Mount Kinabalu Malaysia, East Malaysia (Sabah)

Flaunting the title of “Tallest Peak between the Himalayas and New Guinea,” Mt. Kinabalu attracts visitors of all skill levels from around the globe. Hikers have to decide between two possible routes to the 4,095M summit, Ranau Trail or Kota Belud Trail. However, both trails start in the same place on day 1 and, after 6.0KM of hiking, stop at the same basecamp, Panabalan. The ascent starts near the Kinabalu Park Headquarters, at the Timpohon Gate which sits at 1,822M above sea level. During the 4-6 hour hike to Panabalan on day 1, hikers will see majestic sites, such as the Carson Waterfall, and incredible amounts of vegetation. Everyone then has the night at Panabalan (3,300M) to recharge for the summit climb, which starts at 2 am or 3 am the next day.

It is on Day 2 where the trail splits: The daring hikers will travel up the 1.1KM Kota Belud Trail that is targeted to more experienced hikers; you have to get special permission for this route, and only 30 hikers a day are allowed to summit. The majority of visitors, however, will take the more moderate 1.27KM Ranau Trail. It’s considered to be tourist-friendly and fairly easy to hike, with heavily maintained trails and steps to the top.

Since much of the push to the summit is done in the dark, the mountain is equipped with a strong rope to help guide everyone to the top. After 3-4 hours and a quick 90M scramble to the top, hikers are rewarded with breathtaking sunrise views. The descent all the way back to Timpohon Gate follows, with a quick stop at Panabalan for breakfast.

If you’re looking for even more thrill, check out Mountain Torq, which is Asia’s first Via Ferrata, a protected mountain pathway that allows beginner climbers access to the rugged parts of a mountain, normally only available to experienced climbers. This pathway consists of ropes, rungs, and ladders, and requires a guide and a modest amount of equipment.

No matter which adventure you choose, you are guaranteed a memorable experience and some epic photographs. Due to the different packages and options available, the cost for Mt. Kinabalu excursions has a wide range – anywhere from 215 Euros for the basic package, all the way up to 600 Euros for Mountain Torq packages. There’s something for everyone; don’t miss your chance to dance in the clouds at sunrise.