Kinabalu National Park Tour

Discover the Best of Kinabalu National Park: An In-Depth Review

Planning a trip to Sabah and looking for a well-rounded day tour that combines relaxation, scenic beauty, and cultural insights? This Kinabalu National Park Tour from Kota Kinabalu offers just that. While it’s not a private escape, its balanced itinerary and array of highlights make it a popular choice—booked around 124 days in advance, no less.

What we love about this experience is the chance to see mountain vistas and hot springs in one trip, enjoy local farm visits, and gain insight from knowledgeable guides. Plus, the inclusion of a set lunch and convenient transportation makes it quite the value. A possible drawback? Some may wish to spend more time at the Mount Kinabalu Park itself rather than a quick stop at the Desa Dairy Farm. This tour suits those eager to experience Sabah’s natural beauty without sacrificing comfort or time.

If you’re a traveler craving scenic views, learning about local agriculture, and enjoying relaxing hot springs, this tour is a solid pick. Keep in mind, it’s a group experience with a maximum of 15 travelers, making it a good choice for social, yet manageable, adventures.

Good To Know

• Comprehensive itinerary covers hot springs, farms, and UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with insights and local tips.
• Comfortable transportation with hotel pickup and drop-off included.
• Value for money includes meals, entrance fees, and a variety of activities.
• Group size limited to 15 ensures a more personalized experience.
• Timing is well-structured, but some may wish for more time at specific stops.

The Journey Begins: From Kota Kinabalu to Kinabalu Park

The tour kicks off early, with pickup from your hotel around 7:15 am. From there, it’s about a 1.5-hour scenic drive through lush countryside and dramatic mountain vistas. This scenic route alone sets a relaxed and awe-inspiring tone for the day.

Traveling with a group means you get to share the experience while enjoying the comfort of a private vehicle. The journey also includes a stop at the Nabalu Fruit Market, a lively spot where you can browse an assortment of tropical fruits and souvenirs. It’s a charming introduction to the local flavors and crafts that make Sabah special.

Stopping at Desa Dairy Farm: A Slice of New Zealand in Sabah

The first real stop, the Desa Dairy Farm, is a highlight for many. Often called the “New Zealand of Sabah,” this lush green farm boasts stunning mountain views and cool, refreshing air. Visitors can feed calves, watch the milking process, and sample fresh milk and ice cream. The farm’s scenic backdrop makes it a perfect spot for photos and a quick break from the journey.

Reviewers particularly appreciated the scenic setting and the friendly staff. One noted that “the guide was very knowledgeable,” which enhanced their understanding of the farm’s operations and the local dairy industry. This stop offers both a fun, interactive experience and a chance to enjoy Sabah’s agricultural side.

Poring Hot Springs: Relaxation and Adventure

Next, you’ll visit the Poring Hot Springs, a well-loved attraction known for its natural mineral pools. The hot springs are perfect for unwinding after hours of travel and sightseeing. One of the tour’s reviewers enjoyed “the leg soak in the hot spring,” describing it as a relaxing highlight.

Adjacent to the hot springs, there’s the Canopy Walkway—a suspended bridge with breathtaking treetop views. One reviewer mentioned, “The canopy walk was good,” appreciating the chance to see the rainforest from above. Note that entrance to the hot springs and canopy walk is included, but if you’re eager to see a Rafflesia flower, you might need to cover your own expenses, as noted by a guest who mentioned a possible spotting.

The area also features waterfalls, butterfly gardens, and diverse wildlife, making it a lively spot for exploration. However, some travelers might find the time—about 1 hour 30 minutes—slightly short if they wish to indulge more in the hot springs or canopy walk.

A Taste of Sabah’s Agriculture at Kundasang

After relaxing at Poring, the tour takes you back to Kundasang, a charming town known for its cool climate and fertile lands. While some might feel this is a quick stop, it provides a scenic chance to stretch legs and take in mountain views, as one reviewer appreciated, calling the scenery “breathtakingly beautiful.”

This stop isn’t long, but it offers a glimpse into Sabah’s agricultural landscape and provides a break before heading into the Kinabalu Park area.

The Crown Jewel: Kinabalu Park, UNESCO World Heritage Site

The final main stop is Kinabalu Park, home to Mount Kinabalu’s towering peaks and remarkable biodiversity. The park’s cool mountain air and lush flora make it a favorite for nature lovers and hikers alike.

While the tour doesn’t include a mountain trek, the park itself offers scenic trails and stunning vistas. It’s a fitting climax to the day, especially for those interested in the natural environment of Sabah. Many reviewers mention the “breathtaking views” and the joy of being in such an iconic location.

The tour wraps up here before heading back to your hotel, making this a well-rounded day of relaxation, nature, and cultural insight.

Is this Tour Worth the Price?

At $135 per person, this tour offers quite a bit for those seeking a mix of adventure, relaxation, and local flavor. The price includes transportation, a set lunch, all entrance fees (except Poring’s flower spotting), and a guide. The inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off simplifies logistics, especially if you’re short on time.

Compared to other options, the value lies in visiting multiple highlights in one day without the hassle of planning separate trips. The guide’s knowledge, as highlighted in reviews, adds depth and makes the experience more engaging.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour is ideal for first-time visitors wanting an overview of Sabah’s natural sights, families seeking a relaxed mix of activities, or nature lovers eager to see hot springs, farms, and mountain scenery. It’s also suited for those who prefer a group setting with the comfort of organized transport and meals.

If you’re a hiker or want time specifically on Mount Kinabalu, this might not be the best option, as it prioritizes sightseeing stops over trekking or in-depth exploration.

Final Thoughts

The Kinabalu National Park Tour provides a solid, well-balanced day filled with natural beauty, local flavor, and relaxing moments. The stops at Desa Dairy Farm and Poring Hot Springs are standouts, offering both fun and tranquility. The guide’s insights enhance the experience, making it more than just a drive through the countryside.

While the schedule is fairly packed, it allows you to see a lot without feeling rushed. The inclusion of meals and entrance fees makes it a convenient package, especially for travelers who want to maximize their time without worrying about additional costs.

This tour shines brightest for those craving a taste of Sabah’s diverse landscapes with the comfort of organized logistics. If you’re after a leisurely, engaging day that covers the region’s highlights—this is a solid choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?
Yes, pickup is offered from Kota Kinabalu hotels, with additional charges for hotels on the 1 Borneo or outskirt locations.

How long is the drive from Kota Kinabalu to Kinabalu Park?
The journey takes approximately 1.5 hours through scenic countryside and mountain views.

What is included in the tour fee?
Your fee covers land transportation, a set lunch, all entrance fees (except for optional flower viewing at Poring), and an English-speaking guide.

Can I customize the stops or duration?
This is a group tour with a set itinerary, so customization isn’t available. However, some stops might be slightly flexible depending on group preferences.

Is the tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Yes, it’s suitable for most travelers, provided they’re comfortable with a full day of sightseeing. Proper hiking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended.

What should I bring for the day?
Bring essentials like a hat, raincoat, personal toiletries, and comfortable shoes. The cool mountain air and potential rain mean packing appropriately is wise.

In all, the Kinabalu National Park Tour offers a well-rounded glimpse of Sabah’s natural beauty and local life. With stunning vistas, relaxing hot springs, and engaging stops, it’s a day well spent for those wanting a taste of everything Sabah has to offer.