Trek Mt Kinabalu - 5 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What are the main highlights of this trip?

  The main highlights include conquering the mighty Mt Kinabalu, witnessing an awe-inspiring sunrise from the summit, and enjoying packed lunches and buffet-style dinners during the trek.

• What is the maximum number of travellers on this tour?

  The maximum group size for this tour is 15 travellers.

• What kind of physical fitness is required for the Mt Kinabalu trek?

  This is a physically demanding trek (rated 5). An average level of physical fitness and mobility is required, although stubbornness (endurance) helps. You must be able to walk unaided, climb stairs, and carry your own luggage. It is recommended to walk at your own pace, slowly and steadily, and not to rush to avoid altitude sickness symptoms. Layered clothing and sun protection are essential.

• What type of accommodation can I expect on this trip?

  Accommodation includes Hotels (2 nights), a hostel (1 night, twin-share), and a hostel (1 night, multi-share). Be aware that accommodation in remote areas, like on the mountain, may be of a lower standard with basic rooms and potentially shared facilities, but it is always clean and often has character due to its location.

• What meals are included in this trip?

  The trip includes 4 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 2 dinners. While trekking in remote regions, food is included, plentiful, and made of fresh local ingredients. Generally, other meals are not included to offer flexibility in dining choices, but groups often eat together.

• Are there any optional activities available on this tour?

  Yes, optional activities include a visit to Poring Hot Springs (15-20MYR per person) and a canopy walk near Mt Kinabalu. These can be explored with some free time.

• What should I know about altitude sickness when climbing Mt Kinabalu?

  Mt Kinabalu is at high altitude (4,096m), so mild altitude sickness is likely. Symptoms can include headaches, light-headedness, nausea, loss of appetite, tingling, and mild swelling of ankles and fingers. It's crucial to communicate any symptoms to your guide and not ascend further if symptoms are severe. Consult your medical professional about available medications.

• Are there any health considerations I should know before travelling?

  Inoculations may be required, so consult your travel doctor well before departure. We recommend carrying a First Aid kit, hand sanitizers, and any personal medical requirements. Our leaders are prohibited from administering drugs. Travellers with pre-existing medical conditions must complete a medical questionnaire signed by their physician. You must have an average level of fitness and mobility for the trip.

• What is the local currency and how should I manage my money during the tour?

  The local currency is the Malaysian Ringgit. The best way to carry money is with debit cards for ATM withdrawals (Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted). USD cash is recommended for emergencies, ensuring notes are new and in good condition (newer than 2003). Traveller's cheques are not recommended, and credit cards are mainly for upmarket establishments.

• Is travel insurance required for my trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory for all our trips. You will need to show evidence of medical coverage, including a minimum of USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue, to your CEO upon joining the group.

• How old must I be to join this trip?

  You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.

• Who will be leading the group?

  All group trips are accompanied by a Chief Experience Officer (CEO) who provides information, suggestions for activities and dining, and introduces you to local contacts. Local guides are also used for specific knowledge, offering a comprehensive experience.

• Should I be tipping on my trip?

  Tipping is customary in Asia. For service providers like waiters, approximately 10% is suggested. For local guides and drivers, recommendations range from $1.5-$3.5 USD per person per day. At the end of the trip, tipping your CEO is appreciated, with a guideline of $20-25 USD per person per week.

• How should I dress to respect local customs during the tour?

  Malaysia is a predominantly Muslim country with conservative dress standards. Modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees (long pants, long skirts, shirts that cover shoulders) is strongly recommended. Loose, lightweight, long clothing is respectful and suitable for the hot climate. Singlets, tank tops, and topless sunbathing are unacceptable. One-piece bathing suits are recommended.

• What rules should I know before joining this trip?

  Illegal drugs will not be tolerated, as they contravene local laws and endanger the group. The exploitation of prostitutes is also against the tour operator's philosophy. Your CEO has the right to expel any group member found violating these rules.

• Is there an extra cost for travelling solo, and what are the rooming arrangements?

  We believe solo travellers should not pay more, so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation without a single supplement. Single travellers are paired with someone of the same sex. However, for Night 3 at Laban Rata Dormitory, accommodation is multi-share, and the 'My Own Room' option does not apply there.

• What are the modes of transportation on my trip?

  Transportation during the tour primarily involves private vehicles and hiking.

• What should I know if my trip coincides with Ramadan?

  If your trip falls during Ramadan (e.g., Feb 28 - Mar 29, 2025, or Feb 17 - Mar 19, 2026), there might be some service limitations and schedule disruptions. However, tours generally operate effectively, and food is available to non-Muslims. It's important to show increased cultural sensitivity by wearing loose-fitting clothes that cover knees and shoulders, and avoiding eating, drinking, or smoking in public during fasting hours.

