The best time to visit the Park, especially for climbers is during the dry season in March and April. November to December is the monsoon season but do bear in mind, wet or dry periods can occur at any time of the year.

In the mountainous region, the weather can change without warning, from bright sunshine, to mist and cloud, to torrential downpour. At night the temperatures can drop to below freezing, so bring warm and extra clothing packed in plastic bags to keep it dry.


Before you climb:

1. Book your guide and porter through Sabah Park's Head Office in Kota Kinabalu, or through Kinabalu Nature Resorts when you make your accommodation reservations. Walkin bookings at Kinabalu Park are subject to availability, so prebooking is advisable. You can also arrange for transportation to the Power Station Road where the climb starts.
2. For accommodation, make your reservations with Kinabalu Nature Resorts. Call early and ensure your reservations are confirmed as accommodation facilities are usually fully booked during peak climbing periods.
3. Join the Park Naturalists programme at Park Headquarters It will provide information about the climb and advice on what to take. These programmes are FREE, so do take advantage of them.
4. Make sure you have shoes with a good grip. Tennis or gym shoes are fine.
5. Bring enough warm clothing. Wind and water-proof clothes for your climb are recommended. Sleeping bags are provided at the mountain huts.
6. Take a water bottle with you. You'll need high-energy foods for the climb like chocolate, nuts, raisins or glucose sweets.
7. Bring gloves, a hat and a good torchlight.
   

If you get wet on the way up, you will need a complete set of dry clothes and 4 second pair of shoes or a pair of sandals. Headache tablets, paper tissues, a couple of plastic bags and some plasters for cuts or blisters are all useful.

Some climbers do experience altitude sickness. Check with your doctor for advice before you climb.

Local potters can carry up to 30kg up to the mountain