Visit the Beautiful Waters of Kota Belud: Sondot View Camp Guide

Hidden in the small town of Kota Belud is Sondot View Camp, a picturesque village with the most amazing view of Mount Kinabalu. Not known to many, this local gem is definitely a “must visit” for those who wants to take a break from their busy work schedules. Till today, whenever we get the chance to visit Kota Belud, we make it a point to drop by Sondot View Camp just to admire the beautiful natural surroundings.

The atmosphere here is just so calming and relaxing; with the sounds of birds chirping, mini cascades featuring uniquely designed pebbles and clear turquoise river all waiting to be explored. As this attraction is still not as well-known, one of the perks that you will be able enjoy is the smaller crowds, as most of the visitors usually flock to the more popular Polumpung Melangkap campsite which is located just 5 minutes away.

Entrance to Sondot View Camp – Kota Belud, Sabah

Relax and enjoy the view – Sondot View Camp, Kota Belud – Sabah

Entrance fees:-

Day Trip

Adult (13-64 years old) – RM 3

Child (7-12 years old) – RM 2

Camping/Overnight (24 hours)

Adult (13-64 years old) – RM 6

Child (7-12 years old) – RM 4

> Free admission for Child (Below 6 years old), Senior citizens (Above 65 years old) and the Disabled (O.K.U)

Sondot View Camp – Kota Belud, Sabah

How to visit Sondot View Camp?

As Sondot View Camp is located at the outskirts of Kota Kinabalu (KK) city, you have less choices when it comes to transportation. To get here, you can either rent a car or take a taxi/e-Hailing.

AirAsia e-Hailing service

How long is the drive to Sondot View Camp?

Located around 80km East of Kota Kinabalu city, you can expect to travel around 1:45 – 2 hours to get here. The roads to Kota Belud is quite easy going, however as you take the final turn into the view camp, you will have to descend down the narrow and steep dirt road. Just be a little careful when driving here as it can get slippery on a rainy day.

Take the road on the left towards Sondot View Camp – Kota Belud, Sabah

Can I stay overnight at Sondot View Camp?

Yes, you can choose to either camp or stay at the huts along the beautiful Kota Belud river. One of the best parts of staying the night at Sondot View Camp is that you would be able to see the starry night sky right from your camp/hut accompanied by the relaxing sounds of the gentle river flowing.

Camp here – Sondot View Camp, Kota Belud

Sleep in the traditional hut – Sondot View Camp, Sabah

Sleep in the traditional hut – Sondot View Camp, Kota Belud

Useful tips

If you are not a strong swimmer, stay on the shallower area as the water currents can be strong at times
Be careful when you walk here as the rocks are slippery
Carry along your food/snacks as there isn’t much options here
Please keep the rivers clean so others can enjoy its beauty too
Make sure to carry along your camera to snap memorable photos
Don’t forget your shades to protect your eyes from the glaring sunlight

Have your picnic here

Carry along your camera gear

So getting that out of the way, let’s find out what you can do at Sondot View Camp?

1. Have a picnic by the beautiful Kota Belud river

What better way to spend time with your loved ones then to have a picnic here at Sondot View Camp. As BBQ pits are already set up at each hut, all you need to do is to take along your food, drinks and snacks to have a great time here.

Have a BBQ feast with friends & family here – Kota Belud, Sabah

Have your picnic at this little traditional hut – Sondot View Camp, Kota Belud

2. Take a dip in the refreshing river waters

If you have managed to come all the way here, then why not take a dip in the cool and refreshing river water. For those who can’t swim so well, you can rent a float here for a small fee of RM3 – RM5, depending on the size of the float.

The only view will ever need – Kota Belud, Sabah

Take a refreshing dip here – Kota Belud, Sabah

3. Check out the local activities here

Once you’re done the first 2 activities, you should consider checking out the local activities here such as fishing, exploring the paddy fields or even playing sports (football, volleyball, etc) with the villagers here.

Play volleyball with your friends or even the locals here – Sondot View Camp, Sabah

You could also take it a step further and explore the Kota Belud river

4. Stargaze at the Milky Way

Last but not least, if you’re camping at Sondot View Camp, then you might be in luck to spot the gorgeous Milky Way here.

If you’re lucky you might be able to spot the milky way here – Kota Belud, Sabah

Have any experience or tips on visiting Sondot View Camp in Kota Belud? Or are you planning a trip soon? Let us know and share your thoughts and questions in the comments section. We’d love to hear from you!

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