Sabah: Kawa Kawa Fireflies Sunset Cruise

If you’re dreaming of a peaceful yet adventurous evening in Sabah, the Kawa Kawa Fireflies Sunset Cruise promises an unforgettable journey into Borneo’s lush wetlands. This tour combines wildlife encounters, stunning sunset views, and the magic of thousands of fireflies lighting up the night. It’s a balanced experience suited for nature lovers and those seeking a taste of local culture—all in one memorable package.

What we really like about this cruise are the chance to see proboscis monkeys up close, the breathtaking sunset vistas over mangroves, and the captivating firefly display that turns the wetlands into a fairy-tale scene. Plus, the included buffet dinner offers authentic Sabah flavors that complement the natural setting. The only consideration? The tour runs for over 7 hours, so it’s best for those comfortable with a longer evening outing. If you’re looking for a peaceful, nature-focused adventure that doesn’t break the bank, this tour might just be your perfect fit.

Good To Know

• Wildlife sightings are a highlight, especially the endemic Proboscis monkeys.
• The sunset views over the wetlands are breathtaking and perfect for photography.
• The firefly display at night transforms the riverbanks into a luminous spectacle.
• The tour includes a buffet dinner featuring local Sabah cuisine.
• It lasts approximately 7 hours and covers several scenic stops.
• The experience is suitable for nature enthusiasts and those interested in local culture.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Introduction to the Kawa Kawa Fireflies Sunset Cruise

The Kawa Kawa Fireflies Sunset Cruise in Sabah offers an evening adventure that combines nature exploration with cultural richness. Located just an hour and a half from Kota Kinabalu, this tour is accessible for travelers wanting a break from city life while still enjoying the comforts of organized transport and guided insights.

This cruise is particularly appealing because it caters to a variety of interests—wildlife lovers will be thrilled by the chance to spot Proboscis monkeys and other creatures, while photography enthusiasts will value the unobstructed sunset and the ethereal glow of fireflies. The journey starts with a scenic boat ride along the Kawa Kawa River, where the sounds of nature and the sight of tree-dwelling primates create a truly immersive experience.

While the focus is on wildlife and natural beauty, the tour balances this with a delicious local buffet dinner. This is an immersive experience that blends eco-tourism, cultural flavors, and evening serenity into one package, perfect for a relaxed yet memorable outing.

What Makes the Experience Special?

Wildlife Encounters

The chance to observe Proboscis monkeys—a true Borneo endemic—is a standout feature. These primates are easily recognizable by their long noses and round bellies, often seen lounging in the treetops along the riverbanks. According to reviews, “we saw thousands of fireflies and enjoyed a lot,” which speaks to how abundant and captivating the firefly display is. Along With monkeys, the wetlands host otters, long-tailed macaques, and a variety of bird species like kingfishers and hornbills, making this an excellent spot for wildlife viewing.

Sunset and Scenic Views

As the day wanes, the tour guides you to Nanamun Beach to catch the famous Sabah sunset. The sky turns into a canvas of oranges, pinks, and purples, giving you a perfect opportunity for memorable photos. The reviews highlight the “breathtaking sunset views,” which create a tranquil atmosphere and make the experience even more special.

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Fireflies at Night

The climax is the firefly spectacle, which truly earns the tour its name. As darkness falls, thousands of fireflies light up the riverbanks, turning the wetlands into an enchanting world of glowing lights. This display is often described as “otherworldly” and “mesmerizing,” transforming the landscape into a fairy-tale scene. The glow is so widespread that it’s hard to believe it’s real, and many find it a highlight worth traveling for.

Local Cuisine and Comfort

Most packages include a buffet dinner featuring Sabah specialties. The open-air dining setting allows you to enjoy your meal with a view of the wetlands, adding to the immersion. Reviewers mention the “delicious Sabah cuisine” which enhances the overall experience, making it more than just a wildlife tour but also a cultural one.

The Itinerary in Detail

Pick-up and Departure

The tour begins with hotel pickups at either Tuaran or Kinarut, with the timing typically around 2:00 PM, giving you a relaxed start to the day. The transportation is included, making logistics simple and stress-free.

Scenic River Cruise and Wildlife Sightings

At around 4:00 PM, you’ll arrive at the Kawa Kawa River jetty and enjoy light refreshments before boarding the boat. This initial cruise lasts about an hour, during which you can expect to see Proboscis monkeys in their natural habitat, along with various bird species and possibly otters. The guides, like Jeff Tan, are praised for their insights and friendliness, making the wildlife sightings more meaningful.

