BEST Motorcycle Routes in Sabah: Exploring Scenic Landscapes
If you’re an avid motorcyclist looking for the best motorcycle routes in Sabah, you’re in luck. Sabah is home to some of the most scenic and exciting motorcycle routes in Malaysia. From twisty mountain roads to coastal highways, Sabah has something for every type of rider.
If I had to choose the most beautiful state in Malaysia, Sabah would be my choice because it has so much to offer: picturesque scenery, spectacular mountains, blue beaches, surreal sunsets, rich culture, friendliest people, winding roads, waterfalls, national parks and more!
Article Contents
About Sabah
Sabah is a state located in the northern part of the island of Borneo in Southeast Asia.
Historically, North Borneo (Sabah today) was part of the Sultanate of Brunei before being ceded to the Sultan of Sulu in the late 17th century. The area became a British protectorate in the late 19th century, and it was later administered as part of the British colony of North Borneo.
During World War II, Sabah was occupied by the Japanese, who ruled the area until the end of the war in 1945. After the war, Sabah became a British Crown Colony until it gained independence and formed Malaysia along with Malaya states, Singapore and Sarawak in 1963.
Following independence, Sabah faced several challenges, including political instability and economic underdevelopment. However, the state has since grown into a major economic centre, with a thriving tourism industry and a rich cultural heritage.
Today, Sabah is home to a diverse population, including various indigenous groups, Chinese, and Malays. The state is known for its beautiful beaches, lush rainforests, and abundant wildlife, including orangutans, proboscis monkeys, and hornbills. It is also known for its rich cultural traditions, including the Kadazan-Dusun Harvest Festival.
Sabah Motorcycle Riding Routes With Itinerary
I have clocked over 5000+ KM riding in Sabah alone over the past few years. In my honest opinion, the best motorcycle riding routes in Sabah are in the northern & West Coast part. The routes toward central (Sandakan) and South (Tawau) are boring and dangerous because;
- It’s busy because it’s a main road towards central and south of Sabah
- Too many lorries and busses
- It’s narrow and has road hazards. Just too many potholes.
- More long stretch roads instead of winding.
If you just want to enjoy the best motorcycle riding routes in Sabah, it can be done within a week at a comfortable pace.
However, an extended Tour that circumnavigates the whole of Sabah requires 14 days to cover about 2,800 km. If you have the time to explore more, you can read my other post about Sabah Road Trip.
I’ve spent countless amount of hours gathering information and recce the areas to ensure the routes that I recommend are not only fun but it’s safe, especially for first-timers.
Just to give you an idea, you will be riding on the land section of the map below. It will be approximately 950KM+/- to complete this ride. For comparison, the journey which takes you 1 hour in West Malaysia, will take you almost 2 hours or more in Sabah.
Below is the riding plan that I recommend you follow:
Note: If you followed the google map links, you will be able to visit all the places of the images shown in this article.
DAY 1
Arrive in Kota Kinabalu, pick up motorcycle and perhaps go for a short ride along the coastal road in the city. Next, enjoy seafood for your dinner at Anjung Senja.
Coastal Road View Point: Google Map
Anjung Senja Seafood: Google Map
DAY 2
Ride along the steepest road in Malaysia, the Kimanis-Keningau highway ranging from 10% to about 25% steep gradients along the Crocker Range National Park followed by the longest straight road in Malaysia, Jalan Apin-Apin Keningau which is about 20KM long. You will also ride past Mount Alab which can be cold and misty.
- Map: Google Link
- Distance: 330 KM +/-
- Routes: KK – Papar – Kimanis – keningau – Tambunan – KK
- POI: Crocker Range, Sinarumbi Tower, Mahua Waterfall, Kokol Hill.
- Accommodation: In Kota Kinabalu City itself.
Note: Ideally you want to reach kokol hill (20KM away from KK) before 5 PM so you can enjoy the sunset at the hill.
Enjoy a 360-degree view of Tambunan from this tower and the entrance is free. The road towards Sinurambi Tower was fun to ride as it was almost all dry off-road condition but I wouldn’t recommend you to ride there on a rainy day as it can be a real pain in the *ss
The trail to this waterfall is excellent and it will take you only about 5 minutes to reach. It’s a must-visit if you’re in Tambunan.
