“It is an area of pristine tropical rainforest, with numerous hiking trails and viewpoints, as well as opportunities to spot rare wildlife such as the endemic mountain toad and endemic Borneo birds.”
Crocker Range National Park is the second largest park in Sabah, covering an area of 139,919 hectares and encompassing seven administrative districts. It is part of the Crocker Range Ecosystem, which stretches over 120 kilometers. It was designated a national park in 1984 to protect the montane rainforest and maintain its status as a key water reservoir for Sabah.
The park's ecosystem is particularly unique due to its high elevation, ranging from 100 meters to the highest point at Mount Alab (1,950 meters). The forest ranges from lowland rainforest to highland cloud forest, rich in moss and endemic flora.
Key activities and attractions at the headquarters (near Tambunan) and at the base of Mount Alab:
Nature Trails: There are trails of varying difficulty, including shorter trails through the botanical gardens and more challenging trails to waterfalls and main viewpoints. The main trail is the Crocker Range Trail, which connects the headquarters to Mount Alab.
Treetop Suspension Bridges: (Please check for operating status.) Some suspension bridges allow visitors to experience the beauty of the forest from above and observe the treetop creatures, such as rare birds and orchids.
Entire Flora and Fauna: The park is home to a variety of rare plants, including the lady slipper orchid, the carnivorous pitcher plant, and the world's largest flower, the rafflesia (some species are found in this area). Common wildlife includes monkeys, civets, and small rodents.
Accommodation and facilities within the visitor center include comfortable chalets, shared dormitories, and a tent site, making it a popular retreat for locals seeking fresh air and cooler temperatures in the plains.
How to Get There
Private Car/Taxi:
- Driving from Kota Kinabalu to the headquarters takes approximately 2-3 hours.
Public Bus:
- You can take a bus to Keningau or Tambunan and ask the driver to stop at the park entrance.
Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit:
- You can visit year-round, but clear weather offers the best chance of enjoying the scenery.
Prepare for Weather:
- Due to its high elevation, the weather can be quite chilly throughout the day. Bring warm clothing for the mornings and nights.
Reservations:
- If you wish to stay overnight at the visitor center, make advance reservations with the park's operator (Sabah Parks).
Admission Fees:
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National Park Entrance Fee: There is generally a national park entrance fee for foreigners (approximately MYR 10-MYR 20 per person). Additional camera fees may apply.
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Accommodation Fee: Prices vary depending on the type of chalet or dormitory.
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Guide Fee: If you wish to hike on more complex trails, you must hire a local guide.
Opening Hours:
- Open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
- Check-in/check-out times are subject to the lodge you booked. Please check with the Sabah Parks office for the exact opening hours of the Visitor Center.