The gentle white flowers of vanilla appear on many posters, as it is one of the most well-known and favourite spices of the world. But not so many know how hard it is to really cultivate beans from the vanilla plant.
There are several farms in the Sabah region of Borneo that have vanilla plantations, and the best time to visit them is in April or May when vanilla flowers are blooming.
At this time the vines receive gentle pale white strokes and the aroma becomes irresistible. But what is even more interesting is to watch the manual pollination of flowers. There are no insects in Sabah that can help with this intensive process, so only humans can help the transformation process. Moreover, flowers bloom one by one and only in the early morning from 4 am to 9 am, so they should be checked daily.
Practical info
What is unique about vanilla cultivation in Sabah?
Vanilla cultivation in Sabah is unique due to the absence of natural pollinators. Manual pollination is the only option for vanilla farmers in the region as the vanilla flower requires careful fertilization. The method is time-consuming and intensive, but it is necessary to yield a healthy crop. Show more
Which areas in Sabah are known for their vanilla farms?
There are several farms in Sabah specializing in vanilla cultivation. Popular options include the Sabah Vanilla Company, situated in Kota Kinabalu, and the Kokivi Agrofarm, which is also located in the same region. Additionally, some of the farms are situated in the Tambunan district, which can take up to two hours to reach from Kota Kinabalu. Show more
When is the ideal time of year to visit Borneo for vanilla flowering season?
The best time of year to visit during the vanilla flowering season is between April and May. During this season, the vanilla vines produce flowers with a sweet aroma and pale white streaks. It is also a perfect time to witness the delicate yet intensive process of manual pollination. Show more
What other activities would you suggest in Sabah besides visiting vanilla farms?
Sabah offers many activities apart from visiting vanilla farms. One can explore the Sabah Tea Garden, learn about the local culture and heritage at the Monsopiad Cultural Village, or visit the Mari-Mari Cultural Village. Additionally, tourists can visit the Tamu Kota Belud Sunday market, go wildlife watching at Kinabalu Park, or scuba dive at Sipadan Island, among many other activities. Show more
