Kinabalu Park, Desa Dairy Farm & Poring Hot Springs Tour

If you’re visiting Kota Kinabalu and looking for a day that mixes scenic landscapes, cultural stops, and relaxing hot springs, this tour offers a compelling package. While it’s not a trekker’s marathon, it balances sightseeing with leisure, making it an attractive choice for those wanting to see some of Sabah’s highlights without the hassle of planning every detail.

Three things we genuinely appreciate about this tour are the beautiful drives through the mountains, the opportunity to visit local markets and farms, and the chance to soothe tired muscles in Poring’s hot springs. However, travelers should keep in mind that it’s a long day, around 8 hours, with some waiting between stops. This tour fits best travelers who enjoy a mix of light walking, cultural insights, and natural beauty.

This experience is perfect for active travelers who want a well-organized day with plenty of scenic views but without the challenge of strenuous hikes. If you’re looking for a relaxing yet informative escape from city sights, this trip should be right up your alley.

Good To Know

• All-Inclusive Convenience: Hotel pickup, transport, guide, and entrance fees are covered, making it a stress-free experience.
• Diverse Stops: Enjoy local markets, farms, scenic parks, and hot springs, offering a well-rounded taste of Sabah’s nature and culture.
• Flexible Activities: You can choose to relax in the springs or hike the treetop walk, catering to different interests.
• Great Value: At around $125, the tour includes lunch and multiple stops, providing good value for a full day of sightseeing.
• Long but Rewarding Day: Expect a 3-hour drive each way and approximately 8 hours total — suitable for those who love full, immersive days.
• Limited Group Size: With a maximum of 15 travelers, the tour feels intimate and more personal.

👉 See our pick of the 3 Best Guided Tours In Kota Kinabalu

An In-Depth Look at the Journey

Starting Out: Scenic Drive and Nabalu Market

The tour kicks off early at 7:15 am with hotel pickup, which is a major plus for avoiding the hassle of finding meeting points. Traveling in an air-conditioned vehicle, you’ll head out for roughly three hours through lush countryside toward Sabah’s mountainous heart.

Our ride includes a stop at Nabalu Market, a lively spot where locals and visitors alike browse fresh fruits and souvenirs. This 20-minute stop isn’t just a quick photo op; it’s a chance to pick up tropical fruits or handicrafts, giving you a small taste of local life. Many reviews mention enjoying this stop for its authentic vibe and colorful displays.

Desa Dairy Farm: An Unexpected Highlight

Next, the journey takes you to Desa Dairy Farm, often called “The Little New Zealand of Sabah”. With Mount Kinabalu looming in the background, you’ll see rolling pastures filled with dairy cows. The farm is a popular photo spot and offers a peaceful break from the drive.

In about 45 minutes, you can stroll the fields, admire the panoramic views, and perhaps sample some fresh milk or dairy products. Reviewers have pointed out how this stop offers a beautiful, scenic perspective and a chance to appreciate Sabah’s agricultural side — a nice contrast to the more natural attractions ahead.

The Showstopper: Poring Hot Springs and Canopy Walkway

Arriving at Poring, the real highlight begins. The Treetop Canopy Walkway is a must-do, giving you a 20-minute hike to perch 30 meters above the ground. As you step onto the swinging bridge, views of the forest canopy stretch out in every direction, and many find this experience both exhilarating and peaceful.

Following the canopy walk, you have about 30 minutes to dip into the hot sulphur springs. The open-air Japanese-style baths are relaxing, especially after the morning’s walking, and are reputed to have healing properties. Reviewers like Graham mention that soaking in the springs was a highlight, providing relief for tired muscles after the walk.

Kinabalu Park: Nature and Views

Your final stop is Kinabalu Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Covering an area of 754 square kilometers, it’s a showcase of Sabah’s biodiversity and mountainous scenery. It’s also the best place to admire Mount Kinabalu itself, which you can see from the park.

