Mount Kinabalu Preparation

• Engaging a mountain guide is compulsory for yourself or your group (Ratio of Max 5 climbers to 1 mountain guide).
• Wear comfortable trekking or running shoes with a good grip.
• Make sure to trim your toe nails to prevent your nail bumping the front of your footwear that can cause toe nail bruise and blister.
• Do not have a heavy breakfast prior to the climb.
• Pack some energy bars to keep you energized and to keep hungry tummy at bay.
• Bring extra Cash in Ringgit Malaysia (No Credit Card available at Panalaban).
• Trekking Pole is available for sale (MYR 45 each) at Help Desk @ Kinabalu Park. Please request with us in advance to avoid disappointment.
• There will be no health checks conducted by any authorities during climb registration, so climb at your own risk.
• Remember to wear your ID TAG at all times (important!)

• You should feel comfortable and be able to move freely in what you’re wearing (Denim jeans is not recommended).
• It’s is ideal to finish eating you lunch (preferably within 30 minutes) before starting your climb to reduce some bag weight.
• You can eat your packed lunch after about 2 hours into your climbing, preferably at Mempening (4th Shelter) or Layang-layang Shelter (5th Shelter).
• Trek at a normal steady pace (Too fast may result high altitude sickness & vomiting, too slow will drain out your energy). One step at a time.
• Rest longer at 4th or 5th KM mark – about 10 mins for high altitude acclimatization.
• Should you feel too tired to carry on, try not to sit or lay down on high altitude, just stand and walk around.
• Be extra careful with your steps during the wet spell.
• Do not run at any time while ascending the mountain.

• Untreated fresh mountain water is available at every shelter; you may refill them at these stops (Bring some water purification tablets) but it’s not recommended for anyone who have sensitive stomach.
• Free boiled water for drinking or refill is available at Pendant Hut. However, it is not available at Laban Rata Restaurant.
• Cover your nose (and mouth) with a scarf in windy condition on high ground.
• Estimated trekking time from Timpohon Gate to Panalaban Base Camp based on different fitness level of climbers:
  

  Fitness level of Climbers	Estimate time of trekking
  Fit Climbers	3-4 hours
  Average Climbers	5-6 hours
  Unfit Climbers	7-8 hours

About Laban Rata Resthouse (Restaurant & Groceries Counter) & Pendant Hut:

• Laban Rata Restaurant operation hours are from 07:30hrs to 19:30hrs (No food available after 19:30hrs).
• Laban Rata Grocery Counter closed at 19:30hrs (Sells à la carte foods, beverages, chips, chocolate bar, batteries, etc).
• Laban Rata Restaurant’s staffs will start cleaning and clearing the tables, chairs, utensils and drinking water pot between 19:45hrs – 20:00hrs.
• Laban Rata Non-Heated Dormitory Rooms will provide - Blanket, bed, bed Sheet and pillow.
• Pendant Hut Non-Heated Rooms will provide - Sleeping bag, bed, bed sheet and pillow.

Getting Ready for Summit Attack

• Double check to ensure that you are wearing your ID Tags before leaving Panalaban.
• Drink salt water to avoid getting cramps.
• If you are able to withstand the coldness, try to have a shower once you have reached Panalaban or before the summit attack. (*note : summit attack = the act of climbing to the top of the mountain after spending a night in a particular post)
• Before summit attack, you can have decent meal during supper but it is advised to not take it too heavy.
• For summit attack, you can bring snacks (e.g. energy & chocolate bars), small backpack (compressed & lightweight), and a suitable clothing to keep yourself warm & protected. Click here to have some ideas how to pack for Day 2 Climb / summit attack.

Descending

• When descending, try to walk sideway or in a zig-zag pattern to prevent from slipping and to reduce joints pain.
• Descend as early as you can. Suggestion is by 07:30hrs.
• Descending from the summit is the best time to enjoy the scenery. Do take many photos as you head down towards Panalaban Basecamp.
• Don’t forget to check out with Sabah Park Rangers when you reach Sayat-Sayat checkpoint (Important!).
• Check-out time at Laban Rata and Lemaing Hostel is at 10:30hrs.
• Breakfast buffet will end at 10:30hrs.
• Do not run at any time while descending the mountain.
• Please do not take any stones from the summit.
• Use your trekking poles while descending, it will minimize the impact on your knees and legs (if used properly)
• Cut-off time for climbers to reach Timpohon gate is at 16:30hrs. Later than 16:30hrs, additional charges are required for mountain guide fee.
• As you finished your climb, do some cooling down stretches.

After Climb

• Finally, you did it! Enjoy your lunch at Balsam Restaurant. Buffet lunch ends at 16:00hrs.
• Receive your climbing certificate from your assigned Mountain Guide.
• Have a good rest to recover your energy.
• Tips to lessen the soreness & fasten muscle recovery :
  • Dip your legs into a bucket of ice water
  • Take a cold shower
  • Eat adequate protein based food, to strengthen your muscle.
• Post your awesome experience on social media, and don’t forget to tag @mountkinabalu or give us a good review! ;)