• What should LGBTQ+ travellers know about safety and travel considerations on this trip?

  The safety and well-being of all travellers, including the LGBTQ+ community, is a priority. We encourage you to visit the tour operator's LGBTQ+ page for useful resources and information, including tools like Equaldex, to help you feel safe and comfortable during your trip.

• What happens if I experience problems when arriving?

  If you are unable to start your trip as scheduled, contact your joining hotel to speak to or leave a message for your CEO. If you have a pre-booked airport transfer and haven't met our representative within 30 minutes of clearing customs, we recommend taking a taxi to your hotel and seeking a refund for the transfer cost from your travel agent upon return.

• Are international flights included in this trip?

  No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour. However, in some combo tours between different countries, international flights may be included. Please confirm with your booking agent.

• How much emergency money should I bring on this trip?

  It is recommended to have access to at least an additional USD $250 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund, to be used if unforeseen circumstances (like a natural disaster) require a change to the planned route. This is a rare occurrence.

• What are the visa and entry requirements for my trip?

  All countries require a valid passport with at least 6 months validity. Visa requirements depend on your nationality and destination, so consult your local embassy or consulate, or your travel agent, for the most up-to-date information. As of January 1, 2024, foreign nationals entering Malaysia must complete and submit a Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) within 3 days before arrival.

• What are the main highlights of the Trek Mt Kinabalu tour?

  The main highlights include conquering the mighty Mt Kinabalu, witnessing an awe-inspiring sunrise from the summit, and enjoying packed lunches and buffet-style dinners during the trek.

• What kind of physical fitness is required for this trek?

  This trek has a physical rating of 5, indicating it is tough. An average level of physical fitness is required, and willpower (endurance) is highly beneficial as it's uphill all the way. It's important to walk at your own pace, slowly and steadily, and not to rush.

• What types of accommodation are provided on this tour?

  Accommodation includes hotels for two nights, a twin-share hostel for one night, and a multi-share hostel for one night. The nature of accommodation, especially on the mountain, might be simpler than what you're used to, but it will be clean and often offers character and location benefits.

• Are meals included in the tour price?

  Yes, the tour includes 4 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 2 dinners.

• Is travel insurance compulsory for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. You must have medical coverage with a minimum of USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue. Proof of insurance will be required by your CEO.

• What are the age requirements to join this trip?

  You must be at least 18 years old to travel unaccompanied. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.

• What is the maximum group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size for this tour is 15 travellers.

• What transportation methods are used during the tour?

  Transportation during the tour primarily involves private vehicles and hiking.

• Are there any optional activities available?

  Yes, an optional excursion to Poring Hot Springs and a canopy walk is available on Day 2 for an additional cost of 15-20 MYR per person.

• What is the local currency and how should I manage money during the trip?

  The local currency is the Malaysian Ringgit. It is recommended to carry money in debit cards (Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted at ATMs) and some USD cash for emergency situations where ATMs may not be accessible. Avoid carrying only cash.

• Is tipping customary on this tour?

  Yes, tipping service providers such as waiters (approximately 10%), local guides, and drivers ($1.5-$3.5 USD per person per day) is customary. Tipping your CEO ($20-25 USD per person per week as a guideline) is also appreciated for outstanding service.

• What are the key health considerations for this trek, especially regarding altitude?

  It is your responsibility to consult with your travel doctor for inoculations and up-to-date medical travel information. You should carry a first aid kit. Altitude sickness is likely due to the high altitude of Mt Kinabalu. Symptoms can include headaches, light-headedness, nausea, and loss of appetite. It's crucial to communicate any symptoms to your guide and descend if symptoms are severe and persistent.

• What is the dress code to respect local customs in Malaysia?

  As Malaysia is a predominantly Muslim country, modest clothing is strongly recommended. This means covering shoulders and wearing knee-length or longer shorts/skirts. Loose, lightweight, long clothing is respectful and suitable for the climate. Singlets and tank tops are not acceptable.

• Is there a single supplement fee for solo travelers?

  No, for group trips, there is no single supplement. Solo travelers are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex, with the exception of Night 3 (Laban Rata Dormitory) where multi-share is standard.

• What safety and security measures should I be aware of?

  It's highly recommended to use a neck wallet or money belt for valuables and to leave valuable jewelry at home. Many hotels have safety deposit boxes. Your CEO can amend the itinerary for safety reasons. Exercise good judgment for optional activities, travel in small groups at night, and avoid protests. Water-based activities are at your own risk unless accompanied by a guide.