Bukit Matanoi Hill

With social media postings, this place has seen a sudden spike in the local tourist that have been flocking here. 

While the bird’s nest attraction is still new here in Malaysia, I will share some tips for those planning to visit this place here in Keningau, Sabah. Some of the tips mentioned are also from my experience of travelling around Indonesia.

Posing in one of two bird’s nest found here

Change of Clothes – Usually, women will bring a change of clothes on their trek, and when they reach the location, they will change into beautiful dresses, shoes and even bring makeup kits to put on some serious makeup for the photoshoot.

Scarves, Pario or Flags – Some people bring large scarves that will catch the wind, while others bring bright and colourful dresses to contrast the brown and greens when they pose. And for the patriotic travellers, they bring their country flag to display.

Once the place gets really popular, you will start seeing wedding photography being done here. Not only for weddings but even for professional portrait photography of singles or couples.

Rafie Robert and his famous Bukit Matanoi social media photo that went viral

The new Love Arch at Bukit Matanoi

Below is a list of what is available at Bukit Matanoi Hill in Keningau Sabah;

• Sarang Burung Bukit Matanoi 
  This is hands down the number one attraction here, with not one, but two bird’s nest that overlooks the beautiful landscapes of Matanoi Hill. Locals have been coming here since January to take photos of themselves sitting in these man-made giant bird’s nest. 

• Bukit Matanoi Lookout Point
  There is a man-made bamboo structure that is built as a lookout point. It is solid, but only a limited number of people are allowed at one time. One of the spots to capture sunset photos at Bukit Matanoi.
• Love Arch
  A giant heart arch made out of twigs is one of the new attractions at Bukit Matanoi. This comes with a red wooden bench enough to seat two to three people. 

• Giant Straw Hat
  A man-made giant hat is also part of the attraction in one section of the hill. This is an initiative of the local Kampung Matanoi people, which serves as a decent photograph for your social media postings. 

• Rabbit Farm at Bukit Matanoi
  A small rabbit farm was created near the entrance area of Bukit Matanoi. This is mainly for the children and families that come here. 

A visitor poses at the birds’ nest here

This means that you have to take your turn to get that photo, plus you need to make sure that no one is in your photo frame. Quite a challenge, but it can be done. 

But then again, the smart locals will also do the same thing.

The giant straw hat at Bukit Matanoi. Photo by Rafie Robert.

For those wanting a photo with clear scenery, I recommend visiting Bukit Matanoi in the morning, as there should be no one here.

Usually, many locals come here in the evenings for the sunset. Unless some took the day off to visit this place. 

Best to wait for clear weather, or check the weather forecast of Keningau before heading there.

A rainbow is seen over the bird’s nest here

How far is Bukit Matanoi from Kota Kinabalu? 

It takes about 2 hours and 20 minutes drive on way to Kampung Apin Apin, and then another 3.6 kilometres to Bukit Matanoi.

Once you reach the main entrance of Bukit Matanoi, you are required to register at the visitor booth before you start your short hike up the hill.

Note that this place is not disabled friendly as one needs to hike uphill for a bit before reaching the view point.

Expect a large crowd of locals on weekends and public holidays

In total, you may need about three and a half hours from Kota Kinabalu all the way to the viewpoint at Bukit Matanoi, hence leaving as early as possible is your best option.

There is a signboard by the trunk road leading here, and you will see a Sabah and Malaysia flag by the makeshift car park.

Usually, in the evenings or weekends, there will be a lot of cars parked by the main road.

Bukit Matanoi is about 2.5 hours or 108 km from Kota Kinabalu City in Sabah

Address for Bukit Matanoi Hill Apin Apin
Off Jalan Apin-Apin Bundu Kg. Tiga
Apin-Apin, Keningau, Sabah.

All photos shown here are from the Bukit Matanoi Facebook Page.

Bukit Matanoi is also open after sunset and you can take some beautiful night photos

Bukit Matanoi Hill Tours