From Tambunan, you can have a break here at Alab mountain which is usually cold before heading back to Kota Kinabalu.
At Kokol Heaven Resort, you will be rewarded with stunning and spectacular views from the top overlooking Manukan Island, and all the other small islands surrounding it! There are restaurants serving “just-ok” food and drinks but still, it’s worth going. The entrance fee is RM 10/pax.
DAY 3
Start riding at 6 AM so you don’t miss the clear view of Mount Kinabalu.
- Map: Google Link
- Distance: 230 KM +/-
- Routes: KK – Tuaran – Kota Belud – Tip of Borneo
- POI: Mountain View at Jalan Sangkir, Lasau Podi, Tindakon Dazang Beach’s Cliff and tip or Borneo
- Accommodation: Tommy’s Place & Borneo Tip Lodge (Chalets in front of the beach)
To access Tindakon Dazang Beach, you will need to ride easy gravel/off-road for about 2KM.
The Tip of Borneo is the northernmost tip of Borneo located in the district of Kudat, in the state of Sabah, Malaysia. The tip marks the meeting point of the South China Sea and the Sulu Sea
DAY 4
Ride along the most beautiful route in Sabah which has about 80+ km long twisty corners. Check out the video below.
- Map: Google Link
- Distance: 225 KM +/-
- Routes: Kudat, Kota Marudu, Jalan Marak-Parak – Ranau – Kundasang
- POI: Marak Parak Route, Poring Hot Spring, Sabah Tea Garden, Kundasang War Memorial Park.
- Accommodation: Any homestay/hotel in Kundasang
Honestly, the hot springs aren’t that exciting, they are hot tubs in which you can sit & relax. What is more picturesque & a definite is to walk through the rainforest to the first waterfall, it is a beautiful walk, not too strenuous on the body. Also during your walk you can enter the butterfly garden & do a canopy walk, both though have an extra charge.
Home to the famous Sabah Tea, this valley is like the mini version of Cameron Highlands‘ tea plantation. The roads to get here can be a little challenging as it’s not paved but rideable.
Located in Kundasang town, The War Memorial was built out of respect for those that died in the Sandakan to Ranau “Death Marches”. It is an excellent place to visit and try to imagine the unspeakable horror and atrocities that were inflicted on our soldiers with only 6 survivors out of some 2350 that were forced to march.
I recommend you first visit the audio room for a 20-minute presentation on some of the histories to get acquainted. The memorial is divided into 4 gardens. The Australian, British, Malaysian Borneo, and the garden of Contemplation where an honour roll lists each soldier that died on the 3 marches. You will probably spend an hour here by the time you pay your own respects. It s a place that touches your soul and leaves a lasting effect.
DAY 5
Start riding at 6 AM and ride towards Mesilau, which is an area situated at approximately 2,000 m above sea level on the East Ridge of Mount Kinabalu. Just follow the map link I’ve provided and you will arrive at the viewpoints as per the images below.
- Map: Google Link
- Distance: 165KM+/-
- Routes: Mesilau, Bundu Tuhan, Pahu, Minurod, Pukak – Kiulu – Telipok – KK
- POI: Mount Kinabalu Viewpoint and scenic routes
- Accommodation: In Kota Kinabalu City
Check out the video below in 4K/HD – It’s calm and beautiful.
Desa Cattle Dairy Farm is a dairy farm located at the foot of Mount Kinabalu in Kundasang Valley, Sabah. Enjoy the breathtaking scenery and view of Mount Kinabalu. You can also buy local products like Milk, Ice cream etc.
If you followed the history of the Death March, this is the last Prisoner of war (POW) campsite where only six survivors who survived.
On the map, I’ve marked a route called “Jalan Pahu Sintuong – Tuong”. From here, the road will split into a village (Sintuong – Tuong). You will need to keep your right which will lead you to an off-road for about 3KM before it brings you back to the asphalt.
Don’t worry, it’s an easy off-road unless it’s on a rainy/wet day which you may struggle for a bit.
If you followed the google Map link I provided, it will ask you to turn right at Jalan Tomis Tiong Lokos which is an old route. When you see this signboard, just keep it to your left and follow the new route for the next 5-10 KM and google Maps will auto-update you back on the map.
