 1, 2 & 3 in Laban Rata Resthouse, no longer have heated facilities. However, the temperature inside the huts remains comfortable enough for staying (approximately 12-15 degrees Celsius), and bed linens and blankets are provided. Therefore, you do not need to bring sleeping bags, but if you are a Via Ferrata climber, Pendant Hut provides sleeping bags for your use.

Shower facilities in Panalaban Base Camp Assorted Huts currently do not have water heaters.

To make the summit ascend, it is recommended to wear at least four layers of clothing, including a windbreaker, as the temperature inside Panalaban/Pendant Huts is approximately 12-15 degrees Celsius and at Low's Peak Summit, it can drop to around -3 to 5 degrees Celsius.

• Timpohon - Laban Rata - Timpohon : RM 140 (10kg)
• Timpohon - Sayat-Sayat - Timpohon : RM 180 (10kg)
• Timpohon - Summit - Timpohon : RM 200 (10kg)

*The minimum weight for luggage is 10 kilograms, and any additional weight will incur a charge based on the daily rate per kilogram. 

*The rates provided include a 0% Goods and Services Tax (GST). 

*Please note that they are for reference purposes only, and it is advisable to confirm the rates with the porters on the day of their services.  

*Payments are to be made directly to the porters in cash. 

Porters are not like mountain guides as they only carry your belongings and walk non-stop to Panalaban, where they will wait for your arrival. Therefore, you should not ask them to carry items that you will need during your climb. To avoid this, it is recommended that you pack two separate bags: one for the porter to carry straight to Panalaban and another personal bag containing your necessities, such as water, lunch pack, and energy bars, that you will carry with you throughout the climb.

Climbers typically require only 1.5L-2L of water from Timpohon to Panalaban, which may be less than expected due to the humidity and passing showers during the trek. A 500ml bottle of drinking water will be included in your packed lunch.

Yes, the water stored in the tank is natural spring water. However, it is important to note that the untreated water may not be suitable for those with a weak stomach. If you have concerns, it is advisable to bring your own water purification tablets or stick to using bottled water during your climb.

While the contents of the packed lunch may vary from time to time, it typically consists of a sandwich, an egg, a local snack, a piece of fruit, and a 500ml bottle of mineral water.

Our standard vegetarian menu is primarily designed for ovo-lacto vegetarians and can be adapted to most areas. Generally, the menu will exclude meat rather than incorporating vegetarian protein sources such as tofu, beans, or nuts. It should be noted that vegetarianism is not yet widely understood in our country. Please be aware that while MountKinabaluClimb.com will make every effort to meet special dietary requirements, we cannot guarantee that all requests can be accommodated, particularly for non-ovo-lacto vegetarians. In cases where meals are served buffet or set-menu style, we suggest that you avoid the meat or other items that do not conform to your dietary restrictions.

1. We partner with licensed land tour operators in Malaysia. 
2. Our Licensed Land Tour Operator is supported by reputable organizations like MATTA, Sabah Tourism Board, and Malaysia Tourism Board.  
3. Our operators are ISO 9001 certified, ensuring that your booking and climb adhere to the highest standards of quality management procedures.  
4. We only use legal and licensed climb permits authorized by Sabah Parks Authority. 
5. As the Mount Kinabalu Mountain People, we handle thousands of climbers from all over the world annually.  
6. We have multiple daily departures to and from Kinabalu Park and Kota Kinabalu City Centre.  
7. We have offices in Kota Kinabalu, Kinabalu Park, and Singapore. 
8. We maintain strong relationships with locals, hoteliers, and suppliers in Borneo. 
9. Your safety is always our top priority.  
10. We are equipped to handle crises and emergencies efficiently.  
11. We provide dedicated mountain guides for your group only. There is no co-sharing with other climbers so you can trek at your own pace.  
12. Our guides are carefully selected and trained in first aid.  
13. We provide clean and reliable vehicles for comfortable travel. 
14. Our climb package rates are highly competitive 
15. There are no hidden or extra costs in our pricing.  
16. We provide accurate updates on Mount Kinabalu's weather conditions. 
17. We are committed to responsible tourism.  
18. We offer personalized and dedicated services, allowing you to tailor your Mount Kinabalu climb trip to include other tours and accommodation in the whole of Sabah. 
19. Book with MountKinabaluClimb.com and start your Mount Kinabalu adventure!

Via Ferrata and rock climbing are not identical. While they both take place in similar areas and environments, Via Ferrata climbing is less challenging than rock climbing and does not demand any prior experience.

Individuals between the ages of 10 and 70 who are healthy and physically fit, unafraid of heights, and keen on encountering the mountains in a unique manner can participate in this activity. Additionally, it is important to note that a minimum height of 1.3 meters is required. This applies to both climbers and non-climbers alike.

Absolutely not! If you can climb a ladder, then you possess the ability to ascend Mount Kinabalu Via Ferrata.

For novices, Walk The Torq is the recommended choice. On the other hand, if you desire to partake in the Guinness World Record-holding highest Via Ferrata, then Low's Peak Circuit is unquestionably the way to go

To ensure safety, it is mandatory for all Via Ferrata climbers to attend the pre-activity briefing and familiarization session, which commences between 3pm and 4pm. If participants arrive late, they will be deemed ineligible for the activity the following morning. This applies to both novice and seasoned climbers.

Please note that no refunds or compensation will be given in the event of non-participation in the Via Ferrata activity due to personal, health, weather, summit closure, or any other reason. MountKinabaluClimb.com does not profit from such circumstances.

It is highly recommended to select Timpohon trail. However, guests must be mindful that if they miss the safety briefing cut-off time and are unable to proceed with the Via Ferrata, no reimbursement will be provided.

Absolutely! A Via Ferrata trainer will be assigned to you and your group. These trainers are responsible for providing comprehensive safety briefings, instructing you on the proper use of safety equipment, and climbing with you. They will also offer tips on how to navigate challenging obstacles and point out remarkable views along the way.

Please note that Sabah Parks' regulations stipulate that Via Ferrata climbers must be always accompanied by a trainer.

Depending on the size of your group, it may be necessary to join forces with other Via Ferrata climbers.

The maximum number of climbers allowed for Low's Peak Circuit is 6, while Walk the Torq accommodates up to 10 climbers.

The activity usually begins between 5:30am and 7:30am.

Upon arrival, you will be greeted by Via Ferrata trainers at the Pendant Hut for a mandatory briefing and familiarization session that commences between 3pm and 4pm. During this session, you will receive practical training with all necessary Via Ferrata safety gear and will be informed of the exact meeting point and time for your scheduled activities.

All participants are provided with free rental of essential safety equipment, including harnesses, lanyards, and helmets. Additionally, Via Ferrata familiarization is offered to ensure that everyone is well-prepared for the adventure ahead. The Via Ferrata trainers will also guide you through the activity.

Absolutely! Via Ferrata climbing takes place in a safe and controlled environment, with established routes, equipment, and experienced trainers to guide and support you throughout. The focus is on ensuring that participants enjoy the challenge of the sport in the safest possible manner. Regular safety checks and maintenance are performed on all equipment.

Certainly, but please keep in mind that it is essential to store your camera inside your backpack to prevent the risk of accidentally dropping it and causing harm to other climbers. Your trainer will advise you on safe areas for taking photos, and we recommend always attaching your camera to a safety sling or cord.

All Via Ferrata climbers will stay at the well-maintained Pendant Hut @ Panalaban area, in a dormitory-style setting with individual sleeping bags provided.

Continental breakfast and supper will be served at the Pendant Hut, with a buffet dinner at the Laban Rata Resthouse on Day 1. On Day 2, lunch will be provided upon arrival at Kinabalu Park after the descent.

We highly recommend making advanced bookings to secure your spot for the Via Ferrata activity. You can submit an enquiry to MountKinabaluClimb.com to make a booking, and we will aim to respond within 48 hours whenever possible.

Mountain Torq will supply all the necessary technical safety equipment for the activities. However, for personal items, please refer to the "Things to Bring" checklist for items you typically need to bring for mountain hiking.

For the Via Ferrata activity, Mountain Torq suggests the use of the following footwear: 

• Hiking boots 
• Walking shoes with a good grip 
• Trekking shoes 
• Sneakers or running shoes with laces 

However, the following types of footwear are PROHIBITED for use during the activity: 

• Open-toe shoes 
• Slippers 
• Slip-on sneakers 
• Boots or rain boots 
• Gardening boots 

The Mount Kinabalu summit climb was temporarily closed after an earthquake struck Sabah on 5th June 2015, and remained closed for restoration works until 31st August of that year. Although the Timpohon trail reopened on 1st September 2015, climbers were only allowed to ascend as far as Panalaban. However, on 1st December 2015, the summit trail climb was reopened and resumed as usual.

It is important to note that while the chances of experiencing tremors during a Mount Kinabalu climb are relatively low, they are still possible. It is recommended that climbers follow the instructions and guidance of their guides and adhere to safety procedures to minimize the risk of injury or harm in case of any unexpected events.

The mild tremors currently occurring are not expected to dislodge rocks. In addition, global mountaineering specialists and geologists have examined the new trail paths to ensure they are not situated in areas where falling rocks may occur if any future movements are detected.

Unfortunately, No. The Mesilau Trail is closed indefinitely due to the quake damages. No fixed date has been set for reopening of the Mesilau Trail.

The Timpohon Trail starting from Timpohon gate to PanaLaban remains unchanged. However, the trails that were damaged leading to the summit have been restored and a new trail has been created called the "Ranau Trail".

As of December 1st, 2015, new safety regulations for children have been put in place and the mountain guide ratio has been adjusted, but there is no specific age limit for those who wish to climb Mount Kinabalu.

Ratio of Guide : Climber

• Climbers aged 16 years and above - Ratio: 1 : 5
• Climbers aged below 16 years - Ratio: 1 : 2

Example 1: A group consisting of 2 adults and 1 child (aged 15 years and below) will need the assistance of 2 mountain guides.  

Example 2: A group consisting of 6 adults and 3 children (aged 15 or younger) will need the assistance of 4 mountain guides. 

Yes, the Via Ferrata Activities for both Walk the Torq and Low’s Peak Circuit have been opened to the public since 18 January 2016. Climbers can now experience the new breath-taking scenic view of climbing Mount Kinabalu via Ferrata, which is the first of its kind in Asia.