Things To Do
in Lahad Datu
Lahad Datu is a town located in the state of Sabah, Malaysia, known for its lush tropical rainforests and diverse wildlife. It serves as a gateway to the Tabin Wildlife Reserve and Danum Valley Conservation Area, popular for eco-tourism activities and wildlife sightings. The town is also a major hub for the palm oil industry, with numerous plantations surrounding the area.
Visitors can experience a mix of natural beauty and local culture in Lahad Datu, making it a unique destination for nature lovers.
- "Apa khabar?" - How are you?
- "Terima kasih" - Thank you
- "Sama-sama" - You're welcome
- "Selamat pagi" - Good morning
- "Tolong" - Please
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $40
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day early by visiting the Danum Valley Conservation Area. Experience the rich biodiversity while trekking through lush rainforests.
Head to the local market to experience authentic Lahad Datu cuisine and browse through local handicrafts. Enjoy lunch at a nearby cafe known for its local specialties.
Take a relaxing walk along the beach while watching the sunset. End your day with a seafood dinner at a beachside restaurant.
Visit the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre to learn about these endangered bears. Participate in guided tours to see them in their natural habitat.
Enjoy a picnic lunch at a designated area and take in the surrounding nature. Spend time birdwatching or looking for other wildlife.
Return to your accommodation for some rest. Savor dinner at a local eatery, trying traditional Malaysian dishes.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich biodiversity and natural beauty, including marine and rainforest habitats.
- Cultural diversity with a mix of indigenous and local communities.
- Growing tourism opportunities focused on eco-tourism and adventure activities.
- Strategic location as a gateway to the islands of Sipadan and Mabul, popular diving sites.
- Developing infrastructure and accessibility improving overall connectivity.
- Higher crime rates in certain areas, leading to safety concerns.
- Limited public services and healthcare facilities compared to urban centers.
- Environmental threats from deforestation and illegal fishing activities.
- Economic reliance on specific sectors, such as palm oil and fishing, which can be unstable.
- Vulnerability to natural disasters, such as floods and tropical storms.
Best Activities in Lahad Datu
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the pristine rainforest, go on nature walks, bird watching, and wildlife spotting
Visit the park to witness turtle hatchings and conservation efforts
Experience close encounters with orangutans and learn about conservation efforts
Embark on adventurous treks, explore waterfalls, and enjoy bird watching
Places to Visit in Lahad Datu
Visit one of these nice places.
A pristine rainforest with canopy walkway and wildlife sightings, offering stunning views and photography opportunities.
Home to diverse wildlife and bird species, providing excellent photo opportunities in a natural setting.
A beautiful marine park with stunning coastal views and opportunities for beach and underwater photography.
A unique and relatively undisturbed wilderness area, featuring landscapes, waterfalls, and rare flora and fauna for photography enthusiasts.
Food in Lahad Datu
Lahad Datu Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A noodle dish featuring egg noodles served in a sweet and tangy gravy, topped with a hard-boiled egg, tofu, and fresh vegetables. It can be found at Warung Makan Kak Leha.
Must-Try!
A traditional dish made from sago starch, usually served with various side dishes like fish, stir-fried vegetables, and sambal. Visit Restoran Hidayah for an authentic taste.
A quintessential Kadazandusun raw fish salad that is marinated in lime juice, sliced shallots, ginger, and grated dried seed. Check out Lembah Terap for an excellent rendition.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling morning market offers a colorful array of fresh produce, local snacks, and street food. Don't miss the opportunity to sample kuih-muih (assorted traditional cakes) and sip on freshly squeezed sugar cane juice.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Lahad Datu, it's customary to greet people with a slight bow and a warm smile. Handshakes are also common, especially in business settings.
Respecting elders is highly valued in Lahad Datu. It's important to use polite language and show deference to older individuals.
As Lahad Datu has a significant Muslim population, it's important to be mindful of Islamic customs. For instance, dress modestly when visiting religious sites and during Ramadan, be respectful of those who are fasting.
Safety
Tipping in Lahad Datu
Ensure a smooth experience
In Lahad Datu, Malaysia, tipping is not mandatory, but it is appreciated in places like restaurants, hotels, and for tour guides. A typical tip would be around 5-10% of the bill.
Cash is widely used for payment in Lahad Datu, especially in smaller establishments. Credit cards are accepted in larger hotels and restaurants, but it's always wise to have some cash on hand. ATMs are widely available for cash withdrawals.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Lahad Datu is during the dry season, from April to September. Visitors can expect clear skies, less rainfall, and ideal conditions for outdoor activities such as wildlife viewing and trekking.
During the wet season, from October to March, Lahad Datu experiences heavy rainfall and occasional thunderstorms. This may limit outdoor activities, but the rainforest becomes lush and vibrant, making it a great time for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers.
Lahad Datu at Night
Hiking in Lahad Datu
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A pristine rainforest area that offers various hiking trails ranging from easy walks to more challenging treks with a rich biodiversity.
Provides access to guided hikes in surrounding rainforests, allowing visitors to experience the unique flora and fauna of the region.
Known as the 'Lost World', it features numerous trails and breathtaking scenery, including waterfalls and rich wildlife.
Offers a moderate hike with scenic views of the surrounding landscape, ideal for both novice and experienced hikers.
Organizes hiking tours in various locations around Lahad Datu, focusing on the natural beauty and ecological diversity of Sabah.
Aiports
How to reach Lahad Datu by plane.
The main airport serving Kota Kinabalu, the capital of Sabah, located approximately 200 kilometers from Lahad Datu. It is one of the busiest airports in Malaysia and serves international and domestic flights.
Located approximately 130 kilometers from Lahad Datu, Sandakan Airport primarily serves domestic flights and has limited international routes.
Situated about 270 kilometers from Lahad Datu, Labuan Airport operates mainly domestic flights but has connections to other regional destinations.
Located approximately 600 kilometers away in Brunei, it serves as an international gateway with various international connections, although it is farther compared to other local airports.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The Bajau people are one of the largest ethnic groups in Lahad Datu, known for their maritime culture and traditional fishing practices.
The Suluk are another significant ethnic group in Lahad Datu, often involved in agriculture and trade, with a rich cultural heritage.
The Murut people are indigenous to the interior regions of Sabah, including parts of Lahad Datu, and are known for their distinct customs and languages.
The Chinese community in Lahad Datu primarily engages in business and trade, contributing significantly to the local economy.
The Malay population in Lahad Datu is involved in various sectors, including agriculture, fisheries, and civil service.
The Indian community in Lahad Datu is relatively small and involved mainly in commerce and service industries.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is widely played and followed in Lahad Datu, with local leagues and tournaments attracting many participants and spectators.
A traditional sport popular in Malaysia, sepak takraw is commonly played in Lahad Datu, with local teams often competing in various events.
Badminton is popular among the youth and adults in Lahad Datu, with many courts available for both casual and competitive play.
Basketball is gaining popularity in Lahad Datu, with many local street courts and community teams engaging in recreational play.
Volleyball is often played in schools and community centers in Lahad Datu, fostering teamwork and community spirit.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Lahad Datu.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While vegetarian and vegan options may not be widely available at traditional eateries, some restaurants like Restoran Hidayah and Sri Titingan offer vegetable-based dishes or can customize meals to accommodate these dietary preferences.
Locally, it may be challenging to find dedicated gluten-free establishments, but dishes like grilled fish and stir-fried vegetables can often be suitable for those avoiding gluten. Communication with the kitchen staff is advised to ensure a safe dining experience.