If you wish to hike up to the summit, do make sure you arrive at the station before 9am. The park opens at 7am during weekends. The first half of the hike was like a stroll as it was not too steep until we reached the F7 pitstop. Subsequently, the hike up resembles rock climbing as the inclination was really steep and arm strength was also needed to climb up. There are also multiple ladder steps along the way and it is not for the faint hearted and for those with heart problems. The hike up took us approximately 4 hours. The view from the summit Mount Santubong was breathtaking and could see the Sarawak river from the distance. I would only recommend visiting to those who usually hike. Do have a heavy breakfast prior to the hike and pack some lunch up.

I’ve got to challenge a few previous reviews. Whilst my wife & I are both fit, it was allot more than a “stroll” in the park. Yes the 1st bit of the trek gets starts to get you aligned for what’s to come after you split from the loop trail, nothing quite prepares you. Many of the paths crazy steep & yes allot of it you’re on all fours. There are streams to cross, roots sticking up literally everywhere, branches & many other obstacles. The humidity is the killer & overall in places it’s simply brutal. I’ve still given this 5 stars as we loved the challenge & experience. I wanted to see a bit of rugged Borneo & the Rain Forest & if you visit here you’ll get both. There’s no shops close by & you can’t get anything at the Rangers station, so come prepared. We took 3 litters of water which was enough for our 4 hour trek But…….. we didn’t make the top 😢

Mount Santubong was a great hike/ rockclimb. You have to start om weekdays between 0800 and 0900. After 0900 they won’t let you start anymore. You have to turn around at 1300 No matter if you reached the summit or not. The expected time is 1,5h to the lookout and then another 2,5h to the top. 4h Total ascend. Descend is the same path. Entrance is free. First part of the hike to the lookout point (f7) is not too difficult. It’s a steep walk and at some parts you have to hold on to a Rope. After the lookout point the real climb to the summit starts. Expect very steep terrain all the way from the lookout to the summit. Along the way you get multiple fireladders up to 10 meters high. Don’t be afraid of hights. You also have to do some rope climbs. During the climb watch out for spiders and snakes (especially if you are the first ones of the day like us, we saw both and a bit too close for comfort). The summit has a beautiful lookout. The hike and climb are quite challenging and I wouldn’t recommend it if you’re not fit/ used to hiking. We are quite fit and did it in 2,5h up 3h down but it was challenging and we only took short breaks. Bring enough water and food for the trip.