When there are so many unanswered questions, we often let the days pass by — either embracing everything or shutting it all out. Perhaps the latter is better; sometimes, escaping for a while feels like the right solution. Maybe it’s true that no matter what the question is, travel is the answer.
On the second day of our Kota Kinabalu tourist spots trip, we hired Fatridzen as our driver and tour guide — or simply Fat. I coincidentally met him while he was waiting for tourists in the lobby of Likas Square Hotel. We negotiated a price of RM600 for a van and gas to visit Kinabalu Park and Kokol Haven Resort for our group of seven. Considering both destinations are at high altitudes where the air pressure can make your ears pop, I’d say the price was quite reasonable.
Kinabalu Park is about 2.5 hours from the city. Notably, Kota Kinabalu’s roads are smooth and traffic-free, though the zigzag roads can make the journey feel longer. On the way, you’ll catch glimpses of the majestic Mount Kinabalu.
We made a brief stop at Nabalu Market, a midway point to Kinabalu Park. This charming market is filled with souvenirs like t-shirts, refrigerator magnets, keychains, bags, and other local keepsakes — perfect for gift shopping.
When we arrived at Kinabalu Park, the cool temperature seemed to cut right through us, leaving us shivering.
We noticed several mountain climbers during our visit, most of whom were Japanese tourists. Access to the climbing trail is restricted unless you’re properly equipped and prepared for the hike. Reaching the summit takes an entire day, especially since the peak is rocky and challenging to navigate.
During our visit, we encountered a squirrel, which we couldn’t resist feeding. However, be cautious — if it grabs your fingers, avoid pulling away too quickly as its sharp claws can cause injury. One of the aunties in our group got scratched, but thankfully, Fat had an emergency kit on hand.
I was particularly excited to visit Kinabalu Park to see the Rafflesia, the world’s largest flower. Unfortunately, it wasn’t in bloom during our visit, so we missed out on this rare sight.
After that, we went next to Kokol Haven Resort.
Kinabalu Park Address: Ranau Sabah Malaysia
Disclaimer: This is not a sponsored post.
