Mount Kinabalu Via Ferrata FAQ

THE BASICS & PRE-REQUISITES

What is a Via Ferrata?

A Via Ferrata (or “iron road” in Italian) is a protected mountain path comprising a series of rungs, rails and cables embracing the rock face. It allows access to scenic sections of the mountains that are typically available only to experienced rock climbers and mountaineers.

The Via Ferrata experience is one that’s not to be missed. Feel the natural surroundings, the exhilaration, and sense of personal achievement when you complete the circuit.

Is Via Ferrata the same as rock climbing?

No, Via Ferrata climbing is not the same as rock climbing. While both activities occur in the same area and in the same environment, climbing the Via Ferrata is easier than rock climbing and prior experience is not required.

How is WHOA Adventures related to Mountain Torq?

WHOA is the first authorised partner to market and promote Mountain Torq activities. Mountain Torq operates the world’s highest and Asia's first Via Ferrata that starts at 3,200m and ends off at 3,776m above sea level on Mt Kinabalu in Sabah. Mountain Torq enables climbers and non-climbers to experience the thrill of mountain climbing while taking in the spectacular surroundings.

Who can climb a Via Ferrata?

Almost anyone. You can climb the Via Ferrata as long as you’re aged between 10 and 70 with a minimum height of 1.3m, are fit and healthy, are not afraid of heights, and would like to experience the mountain in a whole new way.

Do I need any climbing experience?

Not at all! If you can climb a ladder, you can climb the Via Ferrata.

Can I miss the pre-activity briefing conducted the day I arrive?

All of via ferrata participants are required to attend the mandatory pre-activity briefing and familiarization session. The sessions start between 3pm and 4pm. Late arrivals may not be considered eligible to participate in the activity the next morning. This is for your own safety, be it if you are a first time climber or an experienced mountaineer.

How can I ensure that I arrive to Pendant Hut by 3pm?

As long as you condition your body before coming and ensure that you start hiking up from Timpohon Gate by 8:30am latest. You will have a 90% chance of arriving at Pendant Hut in time to have a cup of tea before attending the briefing session.

TRAINERS & GUIDES

Will there be someone to guide me?

Yes, you and your group will be assigned a Mountain Torq trainer. The trainers will be there to give you a full safety briefing and train you on the proper use of safety devices. They will also climb with you, provide tips on negotiating difficult obstacles and point out spectacular sights along the way.

Can I climb the Via Ferrata without a Mountain Torq trainer?

No. Sabah Park safety regulations require that Via Ferrata climbers are to be accompanied by a Mountain Torq trainer at all times.

Is the Mountain Torq trainer only for me or my group?

Depending on the size of your group, you will have to be prepared to join other Via Ferrata climbers with various levels of experience and fitness.

What is the maximum number of people who will be climbing the Via Ferrata with me?

There will be a maximum of 6 climbers for Low’s Peak Circuit and 10 for Walk the Torq.

Do I really need a mountain guide even on Mt Kinabalu?

Yes. Sabah Park safety regulations require that climbers and hikers are to be accompanied by a Sabah Park mountain guide during your ascent and decent on the main hiking and summit trail. The Mountain Torq trainer will be with you mainly during your Mountain Torq activities.

VIA FERRATA & OTHER ACTIVITIES

What does the Via Ferrata activity package include?

- Free rental of all safety devices: harness, lanyard and helmet
- Via Ferrata familiarisation for all participants
- Via Ferrata Guiding services

What time do I start my Via Ferrata activity?

The start time is between 5.30am and 7.30am

What activities can I enjoy besides the Via Ferrata?

There are other activities such as sports climbing, alpine rock climbing, rappelling and basic mountain experience. Enquire with us to find out more about the other exciting activities.

Where do we meet the Mountain Torq team for the activities?

On the day of your arrival on the mountain, we will meet you at Pendant Hut where you will undergo a mandatory briefing and familiarization session starting between 3pm and 4pm. There, we will tell you the exact meeting point and meeting times for the activities that you’ve signed up for and provide a practical session with the full Via Ferrata safety gear.

Do any of your services include taking us up on the Via Ferrata at the break of dawn?

Due to safety reasons, we do not bring clients up on the Via Ferrata before day break.

What activities can I enjoy besides the Via Ferrata?

We offer other activities such as sports climbing, alpine rock climbing, rappelling and basic mountain experience. Find out more from WHOA.

Are the via ferrata activities safe?

As an advocate for responsible climbing, Mountain Torq ensures that safety standards are adhered to at all times. It is mandatory that Mountain Torq trainers undergo regular skills certification and upgrading with training standards and syllabus endorsed by the International Climbing and Mountaineering Federation (UIAA). Regular safety checks and maintenance are also conducted on the Via Ferrata equipment. So all you need to do is focus on enjoying yourself.

Mountain Torq's Via Ferrata was constructed by a team of pre-eminent Via Ferrata builders from Europe, using CE Mark-approved materials. This carries the certificate of Conformity from the French Agency of Tourist Engineering (AFIT). The Via Ferrata is able to withstand up to a minimum of 3,000 kilogram of weight at any one point.

The Via Ferrata Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) comprising safety helmets, harnesses, dynamic ropes and Energy Absorber Lanyards are all certified by the International Climbing and Mountaineering Federation (UIAA) which meets the EN958 standard. Additionally, the Via Ferrata trainers/guides are trained based on safety practices endorsed by UIAA (International Climbing and Mountaineering Federation); and are certified in Via Ferrata guiding by UIAGM / IFMGA certified instructors. They have undergone rigorous training with regular skills upgrading based on the UIAA-endorsed syllabus. They are also certified with First Responder Life Support (FRLS) and CPR skills. All trainers/guides communicate to our base at Pendant Hut, Kinabalu Park Rangers and Sabah Park headquarters via VHF radio at all times when they are on the Via Ferrata.

Safety practices developed and prescribed by UIAA (the International Climbing and Mountaineering Federation) for mountaineering sports are adhered to strictly. A continuous belay system is employed throughout the Via Ferrata route wherein climbers are always hooked up to a guideline, making any deviation from the route virtually impossible.

PLANNING

How do I take part in Mount Kinabalu Via Ferrata?

To ensure that you are guaranteed a bed and via ferrata activity, we strongly encourage advanced bookings. We have assisted many travelers wanting to hike up Mount Kinabalu but was disappointed to find no beds available with the regular Laban Rata guesthouses.

I’m planning my holiday itinerary. How much time should I spend on Mt Kinabalu?

You should set aside at least 3 days to fully enjoy what Mountain Torq and this enchanting mountain have to offer. Be sure not to miss these:
- Low’s Peak Circuit, the world's highest Via Ferrata
- Round trip to Walk the Torq, Asia ’s first Via Ferrata
If you have more time to spare, there is:
- Sports climbing
- Rappelling (Abseiling) at the plateau of Mt Kinabalu
- Alpine Experience

Can I bring my own camera?

Of course! Do bring your own camera to capture these special moments. Don’t forget to secure your camera with a cord to minimize any risks of dropping it. You will, however, be required to keep your camera in your backpack during activities to reduce the risk of dropping it while climbing, and as a result injuring an unsuspecting fellow climber below you. Don’t worry, the via ferrata guide will definitely advise you on the most ideal and scenic spots where you can whip your camera out for those treasured snapshots.