Mount Tambuyukon

2,579 m (8,461 ft)

It takes 3-4 days to complete this hike. According to the trail map, the distance of the hike is 12 km (8.7 mi) one way, however, the actual distance may be closer to about 16-17 km (10-10.6 mi) one way.

This trail is said to be a more difficult trek than Kinabalu. The trail goes through dense jungle with a canopy overhead and damp leaves underfoot. The terrain undulates and the hike involves climbing over and under trees and other obstructions. You’ll likely see endemic species of pitcher plant, many hornbills and the Rafflesia flower.

Day 1:

The hike starts at Monggis Substation, a station within Kinabalu Park. You’ll cross a few streams and pass Kulat and Kera shelters 2.3 km (1.4 mi) and 4 km (2.5 mi) into the hike, respectively. There is a waterfall about 800 m (2,625 ft) away from Kulat shelter if hikers want to take a short detour to see it. This first section is fairly mild for experienced hikers. 

After a downhill and then a steep incline, at about 775 m (2,543 ft) above sea level, you’ll reach Wuluh camp. On the section just before the camp, the trail takes you along the side of a slope with a rope on the open side to help you balance. Just after this camp, there is a big river crossing. 

Only 2 km (1.2 mi) more and hikers reach Kepuakan camp. This is the most common place to camp overnight. 

Day 2:

Day two starts with crossing the Kepuakan River, which is only about as deep as halfway up your calf. The terrain is steep on this section, and you’ll gain a lot of altitude. The vegetation starts to become more mossy and the air gets cooler. Day 2 ends at Musang Camp.

Day 3:

Day 3 is particularly long and challenging, with a very early start and obstacle course-like terrain. The ground is very steep and littered with rocks and slippery tree roots. On day 3 your altitude increases significantly over a short distance. You’ll reach Jeneral camp at about 2,021 m (6,631 ft) above sea level.

After Jeneral camp, the climb gets even more difficult. You’ll have to navigate sharp rocks when you reach the Rock Garden at about 2,260 m (7,415 ft) above sea level. It is imperative to take care here as a slip or a fall could leave you badly injured.

You’ll pass Rajah camp at about 2,433 m (7,982 ft), and the summit is not far from here. 

Some vegetation obscures the view from the summit, but if the weather is clear you’ll have a great view of Mount Kinabalu. 

You’ll descend back to Kepuakan camp and spend the night there before using day 4 to descend the rest of the way back to the starting point.

The weather in Ranau, which is the district wherein Mount Tambuyukon lies, is very humid and hot year-round. Highs average around 28°C (82°F) and lows average around 19°C (66°F). The hottest months are April and May and the slightly cooler months are November to early February.

The area gets over 200 mm of rain per month between June and December. Between January and May, there is less rain. The driest months are March and April with between 90 and 120 mm of rain per month.

The best time to plan a climb up Mount Tambuyukon is around February or March as it is drier, cooler and clearer at this time of year.

For this trek, you’ll need to pack all camping equipment, a head torch, food, sunscreen, insect repellent, clothes for all weather and leech socks. Also, make sure you have decent hiking boots and gloves to protect your hands when climbing. Liaise with your guides to find out what they will provide.

The starting point, Monggis Substation, has a parking area, electricity, ablutions, a camping-style cooking area, and accommodation with bunk beds and a lounge area.

Kulat and Kera rest stops have old lean-tos and a blue water container. It is unclear whether these containers consistently have water in them.

There are rivers at Wuluh Camp and Kepuakan Camp Kepuakan. There were portable toilets at these camps but they are very old now and it is unclear whether they are still there or still usable. 

After Kepuakan Camp water sources get scarce. 

Musang Camp is great for camping but has no water or shelter.

It is essential to have a guide and porters. Booking may be tricky but local guides are available. 

You will also need a permit to climb.

Mount Tambuyukon can be found within Kinabula Park, 12 km (7.5 mi) north of Mount Kinabalu, in Sabah, Malaysia.

The nearest airport is in Kota Kinabalu, which is 3-4 hours away by road. You can also come from Ranau which is only a 2-hour drive from the starting point. The road leading to the starting point is quite rough, so you may want to hire a 4WD vehicle.

This is a long trek with some difficult sections on the trail. Be sure to train sufficiently to make sure you are fit enough to complete the trek and take care not to hike when tired; a misstep could cause a serious fall on some parts of the trek. 

Come prepared with a first aid kit and any other necessary precautions.