Running in Kota Kinabalu 🇲🇾
Where trail community meets Borneo adventure
Forget everything you think you know about running in Southeast Asia. Kota Kinabalu (KK) isn’t about chasing perfect Instagram moments or personal records—it’s about something deeper: an authentic trail running community set in one of the world’s most breathtaking mountain regions.
Here, runs start with smiles, high-fives, and greetings exchanged between strangers who quickly become friends. Whether by the coast or on forest trails, locals and visitors come together to share pace, stories, and post-run coffee. KK’s running clubs foster immediate inclusion, turning every session into a celebration of connection and movement.
We didn’t arrive in KK with a plan—just curiosity, trail shoes, and a Strava account. But the community made room for us immediately. Jason, who we found through Strava, helped us figure out the best neighborhood to stay in for easy access to the trails and running culture. Then Esther, a local runner, invited us for a sunrise loop through UMS. That morning, as we ran under the trees and listened to monkeys stirring in the canopy, we realized this place had already started to feel like home.
Picture this: 6 AM at Likas Bay, Mount Kinabalu watching over morning mist, and strangers becoming running partners before your first kilometer ends. High-fives from locals who've never seen you before but welcome you like family. WhatsApp groups adding your number after one shared sunrise session. Spontaneous coffee breaks turning into friendship foundations that survive any distance.
During our five weeks in KK, we discovered something special. This isn't just another running destination - it's where Sabah's trail community gathers, where international adventurers connect with local wisdom, and where every route leads to both mountain discoveries and human connections.
Ready to discover why Kota Kinabalu should be your gateway to Borneo's running adventures?
5 Places That Defined Our Journey in KK — and Should Do Yours Too
We didn’t arrive in Kota Kinabalu with a list—we built it, one run at a time. Over five weeks, we explored the city’s paths, coastlines, and climbs, letting conversations, curiosity, and a bit of Strava digging guide us.
What emerged weren’t the “top five” from a guidebook, but five places we kept returning to. They offered variety, community, challenge, and moments of quiet beauty. Some were suggested by locals, others we stumbled into. Together, they became the heartbeat of our trail experience.
These are the places that defined our running life in KK—and if you lace up here, we think they’ll shape yours too.
University Malaya Sabah (UMS) – Peaceful and Contemplative
UMS offers varied terrain perfect for long, mindful runs. Rolling hills and lush greenery provide a calm environment far from city buzz. Wildlife sightings—like curious monkeys—add a touch of wild Borneo. With easy access to nearby beaches, it’s ideal for peaceful solo runs or relaxed group outings.
It’s also where we had one of our local runs—Esther led us through winding forest paths as the sun rose. It wasn’t just the route that made it special—it was the connection. A quiet run that spoke volumes about how open this community really is.
Type: Road, (possible trails and track)
Distance: ~18 km loop
Elevation: ±214m
Start: University Malaya Sabah main entrance
Route: Rolling road paths; quiet, green, and great for long runs
Likas Bay Coastal Path – Community Energy and Welcoming Vibes
The flat loop at Likas Bay pulses with energy. Framed by Mount Kinabalu and the South China Sea, it’s where running clubs meet every day. Expect friendly faces, morning motivation, and post-run coffee stalls. If you’re new to KK, this is where to plug in.
For us, this was the heart of the KK rhythm:
A wave. A chat. A high five. A photo.
A shared kilometre—or just a few steps—before parting ways with a smile.
Always a lot of smiles.
And always the same question, over and over again:
“Where you from?”
We didn’t plan meetups or always know names.
But each morning felt familiar, like we belonged to something bigger—without ever needing to ask.
Type: Road / Coastal loop
Distance: ~15 km A/R
Elevation: Flat
Start: Likas Bay public car park
Route: Easy scenic loop with sea and mountain views; social, accessible, and ideal for all levels
Likas Lake Sports Complex – Focused Training Ground
For structured sessions such as intervals or tempo races, Likas Lake offers a flat, tarred loop and a concentrated atmosphere. You will find dedicated runners, as well as a multitude of local tips to adapt to tropical conditions. This is the ideal place to refine your speed while remaining in a collective spirit. Even here, where everyone was training hard, we felt welcome. A quick nod. A shared rhythm. Mutual respect for the simple fact of being present—even in the heat. And, in addition to this human energy, the curious otters that slide into the calm waters of the lake offer a soothing reminder of the nature that surrounds this unique training place.
Type: Road / Flat loop
Distance: ~2.5 km loop
Elevation: Flat
Start: Likas Lake Sports Complex entrance
Route: Wide loops for tempo sessions and intervals; training groups often present
Signal Hill – Meditative Runs with Stunning Views
Signal Hill is perfect for easy, refreshing morning climbs and moments of quiet reflection. Its gentle, welcoming slopes combined with stunning city views offer a peaceful escape into nature without having to leave town. Runners and hikers seeking calm, scenic beauty will find exactly what they need here—especially at sunrise, when the vibrant city of KK gently wakes up and comes to life below you.
Type: Road Hill climb
Distance: ~3–4 km
Elevation: ±150m
Start: Signal Hill trailhead
Route: Shaded climbs, peaceful surroundings, and sweeping skyline views
Bukit Botak – Great Challenge and Local Credibility
Bukit Botak is where trail runners go to test themselves and add some elevation. Steep, trail paths demand skill and focus, while coastal views reward your effort. In the KK trail community, finishing multiple Bukit Botak loops is a badge of respect and a solid prep ground for bigger mountain objectives.
