Sunrise on Mt Kinabalu, Borneo

Michelle Ouw, our Retail Sales Manager (bottom right in the photo) and Jill Blunsom, our Destination Manager for Latin America (bottom left in the photo) recently travelled to Borneo. They both climbed Mt Kinabalu a few weeks ago and this is what they had to say:

It's an 8AM start on Day One and we are both raring to go. On the way up, we take the opportunity to drink plenty of water at the rest stops (every 500 metres there is a tap to fill up and a toilet), enjoy the stunning surrounds and view of the peak. It's slow and steady all the way. We arrived at Laban Rata, our lodgings for the night around 3pm. After a well deserved hot chocolate and a good meal, we bunk down early for our 3am start the next day.

It's still dark as we head off the next morning with head torch attached. We excitedly clamber up rocks and boulders, to make it to the summit before sunrise. It's a challenging climb, but as the skies start glowing in the horizon, a burst of adrenalin gets us to the top just in time. There's time to take it all in before we head down...and down...and down.

Highlight of the climb:
Standing on the peak above the clouds, you feel like you are on top of the world!

Did you need to do much preparation?
You need a good level of fitness. A little training up and down some stairs will help, especially for the going down.

Key item required for the climb:
Walking sticks or poles for the way down would certainly be helpful!

This climb compared to other mountains you've climbed?
Kinabalu is unique because it's probably a shorter trek than most. You get a lot of bang for buck in such a short time.

Any other helpful hints for anyone considering booking a Mt Kinabalu trip?
Book well in advance – permits and availability of accommodation on the mountain is limited. A decent grip on your boots is really helpful for the rocky climb to the summit.

Thanks Michelle and Jill!
 

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