Climbing Mount Kinabalu : Solo Backpacker’s Adventure Guide 2024
Thinking about climbing Mount Kinabalu? I wrote this guide from my own experience as a female solo backpacker and wanted to share it with you so that you know what to expect. I’ll share my best tips and tricks!
Mount Kinabalu is located in Sabah, Malaysia and has the highest peak in Borneo at 4,095 metres (13,435 feet). It’s part of Kinabalu National Park, the first UNESCO World Heritage site in the country, famous for its rich biodiversity of plants, birds, and wildlife.
The climb to the summit is challenging but achievable for many, due to its well-marked trail, and experienced guides, making it a bucket-list destination for adventurers and nature lovers alike.
Climbing Mount Kinabalu
Here’s my guide to climbing Mount Kinabalu as a solo backpacker! For most, visiting Borneo, Malaysia is a once in a life time experience, so you shouldn’t miss out on one of the greatest activities. Don’t let being a solo traveller hold you back!
Climbing Mount Kinabalu solo is an exhilarating and rewarding adventure that challenges both your physical endurance and mental resilience. As one of Southeast Asia’s tallest peaks, Mount Kinabalu offers breathtaking views and a sense of accomplishment that every adventurer craves.
For solo backpackers, the journey is not just about reaching the summit, but also about embracing the freedom and independence that comes with it. Let’s conquer Mount Kinabalu together!
Planning the Climb
Every thing you need to know about planning the climb, from guides, porters, transportation and pricing!
Do I need a porter?
Porters are available to all climbers but are not necessary. You can hire a porter if you are looking to lighten your load and want an easier climb. Prices depend on the weight of your backpack (maximum of 10kg) and the distance, whether you want to hire them to the summit or Laban Bata rest house. Expect to pay 140 RM to 200 RM for the roundtrip.
Tip: Extra luggage can be stored at Kinabalu Park HQ for 15 RM per piece.
Do I need a guide?
All hikers must be accompanied by a mountain guide and there are only 163 permits for climbers per day (not including guides). My decision to climb was pretty last minute, about 3 weeks in advance, but I was able to secure a spot.
I felt very safe and taken care of during the climb. My guide was fantastic!
Tip: Bring a little bit of cash with you for after the climb. I recommend tipping your guide!
Finding a Guide/Booking a Package
During the high season (April-August), slots book up very quickly so I recommended planning this climb in advance. I’ve seen many early bird specials online so plan ahead, about 6 months in advance.
Tip: You can check out the packages offered on Klook here. Make sure you choose the “All Inclusive” option if you would like to add transport.
For those that are flexible with their travel dates or on a budget, they have last minute options where you will find out the day before or the morning of if you get a permit. You will get a discounted rate, but the caveat is that you might not get a spot if there are no cancellations for that day.
If you’re really in a pinch and want to climb but there are no spots, I would consider looking into “Via Ferrata” which will add another 2-6 hours to your climb. It comes at a higher cost but you have a greater chance of securing a spot. I will discuss this more in depth later in the guide.
How do I get there?
I recommend booking a package for the climb that includes transportation. It will save you the headache of trying to arrange it yourself. They will pick you up at your accommodation in Kota Kinabalu and drop you off after the climb.
Pricing
The pricing will change depending on the number of people you book with. One guide can be split with up to 5 adults which would be the most cost effective.
Unfortunately as a solo traveller you will need to pay a higher fee for a private guide but if you’re flexible and adventurous, you might just make friends along your travels to hike with you.
During the Climb
What if I need to use the restroom?
There are toilets at each rest stop for the first 6 kilometres. You won’t need to worry about having to go in the woods unless you can’t hold it between rest stops. There are no toilets from Laban Rata Resthouse to the summit.
What do I do with my garbage/trash?
I was happy to see many trash cans at each rest stop (after about each kilometre). This means that you can dispose of your trash as you climb and don’t need to carry it around with you for the full 2 days. There are no trash cans between Laban Rata Resthouse and the summit.
What if I get tired?
There are many rest stops along the way with benches to sit. You also don’t need to climb all the way to the summit. I saw groups who decided to turn back when they reached their physical limit. Safety is the most important thing!
What if I can’t climb anymore?
While climbing Mount Kinabalu, I saw two different people being carried down by their guides. They offer a service called “Mountain Grab” where your guide will carry you in emergency situations. The fee depends on your weight and distance. Expect to pay around 600 RM per kilometre.
This is a dangerous situation for both the guide and the climber so I hope you won’t ever have to use this service.
