Bombalai Hill (Bukit Bombalai)
Malaysia
Bombalai Hill is an Easy Hike, Great for Bird-Watchers and Nature Enthusiasts
Summary Bombalai Hill (Bukit Bombalai) Malaysia - Summary
Bukit Bombalai, or Bombalai Hill is a dormant volcano that can be found on the northeastern side of Borneo Island, Malaysia. The hill is located within Tawau Hills Park (Taman Bukit Tawau) which is teeming with biodiversity. Eight species of primate, six out of the eight species of hornbills found in the Sabah region, and a variety of other birds all find their home in the park. This makes it a great tourist spot for those interested in bird watching and wildlife.
Climbing Bombalai Hill (Bukit Bombalai) Malaysia - Height and Distance
Natural Bombalai Hill (Bukit Bombalai) Malaysia - Natural Height
531 m (1742 ft)
Natural Bombalai Hill (Bukit Bombalai) Malaysia - Hiking Period
It takes about an hour to hike to the top of the hill and less to go back down. The trail is roughly 3.8 km (2.3 mi) in total, 1.9 km (1.2 mi) one way.
Difficulty Bombalai Hill (Bukit Bombalai) Malaysia - Hiking Difficulty
Difficulty Bombalai Hill (Bukit Bombalai) Malaysia - Terrain
The trek up Bombalai Hill is not difficult. It is easily manageable for beginners.
The starting point is just outside the park headquarters of Tawau Hills Park. The first half of the hike is quite flat, if not, gently sloping upwards. The trail goes through the diverse rainforest, with undergrowth on either side.
The entire trail is well-worn and not difficult to navigate. The most difficult part of the hike is a steeper section near the top. This section has wooden steps entrenched in the ground and a rope as a makeshift railing to help you get up.
The summit has a wooden viewing deck. From here you can see a view of the surrounding palm plantations, the town of Tawau in the distance and Sebatik Island. Since the hill is located on the edge of Malaysia, you can also see into Indonesia.
Difficulty Bombalai Hill (Bukit Bombalai) Malaysia - Weather
The weather in this region is hot, oppressively humid, wet and overcast year-round. The temperature generally varies from 23°C to 31°C (74°F to 88°F) with an average temperature of about 27°C (81°F) for almost the whole year.
From December to February the average temperature cools by 1 degree Celsius (roughly 2 degrees Fahrenheit).
The best time to plan a hike would be from January to April when you have a better chance of clear skies and a slightly cooler temperature. The best month within this period is March, as there is less rain in March compared to the rest of the year.
Difficulty Bombalai Hill (Bukit Bombalai) Malaysia - Equipment
The only thing you really need for this hike is a comfortable pair of closed shoes with a good grip.
You may also want to take leech socks.
Facilities Bombalai Hill (Bukit Bombalai) Malaysia - Support Facilities
Facilities Bombalai Hill (Bukit Bombalai) Malaysia - Rest Stops & Facilities
This is a very short hike so facilities shouldn’t be necessary. There are signs along the trail showing hikers how far they are and a cafe at the park headquarters.
Hikers should take enough water and snacks for the duration of the hike.
Facilities Bombalai Hill (Bukit Bombalai) Malaysia - Guides and Porters
There is no need for guides or porters on this short hike.
Accessibility Bombalai Hill (Bukit Bombalai) Malaysia - Accessibility and Safety
Accessibility Bombalai Hill (Bukit Bombalai) Malaysia - Location
Bombalai Hill can be found on the northeastern side of Borneo Island, Malaysia, close to the Indonesian border. It is located within Sabah state about an hour away from Tawau town.
Getting there is not too difficult. Tawau has an airport which has regular domestic flights to and from major cities like Kuala Lumpur. A direct flight from Kuala Lumpur to Tawau takes about 3 hours. From there to the foot of Bukit Bombalai is about an hour by road if coming from the airport. One can catch a taxi or hire a vehicle for this leg.
Accessibility Bombalai Hill (Bukit Bombalai) Malaysia - Safety
This is a popular route with many hikers every day, so you should not have to worry about personal safety. Do beware of leeches.