Kota Kinabalu is a relaxed, city that is the gateway to many of Sabah's natural wonders.  Start in the city and plan a trip to see the best of Sabah.

1 The Green Connection
The green connection is an introduction to the wonders of Sabah as well as being a great aquarium and discovery centre.  If you are short of time you get the nature of Sabah in an afternoon.  If you have more time the exhibits of the different parts of Sabah will help you plan. 

2. Trek in the crocker range or at the foot of Mount Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu’s diverse ecology and pleasant natural settings present several opportunities for trekking through the Forest. Head for Tambunan by bus or hire car to get to great forest. Trus Madi on the way offers a much better mountain experience than the crowded overpriced Kinabalu Park.  Try the Rafflesioa reserve or the Mahua waterfall.  Very close to town is the kiansom waterfall. Carry along plenty of food and water, and wear comfortable attire and walking shoes.

3. Visit the Loh Kawi Wildlife Park

This is the largest and most well-organized Wildlife Park in the region. The Loh Kawi is an expansive natural reserve featuring wild animals and birds amidst indigenous forest plantations. The park also houses an informative and interesting reptile center. There are several peaceful spots inside the reserve for visitors to relax after a tiresome wildlife spotting trek.

4. Cultural Village

The Monosopaid Cultural Village is a nice place to view snapshots of the culture and lifestyle followed by the local Kadazan tribe. There are artifacts, religious objects and a fascinating Hall of Skulls that displays 42 skulls belonging to the enemies of the region, who once tried to attack it.

Alternative is Mari Mari cultural village

5. State Museum

Visit the State Museum located in the center of Kota Kinabalu, to go through an extensive collection of artifacts, paintings and scriptures that are significant to the history and culture of the Sabah State. 

10 Go on a Shopping Spree in the evenings.

Kota Kinabalu is one of the favorite shopping haunts for visitors making a trip to Malaysia. The shopper’s haven is filled with old-fashioned flea markets, Sunday bazaars and chic, up market malls that sell everything from designer apparel and accessories to local handicrafts, fabrics, carpets and a whole lot of other items. The best part about shopping in the city is that most stores housed inside the malls offer great bargains and discounts on high-end brands, and visitors can also haggle for neat prices at the flea markets and the local Handicraft Market. The Karamsuing Complex, Wawasan Plaza, Centre Point Mall and KK plaza are good places to shop, along with the Sunday Market in Gaya st or in the regional centres of Kota Belud or Tuaran.  The Philippino market during the day or the night market offer excellent value.

Kota Kinabalu, though quiet and laidback in outer appearance, offers several things to do for people who are willing to explore its unconventional beauty.