Top of the World - Sunrise Leisure Hike St. Veronica Hill
Active
4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Located in Tamparuli about an hour’s drive from Kota Kinabalu City, the beautiful St. Veronica’s Hill towers over the rustic Tamparuli town and surrounding villages at 278 meters above sea level. The locals of Sabah call it Bukit Perahu, which means “Hill Boat” in Malay, because of an inverted boat-shaped rock that sits near the summit’s clearing.
St. Veronica’s Hill offers a leisure trek up to the peak on a rocky terrain. While the majority of the trail leads through trees and bushes, occasional shrub openings towards the top afford a splendid bird’s eye view.
In the early morning, a sunrise hike will be rewarded with a spectacular view of Mount Kinabalu overlooking the misty low lands - giving you a true “Top of the World” experience!
A combination of scenic views, exercise, and a little bit of mystery thrown together, this hill catches the fancy of both hiking enthusiasts and leisure explorers alike.
Available options
Top of the World - Sunrise Leisure Hike St. Veronica Hill
Pickup included
What's included
Meals (01 Breakfast)
English Speaking Guide
Kota Kinabalu City Hotel Pickup & Dropped Off
What you'll see
Day1 ST. VERONICA’S HILL SUNRISE HIKE/TAMPARULI/KOTA KINABALU (OR EXTEND TOUR - CHOICE OF OPTION A or B or C)
04:30am : Your first adventure starts in the early morning with the pick up from your hotel lobby and leisure drive to Tamparuli Town.
05:15am : Upon arrival at the starting point, begin the trek to the summit (278m a.s.l) of St Veronica’s Hill, also known as Bukit Perahu. Along the way, you will pass a total of 14 crosses planted by St. Phillip Roman Catholic Church of Tamparuli. Every year during Easter Day, Roman Catholic locals participate in a mini pilgrimage up the hill for the “Stations of the Cross” event, stopping at each cross to commemorate Jesus Christ’s last day on earth as a man.
06:00am : Once you have reached the summit, you will be rewarded with a spectacular view as you experience the true beauty of Sabah’s nature! Enjoy panoramic sights from the peak’s clearing, with the breathtaking backdrop of the majestic Mount Kinabalu and the shimmering river snaking past the rustic Tamparuli Town. If you are fortunate to climb with good weather, you would witness an incredible sunrise kissing the lands with gold!
07:00am : When you have enjoyed the full grandeur to your heart’s content, you can begin your descent.
08:00am : Upon reaching back to the starting point, transfer to Tamparuli Town. Take a walk on the famous “Jambatan Tamparuli” suspension bridge, and soak up the small-town charm as you stroll past numerous historical wooden shop houses and visit the local market. Breakfast will be a simple affair at one of the local food stalls. After breakfast, transfer back to Kota Kinabalu.
Alternatively, if you have chosen Option A or B or C, you may proceed to the starting point of your next adventure.
OPTION A: KIULU RIVER RAFTING (Top Up SGD 34 per pax) (LUNCH)
OPTION B: KINABALU PARK WITH RUMAH TERBALIK & DESA COW FARM (Top up SGD 52 per pax).(LUNCH)
OPTION C: ATV ADVENTURE – KIULU COUNTRYSIDE (Top up SGD 62 per pax) (LIGHT REFRESHMENT)
What's not included
Personal Travel Insurance
Any Items Not Mentioned
Available languages
Audio guide
CMN
EN
Guide guide
CMN
EN
Written guide
CMN
EN
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
5.0
8 reviews
5★
8
4★
0
3★
0
2★
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1★
0
Important information
Specialized infant seats are available
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Children must be accompanied by an adult
Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking
A minimum of 2 people per booking is required
Important notes
• Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking
• Minimum numbers apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there are not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund
• Important things to bring: Headlamp (as the climb will be started as early as 5:00am). You may also bring Raincoat or Umbrella, Walking Stick (optional), A Change of Clothes, Binoculars, Sunblock Lotion, Insect Repellent, Camera
About Kota Kinabalu
Kota Kinabalu, the capital of Sabah, is a vibrant city nestled between the South China Sea and the lush mountains of Borneo. Known for its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality, it's a gateway to some of the world's most breathtaking landscapes, including Mount Kinabalu and the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park.
