The cheapest (and in this case – best) way to book Mt. Kinabalu
This is by far the cheapest and best way to book a climb up this mountain. Since there’s only one company, Sutera Harbour, that does all the bookings, it’s best to book directly with them.
Otherwise, you would essentially be paying more to have someone book on your behalf. And, many tour agencies charge 3 times the price!
You can book directly with them by emailing them (sales.ssl@suteraharbour.com.my). They’re pretty quick with their emails, but if you’re in a pinch you can call them at +60 88 318 888.
The pricing as of October 30, 2011 is: RM 522.00 which is for a 2 day 1 night package including:
| 1 | x | Pkg |
Accommodation at Laban Rata (LR) |
| 1 | x | Pkg |
Packed Lunch at Balsam KP |
| 1 | x | Pkg |
Dinner at LR |
| 1 | x | FO |
2AM Supper at LR |
| 1 | x | Pkg |
Breakfast at LR |
| 1 | x | Pkg |
Lunch at Balsam KP |
| 1 | x | FO |
Climbing Permit |
| 1 | x | FO |
Mt. Insurance |
For the adventurers out there, you highly recommend doing via ferreta at Low’s Peak – which holds the world’s record for the highest via ferreta and suspension bridge.
It’s important to know that you only get refunds if you book directly through Mountain Torq, who is the sole operator. Getting a refund back is especially important since they will cancel the event if the weather is too ugly.
There are three ways to do the booking: 1) Call in advance 2) Register on site when you reach the park entrance 3) Register on site when you reach Laban Rata
The latter being the safest route as you can see how you feel after reaching the lodge before making any commitments. Also, it serves as a test for your fitness since you have to reach the lodge before 3PM in order to catch the mandatory briefing.
I went with the third option and paid RM 580. I’m not sure if this would be different if you registered in other ways.
Enjoy and be safe!
