Mount Santubong

810m (2,658ft)

Climbing up Mount Santubong takes about 4 hours one way, and about 8 hours in total on average, with some variance depending on how many rest-stops you take and how fit you are.

There are 4 different entry points to start the trek to the summit of Mount Santubong but all merge at about 2/3rd of the trail at View Point 1, so essentially what you get are different views of the forest and little difference in the trek time or difficulty, whichever trail you choose.

Up to the intersection of the trails, the terrain is not too steep and involves some scenic stretches with river crossings and a waterfall. From there onward there are several vertical rock faces and tall boulders to deal with, which you will need to surmount with the help of ropes and ladders. There are also slippery steep inclines that are easy to slip on. The steeper and more difficult sections happen after the trails merge so unless you are planning to skip the summit and just make it a jungle trek, there is no avoiding those sections.

Many visitors opt to start at one trail entry and descend through one of the other trails at View Point 1 so that you get a greater experience of the forest with its many little surprises in the form of brooks and waterfalls and skip the difficult section.

The dry season between June and August is the best season to climb Mount Santubong. Daytime temperatures hover in the range of 27°C to 32°C (80°F to 90°F) for most of the year. Try to start the climb as early as you can in the morning so that you can get back to the base before the afternoon thunderstorms, which tend to happen throughout the year. Check the local weather conditions before embarking on the trek.

To be sufficiently prepared you will need raincoats or ponchos as well as shoes with good grip for the slippery surfaces.

There is a registration kiosk at the trailhead, as well as potable water, food, and toilets. Along the trail, you will find rest stop shelters, such as huts, pavilions, etc., Built-in handholds, guide ropes, and hazard markings at technically difficult sections and a publicly displayed trail map. There is no food or water available along the trail except what you bring along.

Guides/porters are not required, since the trail is well-marked, but you do need to register for entry with the park rangers at the park office.

Santubong is located on the Damai Peninsula, 35 km (22 miles) north of Kuching. Kuching International Airport is the entry point to the state of Sarawak in Malaysia and is about 11 km (7 miles) from Kuching City centre. From Kuching City, it is easy to get a cab or a minivan or bus to Santubong. Some hotels operate tour buses too. It is only 45 minutes to Santubong from Kuching City.

Mount Santubong is considered a safe trail, and many visitors take this trek by themselves at all times of the year.

This trail is also safe for women who are travelling solo or in groups. Even so, it’s best to follow basic safety precautions like keeping others informed of your proposed trek time and expected arrival back at lodgings.