The Borneo Island, situated in the Southeast of Asia, State of Sabah, is a breathtaking place that has many beautiful surroundings, and where you could easily spend a summer vacation. The best way to see all the wonders the island offers is to get to the highest point of the island – Mount Kinabalu. Climbing Mount Kinabalu, the 20th tallest mountain in the whole world and measuring 13,435 feet (4,095 meters), can give anyone life lasting memories.
Among the most important natural attractions in the world, mount Kinabalu is known to be the home of over 4500 species of plants, 326 species of birds and 100 mammal species – and scientists do not think they have yet discovered all the plants and animals that live in the area.
If you decide to spend your next vacation on the Borneo Island, here are some tips you should know before climbing Mount Kinabalu:
- The best period to come to Mount Kinabalu is the dry season, from February to April, when climbing is more enjoyable. The main rainy seasons are from November to January and from May to July, when the monsoons bring rain almost daily and make climbing the mountain very difficult. The Borneo Island has a tropical climate with an average daily temperature around 90°F (32°C); however, the temperature at the Kinabalu Park HQ, situated at 5128 feet above sea level, can range between 60°F to 78°F.
- As the altitude increases, it gets colder and the temperature on the mountain can even fall below the freezing point. So make sure to bring some warm clothes with you.
- If you have a sensitive stomach you should better bring along some bottled mineral water or some iodine salts to mix it with the water taken from the mountain. Those who do not have stomach problems should know that, generally, the water is safe to drink, but it is better to boil it before drinking it, just to be sure.
- Climbing Mount Kinabalu should last for three days and two nights, if you want to fully enjoy the expedition. You have to get used to the altitude before you can move forward, so do not speed things up. You should spend the first night at Kinabalu Park HQ, and the second night at Laban Rata. Be sure you have made the proper accommodation arrangements before starting the journey, because the increasing popularity of the mountain can give you trouble in finding accommodation in certain times of the year.
- Bring extra money for the fees you have to pay to the Kinabalu Park authorities. These fees are not included with the accommodation fees. Climbing Mount Kinabalu may be a little expensive for some, but the stories which will be told afterwards are priceless.
- If you are the adventurous type, be sure to follow the directions on the map if you decide not to use a local guide and everything will be OK.
If you the advice above, climbing Mount Kinabalu will definitely be one of the most incredible experiences in your life.