Adib, a quiet but incredibly kind runner we met through the community, suggested this one. “Great place for ascent session,” he told us. He wasn’t exaggerating. The climb was hot, technical on descent, and unforgiving—but worth every step. By the time we reached the top, drenched in sweat and staring out over the coast, we were smiling like kids who had discovered something secret.
Type: Ascent trail
Distance: ~4–5 km out-and-back
Elevation: ±250m
Start: Bukit Botak access point
Route: Technical, rocky trails with steep sections and coastal scenery; for experienced runners
Looking for more
Looking to push your limits with even more running options? Within just 30 minutes, you can explore stunning spots like Bukit Konpungit, Padang, and Inobong, —each offering unique terrain and breathtaking scenery. If you’re open to traveling a bit further, approximately 1.5 hours away lie beautiful Bogung Hill and the majestic Mount Nungkok, perfect for those seeking a more immersive outdoor experience.
As a unique and extra must-do challenge, Mont Kokol delivers an exceptional half marathon distance (21.45km) that stands apart from the rest. With 843m of elevation gain and challenging terrain that rewards you with spectacular panoramic views, Kokol isn't just a training ground—it's where the local running community comes together. This route has earned its reputation as KK's premier half marathon road challenge, offering the perfect blend of sustained climbs and stunning scenery that makes every kilometer memorable.
For the ultimate challenge, the full trail routes of the KAR Ultra are available, featuring authentic, thrilling, and diverse trails that cater to passionate trail runners eager for new adventures.
What We'll Always Remember
The Coffee Culture Post-run sessions at local kopitiam stalls quickly became our absolute favorite KK tradition. Savoring a refreshing "Kopi-C Sejuk" (iced coffee with condensed milk) paired with warm "roti with kaya" (coconut jam toast) consistently proved far superior to any typical sports nutrition product. But even more importantly, these relaxed and casual coffee breaks offered a special space for genuine conversations about running dreams, the rich local culture, and our shared passion for movement and adventure.
The Genuine Connections Random runners eagerly sharing their favorite hidden mountain training spots. Unexpected village encounters during longer adventures where movement naturally becomes a meaningful cultural bridge. These heartfelt connections have not only survived our departure but also continue to thrive through regular social media exchanges and plans for future visits together.
The Mountain Gateway Reality KK isn't just a coastal running destination - it's your launching pad for Sabah's incredible mountain adventures. Mount Kinabalu looms constantly in your peripheral vision, reminding you that serious trail challenges await. Local runners freely share knowledge about closes but challenging Bukit and hidden mountain routes that guidebooks never mention.
Why KK Deserves Your Running Bucket List
Honest Assessment: This isn't where you'll set personal bests or create viral Instagram content. The humidity humbles North America/European pace expectations. The routes won't appear in glossy trail magazines. You might struggle more than succeed during your first week.
What KK Actually Offers: Authentic trail community that adopts international visitors as family. Gateway access to some of Asia's most spectacular mountain running. Training partners who genuinely care about your experience and growth. Cultural immersion through shared movement and post-run conversations.
Perfect For Runners Who:
Value community connection over solo achievement
Seek authentic cultural experiences through sport
Want to explore Sabah's mountain regions with local knowledge
Appreciate genuine hospitality over polished tourism
Understand that trail running's best rewards aren't always measurable
The Bigger Picture Sabah offers some of Southeast Asia's most spectacular mountain trail running. Mount Kinabalu, Kadamaian Valley, Taman Negara Banjaran Crocker Range, and countless village trail networks await exploration. But attempting these adventures without local community connection means missing the cultural richness that makes Borneo special.
KK provides that crucial community foundation. The runners you meet here become your guides, training partners, and cultural translators for bigger Sabah adventures. What starts as morning coastal runs evolves into mountain expedition planning with people who've become genuine friends.
If you are already planning an adventure in Sabah, such as climbing Mount Kinabalu or exploring the Crocker Range, consider staying a little longer to really connect with the warm local Kota Kinabalu community. If you are looking for authentic trail locations, away from the beaten track and crowds, KK has a rare experience in store for you: courses where running not only means accumulating kilometers, but above all building strong and sincere human ties.
The trails are waiting.
The community gathers every morning at sunrise.
Your Borneo running adventure starts with showing up and staying long enough to belong, even temporarily.
Because in KK, you never run alone, - we’ll never run alone - and that makes all the difference.
UltraNomades
Essential Tips for Running in KK
Best running times:
Golden hours: 5:30-7:30 AM for comfortable pace running
Social sessions: 6:00-8:00 AM when community gathers
Avoid completely: 1:00-5:00 PM (even locals stay indoors)
Evening option: 6:30-8:00 PM for relaxed social runs and Club Time
Getting around: Ride-sharing apps such as Grab make it easy to get to major routes. For offbeat trails, rent a motorbike.
Gear up: Wear quick-dry clothes and sturdy trail shoes. Bring extra water (more than you think necessary) and some cash for facilities, post-run food, and community coffee sessions
Build community: Show up early, join clubs in evening, ask about local races, mountain training, hidden spots, exchange Instagram and WhatsApp and swap IG handles. You’ll leave with new friends, not just memories.
