Borneo Wildlife Highlights

Arrive in Kota Kinabalu; KK as it is affectionately known by the locals. The small capital is a cultural melting pot and its inhabitants are a mix of Chinese, Indonesian, Filipino, Indian and of course Malay. This blend of influences makes KK a foodie's dream, with fusion restaurants popping up all over town and street-food stalls serving up classics like Nasi Goreng (fried rice with spices) and satay alongside curries and kimchi. Tonight has been left free to explore the city's vibrant foodie scene. For those arriving on time our Leader plans to meet you in the hotel reception at 6pm for the welcome meeting. There are no other activities planned today, so you are free to arrive in Kota Kinabalu at any time. If you would like to receive a complimentary airport transfer today, you'll need to arrive into Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI), which is 30 minutes from the hotel. Should you miss the welcome meeting, your Leader will inform you of any essential information over breakfast on day 2. If your flight arrives earlier in the day, perhaps you might choose to visit the waterfront for a bite to eat and a visit to the fruit market.

We set off this morning to explore the sights of KK. Having been bombed extensively during World War II, KK's architecture is awash with modernity, occasionally interspersed with the remaining historical buildings, mosques and ramshackle markets. We first visit Tun Musthapha tower, the tallest building in the city that encapsulates the city's new and modern feel. Next we get a feel for the cultural diversity of the city when visiting the beautiful Chinese temple of Puh Toh Tze followed by the impressive State Mosque. This much-photographed mosque features intricate examples of Islamic architecture with gold motifs decorating its grand dome. We end at Signal Hill, where the observation platform offers great views over the city skyline. This afternoon has been left free to relax or to further explore the city, perhaps visiting the handicraft market. Alternatively there is an optional trip to the nearby Mari Mari village, a traditional settlement that celebrates and preserves the indigenous tribes of Borneo.

After a leisurely breakfast we leave the city limits and after approximately two and a half hours reach the Crocker Mountain Range, home to the highest mountain in South East Asia - Mount Kinabalu (4095m). En route we stop at the World War Two Memorial Park, which commemorates the thousands of Allied forces, including British and Australian, that lost their lives at the hands of the Japanese empire. We will then travel to the small village of Tanak Nabalu where we share lunch with the local villagers. The people here are from the ethnic Dusan tribe, most of which now offer their services as guides and porters up to Mount Kinabalu's summit. We spend time with them learning about their ancient cultures and customs over a hearty lunch of Hinava. Similar to the Peruvian dish ceviche, Hinava is a raw fish dish which originates from Sabah's Kadazan Dusun tribes. Mackerel is the traditional fish used in Sabah, and this is marinated in lime and served with red chilli, ginger, shallots, Bambangan seeds, and prawns. After lunch we enjoy a gentle stroll through the Botanical Gardens taking in some exotic species of flora such as slipper orchids, a variety of pitcher plants, yellow rhododendron and much more. We then make the short drive onto the town of Kundasang, our rest stop for the night.