Discover an off-the-beaten-path adventure on the rugged western slopes of Mount Kinabalu. Accessible through the charming town of Kota Belud, this expedition takes you deep into the Sayap substation for a unique community-based tourism experience. Guided by local Dusun experts, you will explore pristine montane forests via 4×4 to encounter Borneo’s specialized highland birds, rare insects, and vibrant flora.
Pick up point : Kota Belud Town
Drop off Point : Kota Belud Town
Target Birds : Long-tailed Broadbill, Montane Endemics, and Whitehead’s Pygmy Squirrel.
Duration : 3 days and 2 nights Minimum 2 persons on twin sharing room
Accommodation : Sayap Substation : Local Homestay (Dusun Community)
Package Inclusive of : Main meals, community guide, 4×4 transportation, wildlife nature walks, park entrance fees, and conservation fees.
Not Included in Price : Domestic airfare, Beverages, Camera fees where applicable, Tips and porter.
Terms and Condition Apply
Authentic Montane Wilderness Kinabalu Park Sayap offers a rare glimpse into the undisturbed western ridge of Malaysia’s iconic World Heritage site. Far from the crowded main trails, this sub-montane sanctuary provides a raw and authentic encounter with nature. Your journey is complemented by the warm hospitality of the local Dusun community, providing a genuine cultural connection while you explore the steep ridges and rushing mountain waterfalls that define this rugged landscape.
Highland Birding and Specialized Wildlife This site is a premier destination for enthusiasts seeking Borneo’s montane specialists. Utilizing 4×4 vehicles to access remote trailheads, we focus on spotting iconic species such as the Long-tailed Broadbill and the Whitehead’s Pygmy Squirrel. The mossy forests of Sayap are a thriving habitat for unique biodiversity, including the Malayan Horned Frog and the Edward’s Pitcher Plant, making it a critical site for high-altitude photography and observation.
The Nocturnal Highland Experience As night falls, the Sayap substation transforms into a hotspot for elusive nocturnal creatures. Guided by expert local rangers, our night walks offer the chance to encounter rare species like the Sabah Pit Viper and the Red-headed Krait. Whether you are trekking through the tranquil primary forest or searching for endemic insects under the canopy, this tour delivers a comprehensive immersion into the wilder side of Mount Kinabalu.
Day 1 Arrive at Kota Belud Town in the morning or early afternoon. Meet with our homestay hosts for a transfer to the Sayap substation. After checking into your accommodation and enjoying a traditional dinner, head out for an evening night walk with a local ranger guide to find nocturnal wildlife and endemic amphibians.
Day 2 Breakfast at the homestay followed by a full-day trek into the primary sub-montane forest. We will explore the trails to spot target birds and visit the Ficus nursery to learn about local conservation efforts. After lunch and dinner, there is an option to conduct another night walk to maximize wildlife encounters.
Day 3 Enjoy a relaxed morning with breakfast at the homestay. Take a final short walk through the tranquil trails or visit a nearby mountain waterfall before checking out. Transfer back to Kota Belud town where the trip concludes.
-End of Tour-
Day 1 Arrive at Kota Belud Town in the morning or early afternoon for pick up by the homestay team. Upon arrival at the Sayap substation, check-in and enjoy a traditional dinner. After dark, join a local ranger guide for a night walk within Kinabalu Park to search for nocturnal wildlife, endemic frogs, and insects. Overnight at Sayap Homestay.
Day 2 Breakfast at the homestay followed by a full-day trek through the pristine local forest trails. During the trek, visit the Ficus nursery to learn about reforestation and local conservation. After lunch and dinner at the lodge, there is an option to conduct another guided night walk to maximize wildlife encounters. Overnight at Sayap Homestay.
Day 3 Early breakfast followed by a full-day expedition to hike Mount Minodtuhan (2,340 m a.s.l.) for a chance to see high-altitude flora and panoramic views of the western ridge. Return to the lodge for dinner. For those seeking a deeper wilderness experience, there is an option to camp overnight within Kinabalu Park. Overnight at Sayap Homestay or Camp.
Day 4 A free and easy morning to enjoy the tranquil landscape or perform a final birding session. After breakfast, check out and take the return transport back to Kota Belud town where the tour ends.
-End of tour-
