Sabah Rock Climbing

Sabah is the eastern of the two Malaysian states in Borneo (the other being Sarawak). Sabah is well deserving of its reputation as an outdoor enthusiasts' paradise, from 2000m wall dives off the beach of Sipadan island in the South Coral Sea to towering Mount Kinabalu, the highest peak between The Himalayas and Carstenz Pyramid Massif in Irian Jaya, Indonesia. Sabah also boasts the Sepilok Orangutan Sanctuary, numerous caves to explore (and potentially develop for climbing), and the Kinabatangan River, one of the best places for wildlife viewing in Sabah.

Climbing-wise, Sabah is still in its infancy, and hasn't seen much route development. However, Borneo's highest mountain, Mount Kinabalu, is the scene of a handful of ascents and epics on its numerous cloud-shrouded granite spires and gullies (Low's Gully being its most famous). More on Kinabalu later.

However, Berhala Island on the east coast (off nearby Sandakan) has recently been developed for sport climbing on its sandstone ramparts.

Like the rest of Borneo, Sabah is a hot and humid place and acclimization is necessary a day or two before climbing. Climbing is possible year round. Being near the equator, the temperature hovers around a steamy 86-90 degrees year-round (30 C) but temperature and rain are at a minimum between December-April. Berhala Island has morning sun until 1pm, and being on the beach, is searing hot! You can swim in the meantime 10m from the climbs and hang out under the shade trees by the swing and chat with local fishermen, afternoons should be reserved for climbing!