How to Climb Mt Kinabalu – Some Useful Tips

Jul 13
08:16

2011

Gregg Hawes

Gregg Hawes

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It usually takes two days to climb Mt Kinabalu, with one night spent on the mountain, in one of the nice and welcoming accommodations in Laban Rata.

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Despite its altitude (over 4,000 m high),How to Climb Mt Kinabalu – Some Useful Tips Articles Kinabalu is considered to be one of the easiest mountains to climb in the world. That is why so many tourists–over a thousand a year– venture to climb Mt Kinabalu-, the highest mountain in Southeast Asia.

When I said Kinabalu was considered to be one of the easiest mountains to climb in the world, I was especially referring to its highest peak-Low's Peak; other peaks are not that indulgent to tourists that have no climbing skills; in addition, special equipment must be used for the climb.

It usually takes two days to climb Mt Kinabalu, with one night spent on the mountain, in one of the nice and welcoming accommodations in Laban Rata. It is precisely the break climbers need to take in order to regain their strength. A good meal and a comfortable sleep will recharge your batteries.

Even if locals usually take their children to the mountain at the age of three and the oldest person to have reached the top was eighty years old, weather can make the mountain a bit dangerous to climb. The rain makes the higher slopes very slippery and the mist reduces visibility. However, tourists are supposed to stick with their guide and the other members of the group, so the chances of getting lost or suffering minor accidents are minimal.

Like I said, no special equipment is required to climb Mt Kinabalu, but there are some things you need to bring along:
  • Resistant shoes; it is very important that the shoes are not only resistant, but also comfortable. Do not buy a new pair of shoes; choose one that you have already worn and are used with.
  • Warm clothing; while the climate is tropical at the base of the mountain, the temperatures are significantly lower at the top, so you will need something to protect you from the wind. You will also need something to protect you from the rain, so do not forget your raincoat or your waterproof jacket. Do not rely on your shorts; put a pair of trousers in your backpack.
  • Speaking of protection, do not forget or neglect taking a sun tan lotion with you; your skin really needs it
  • Some accessories, like a pair of gloves and a hat or anything else to cover your head might also be needed when you climb Mt Kinabalu
  • A water bottle is essential; you will be able to refill if on the way. Also, some food supplies- like chocolate bars or other high energy bars should not miss from your backpack
  • Since at some point you will be climbing at nighttime, a head torch would be fantastic
  • Perhaps a first aid kit should be carried by at least one of the persons in the group; if there is still room in your backpack and you happen to have one of these kits, take it with you; you never know when you might need it.

I think there is no need to remind you to take your camera. Chances are that you have already heard about the wonderful sights you will get to see when you climb Mt Kinabalu.