Shangri-La Rasa Ria Reserve offers a very appealing contrast to the beachside ease of the resort, giving you the chance to experience a quieter, more natural side of Sabah without having to go far at all. Set within a protected 64-acre coastal jungle at the foot of Mount Kinabalu, the reserve feels far removed from the pool and shoreline, with forest trails, rich birdlife and a strong sense of being properly immersed in nature.

This is not a staged attraction, but a genuine protected forest environment where the focus is on conservation, education and giving guests a closer understanding of Borneo’s wildlife and ecosystems. The reserve is home to more than 90 bird species, around 20 butterfly species, and a range of native wildlife, with the surrounding habitats carefully preserved to support biodiversity. The setting between the forest, rivers and the South China Sea adds to the sense of place and makes it feel surprisingly wild for a resort-based experience.

At the heart of the reserve is the Discovery Centre, where guests can join guided experiences led by resident naturalists. These walks and activities help bring the forest to life, introducing medicinal plants, local species and the wider ecology of the area in a way that is interesting without feeling too heavy. The trails vary in length, from very short introductory routes to longer jungle walks, and there are also viewpoints where, on a clear day, you can enjoy beautiful views towards Mount Kinabalu.

For many guests, the reserve becomes one of the most memorable parts of a stay at Shangri-La Rasa Ria because it adds depth to the experience. You are not simply staying at a beach resort, but in a part of Sabah where nature still feels close and very present. Whether you join a gentle guided walk, look out for birdlife, or simply enjoy the atmosphere of the forest, the reserve adds a rewarding and distinctly Bornean dimension to your time here.