Top Attractions
Mount Kinabalu
A UNESCO World Heritage Site and the highest peak in Southeast Asia, offering challenging climbs and breathtaking views.
Nature
2-4 days for summit climb
Climbing permit: RM300-500, Guided tours: RM1,500-3,000
Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park
A group of five islands known for their pristine beaches, coral reefs, and marine life.
Nature
Half-day to full day
Boat tours: RM100-200, Snorkeling gear rental: RM20-30
Kota Kinabalu City Mosque
A stunning mosque with a unique architectural design, featuring a pink-domed roof and surrounded by a man-made lagoon.
Architecture
1-2 hours
Free
Sabah State Museum
A comprehensive museum showcasing the history, culture, and natural heritage of Sabah.
Museum
2-3 hours
RM5-10
Filipino Market
A bustling market offering a variety of souvenirs, handmade crafts, and local delicacies.
Market
1-2 hours
Free entry, bargaining expected
Must-Try Local Dishes
Hinava
A traditional Sabahan dish made with raw fish marinated in lime juice, ginger, and chili.
Main Dish
Gluten-free, dairy-free
Tuhau
A sweet and savory glutinous rice cake wrapped in banana leaves, often filled with palm sugar and peanuts.
Snack
Vegetarian, gluten-free
Kuih Mor
A steamed glutinous rice cake with a sweet and tangy flavor, often served with coconut milk.
Dessert
Vegetarian, gluten-free
Laksa Sabah
A spicy noodle soup with a rich, aromatic broth, typically made with seafood, chicken, or beef.
Main Dish
Contains seafood, gluten-free
Popular Activities
Mountain climbing
Caving
Whitewater rafting
Beachcombing
Spa treatments
Hot springs
Visiting museums
Attending festivals
Best Time to Visit
March to October
This is the dry season, offering sunny weather and lower humidity, ideal for outdoor activities and beach trips.
24°C to 32°C
75°F to 90°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Malay
- Widely spoken: English, Chinese dialects, Indigenous languages
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
Malaysian Ringgit (MYR)
Time Zone
GMT+8
Electricity
240VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Kota Kinabalu is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, petty crime and scams can occur, so it's essential to stay vigilant and take necessary precautions.
Important Precautions:
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-hailing apps
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Be cautious when using ATMs
Getting there
By air
- Kota Kinabalu International Airport • 7 km from city center
By bus
Kota Kinabalu Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Affordable and widely available, but can be crowded during peak hours.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Grab
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
City Center
Tanah Runcing
Likass
Day trips
Island Hopping in Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park
3-15 km from Kota Kinabalu • Half-day to full day
Explore the beautiful islands of the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, known for their pristine beaches, coral reefs, and marine life.
Kinabalu Park
90 km from Kota Kinabalu • Full day
A UNESCO World Heritage Site and the home of Mount Kinabalu, offering stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and challenging trekking routes.
Poring Hot Springs
100 km from Kota Kinabalu • Full day
A relaxing retreat featuring natural hot springs, lush rainforests, and a variety of outdoor activities.
Festivals
Kota Kinabalu International Fest (KKIF) • July
Sabah Fest • May to June
Hari Raya Aidilfitri • Varies (Islamic calendar)
Pro tips
- Visit the Gaya Street Sunday Market for a taste of local culture and cuisine
- Take a boat tour to the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park for a day of snorkeling and island hopping
- Climb Mount Kinabalu for a challenging and rewarding adventure
- Explore the Sabah State Museum to learn about the history and culture of Sabah
- Try local dishes like Hinava, Tuhau, and Kuih Mor for an authentic taste of Sabahan cuisine
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
