At 2,642 metres, Mount Trus Madi is the second-highest mountain in Malaysia — but climbing it via Sinua is a very different experience from climbing the more famous Mount Kinabalu. This is a 3-day, 2-night jungle trek through remote rainforest, with both nights spent at Camp 2 and the summit tackled as a day hike on the second morning.
There are no crowds, mountain resorts or comfortable facilities along the trail. Instead, you get dense rainforest, steep jungle trails, basic camping and the feeling of being genuinely off the beaten track.
So what is climbing Mount Trus Madi via Sinua actually like?
How difficult is the climb?
It’s challenging, but you don’t need to be an experienced mountaineer.
The main challenge is the terrain rather than the technical difficulty. The trail is steep and uneven in places, with exposed roots, rocks, muddy sections and plenty of climbing and descending.
You also need to be comfortable walking for several hours at a time in Sabah’s tropical heat and humidity.
A reasonable level of fitness is important, particularly because you will be carrying your own backpack to Camp 2.
If you regularly hike or exercise, you should find the climb challenging but manageable.
What happens on Day 1?
Your journey begins in Kota Kinabalu, from where you travel inland towards Sinua. Once you arrive at the trailhead, the real adventure begins. The first day is spent trekking through the rainforest towards Camp 2, where you will spend both nights of the trip. The trail involves plenty of uphill sections and can be muddy and slippery, particularly after rain.
What is the trail actually like?
Expect a proper jungle trail rather than a neatly maintained hiking path.
The route passes through dense rainforest, with tree roots, rocks, mud and steep sections underfoot. In some places, ropes are provided to help with the steeper sections. The tropical environment also makes the climb feel harder than the distance might suggest. You’ll sweat. You’ll get dirty. And after heavy rain, you may get very muddy.
Good hiking shoes with plenty of grip are essential.
What is Camp 2 like?
Camp 2 is basic jungle accommodation. Don’t expect anything resembling a mountain resort or the facilities you find at Laban Rata on Mount Kinabalu.
You sleep at the camp in simple conditions, with basic washing and toilet facilities. Your bed for the night is a stretcher hammock under canvas. We provide sleeping bags (allow room in your bag to carry it), or you can bring your own.
The advantage of spending both nights at Camp 2 is that you don’t have to pack up and move camp after the first night.
What is summit day like?
You wake up very early at Camp 2 and begin the climb towards the summit while it is still dark, so don’t forget your headtorch. As dawn approaches, the forest gradually begins to lighten and you make your way towards the summit for sunrise.
After enjoying the summit, you descend back to Camp 2, where you can have a proper rest, eat and spend your second night. Some climbers arrive back to Camp 2 quite early and decide to return to Sinua base camp for the night; this is also an option if you have the energy.
What can I see along the way?
The rainforest is a major part of the experience. Mount Trus Madi is known for its rich plant life, including pitcher plants, orchids, ferns and mosses. As you gain altitude, the character of the forest changes and becomes increasingly atmospheric.
Keep your eyes open for birds and other wildlife too, although sightings are never guaranteed. This isn’t a wildlife safari where you are stopping every few minutes to look for animals. Instead, take your time and appreciate the incredible diversity of the forest around you.
Will I see pitcher plants?
Very likely. Mount Trus Madi is particularly famous for its Nepenthes pitcher plants, and several species can be found along the mountain trails. For anyone interested in tropical plants, this is one of the most enjoyable aspects of the climb. Your guide can point out the different species and explain more about the remarkable plants that survive in this high-altitude environment.
What is the summit view like?
On a clear morning, the views from Mount Trus Madi are spectacular. You are high above the surrounding forest, with panoramic views across Sabah’s interior. Mount Kinabalu can also be seen in the distance when conditions are favourable.
Don’t be disappointed if you reach the summit and find yourself surrounded by cloud. Mountain weather can change quickly, particularly in Sabah, and sometimes the summit is completely covered in mist. The experience of reaching the summit is still worth it.
You’ll appreciate it when you get back to Camp 2.
Is Trus Madi harder than Mount Kinabalu?
Mount Kinabalu is considerably higher and altitude is a major factor. Trus Madi via Sinua is lower, but the jungle terrain is much less developed, with muddy trails, roots, steep sections and basic facilities. If you enjoy hiking and are reasonably fit, the 3D2N Sinua route is a very achievable adventure. If you prefer a real bed after a long day of hiking then Mount Kinabalu is a better choice.
What happens on Day 3?
After breakfast at Camp 2, you pack up and begin the trek back towards Sinua. The descent is generally easier on the lungs than the ascent, but don’t underestimate it. Steep, muddy sections can be particularly challenging when going downhill, especially if the trail is wet.
Once you reach Sinua, you’ll meet your vehicle for the journey back to Kota Kinabalu. By the time you arrive back in the city, you’ll probably be tired, muddy and very ready for a shower.
So, is climbing Mount Trus Madi worth it?
Absolutely — if you want a mountain experience that feels genuinely wild.
The Sinua route isn’t about luxury or ticking off a famous summit as quickly as possible. It’s about spending three days immersed in Sabah’s rainforest, camping at Camp 2, climbing through the darkness towards the summit and experiencing one of Malaysia’s highest mountains away from the crowds.
If Mount Kinabalu is Sabah’s iconic mountain climb, Trus Madi via Sinua is the quieter, wilder alternative.
Ready to climb Mount Trus Madi?
Browse our Mount Trus Madi trips or talk to us about whether the climb is right for you.
