Best Waterfalls in Sabah — Swimming Spots & Directions
Sabah is a waterfall lover's paradise. From easy 30-minute walks to multi-hour jungle treks, the state offers everything from thundering cascades to hidden pools. Most are within 1–3 hours of Kota Kinabalu, making them perfect for day trips or weekend adventures. Whether you're seeking a quick splash or an off-the-beaten-path discovery, you'll find a waterfall that suits your style.
Top Waterfalls Near Kota Kinabalu
These waterfalls are easily accessible from Kota Kinabalu and ideal for first-time visitors.
| Waterfall | Distance from KK | Entry Fee | Walk Time | Difficulty | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kiansom Waterfall | Inanam, on the edge of KK | Not officially published; check at the entrance | Short | Easy | Several small falls and pools |
| Mahua Waterfall | Tambunan district, about 14 km from Tambunan town | Crocker Range Park conservation fee: RM20 international adult, RM6 Malaysian adult | Short | Very Easy | 17 m fall into a 1.3 m deep pool, about 1,000 m above sea level (Sabah Parks, checked 7 October 2026) |
| Dolibung Waterfall | Penampang district | Not officially published; ask locally | Long trek (choice of trails) | Easy to Moderate | Two trail options; forest canopy views |
| Sorinsim Waterfall | Ask a local guide | Not officially published (guide advised) | Varies | Moderate to Hard | Few tourists; local guides essential |
Kiansom is close enough for a half-day lunch-and-splash trip. Mahua is a longer drive, so pair it with a day out in Tambunan.
Poring Hot Springs Waterfalls
Poring Hot Springs, on the eastern side of Kinabalu Park about 40 km from Park Headquarters, has two major waterfalls (Sabah Parks, checked 7 October 2026). You can combine a waterfall hike with a soak in the thermal hot springs.
Kipungit Waterfall
- Distance: About 1 km from the park entrance
- Walk Time: About 15 minutes (easy)
- Height: About 10 metres
- Best For: Families; quick dip before hot springs
Langanan Waterfall
- Distance: 3.4 km trail through lowland forest
- Walk Time: About 2 hours (one way)
- Height: More than 120 metres, the highest in Poring (Sabah Parks, checked 7 October 2026)
- Best For: Serious hikers; start early morning
Poring Practical Info
- Entry Fee: RM50 international adult, RM25 aged 17 and under; RM10 Malaysian adult, RM5 aged 13–17
- Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily (last gate entry 3:00 PM) (Sabah Parks, checked 7 October 2026)
- Location: Eastern side of Kinabalu Park, about 40 km from Park Headquarters
Many visitors spend a night near Mount Kinabalu and day-trip to Poring. Poring is about 40 km from Park Headquarters. Consider a full Poring–Kinabalu combo trip.
East Coast & Interior Waterfalls
These waterfalls require more travel time and planning but offer pristine jungle settings with fewer tourists.
East Coast (Lahad Datu)
- Lipad Waterfall, Tabin Wildlife Reserve — Also called the Twin Waterfalls. About 3 km from the Tabin base camp, roughly an hour and a half on foot through regenerating forest, with a pool to swim in. In the rainy season a second stream forms beside the main fall (Tourism Malaysia, checked 7 October 2026). The east coast wet season peaks around December and January (the calendar below is for the west coast).
Interior (Tenom, Keningau, Tambunan)
- Mahua Waterfall (listed above) sits in Tambunan district and is easily the most popular interior waterfall.
Interior and east coast waterfalls often require 4WD vehicles, local guides, and permits. Plan ahead, hire experienced operators, and never explore alone.
Best Time to Visit
These months are for Kota Kinabalu and the west coast. The east coast is wettest around December and January.
Driest months (February–April): Safest underfoot. Trails are least slippery and the weather is most reliable, though flow is at its lowest. Early morning visits offer the best light and coolest temperatures.
Wettest months (June–November, peaking in October): Waterfalls are fuller and more dramatic, but trails become slippery and dangerous. Flash floods are a real risk. If you do visit, avoid swimming and stay off the rocks.
Shoulder Season (April–June): Moderate rainfall, good water flow, and fewer tourists. A good compromise if you're flexible on dates.
What to Bring
- Footwear: Water shoes or trekking sandals with grip. Rocks are slippery year-round.
- Towel & Dry Bag: Pack a quick-dry towel and waterproof bag for your phone and valuables.
- Insect Repellent: Essential, especially near water in the morning and evening.
- Sun Protection: Sunscreen and a hat (sun reflects off water). Sunburn happens fast.
- Water & Snacks: Bring 1–2 liters of water and high-energy snacks (nuts, chocolate, energy bars).
- Light Jacket: Waterfall mist can feel cold, especially if you're hiking in the morning.
- Waterproof Phone Case: If you want photos or need GPS.
Safety Tips
- Avoid After Heavy Rain: Flash floods can occur suddenly in mountain streams. Never swim or walk in gorges immediately after rainfall.
- Watch Your Footing: Wet rocks and exposed roots are hazards. Move slowly and use both hands if needed.
- Respect Warning Signs: If a waterfall is marked off-limits or dangerous, don't ignore it.
- Go with a Buddy: Never hike alone, especially on unfamiliar trails. Local guides are worth the cost.
- Start Early: Hikes taking 2+ hours should start by mid-morning to allow time to return before dark.
- Check Weather: Monitor local forecasts before heading out. Conditions can change quickly in Borneo.
- Know Your Limits: Exhaustion makes accidents more likely. Turn back if you're tired or the weather worsens.
For popular waterfalls, informal guides sometimes wait at entrances; agree the price before you set off. For remote waterfalls, book through tourism operators in advance. Guides know safety hazards, best swimming spots, and hidden photo angles.
FAQ
Q How far are the closest waterfalls from Kota Kinabalu?
Q Do I need a guide for waterfall hikes?
Q What is the best time of year to visit waterfalls in Sabah?
Q Are the waterfalls safe for swimming?
Q Which waterfall is best for families with children?
Q What are the entry fees for major waterfalls?
Sources & References 7 sources
Last verified: October 2026