Staying at Laban Rata Resthouse
Can I charge my phone?
There are four type G power outlets with electricity running from 4:00pm-10:00pm, and 1:00am-3:30am. These are to be shared among four people. I was able to charge my phone and watch.
Can I shower?
There are cold water showers available, there is no heated water in the restrooms. I opted not to shower and used a body wipe instead.
How is the food?
All the meals are buffet style with lots of options! There is the standard rice, noodles, a variety of meats, veggies, and even desserts! They also have coffee and tea. You won’t have to worry about going hungry, there is sure to be something for every one.
Tip: Enjoy your food because the porters carry up to 65kg of food up the mountain and then climb back down the same day. They do this 6 days a week and work really hard! Everything you see at the mountain hut has been carried up by a porter, from the mattresses, bed frames, kitchen scales, etc…
Can I refill my water?
Yes, there is a free water bottle refilling station right across from Laban Rata Resthouse. You can refill your water bottle as many times as you need.
The Climb – What to Expect
Day 1 – Pick Up
I was picked up from my hostel in Kota Kinabalu at 6:30am. There was one more stop to pick up two other hikers and then we were on our way. We arrived a bit later than expected due to traffic so we didn’t start climbing until about 10:00am.
Once we arrived at Kinabalu Park HQ (1,564m) we checked in, received our lanyards with our ID tags (this will be checked throughout the hike so keep it on you), and a packed lunch (which you carry and can eat at any point during the hike).
Tip: I could already feel the elevation at this point, so it’s not a bad idea to take some time to acclimate. Use this opportunity to hydrate and use the restroom.
We got to meet our guides and took a group photo. Since I was a solo hiker I had my own private guide, I liked this because I could climb at my own pace.
Timpohon Gate – Starting Point
We hopped into a van for a short 5-10 minute ride to the trail entrance, Timpohon Gate (1,866m). The goal for Day 1 was to hike 6km to Laban Rata Resthouse (3,273m). We set off around 10:00am and started with a small descent, make the most of it because after that it’s all uphill.
The 1st kilometre was a good warmup and my guide, Arno was setting a good pace. Even though I had done my research, nothing could have prepared me for the amount of stairs I had to climb. It was like an endless stair master and the increasing altitude and thinning air was not making it any easier.
After 2km I had to stop for a snack because I was starting to feel low on energy. I was really sweaty at this point and my heavy backpack was really weighing me down (pack as light as you can and check out The Ultimate Packing List – Mount Kinabalu 2024).
Lunch – Break Time
The first 4 kilometres were in a forested area and going uphill by stairs. Once we reached the 4km point, we stopped to eat the packed lunch that was provided. Depending on the company you book with, your lunch with vary.
I received a water bottle, two hard boiled eggs, a roll with butter, broccoli, cauliflower, and carrots, chicken, potatoes, an apple, and three Oreos. Most people around me were eating fried rice or noodles but I was happy with my well balanced, nutritious lunch.
Final Push to Laban Rata Rest House
With 2km left to go I was starting to feel light headed and short of breath. Looking back at all my videos I could hear myself panting throughout, I was suffering from minor altitude sickness. I pushed through and focused on getting to the Resthouse at the 6km mark. I wanted to talk to Arno to help pass the time but I was so out of breath, climbing in silence was the best option.
The scenery at this point started to change and I enjoyed the change in terrain, a nice break from all the stairs. It was a cloudy day so all of the views were shielded by the fog, but it created a mystical vibe. As silly as it sounds, the last 500m were the toughest!
I was ready to give up and fatigued but I pushed through and made it to Laban Rata Resthouse. The guides sleep in another building so make sure you discuss a time to leave in the morning to climb to the summit.
Laban Rata Resthouse
At 1:40pm, I checked in and dropped off my stuff in my room. There were two bunk beds, enough for four people. I had to take a painkiller because my head was pounding and I didn’t bring any medication for altitude sickness.
Dinner wasn’t served until 4:30pm so I decided to take a quick nap before my bunkmates arrived. This is also a great time to take a shower while the sun is out because the water isn’t heated.
Tip: If you decide to take a nap at the Resthouse make sure to crack your window open for fresh air to avoid altitude sickness.
Dinner was buffet style with a wide variety of options, including tea, coffee, and dessert! The food was always hot, fresh, and delicious. Everyone started heading to bed around 7:00pm knowing that supper would be served at 2:00am the next day and the climb to the summit would start around 3:30am. I was feeling much better after a warm dinner and rest.
