Get Close to Nature in Sabah: Enjoy Both Land and Sea to the Fullest

Text provided by Qidou Travel Network; Photos courtesy of Tourism Malaysia and New Charm Travel

If you love nature and ecology, you’ll definitely fall in love with Sabah. Also known as the “Land Below the Wind,” Sabah is located in northeastern Borneo, part of East Malaysia. It boasts abundant forest and marine resources. Whether you want to track the elusive proboscis monkey or dive into the blue sea for an underwater walking adventure, Sabah offers endless fun and excitement.

The proboscis monkey, a unique species of Borneo, is a rare and precious ecotourism resource in East Malaysian Sabah and is highly uncommon in the global ecosystem, now bordering on extinction. One of the most anticipated experiences in Sabah is taking an electric long-tail boat along the mangrove riverbanks and into the tropical rainforest ecological zone to search for the "great romantic" proboscis monkey. Especially the males, with their drooping large noses, thick waists, and white tails—distinctive physical features—are often surrounded by groups of admiring females. They gather on tree branches, resting or playing together, creating a lively scene. After the proboscis monkey eco-tour, when night falls, switch to a smaller boat for a cruise to admire the fireflies twinkling like Christmas lights among the trees—a uniquely wild and natural delight.

Sabah is famed for its lush green ecology, and its underwater world is just as colorful and fascinating. To enhance your water adventures, New Charm Travel specially selects Borneo Reef World, the largest floating water leisure pontoon in Southeast Asia. This spacious, stable, and luxurious offshore platform is like a marine amusement park where you can fully enjoy activities like snorkeling, underwater walking, and parasailing, while taking in the vibrant coral reef scenery. Plus, while showering, you can even watch fish swimming freely around you.

Another popular and well-loved activity in Sabah in recent years is white-water rafting. Starting from the Kiulu River at the foot of Mount Kinabalu and accompanied by a river guide, you’ll pass through lush green forests, navigate thrilling rapids, and experience the excitement of rafting. After rafting, unwind with a local-style wellness spa to soothe your tired body and fully relax your mind.

White sandy beaches, swaying green palm trees, and azure seas… these elements paint the most laid-back vibe of Mantanani Island. In these crystal-clear waters, three shipwrecks have been discovered and 20 diving spots developed, making it perfect for activities like snorkeling and kayaking as you explore the sea in search of the legendary mermaids. At lunchtime, you can also savor the delicious aroma of island-style BBQ.

In Kota Kinabalu city, there are also many worthwhile attractions, the most notable being the floating mosque—a distinctive religious building that blends modern architecture with Islamic style, presenting a grand and magnificent sight. Additionally, the iconic round-shaped Sabah State Mosque and the local Chinese community’s faith center, Pu Tuo Temple, are also popular destinations for visitors.

Recommended Itineraries:
“Guaranteed Departure for 2 People” – Enchanted by Shangri-La ~ Great Barrier Reef Ocean World & Dreamy Mantanani Island Sabah 5-Day Tour (Choose 1 of 3 semi-independent options) – Malaysia Airlines

Tour Highlights:
* One-Day Sea Outing—
Visit Borneo Reef World, the largest floating water leisure pontoon in Southeast Asia; while showering, you can even see fish swimming in the sea.
* Choose 1 Theme Activity—
(1) Blue Coral Marine Garden ~ Mantanani Island (Mantanani) Snorkeling Day Tour
(2) Tropical Rainforest Kiulu River Rafting Adventure (includes Malay-style simple rafting meal) + 60-minute Nanyang-style Wellness SPA
(3) The Great Romantic ~ Wild Proboscis Monkey Eco-Tour + Nighttime Firefly River Cruise
* Carefully Selected Accommodation—
2 nights at the city’s 4-star Grandis Hotel, with complimentary sunset seascape afternoon tea
2 nights at the 5-star Shangri-La, enjoying exclusive access to the hotel’s private beach

New Charm Travel: (02)2504-5111, (04)2319-5047
More Sabah Products:http://goo.gl/GEwLq2