If you’re in groups/family, River rafting for 21km down the Kiulu River would be a great fun adventure that you can try. It’s also suitable for beginners and you can book this tour via WaveHunterAsia.
- Entrance Fee: Varies based on package/transfer
- Map Location: Google Link
DAY 5 – Optional (To avoid off-roads)
If you want to cut your trip shorter and/or you don’t want to ride the 3KM off-road section as mentioned on the Day 5 route above, you can follow this route.
- Map: Google Map
- Distance: 130 KM
- Routes: Mesilau, Bundu Tuhan, himban-terotobou – Pahu – Telipok – KK
- POI: Mount Kinabalu Viewpoint and scenic routes
- Accommodation: In Kota Kinabalu City itself
DAY 6
Drop off your bike and take a flight back home. End of Trip.
If you have additional days and wish to explore Kota Kinabalu City, please have a look at my other post about the best Kota Kinabalu Attractions and read the Itinerary from Day 1 To Day 4. In the same post, you can also find places to eat, places to have your beers etc in KK.
Best Time To Ride in Sabah
Sabah has a tropical climate, with warm temperatures and high humidity year-round. However, there are two distinct seasons: the dry season and the wet season.
The dry season runs from April to October and is generally the best time to visit Sabah. During this time, the weather is generally dry and sunny, with less rainfall and more opportunities for outdoor activities.
The wet season runs from November to March and is characterized by heavy rain showers and higher humidity. While the weather can be unpredictable during this time, it’s still possible to travel to Sabah.
On another note, I would not recommend that you travel during Sabah’s state holidays, especially during Harvest Festival (30th & 31st May) and Christmas (25th December). This is because not only the flight tickets will be expensive but the traffic would be bad.
Shipping Motorcycle To Sabah
Unfortunately, Shipping a motorcycle to Sabah from West Malaysia is expensive and not worth it. The cost for a return trip would cost you about RM2500. (regardless of your motorcycle CC).
From my personal experience, the waiting period for your bike to arrive in Kota Kinabalu can take up to 21 days due to port congestions/delays and this can be frustrating especially it takes additional few days more for your motorcycle to arrive from the actual ETA.
To avoid the hassle/delay of shipping your own bike, I would recommend that you just rent a motorcycle which would be way cheaper in terms of cost to complete this trip. This way, you can save time and save your money.
However, if you plan to do a Borneo Ride, that’s a different story altogether.
Motorcycle / Scooter Rental In Kota Kinabalu
I have personally rented motorcycles from GoGoSabah and they provide a great service at an affordable rate for below 150CC motorcycles. For anything beyond that, you can vouch for the details provided by another friend of mine, Datuk Captain Nik Ahmad Huzlan.
You can rent anything from Smaller CC kapcai to BMW GS. More details as per below;
150CC And Below (GoGoSabah)
| Bike Model | Price For 1 Day Only | Price Per Day For 2-6 Days | Weekly Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Scooter (For Town Only) | RM 40 | RM 38 | RM 248 |
| Honda Wave Alpha (110 CC) | RM 45 | RM 40 | RM 268 |
| Honda Wave FI (125 CC) | RM 50 | RM 45 | RM 280 |
| Honda RS150/RSX150 | RM 65 | RM 60 | RM 400 |
Price includes:
- Rental of motorcycle on 24 hours basis
- Helmets – 2 Per bike
- Unlimited Mileage
- Top Box (Request 1 week in advance)
Requirements
- Valid License
- Deposit of RM 200 per bike
- Age 21 and Above.
Note: Raincoat and Mobile Phone/GPS holder are not provided. If you’re renting a Kapcai/Scooter, I would recommend that you get a cheap handlebar bag at Shopee for navigation.
The Motorcycle pick-up/drop-off points would be at GoGo Sabah Office (FOC) at the address below:
Address: Google Map : Wisma Sabah, Lot G2, Ground Floor, Jln Tun Fuad Stephens, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
For pick-up/drop-off points at Hotels in KK, you will need to pay additional RM 5 per way and RM 15 for KK Airport.
