Solo Female Travel in Ranau
Ranau, a picturesque destination located in Sabah, Malaysia, stretches on the western coast of Borneo and is best known for its lush, thriving landscapes and a host of adventurous activities. An epitome of natural beauty, Ranau is home to Mount Kinabalu, Malaysia's towering treasure and a favorite among hiking enthusiasts for its challenging trails and breathtaking panoramas. Nearby, visitors can indulge in the soothing hot springs at Poring or witness the ethereal beauty of the enchanting Kundasang War Memorial, which pays tribute to the fallen World War II heroes. The area is also renowned for its flourishing tea plantations, with the mesmerizing Sabah Tea Garden offering guided tours and a peek into the tea-making process, making Ranau a must-visit town for every traveler in Malaysia.
Travel rating
Meet new people
Get the Travel Ladies app to meet new people, find travel buddies, share solo travel experiences and stay with locals through couch surfing.
Travel index
Safety:Safe
Ranau is generally a safe place for solo female travelers. As with any travel experience, common precautions like avoiding isolated areas late at night, keeping your belongings secure, and not giving out personal information to strangers are advisable. Local people are often welcoming, friendly, and helpful. However, be sure to research and respect local customs to ensure a pleasant journey. Public transport is reliable and crime rates are relatively low, making the town a relatively safe spot for solo trips.
Transport:Moderate
As an off-the-beaten-path destination, Ranau may pose some navigational challenges for solo travelers. While locals are generally helpful and friendly, English is not widely spoken, making communication tougher. There is available public transportation, but the frequency is not consistent. However, exploring on foot opens up a wealth of cultural experiences and encounters with stunning natural beauty, and arranging private transportation is also feasible.
Things to do:Interesting
Ranau offers a broad range of activities making it quite interesting for solo female travelers. It's nature-lover's paradise, with attractions such as Mt. Kinabalu, Poring Hot Spring, and Sabah Tea Garden, offering hiking, bird watching, and gorgeous views. Additionally, the Death March Memorial and Kundasang War Memorial provide historical context. However, it's rural and transportation can be challenging. Therefore, while it's a great spot for those seeking outdoor adventures, it might not appeal to everyone.
Food:Above average
Ranau offers a diverse variety of local delicacies, from a multitude of street food options to seafood and unique fruits indigenous to the region. The flavors span from spicy and savory to sweet, catering to a wide range of palates. As a traveler, having a taste of their 'nasi lemak', 'roti canai', and diverse fruit selection such as durian and rambutan is a must. The fare might not suit every traveler due to its frequently spicy and robust flavors, but it's certainly a gastronomic adventure worth indulging in for its authenticity and diversity. However, there's a lack of diverse international options which makes the food scene confined mostly to local flavors.
Budget:Moderate
Ranau offers moderate budget-friendliness. Although it's not the cheapest destination, many visitors find the costs manageable. Accommodations range from affordable guesthouses to slightly pricier hotels. Public transportation and eating at local eateries could keep the expenses low. In contrast, activities such as guided tours to the local attractions like the Kinabalu National Park can slightly increase the budget.
Is Ranau worth visiting?
No experience found
We can make the world a safer place for women traveling solo. Be the first to share your experience and help us empower more women through travel.Explore Malaysia
