Nabawan — Remote Murut highland on the Kalimantan border.
Nabawan is one of Sabah's most remote interior districts, bordering Kalimantan and home to Murut communities. It has very little tourist infrastructure but offers jungle trekking, river trips and visits to rural Murut villages.
Activities in Nabawan
- Jungle trekking — Multi-day treks through primary rainforest with expert guides who can read animal signs and navigate trails invisible to the untrained eye.
- River fishing — Cast a line in fast-moving highland rivers for freshwater catches — a peaceful half-morning activity often combined with a short jungle walk.
- Murut longhouse visits
- Bird watching — Wetlands, forest edges, and riverbanks attract hundreds of species year-round, including rare endemics found nowhere else in the world.
Local Tips for Visiting Nabawan
- Plan at least one overnight stay. This is a long road trip from KK, so a day trip leaves little time to see what's here.
- Download offline maps before leaving KK in case mobile coverage drops on the road, and carry some cash for small shops, stalls and rural areas.
- Dress for the tropics — light moisture-wicking clothes, a packable rain jacket, and SPF50+ sunscreen are non-negotiable. Rain can arrive fast even in dry season.
Getting There from Kota Kinabalu
Plan your travel time from Kota Kinabalu before you set off, as road conditions and journey times vary.
- Car or 4WD through Keningau
Budget Guide
Prices in Nabawan change with the season and with demand. Check current rates on booking sites before you go, and confirm tour and transfer prices directly with the operator.
- Budget traveller — Guesthouses or budget hotels, hawker meals, shared transport or local buses.
- Mid-range — A comfortable hotel, sit-down restaurants, private transport or day tours.
- Comfort traveller — Better hotels or resorts, guided experiences, private transfers and dining at better restaurants.
Keep some cash for markets, small shops and transport.
Where to Stay in Nabawan
Room rates in Nabawan change with the season. Check current rates on booking sites before you go.
We may earn a small commission if you book through this link — it costs you nothing extra.
Book Tours and Tickets in Nabawan
See tours and tickets around Nabawan on Klook →
Klook links are affiliate links — we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Prices and availability are set by the operators.
Nearby Districts to Combine With Nabawan
These districts are in the same region and pair well with a visit to Nabawan:
- Ranau — Base camp for Mount Kinabalu climbers
- Keningau — Murut warrior heartland and interior gateway (about 131 km from KK)
- Tambunan — Rafflesia spotting in a highland valley (about 75 km from KK)
Best Time to Visit Nabawan
Best months: Feb, Mar — drier weather, better road conditions, and optimal visibility for outdoor activities.
See the full month-by-month guide for Nabawan →
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best things to do in Nabawan?
The top activities in Nabawan include jungle trekking, river fishing, murut longhouse visits. Check the full activity list above for what suits your interests.
How do I get to Nabawan from Kota Kinabalu?
Plan your travel time from Kota Kinabalu before you set off. Car or 4WD through Keningau.
How much does a trip to Nabawan cost?
Costs depend on the season, where you stay and which tours you book. Check current room rates on booking sites and confirm tour prices with the operator before you go. Carry some cash for markets and smaller shops.
Is Nabawan safe for tourists?
Take standard precautions in Nabawan: watch your belongings, avoid poorly lit areas at night, travel with a guide in remote areas, share your plans with someone, and check current official travel advisories before you go.