250CC – 800CC (Jeffrey Soon)
| Bike Model | Price |
| Honda – CRF 250 Rally | RM 180 – RM 220 |
| BMW – 310 GS | RM 180 – RM 220 |
| KTM – 390 | RM 180 – RM 220 |
| BMW F700/800 | RM 480 – RM 580 |
An active avid driver himself, Jeffrey knows his way around Sabah roads, both on and off the road, and has a well-stocked garage. A great guy to deal with and perhaps you can ask him for more off-road routes if that is something you would prefer to do.
Premium Motorcycles / Full Escorted Premium Tours
For BMW F850 – GS1250 and/or if you need a fully escorted premium motorcycle Sabah Tour, you can Contact Silas Dema Michael.
Silas is an accredited BMW-trained On/Offroad Ride Instructor & Tour Guide. Always on two wheels, he loves offroading on 250kg bikes and knows Sarawak and Sabah on the back of his hand.
He is also a good planner and an ideal man if a Premium Motorcycle Tour of Borneo (not just Sabah) is required.
Basic Cost
- Flight Tickets From West Malaysia: RM 600 +/-
- Bike Rental (110CC): RM 268 / Week
- Daily Meal costs – RM 70 x 6 Days: RM 420
- Hotel RM100 x 5 Nights = RM 500
- Fuel: RM 100
- Emergency Funds: 500
- Travel insurance: RM 18
- Total Cost: RM 2406 +/-
Tips Riding in Sabah
Here are some tips for riding a motorcycle in Sabah:
- The daylight in Sabah starts at 5:45 AM and ends at 6:15 PM. Ideally, I would suggest that you start riding at 6 AM and NEVER ride after sunset for safety.
- Mount Kinabalu is clearly visible from 6 AM to 8 AM and it will be covered by clouds by 9 AM. To get a clear view of the mountain, start your Day 3 ride at 6 AM so you can take great pictures/videos of the mountain.
- Be aware of the weather: Sabah has a tropical climate, which means that it can rain heavily at times. Always check the weather forecast before planning a ride, and be prepared for sudden rain showers. (Bring along your raincoat)
- Be aware of wildlife: Sabah is home to a variety of wildlife, including monkeys, orangutans, and even elephants. Be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye out for animals that may cross your path.
- Take your time: Sabah’s roads can be winding and steep in places, so take your time and enjoy the scenic views. It’s better to ride at a comfortable pace and take in the sights than to rush through the journey.
- Stay hydrated: Riding in the tropical heat can be draining, so make sure to drink plenty of water and take breaks when needed.
- Be respectful of local culture: Sabah has a diverse cultural heritage, so be respectful of local customs and traditions when riding through villages and towns.
- Wear appropriate gear: Always wear a helmet and protective gear when riding a motorcycle, as well as sturdy shoes or boots. (Preferably, bring your own helmet)
- While this trip is for 5 days, I would suggest that you come in for a week (7 days) so that you can have the extra days for sight-seeing Kota Kinabalu city, shopping or keeping it as an emergency just in-case if you need to sort out any technical issue with your motorcycle.
Summary
85% of the roads are tarmac, 60% are in cooler climates at elevations above 700 meters, and there is typically only sporadic traffic on these roads. The best bikes for this are those that have longer travel suspension and a sit-up riding position, like Dual-Pupose bikes. I have done it with 110CC and 150CC bikes, so don’t fret about exploring on a smaller bike. (preferably not scooter)
There are numerous memories one can take back home. Enjoy fresh seafood or beer while watching the Sunset at Tanjung Aru beach, water rafting at Kiulu river, driving down the deserted road to Minurod Campsite, and climbing the hairpin route to Bundu Tuhan at 1,800 meters, all while watching Mt. Kinabalu emerge into view.
Borneo’s northernmost point is a must-see location with a sunset that rivals Tanjung Aru and charming beachside accommodations. Marak Parak is a road that should not be missed because as Ranau draws closer, the mountain takes on a new appearance. Kundasang offers a lot of attractions, including a trip to the Dairy Farm and the War Memorial.
Overall, Sabah is a must-visit destination for any motorcycle enthusiast. With its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and friendly locals, I highly recommend Riding in Sabah should be in your “Bucket List”.
Lastly, I can’t stress enough the importance to ride safely and responsibly. Always follow local traffic laws and regulations and be aware of your surroundings.
If you have any questions or suggestions, please let me know via the comment box below. Also, don’t forget to share this article with your friends so they can also enjoy riding in Sabah.
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