Here, you’ll spend about 45 minutes exploring the surroundings, taking photos, and soaking in the cool mountain air. The park’s significance adds a meaningful touch to your visit, especially for those interested in conservation and natural beauty.

Practical Details and What to Expect

Transportation and Convenience

Transport is a key part of this tour’s appeal. The air-conditioned vehicle is comfortable, and the pickup makes it hassle-free—no need to navigate public transport or worry about directions. The tour operates with a small group, generally up to 15 travelers, enhancing the personal experience.

Duration and Pacing

At around 8 hours, this is a full day, so be prepared for a long but rewarding trip. The early start means you’ll return in the late afternoon, giving you time to relax or explore more of Kota Kinabalu afterward.

Cost and Value

At roughly $125.51 per person, this tour bundles transport, a guide, entrance fees, and lunch. Considering the variety of stops and the convenience, it offers pretty good value. Keep in mind there are surcharges during peak seasons or if pickups are outside the city center, so plan accordingly.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included are hotel pickup and drop-off, lunch, an English-speaking guide, entrance fees, and transportation. Extras like surcharge fees during busy seasons or for pickups outside the city are worth noting, especially for budget-conscious travelers.

What to Bring

Since the tour involves walking and outdoor activities, packing essentials include comfortable hiking shoes, a hat, raincoat, personal toiletries, and a warm jacket if you’re sensitive to cooler mountain air. It’s also wise to bring sunscreen and water.

Authentic Traveler Insights

Based on reviews, many appreciated the stunning views of Mount Kinabalu from the park and the peaceful experience of soaking in the hot springs. Graham’s comment about it being a “long day trip but worth it” underscores the value of seeing multiple highlights in one day.

Some travelers found the trip’s pace a bit busy, especially if they wanted to hike more extensively, but the flexibility to relax or hike at the springs offers some control. The small group size helps make the experience more intimate, and guides like those from Asni Tours are often praised for being knowledgeable and friendly.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for nature lovers who want to see Sabah’s mountains, farms, and wildlife in a single day. It’s also great for those seeking relaxation with hot springs and scenic views, without requiring strenuous hikes. If you’re short on time but want a comprehensive taste of the area’s natural beauty, this tour offers a balanced and enjoyable experience.

The Sum Up

This tour provides great value with its mix of scenic drives, cultural stops, and relaxing hot springs. It’s a solid choice for travelers who prefer a structured, guided experience with minimal planning, especially if you’re interested in seeing Sabah’s natural side without a physically demanding schedule.

While it’s a long day, the variety of stops and the inclusion of lunch make it a worthwhile outing. The small group size, knowledgeable guides, and breathtaking views ensure that you’re well taken care of and inspired along the way.

If you’re keen to enjoy Sabah’s lush landscapes, experience local culture, and unwind in natural springs, this tour offers a practical, memorable option.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off within a 1 km radius of Kota Kinabalu city center, with extra charges for outskirt hotels.

How long is the drive from the city to Poring? The drive takes about 3 hours, with scenic views along the way.

Can I hike at Poring Hot Springs? While the tour includes a short hike to the Treetop Canopy Walkway, you can choose to relax in the springs instead of hiking.

What should I bring for the day? Pack comfortable hiking shoes, a hat, raincoat, personal toiletries, a warm jacket, and sunscreen.

Are entrance fees included? Yes, all entrance fees for stops like Poring Hot Springs, the canopy walk, and Kinabalu Park are included.

Is this tour suitable for children? Generally yes, but consider the long drive and walking involved. Children should be comfortable with outdoor activities.

What’s the best time of year to take this tour? The tour operates year-round, but be aware of peak seasons where surcharges apply.

Can I cancel this tour? Yes, cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

To sum it up, this tour offers a balanced mix of natural beauty, cultural highlights, and relaxation, making it a solid pick for those wanting a comprehensive Sabah day trip. With stunning views, good value, and an easy-going schedule, it’s perfect for travelers eager to experience Sabah beyond the city.