Kota Kinabalu is the capital of Sabah, Malaysia’s state closest to the Philippines. Kota Kinabalu is home to the tallest mountain in South East Asia, Mount Kinabalu. Kota Kinabalu is also known for its beautiful islands, beaches and not to forget, its multicultural people.

Airports in Kota Kinabalu

1. Ninoy Aquino International Airport

The Ninoy Aquino International Airport or NAIA is one of two international airports serving the Metro Manila Area. Located along the border of Pasay City and Paranaque City in Manilla, NAIA is about 7 km south of Manilla and southwest of Makati City. There are four terminals in NAIA with terminal 1 hosting only international flights. Terminal 2 and three host international and domestic flights while terminal 4, the oldest terminal only hosts flights from local and regional carriers. NAIA is also the hub for AirAsia Philippines, Cebgo, Cebu Pacific, PAL Express and Philippine Airlines.

2. Kota Kinabalu Airport (BKI)

The second busiest airport in Malaysia, Kota Kinabalu Airport has located around 8 km from the Kota Kinabalu city centre. The Kota Kinabalu airport is the main gateway to Sabah, and into Borneo Island. Terminal 1 which opened in 2008 offers all the conveniences of a modern airport including shopping and dining venues. Currently, the only way between Kota Kinabalu airport and the city is by taxi and will cost around PHP380 one way.

How to Get Cheap Flights to Kota Kinabalu?

Traveloka is a travel search engine that makes it easy for travelers to find the cheapest flights to Kota Kinabalu. All you need to do is to key in the information in the search box, and the application will recommend the best trip according to your budget. It compares flight prices across some trusted airlines to help you to get the best possible deal. Don’t hesitate to use Traveloka’s price alert feature to be notified of flights in your desired price range to get the best flight price to Kota Kinabalu.

When is the Best Time to Fly to Kota Kinabalu?

The best time to fly from Manila to Kota Kinabalu would be October to November if you are heading to the beach as this is the time Kota Kinabalu gets drier. Otherwise, Kota Kinabalu which shares almost the same climate as Manila is suitable to visit all year round. Kota Kinabalu is protected from cyclones compared to the Philippines which makes the rain during the rainy seasons less violent than those in the Philippines.

What are the Top 3 Things to Do in Kota Kinabalu?

1. Tunku Abdul Rahman Park – Tunku Abdul Rahman Park is a cluster of 5 islands located 3 to 8 km from the Kota Kinabalu city centre. Travelers can book an island hopping trip directly from the Jesselton Jetty and enjoy the islands best known for snorkeling, diving and sunbathing.

2. Mari Mari Cultural Village – Mari Mari Cultural Village is located deep in the countryside away from the modern developing city of Kota Kinabalu. The village operates as a museum that preserves Borneo ethnic culture. Featuring 5 different ethnic tribes in 1 village, visitors will be able to learn more about the Kadazan Dusun, Rungus, Bajau, Lundayeh and Murut tribes.

3. Gaya Street Sunday Market – The best way to know a place is always through its local markets. Even though slightly touristy, the most famous market in Kota Kinabalu would be the Gaya Street Sunday Market. Visitors can shop for everything under the sun (literally) from batik sarongs, arts and crafts, antiques, souvenirs, cakes, even pets and herbs!