Sunset at Nanamun Beach

Following the cruise, around 5:30 PM, you’ll head to Nanamun Beach to watch the sunset. Expect a peaceful setting with stunning views—perfect for snapping photos or just relaxing with nature.

Firefly Watching and Night Cruise

At about 7:00 PM, the tour resumes with the night cruise to witness the fireflies. Many reviewers mention that the “fireflies light up the night sky,” creating a surreal, glowing landscape. This part of the tour is often the highlight, with the fireflies illuminating the wetlands in a magical display.

Return and Drop-off

About two hours later, around 9:15 PM, you’ll be returned to your hotel in Kota Kinabalu, ending the long but rewarding day.

Practical Details and What to Expect

Duration and Group Size

The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, with a flexible starting time based on availability. It’s suitable for most travelers comfortable with a longer outing, and the group size tends to be moderate, ensuring a more personal experience.

What’s Included

• River cruise fee—the core of the experience.
• Buffet dinner showcasing Sabah’s flavors.
• Guide service, often praised for their knowledge.
• Hotel transfers, adding convenience.

Not Included

• Personal expenses—souvenirs or additional drinks.
• Travel insurance—always recommended but not part of this package.
• Tipping—common in Malaysia but up to individual discretion.
• A CNY surcharge applies from January 28 to February 8, 2025.

Pricing and Value

At $52 per person, this experience offers great value considering the inclusions. It combines wildlife, scenery, cultural dining, and the firefly spectacle into a single evening, making it a worthwhile investment for nature and wildlife enthusiasts.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise is perfect for travelers seeking a relaxed yet immersive nature experience. It suits those interested in wildlife spotting, photography, or simply enjoying a tranquil sunset in an unspoiled setting. The inclusion of local cuisine and the chance to see proboscis monkeys and fireflies makes it appealing for eco-travelers and cultural travelers alike.

However, if you prefer shorter trips or less time outdoors, this might feel lengthy. Also, the tour’s success depends heavily on the weather—clear skies make the sunset and fireflies more vibrant, so check the forecast!

Final Thoughts

The Kawa Kawa Fireflies Sunset Cruise in Sabah provides a well-rounded, authentic experience that blends wildlife encounters, stunning vistas, and cultural flavors. It’s an ideal choice for those looking to witness Borneo’s unique biodiversity in a peaceful setting, especially at sunset and after dark when the fireflies light up the night.

The wildlife sightings—particularly the Proboscis monkeys—and the surreal glow of thousands of fireflies are highlights that stick with travelers long after the tour ends. The inclusions, from buffet dinner to hotel transfers, add convenience and value, helping you focus on soaking in the natural beauty without logistical worries.

This tour is best suited for nature lovers, photography fans, and anyone eager to experience Sabah in a meaningful way that combines adventure, serenity, and local culture. It’s a memorable evening that offers a rare glimpse into the enchanting wilderness of Borneo.

FAQ

How long is the tour? The entire experience lasts about 7 hours, including transfers, wildlife viewing, sunset, and firefly watching.

What wildlife can I expect to see? The main attraction is the Proboscis monkeys, but you might also see otters, long-tailed macaques, and various birds such as kingfishers and hornbills.

Is dinner included? Yes, the tour features a buffet dinner with local Sabah cuisine served during the trip.

Where does the tour start? It begins with hotel pickups from either Tuaran or Kinarut, with pick-up times generally around 2:00 PM.

Can I book this tour last minute? Yes, you can reserve your spot and pay later, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the tour.

Is the firefly display worth it? Absolutely. Many reviews describe it as “mesmerizing” and “otherworldly,” with thousands of fireflies lighting up the night sky.

What should I bring? Comfortable clothing, a camera for sunset and firefly photos, and possibly insect repellent—especially for the evening part of the tour.

Is the tour suitable for children? While not explicitly stated, the relaxed, nature-focused nature of the tour makes it suitable for families, provided children are comfortable with longer outdoor activities.

This combination of wildlife, scenic beauty, and cultural flavor makes the Kawa Kawa Fireflies Sunset Cruise a standout choice for anyone eager to experience Sabah’s enchanting wetlands in a single, well-organized evening.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby