“Sabah, often called the ‘Land Below The Wind’, is a state rich in culture, history and natural beauty.”
The origin of its name remains uncertain, with theories linking it to local bananas, the Malay word for palm sugar extraction and the Arabic word for “morning”. The people of Sabah, known as Sabahans, consist of 33 indigenous groups (Sabah bumiputera) who communicate in more than 50 languages and 80 ethnic dialects. From the highest mountains to breathtaking beaches, a trip of 4 to 5 days is ideal to explore Sabah’s top attractions. its stunning islands to its highland retreats.
Day 1: Welcome To The City
Welcome to the vibrant city of Kota Kinabalu, where your adventure in Sabah begins with stunning sights, rich culture and delicious local cuisine!
Sabah Statue Mosque
Sabah Statue Mosque. Credit: Sabah Tourism Board
The Sabah State Mosque is a breathtaking architectural masterpiece, featuring elegant dove-grey walls and majestic domes adorned with shimmering gold inlay. A towering 215-foot minaret stands beside the main dome, surrounded by 16 smaller domes. The Arabic calligraphy on the walls remains a really soothing sight. The wudu (ablution) area is vast and well-maintained, ensuring a comfortable experience for visitors.
Filipino Market
A bustling gem in the centre of KK City, this market is a must-visit hotspot along the vibrant Waterfront, offering a lively mix of culture. This famous market in Kota Kinabalu offers fresh and dried seafood, local handicrafts, souvenirs and street food. Visitors can experience lively bargaining, explore tourist-focused stalls and enjoy the market’s bustling atmosphere. A paradise for seafood lovers, the market overflows with stalls offering a variety of fresh and flavorful seafood dishes.
Atkinson Clock Tower
Atkinson Clock Tower. Credit: Tripadvisor
Suitable for photographers, the Atkinson Clock Tower honours (Jesselton) first district officer Francis George Atkinson, who died of ‘Borneo Fever’ at 28 in 1902. A lasting landmark, it has witnessed the city’s transformation through time. The clock has been maintained weekly in a cramped 4×4 feet space by three generations of the Wah family from Yick Ming Watch Company since 1946.
Tun Mustapha Building
Standing at a height of 122 metres. Imposing and unique Menara Tun Mustapha is one of the most extraordinary buildings in this country, making it one of Sabah’s must go places. This tower houses the headquarters of Yayasan Sabah, a foundation established to provide education, promote economic growth and support charitable institutions in Sabah.
Gaya Street
Gaya Street. Credit: Tripadvisor
Another must-visit market in Sabah is Gaya Street besides the Filipino Market. Originally known as Bond Street during the British colonial era, this historic road was established in 1902 after the completion of its iconic shop houses. This is the best place for those who want to experience the culture and lifestyle of the locals.
100-Year-Old Building
Designed by JW Norman, the Sabah Tourism Building is a historic landmark built with block stones and distinctive arches, making it a timeless heritage worthy of preservation. Tourists can visit this building for travel information, where experienced assistants provide guidance on itineraries, bus schedules and attractions in multiple languages.
Day 2: Chilly in Kundasang
Kundasang is worth visiting for its gorgeous scenery and average cool temperatures of 13°C – 25°. A few popular things to do are visiting the Hot Springs, Dairy Farm and the National Park.
Poring Hot Spring & Canopy Walkway
Poring Hot Spring. Credit: Tripadvisor
Poring gets its name from a type of giant bamboo that thrives abundantly in the area. visitors can soak their aches and pains away in its famous hot sulphur spring baths originally developed by the Japanese during World War II. Located within the hot springs, the canopy walkway is a breathtaking opportunity to observe tropical rainforest wildlife up to 41 meters above the ground while walking across suspension bridges built among the tallest and strongest trees. Just a short 15-minute walk away, Kipungit Waterfall offers a refreshing escape perfect for groups and families.
Desa Dairy Farm
One of the can’t miss places in Kundasang is Desa Dairy Farm. Nicknamed the ‘Little New Zealand’ , this place brings to mind the renowned dairy farms of Kiwi land. This place is great for families and nature enthusiasts – watch the milking process and the milk processing through a viewing panel, enjoy calf feeding activities and explore the cow barn filled with gentle dairy cows.
Kinabalu National Park
Kinabalu National Park. Credit: Sabah Tourism Board
Kinabalu National Park is a must-visit for its stunning tropical landscapes, gorgeous view of Mount Kinabalu and rich biodiversity, making it perfect for nature lovers and photographers alike. Malaysia’s First World Heritage site offers rich flora and fauna sightings, with activities like visiting the Botanical Garden (open daily), exploring nature trails, and hiking the Summit Trail.
Day 3: Sun, Sand and Surf
Perfect for families and tropical island seekers, visit the stunning Manukan and Sapi Islands, where crystal-clear waters, sandy beaches and exciting water activities await.
Manukan Island
Manukan island is located just off the coast of Kota Kinabalu, just a 15-20 minutes boat ride away. Make a day trip to Manukan Island, famous for its soft sand and turquoise waters, creating an intoxicating island experience. Water sports enthusiasts rejoice experience the ultimate water adventure with thrilling activities like swimming, snorkelling, scuba diving, kayaking, sea walking, parasailing jet skiing and banana boat rides.
Sapi Island
Sapi Island. Credit: Klook
Although smaller than Manukan Island, Sapi Island too offers gorgeous beaches and one of the best Sabah snorkelling adventures. Experience soft sand, crystal-clear turquoise waters and impressive visibility, allowing you to see straight to the seabed, perfect for coral and fish spotting. Sapi Island offers the same exciting water sports as Manukan Island, with one unique addition—the Flying Fish. This thrilling ride features a specially designed inflatable boat resembling a flying fish, soaring over the waves for an adrenaline-pumping experience!
Day 4: Traditions Come To Life
Immerse yourself in Sabah’s rich culture at Mari Mari Cultural Village, a must go place for an authentic heritage experience!
Mari Mari Cultural Village
Mari Mari Cultural Village. Credit: Malaysia Travel 2026
Sabah is famous for its rich cultural environment and diverse ethnic heritage, distinct from that of Peninsular Malaysia. A visit to Mari Mari Cultural Village is a must for families, nature lovers, culture enthusiasts and photographers seeking an authentic Sabah experience. This engaging and educational village offers a glimpse into Sabah’s past, where longhouses and ancient rituals were a way of life.
Visitors can discover the traditional art of blow-pipe making, a skill once vital for hunting by indigenous tribes. Marvel at the ancient practice of tattooing, where each design carries deep cultural symbolism and heritage. Learn about the traditional rice wine brewing process, an essential part of Sabahan celebrations and rituals. Be captivated by fire-starting demonstrations using bamboo, a survival technique passed down through generations. Finally, conclude your journey with a mesmerising cultural dance performance, bringing Sabah’s rich heritage to life.
Culture of Sabah. Credit: Sabah Tourism Board
In just four days, you can explore more than ten fascinating destinations in Sabah. Discover its vibrant city life, breathtaking natural landscapes and thrilling beach activities that promise endless excitement. Experience the refreshing highlands, unwind on crystal-clear beaches and enjoy exciting water sports. Wrap up your journey with a deep cultural experience, immersing yourself in local heritage and traditions. It’s worth noting that the best time to visit Sabah is from May to September, when the weather is ideal for outdoor activities.
Are you ready to discover unforgettable Sabah? For more details and best deals, check out our Sabah tour packages!
