Best Places to Visit in Sabah | Travel Guide (2024) | Things to Do, See & Eat

Food & Drinks To Try In Sabah

1. Nasi Lemak: This is a popular Malaysian dish that consists of fragrant rice cooked in coconut milk, served with sambal (spicy chili paste), fried anchovies, peanuts, cucumber, and a choice of protein such as chicken or beef rendang. It is a must-try dish in Sabah.

2. Tuaran Mee: Tuaran Mee is a type of egg noodle dish that originated from the town of Tuaran in Sabah. The noodles are stir-fried with vegetables, meat, and seafood, resulting in a flavorful and satisfying meal.

3. Hinava: Hinava is a traditional Kadazan-Dusun dish that is made from raw fish marinated in lime juice, sliced onions, chili, and grated ginger. It is a refreshing and tangy appetizer that is commonly served during festive occasions in Sabah.

4. Sinalau Bakas: Sinalau Bakas is a unique dish that consists of smoked wild boar meat. The meat is marinated with local herbs and spices before being smoked over an open fire. It has a smoky and savory flavor that is sure to delight meat lovers.

5. Ambuyat: Ambuyat is a traditional dish made from the sago palm tree. The sago starch is mixed with water to form a sticky and glue-like consistency. It is typically eaten with various side dishes such as grilled fish, vegetables, and sambal.

6. Tuhau: Tuhau is a type of wild ginger that is commonly found in Sabah. It is often pickled and served as a condiment or added to dishes for its unique flavor. Tuhau is known for its strong and pungent taste, adding a distinctive kick to any meal.

7. Tapioca Cake: Tapioca cake, also known as kuih Bingka Ubi, is a popular dessert in Sabah. It is made from grated tapioca, coconut milk, and sugar, resulting in a soft and sweet cake with a slightly chewy texture.

8. Teh Tarik: Teh Tarik, which translates to "pulled tea," is a popular Malaysian beverage that is commonly enjoyed in Sabah. It is made by pouring hot tea and condensed milk back and forth between two containers, creating a frothy and creamy texture. It is a must-try drink for tea lovers.

9. Borneo Coffee: Sabah is known for its high-quality coffee, particularly the Borneo Coffee. The coffee beans are grown in the fertile soils of Sabah's highlands, resulting in a rich and aromatic brew. Coffee enthusiasts should not miss the opportunity to try this local specialty.

10. Sabah Tea: Sabah is also famous for its tea plantations, particularly the Sabah Tea Garden. Visitors can enjoy a cup of freshly brewed Sabah tea while taking in the scenic views of the tea fields. It is a great way to relax and appreciate the natural beauty of Sabah.

Flight Calendar For Sabah

Use our flight calendar to discover the Cheapest Days and Months to Book Flight to Sabah.

Transportation To Sabah

There are several transportation options to get to Sabah, Malaysia:

1. By Air: The easiest and most convenient way to reach Sabah is by flying into Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI), which is the main gateway to the state. There are direct flights to Kota Kinabalu from major cities in Malaysia, as well as international flights from countries such as Singapore, China, South Korea, and Australia.

2. By Sea: Sabah has several ports that receive cruise ships and ferries. You can take a ferry from Labuan, which is an island located off the coast of Sabah, or from other nearby islands such as Brunei or the Philippines. There are also luxury cruises that stop at Kota Kinabalu.

3. By Land: If you are already in Malaysia, you can travel to Sabah by land. There are bus services that connect major cities in Peninsular Malaysia, such as Kuala Lumpur and Johor Bahru, to Kota Kinabalu. However, this option involves a long journey and multiple transfers.

Once you are in Sabah, there are various transportation options available to explore the state, including taxis, rental cars, and public buses.