Sabah or Sarawak: which Malaysian state to visit in Borneo

If you’re looking at visiting Malaysian Borneo, there are two distinct states of Sabah & Sarawak, each with their own unique cultural and natural attributes. Of course, if you have time to do both, I’d encourage you to do that…but I know that money and time often mean you have to choose between places to visit. In my opinion, it’s always better to visit a place more deeply and for longer, than cramming 2 different places into a rushed itinerary, so I hope this post helps you decide if you should visit Sabah or Sarawak if choosing between the two. 

Sabah - Reasons to Visit

Let’s start with Sabah, the northernmost state and the home of the famous ‘KK’, Kota Kinabalu. Whilst Sabah has a lot of different appeals, and a lot of reasons why people may visit, some of the key highlights that bring travellers in are:

1. Mount Kinabalu (the third highest peak in Southeast Asia for those looking for a challenge)

2. Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation centre (world-class rehabilitation centre for wild orangutans)

3. Kinabatangan river (known for jungle river cruises to spot the Borneo pygmy elephant and proboscis monkey, both endemic to Borneo. Not to mention, a range of other exotic wildlife)

4. Semporna beaches (known for snorkelling and vibrant reefs) 

5. Kota Kinabalu (the once finishing village has transformed into a vibrant city, drawing visitors in for shopping, seaside dining, and fresh seafood) 
   

If you’re looking for somewhere where you can get a tropical fix of sunshine, the ocean, and seafood, look no further than Kota Kinabalu in Sabah. The city itself is a holiday destination where many people go without exploring much further, aside from some day trips to the outer islands, reachable from KK by a daytrip. With lots of shops and a range of different accommodation available, KK is for those travellers that want the exotic and vibrant side of Borneo but aren’t willing to give up some essentials that you’d find in any major city. 

Pulau Libaran, also known as ‘Turtle Island’ in East Sabah, Borneo.

If you’re willing to venture out of KK, and if you have time to explore Sabah further, a lot of travellers will journey to the other side of the island to Sandakan. This side of Sabah allows visitors to reach Semporna and the islands for better snorkelling, and it’s also the side of the state where Sepilok is located. If you’re going to Borneo to try and spot the orangutan, going to Sepilok is a great option if you don’t have the time (or desire) to try and spot one in the wild. Sepilok is a well-designed haven for wild orangutans, with a nursery for mothers and their young, and a lovely boardwalk for guests to wander through. With daily feedings, sightings are a lot more likely (never guaranteed!) at a centre like this, where orangutans can rely on food and safe habitat. In addition to the rehabilitation centre here, there is also the sun bear conservation centre which is another incredible work of wildlife conservation. In Sabah, you can visit both of these incredible wildlife sanctuaries right next to each other, making it a convenient experience for any wildlife lover. 

Another big appeal of Sabah is Mount Kinabalu. Aside from the climbers looking to summit the mountain, the Kinabalu National Park is a major biodiversity hotspot that brings in avid birdwatchers, nature lovers, and wildlife photographers alike. If you are up for a challenge, Mount Kinabalu is there waiting for you. but a trip to the park is worthy even if you have no interest in climbing Malaysia’s highest peak. As someone who has done the climb, I highly recommend training before the climb - it is a hard climb, with some pulling on ropes and climbing required. Be sure to bring appropriate gear and note it gets very cold at the top - you’ll need to pack warm clothes despite being on a tropical island.

Climbing up Mount Kinabalu - one of the many reasons visitors go to Sabah, Borneo.

In short, Sabah has so much to offer and I truly enjoyed my time there. If you’re looking for a tropical destination where the ocean, sun, and seafood and a priority, I suggest Sabah.

Now onto Sarawak… 

Sarawak is the other Malaysian state of Borneo. The main cities across Sarawak are Miri and Kuching. When I met a local Sarawak guide, he told me there are 3 things people must do when they come to Sarawak:

1. Bako National Park

2. Mulu National Park

3. The longhouses 

These experiences are a true glimpse into Sarawak landscape and culture. Other notable Sarawak locations that bring visitors in are:

• Niah Caves

• Fairy caves

• Satang Island 

• Dami beach 

• Semenggoh Nature Park

The cave systems around Sarawak entice another type of traveller, especially if caving and climbing are your thing. From the pinnacles in Mulu National Park, to the deep caverns of caves across the state, there is a heightened sense of adventure for those that love climbing. These experiences are very different to hikes, and require immense physical fitness and also a degree of climbing experience. If you are looking to get into caving, there is a beginner option at Mulu but be sure to book in advance during peak season. 

Even if you aren’t big into climbing, simply walking through the gigantic cave systems is worthy of a trip to Sarawak. Considered the biggest cave systems in the world for a time (until recent discoveries in Vietnam), the Clearwater & Wind Cave and the Deer & Lang Cave can be walked through on foot. Caves play a significant role in Sarawak culture and tradition - be prepared to feel the allure and enchantment of these ancient caves as you stroll through.

Clearwater Cave in Mulu National Park - one of the caves you can walk through.

The long houses of Sarawak are a big reason travellers go to Sarawak as well. Sadly, I didn’t get the time to venture into the middle of the state to spend time at the longhouses, but I met travellers who did who speak nothing but praise of the experience. You’ll need to take the long boats into the heart of the jungle to reach these communities - be sure to pack light and be prepared for an inner-jungle immersion. Whilst I didn’t get to journey to the long houses, I did get to experience the long boats at Mulu National Park - the cave entrances to Clearwater & Wind are via long boat, which was awesome to witness at least this part of Sarawak tradition. 

Like Sabah, Sarawak has the appeal of the wildlife of Borneo. The Semenggoh Nature Park is a haven for orangutans whilst Bako National Park has the famous proboscis monkey, bearded boar, crocodiles, and more. So, if you’re looking for wildlife experiences and wondering where to choose out of Sabah and Sarawak, don’t fret as both states have various options for a wildlife adventure. As always, a reminder that these are wild animals and sightings are never guaranteed. 

In short, Sarawak has everything that you could want for a tropical feel in the various beaches and islands, but it also has more options for those looking to explore deeper in the jungle. With the long houses, and the extensive cave systems, Sarawak beckons travellers to venture into the heart of Borneo for something truly unique and magical. 

View from a long boat veering through the jungle of Mulu National Park.

So, if you’re planning a trip to Borneo and deciding where to go to, Sabah or Sarawak, I hope this post has helped. Ultimately, both states offer the chance to spot iconic Borneo wildlife, and you can get a tropical experience with islands and beaches at both. If you’re looking for a challenge, either Mount Kinabalu in Sabah or the various caves and climbs across Mulu and Sarawak will answer that call. If you’re looking to experience the long houses or do caving adventures, I say Sarawak is where you should be spending most of your time. 

Until next time,
Kaia