Sports event · Kundasang (Mount Kinabalu)
GEC 16th Malaysia-ASEAN Kinabalu Climb 2027
An annual organised climb of Mount Kinabalu in Sabah from 9 to 12 April 2027, run by the Global Expedition Club to promote high-altitude programmes on the mountain.
- 9–12 Apr 2027
- Kundasang (Mount Kinabalu), Malaysia
The GEC 16th Malaysia-ASEAN Kinabalu Climb 2027 takes place from 9 to 12 April 2027 on Mount Kinabalu in Sabah, Malaysian Borneo. Run by the Global Expedition Club, it is an annual organised climb of one of Southeast Asia's highest peaks, open to trekkers from Malaysia, ASEAN countries and beyond. It suits fit adventure travellers, corporate teams and clubs looking for a guided group ascent.
About the Malaysia-ASEAN Kinabalu Climb
According to Sabah Tourism, this annual event introduces the high-altitude programme at Mount Kinabalu and promotes the Mount Kinabalu High Altitude Training Centre. Mount Kinabalu sits within Kinabalu Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its exceptional plant diversity, and climbing it is a bucket-list goal for many travellers in the region.
The climb is organised by the Global Expedition Club, which publishes registration and programme details on its own channels. The event listing is on the official Sabah Tourism page.
Malaysia-ASEAN Kinabalu Climb 2027 dates and venue
The Kinabalu Climb 2027 dates are Friday 9 April to Monday 12 April 2027. The climb takes place on Mount Kinabalu, starting from Kinabalu Park headquarters near Kundasang, in the Ranau district of Sabah. Places are limited because of park quotas on summit permits and mountain huts, so register early with the organiser. Climbers will need to meet the park's health and fitness requirements and use licensed mountain guides.
How to get to Kinabalu Park for the climb
Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI) is the gateway, with flights from Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, Jakarta and several other Asian cities; travellers from the Gulf and North Africa usually connect via Kuala Lumpur (KUL) or Singapore (SIN). From Kota Kinabalu, Kinabalu Park is reached by road through the Crocker Range, by private transfer, organised coach or shared van.
For a trip to Mount Kinabalu for the Kinabalu Climb, plan at least one night in Kota Kinabalu or Kundasang before the climb to rest and acclimatise.
Weather on Mount Kinabalu changes quickly. Even in the tropics, temperatures near the summit can fall close to freezing before dawn, and rain is common in the afternoon. Climbers need warm layers, a waterproof jacket, gloves, a head torch and sturdy walking shoes. Park authorities can close the summit trail in bad weather for safety, so build a spare day into the itinerary where possible.
Where to stay
Before and after the climb, Kundasang and the area around Kinabalu Park have mountain lodges, chalets and homestays with cool weather and views of the peak. On the mountain, climbers sleep at the huts at Laban Rata, which are allocated through the park's permit system. Kota Kinabalu city offers the widest range of hotels for arrival and departure nights. April is a popular season, so book early.
Planning a group trip to the Kinabalu Climb
A group tour to the Kinabalu Climb works well for corporate team-building, university clubs and adventure groups. A typical package includes airport transfers, a night in Kota Kinabalu, transfer to Kundasang, the two-day climb with hut stay, and a recovery day at the Poring hot springs or on the islands off Kota Kinabalu. Check each climber's fitness and insurance well in advance. Agencies serving Muslim travellers should confirm prayer and meal arrangements on the mountain with the organiser.
Frequently asked questions
When is the Malaysia-ASEAN Kinabalu Climb 2027?
It runs from 9 to 12 April 2027 on Mount Kinabalu, Sabah, according to Sabah Tourism.
Who organises the climb?
The Global Expedition Club (GEC) organises the event. Register through the organiser.
Do I need climbing experience?
Technical climbing skills are not usually needed on the standard route, but good fitness is essential. Follow park rules and your guide's advice.
Which airport is closest to Mount Kinabalu?
Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI), followed by a road transfer to Kinabalu Park.
Where do climbers sleep on the mountain?
Climbers normally stay overnight at the Laban Rata huts before the summit push, subject to park permits.
Travel agencies can book flights for travellers going to the Malaysia-ASEAN Kinabalu Climb in the QuickOTA B2B Panel and set their own markup.
Dates and venue come from the organiser and can change. Always check the official event page (last checked 3 Nov 2026) before you book.
