Bombalai Hill (Bukit Bombalai)

Malaysia

Bombalai Hill is an Easy Hike, Great for Bird-Watchers and Nature Enthusiasts

Natural Height
Hiking Period
Terrain
Weather
Equipment
Rest Stops & Facilities
Guides & Porters
Location
Safety
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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

Summits Index:
2 / 10 (501m - 1,000m)

531 m (1742 ft)

Natural Bombalai Hill (Bukit Bombalai) Malaysia - Hiking Period

Summits Index:
0 / 10 (2 hours or less)

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

Summits Index:
4 / 10 (Generally mild, though may be challenging in some parts)

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

Summits Index:
5 / 10 (Very variable - unfriendly or consistently unpleasant throughout the year)

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

Summits Index:
2 / 10 (Good hiking shoes)

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

Summits Index:
0 / 10 (N/A; for short or easy hikes)

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

Summits Index:
1 / 10 (N/A; for short or easy hikes)

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

Summits Index:
6 / 10 (Near minor city; may need a few days of planning)

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

Summits Index:
1 / 10 (None to very little risk)

This is a popular route with many hikers every day, so you should not have to worry about personal safety. Do beware of leeches.

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