FAQS

Common Questions

What is Via Ferrata

What is 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 is the same as rock climbing

Is Via Ferrata is 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.

What is Mountain Torq

What is Mountain Torq?

Mountain Torq runs 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 Mount 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

Who can climb a Via Ferrata?

Almost anyone. You can climb Mountain Torq’s 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 Mountain Torq’s Via Ferrata.

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

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

All customers 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 timer 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 (refer trip preparation) 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.

Will there be someone to guide me?

Yes, you and your group will be assigned with a Mountain Torq trainer. The experts 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.

What is the max. no 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 5 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.

What does the Via Ferrata activity package include?

With Mountain Torq, you can enjoy:
- Free rental of all safety devices: harness, lanyard and helmet
- Via Ferrata familiarisation for all participants
- Guiding services of our Mountain Torq trainers

What time do I start my Via Ferrata activity?

Our start time is between 6.30am and 7.15am

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

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

On the day of your arrival, we will meet you at Pendant Hut where you will undergo amandatory 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.

What if I want to climb 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.

Are the activities safe?

As an advocate for responsible climbing, Mountain Torq ensures that safety standards are adhered to at all times. It is mandatory that the 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.

How do I take part in Via Ferrata activities?

To ensure that you get a guaranteed space, we strongly encourage advanced bookings. You can make a booking by submitting your inquiry online here.