Day 2 – The Ascent to the Summit
After supper I grabbed my small daypack and headed up to the summit at 3:50am. I set out with Arno, one of my roommates, and the two hikers that were in the van with me from Kota Kinabalu. You will make friends along the way!
Tip: A headlight is a must during this part of the climb because it is pitch black outside!
We had 2.72km to climb and 822m in elevation to the summit, Low’s Peak. I started off in my t-shirt but as we gained elevation I bundled up with my puffer jacket, hat, scarf, and gloves. It was windy and cold! The climb to the summit was more enjoyable because it was mostly climbing uphill by rope, not as many stairs. Most of the guides wore rubber sole shoes for grip.
The Summit – Low’s Peak
We got to Low’s Peak faster than I expected, around 5:00am so it was still pitch black outside. After taking a picture I had to wait for the sunrise (around 6:00am) and everyone was huddling together for warmth. I was definitely not dressed warmly enough and worried I was going to freeze to death. I recommend bringing some extra layers, thick gloves, and a heat pack!
Once the sun rose the beautiful landscape was revealed, it felt like something out of “The Lord of the Rings”. Climbing down took me a bit longer because I had to stop every few seconds to take pictures. The scenery was gorgeous and so worth the struggle to the top.
It was the first view I had seen in two days because it had been so foggy. When I returned to Laban Rata Resthouse it was time to eat breakfast and I loaded up on carbs (rice, noodles, and hash browns) to make sure I had enough energy for the descent.
The Descent
I was a bit worried about the descent because I had seen a lot of videos of people saying it was worse than the ascent. This is especially true if you have bad knees. Luckily for me I found going down to be much easier and faster.
Tip: Use a hiking pole for the descent if you get knee pain, it will relieve a lot of the pressure from your knees.
I was ready to get off that mountain and my backpack off my shoulders. We departed at 9:00am and finished the climb at 11:40am. I was then taken to another building by van to a buffet for lunch (more food haha!).
It was quite a nice place inside of a hotel and I felt a bit out of place in my muddy hiking boots and sports wear. I had some rice, veggies, fish, and fresh fruit.
I was then picked up by the tour company, given a certificate of completion and sent back to my hostel in a shared van. With a big sense of accomplishment, I slept very well that night.
Via Ferrata – The Iron Road
When climbing Mount Kinabalu, you also have the chance to participate in “Via Ferrata” at an additional fee. There are two circuits “Walk the Torq” and “Low’s Peak Circuit”.
Mount Kinabalu is home to the world’s highest Via Ferrata. It is also the first one in Asia!
What is Via Ferrata?
I like to describe it like an adventure course along the mountains using rungs, rails, bridges and cables. Via Ferrata is the perfect option for adventure seekers!
How much additional time will this add to my climb?
It depends on which circuit you choose! “Walk The Torq” takes about 2-3 hours while “Low’s Peak Circuit” takes about 4-5 hours.
For more information on “Via Ferrata” while climbing Mount Kinabalu you can check out this link here.
Climbing Mount Kinabalu: FAQs
When is the best time to climb Mount Kinabalu?
The best time to climb Mount Kinabalu is March to September because this is considered the dry season.
Do I need a guide for climbing Mount Kinabalu?
Yes, you absolutely need a guide to climb Mount Kinabalu in order to follow Sabah Parks regulations. You can have up to 5 adult climbers (aged 16 and over) per guide.
Do I need to finish the climb by a certain time?
You need to reach Timpohon Gate by 4:30pm on the second day, so I recommend giving yourself plenty of time. If you arrive after the deadline, you will need to pay an additional fee for the guide.
Can you climb Mount Kinabalu in trainers (running shoes)?
I strongly recommend against this! Although you might be able to get away with it, I always suggest wearing proper hiking boots with ankle support. The weather on these mountains can be unpredictable and getting caught in the rain and left with wet feet is not an ideal situation.
One misstep can lead to injuries and leave you unable to summit or climb down. Invest in proper gear that will last and serve you for many more climbs to come. It will make for a safer and easier climb.
Final Thoughts: Climbing Mount Kinabalu
Climbing Mount Kinabalu is an unforgettable experience, and I hope this guide gives you all the tools and confidence you need to take on the challenge. From breathtaking views to personal achievement, the journey is as rewarding as reaching the summit.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or new to solo backpacking, Mount Kinabalu’s beauty and adventure will leave a lasting impact. Don’t let fear or doubt hold you back—embrace the journey, trust in your abilities, and get ready for the climb of a lifetime! Safe travels and happy hiking!