Touring the skies of Kota Kinabalu

hands down our best sky tour experience

We love helicopter rides. When we were in Costa Rica back in 2023, we couldn't resist squeezing in a sky tour to see San Jose city and the volcanic crater at Poas Volcano. We also chartered a helicopter ride from Tawau Airport in Sabah to the luxurious Sipadan Kapalai Dive Resort in Semporna. While both experiences were very cool and memorable, we think we've found our favourite: a helicopter ride over Kota Kinabalu city. Read on to find out why!

Our stylish ride in San Jose, Costa Rica.

Poas Volcano.

Arriving in style at Sipadan Kapalai Dive Resort.

If making a dramatic entrance at Sipadan Kapalai Dive Resort piqued your interest, download the brochure for more info!

A Helicopter Ride Over Kota Kinabalu: The Best Way to See Sabah from Above

When we're not exploring underwater sites or trekking up foreign mountains, we spend most of our time in Kota Kinabalu. We already knew KK was beautiful—lush greenery, stunning sunsets, vibrant city life—but we had never seen it from the sky (aside from drone shots and glimpses out of the airplane window). So, when the opportunity arose to hop on a helicopter tour that promised views of islands, rivers, rainforests, and the iconic Mount Kinabalu, we jumped at it.

Taking Off: The Experience

The day started early. Just a short drive from the city center, Sabah Air Aviation operates adjacent to Kota Kinabalu International Airport. We arrived at the hangar at 7 AM, where after registration and a quick safety briefing video, two other guests and I were led to the runway. There, we caught our first glimpse of our ride—the sleek Bell 206 Helicopter—and met our pilot, Captain Sofia William, who immediately put us at ease with her warmth and confidence.

After donning our life vests (mandatory since we’d be flying over water) and loading into the helicopter (hot tip: if you want the best shots, call shotgun!), we waited for air traffic clearance. Then, we were off!

Lifting off in a helicopter feels entirely different from taking off in a plane. There’s no sudden acceleration—one moment, you’re on the ground, and the next, you’re effortlessly floating above it.

Bell 206:

• Capacity: Typically seats 4-5 passengers plus the pilot.

• Engine: Powered by a single Allison 250-C20 turboshaft engine.

• Speed: Cruise speed of around 120 knots (222 km/h).

• Range: Can fly up to 693 km (431 miles) with full fuel.

• Endurance: Approximately 3-4 hours of flight time.

• Flight Ceiling: Can operate at altitudes up to 13,500 feet (4,115 m).

Mr Hamjah leading the ground crew in getting us ready for the flight.

The helicopter lift-off was much less traumatising than that of a plane!

The Sights from Above

With the runway right on the coast, we began our journey over the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, where we had a bird’s-eye view of Mamutik, Sapi, Manukan, Gaya, and Sulug islands. Captain Sofia pointed out that because drones are restricted here due to the airport’s proximity, the only way to witness this perspective is by air.

The morning light gave the islands a dreamy glow. The golden hues of sunrise softened the greens of the jungle, and the sea shimmered in subtle shades of blue and turquoise. It was breathtaking.

Smiley Face Islands. From left to right: Sulug, Manukan and Mamutik. Gaya Island in the top right corner.

Keep a tight grip on your phone! Better yet, use an action camera mounted on a sturdy selfie stick.

The soft morning glow made the view look so dreamy.

Leaving the islands behind, we soared over Kota Kinabalu city, watching the morning rush from above before quickly transitioning into dense rainforests. Up ahead, Mount Kinabalu stood tall like a beacon, and that’s where we were headed.

We passed winding mountain roads and snaking rivers before reaching the peak, standing at 4,095 meters. We were lucky—after days of cloudy weather, the mountain stood clear, draped only in wisps of mist that added to its mystique. At our maximum altitude of 1,800 meters (5,000 feet), we even spotted a waterfall flowing from the side of the mountain.

From there, Captain Sofia took us lower for a fly-by over the Kiulu River, known for white-water rafting. That morning, however, the river was calm, snaking peacefully through the valley.

The majestic Mount Kinabalu rising above rainforests and clouds.

The Kiulu River.

Too soon, it was time to turn back, this time taking the Tuaran route, offering views of Kota Kinabalu’s suburbs and industrial areas before landing smoothly back at the airstrip—an hour after takeoff.

Thanks for the ride, Capt. Sofia!

Vibrant and lush KK City presided over by the majestic Mount Kinabalu.

Almost forgot to take a selfie!

Is It Worth It? Absolutely.

The entire experience was exhilarating. The smooth ride, Captain Sofia’s expert piloting, and the panoramic cockpit windows made for an unforgettable journey. It’s incredible how much you can see in just an hour—islands, rainforests, rivers, cities, and, of course, Mount Kinabalu. If you want a unique way to experience Sabah’s beauty, this is it.

PRACTICAL GUIDE FOR FIRST-TIMERS

WHAT TO BRING AND WEAR

Wear light, comfortable clothing. If you’re sitting up front, it can get hot due to the overhead windows, so a cap and sunscreen are a must. The ground crew provides bottled water, but bring your own reusable bottle to avoid plastic waste. And of course, visit the restroom beforehand!

Flight duration

The tour lasts about an hour.

Best time to fly

8 to 9 AM is ideal—clouds tend to obscure Mount Kinabalu after 9 AM, and the sun isn’t too intense yet.

Photography & Videography Tips

FOR VIDEO

If you’re using a DSLR or mirrorless camera, pair it with a gimbal. Helicopters vibrate, and without stabilization, your footage will be shaky. Better yet, use an action camera (like a GoPro) on a short stick. Modern action cams have fantastic stabilization, and you can even stick it out of the window—just make sure it’s strapped to your wrist! An Insta360 camera might yield really cool shots too! (No, not sponsored to say this!)

FOR PHOTOS

We used a Sony A7S III with a 12-24mm and 16-35mm lens. If you have a 50mm lens, bring it! It adds depth, allowing you to capture cockpit details while still showcasing the landscapes outside.

Final Thoughts

Taking a helicopter ride over Kota Kinabalu was an unforgettable experience and hands down one of the best ways to appreciate Sabah’s diverse landscapes. Whether you’re a local looking for a fresh perspective or a visitor seeking an epic adventure, this is a ride you won’t regret.

If you’re ever in KK, take to the skies—you won’t see the city the same way again. We made a short video of the whole experience, take a look!