Planning a short trip in Kota Kinabalu? This guide covers how to explore the historic Atkinson Clock Tower and the scenic Signal Hill Trail within one to two hours, with essential visitor information, fees, tips, and what to expect along this easy city-centre route.
Signal Hill Team
Planning to visit Atkinson Clock Tower and Signal Hill Trail in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah? These two attractions are located close to each other within the city centre and can easily be explored within one to two hours.
The route offers a simple combination of heritage exploration and elevated city views, making it suitable for visitors of all ages. Whether you are interested in history or looking for a short scenic walk above the city, this area provides one of the most accessible sightseeing experiences in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah.
Quick Facts
Before you go, here are the key things to know when visiting Atkinson Clock Tower and Signal Hill Trail in Kota Kinabalu.
Operating Hours
- Signal Hill Trail: Daily, 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Atkinson Clock Tower: Open 24 hours
Visitors Fee
The Visitor Conservation Fee at the Signal Hill Trail applies to international visitors:
| Visitor | Fee |
| Malaysian | Free Entry* |
| International Visitors | RM 20 (Adult), RM 10 (Child), Free (Infants) |
*Malaysian citizens currently enjoy complimentary entry.
Important Tips
To ensure a comfortable visit, consider the following tips:
- Dress lightly and wear suitable shoes, as Kota Kinabalu has a warm tropical climate.
- Bring drinking water to stay hydrated.
- Carry a hat or sun protection if visiting during sunny weather.
- Women are advised not to wear skirts, as parts of the trail involve elevated walkways and steps.
Atkinson Clock Tower
Atkinson Clock Tower
Atkinson Clock Tower, built in 1905, is the oldest surviving structure in Kota Kinabalu. It is located along Jalan Tunku Abdul Rahman and can be accessed via Jalan Dewan, where a short staircase from the roadside leads visitors up to the site.
There is no entrance fee to visit the Atkinson Clock Tower. Visitors typically spend 15 to 20 minutes at the site for photography and historical reference. As the tower is a protected heritage landmark, visitors are not allowed to climb or touch the structure. Preserving the building ensures it can continue to be appreciated by future generations.
Officially launched by Dewan Bandaraya Kota Kinabalu (DBKK) on 10 November 2025, Atkinson Clock Tower and Signal Hill Trail are located within Kota Kinabalu city centre, making them easily accessible from nearby hotels, attractions, and commercial areas. Visitors can conveniently reach the site on foot if staying within the city centre, or by ride-hailing services such as Grab.
Signal Hill Trail
Signal Hill Trail
Officially launched by DBKK on 10 November 2025, the Signal Hill Trail is a managed and monitored elevated forest walkway. For safety reasons, visitor capacity is limited and regulated throughout the day.
A check-in and check-out system is in place to ensure a maximum capacity of 500 visitors at any one time. This supports structural safety and emergency preparedness.
All visitors are required to scan the QR code at the entrance and exit points to complete the check-in and check-out process.
The Signal Hill Observatory Tower is currently closed for renovation. However, the Signal Hill Trail and Atkinson Clock Tower remain open to visitors.
A Visitor Conservation Fee applies to international visitors to support conservation efforts, while Malaysian citizens currently enjoy complimentary entry.
Why is there a fee? This fee supports:
- Trail maintenance and upkeep
- Structural safety inspections
- Visitor management and staffing
- Cleanliness and waste management
- Overall, visitor safety and experience
Wildlife, Flora & Nature
Signal Hill Trail is surrounded by secondary forest vegetation, making it an enjoyable stop for nature lovers and bird watchers.
Visitors may spot local wildlife and bird species while walking the trail.
Common Plants and Trees Found Here
Some of the flora recorded in the area include:
- Senduduk (Melastoma malabathricum)
- Salak palm (Salacca zalacca)
- Patawali vine (Tinospora crispa)
- Wild jackfruit (Artocarpus species)
- Putat tree (Barringtonia species)
- Wild betel nut (Areca species)
- Rattan (Calamus species)
- Camel hoof plant (Bauhinia species)
- Clockvine (Thunbergia species)
- Strangler fig (Ficus species)
- Petai tree (Parkia speciosa)
- Elephant ear plant (Colocasia species)
- Wild durian (Durio species)
- Starfruit tree (Averrhoa species)
- Breadfruit (Artocarpus altilis)
- Acacia mangium
- Macaranga species
- Bird’s nest fern (Asplenium nidus)
- Fishtail palm (Caryota mitis)
- Nibong palm (Oncosperma tigillarium)
- Bamboo (Bambusa species)
The area’s vegetation supports a small urban ecosystem, making it an interesting stop for plant enthusiasts, nature lovers, and bird watchers.
Signal Hill Trail
Visitor Guidelines
As both a heritage site and nature trail, visitors are encouraged to follow these guidelines:
- Toilets are available on site.
- Follow all posted signage and safety instructions.
- Respect visitor capacity limits and staff directions
- Keep the area clean and dispose of rubbish responsibly.
- Avoid damaging structures, facilities, or vegetation.
- Raincoats and drinking water are available for purchase on site.
- Avoid visiting during midday hours, when temperatures can be hottest. Early morning or late afternoon visits are generally more comfortable.
- The Signal Hill Trail and Atkinson Clock Tower are carefully managed to ensure long-term preservation and safe visitor access. Cooperation with on-site guidelines helps maintain a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.