If you're planning to hike Mount Kinabalu, the highest peak in Southeast Asia, you're in for an unforgettable adventure. But don’t be fooled by the stunning Instagram shots—this isn’t just a walk in the park. It’s a serious trek that requires considerable physical and mental preparation. The hike covers 8.5 km, with 6 km on the first day, followed by an early start to trek 2.5 km before the 8.5 km descent.

I recently joined the G Adventures Highlights of Sabah and Mt Kinabalu tour, which included a two-day trek up the mountain. While it is possible to organise a trek independently, you will need to hire a guide and arrange transport, accommodation, permits, and meals.

Gear: What to Pack

1. Hiking Poles

Two trekking poles are a game-changer, especially for the descent. Adjust them to be longer for the way down to ease the pressure on your knees.

2. Footwear

Proper hiking boots are recommended, especially if you're used to ankle support and grip. That said, some climbers do it in runners or even sandals (not advised unless you're very experienced).

3. Clothing

Hiking pants or gym leggings will do just fine. You'll be sweaty and active, so wear what you're comfortable in. It’s humid, so be prepared to sweat. Also, pack your waterproof rain jacket—you’re hiking through tropical rainforest, and mountain weather can shift fast.

4. Layers Are Key

A beanie and climbing gloves (snow-style) will help with warmth and grip as you near the summit, especially during the early morning chill. Pack warm clothing or layers for sleeping, as the accommodation can be cold in the dining rooms and sleeping areas.

5. Water, Snacks & Essentials

Carry a refillable water bottle—you can refill it with filtered water at the accommodation halfway up. Bring snacks like chocolate, nuts, or energy bars to keep your energy up. Pack your hydralyte to drink before, during and after your hike. There are huts every kilometre for resting your legs and toilets along the way, but bring your toilet paper.

Don’t forget a headlamp for the summit hike (you’ll start around 2:30 am), sunscreen, lip balm, and any personal medications.

Food: What to Expect

Lunch was provided as part of our package and typically included rice, hard-boiled eggs, Oreos, Snickers, and water. It’s basic but satisfying enough to keep you going. Meals at the Laban Rata rest house include a buffet-style dinner and a light breakfast before your summit push.

Accommodation & Logistics

You have two main options:

1. Join a Tour

Joining a group like G Adventures makes things easier—everything is taken care of for you, from guides to meals.

2. DIY the Trek

Organising it yourself involves:

Transport to and from the trail start/end
Park fees and climbing permit
A certified trekking guide (mandatory)
Optional porter if you don’t want to carry your own bag (I paid 140 ringgit for mine)
Overnight accommodation (usually at Laban Rata)
Meals at rest points and summit-day breakfast

Bring cash (Malaysian Ringgit) for any extras, tips, or drinks/snacks at park HQ—there are no ATMs on the mountain.

Difficulty Level

This isn’t just a casual stroll—expect a grade 4/5 hike. It’s a serious physical push, particularly due to the altitude and steep incline.

It is a mixture of steep rocky steps, boulders, tree roots, and stairs of varying sizes with sections of ropes and ladders. It is estimated to have approximately 600 flights of stairs, or more than 21,000 steps. It is a workout and a half and not for the faint-hearted.

You will be at a high altitude, so be mindful of the effects. Before leaving home, consider consulting a doctor to obtain a prescription for altitude sickness medication. Take these a couple of days before your hike to prepare your body.

Slow and steady is the key whilst trekking. You start in Kota Kinabalu at 1800m above sea level. The base camp, where you stay at Laban Rata Resthouse, is at 3272m, and the summit at Low's Peak is 4095m. Every 500m on the climb is signposted, which can be either a welcome sight or not so much.

While anyone with a reasonable fitness level should be suitable for the hike, I recommend carefully considering your motivation before making a final decision. My two months of training, which included daily cardio, long four-hour walks, stair climbs, and bushwalking, did not feel adequate. I would suggest training for at least six months to a year before your hike.

Be realistic about your limits and show yourself some grace. Stretch your calves and hamstrings in the days before and after your hike. To stay loose, incorporate yoga poses like downward dog and cat/cow.

Your legs will feel it. You’ll want to avoid stairs and squatting for a few days afterwards (trust me). Continue to move and avoid sitting for extended periods.

It took a good four days for the pain and discomfort to pass before I was able to walk again without feeling stiff and sore.

Summit Tips

You get up at 1:30am to have breakfast at 2:00am, before leaving base camp at 2:30am to catch the sunrise from Low’s Peak. It’s dark, cold, and steep—mentally prepare for the hardest part of the climb. You must reach the checkpoint by 5:30am, or they’ll turn you back. Three hours is ample time; however, on the day of our summit, it was pouring rain, so they postponed leaving until 3:30am, which meant it was a huge push to make it on time. Many chose not to go or attempted it and were turned back.
You will be sleep-deprived and delirious. Be mindful that it is pitch-black, so you realistically can’t see what you are climbing until the sun rises. Up to the summit, there are 70% stairs and ropes you hang on to for dear life. You won't need your hiking poles for this part.
A headlamp and warm layers are essential. Expect temperatures of less than ten degrees.
Altitude sickness is more common at this stage, so take it slow and communicate with your guide if you feel unwell.

Altitude & Safety Tips

Acclimatise if you can by spending a day or two in Kinabalu Park or nearby Kundasang before your climb.
Take altitude sickness precautions (hydration, slow pace, possibly tablets).
Respect the mountain—it is sacred to the local Kadazan-Dusun people. Dress modestly and follow your guide’s advice.
Leave no trace: pack out all trash, including snack wrappers and tissues.

The views—especially at sunrise from the summit—are absolutely worth every step. Don’t forget to bring a camera or your phone to capture the moment. Photos at the top are iconic (and hard-earned!).

Start training early, pack smart, and mentally prep for a long, tough, but incredibly rewarding climb. Mount Kinabalu is one of those once-in-a-lifetime experiences that you'll talk about for years.

Have you hiked Mt Kinabalu or have tips to share? Leave a comment below and help fellow hikers get ready for their adventure!

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