Kundasang : Poring Hot Spring + Desa & Meal Shared Tour

If you’re looking to escape the urban buzz of Kota Kinabalu and dive straight into Sabah’s lush greenery, the Kundasang: Poring Hot Spring + Desa Dairy Farm tour offers a balanced mix of relaxation and adventure. It’s a popular choice for travelers wanting to experience the area’s natural beauty and local charm in one day.

What makes this tour shine? First, the chance to relax in the warm waters of Poring Hot Springs after some scenic stops. Second, the canopy walk promises a thrilling perspective on Sabah’s forest canopy—though it’s not for the faint-hearted. Third, the visit to Desa Dairy Farm, dubbed “Little New Zealand,” offers a delightful taste of local dairy products and picturesque farm views.

A potential consideration is the tour’s physical demand—especially the canopy walk, which may not suit those with height or health concerns. This experience suits those who enjoy a mix of nature, cultural sights, and a bit of walking, all wrapped into a day trip from Kota Kinabalu.

Good To Know

• Scenic and cultural blend: Combines local markets, farm visits, and natural hot springs.
• Well-organized itinerary: Includes multiple stops with meaningful experiences.
• Knowledgeable guides: Reviewers highlight guides like Raus for their insights.
• Scenic views and adventurous activity: The canopy walk provides unique forest vistas.
• Value for money: At $91, it covers transport, entry fees, lunch, and guided commentary.
• Physical considerations: Needs a moderate level of fitness and comfort with heights.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Complete Look at the Kundasang Tour Experience

Starting Your Day in Kota Kinabalu

The journey begins with hotel pickup, which is a real convenience—especially if you’re staying outside the city center, as an extra MYR 100 surcharge applies for outskirt hotels. From there, you’re whisked away in a comfortable van for about 2.5 hours toward the lush landscapes of Kundasang.

This long drive, while a little bit of a trek, is part of the adventure. You’ll pass through charming roadside stalls and scenic countryside, setting the tone for a day immersed in Sabah’s natural beauty. The transport is shared but fairly spacious, with English and Chinese-speaking drivers who keep the mood light and informative.

First Stop: Nabalu Handicraft Market

After arriving, your first stop is the Nabalu Handicraft Market. This is more than just a shopping spot—it’s a lively hub for local artisans showcasing textiles, jewelry, and souvenirs. As we explored, one reviewer mentioned how engaging it was to hear about the local crafts and the stories behind them, adding depth to the shopping experience.

It’s an excellent chance to pick up authentic gifts and learn about Sabah’s rich artisan culture. You’ll want to arrive with some cash and a sense of curiosity—these stalls often have friendly vendors eager to share their stories.

Visit to Desa Dairy Farm: “Little New Zealand”

Next, you’ll head to Desa Dairy Farm, just a short drive away. The farm’s nickname hints at its scenic setting—rolling green pastures and a picturesque backdrop. Here, you’ll sample fresh, on-site dairy products like ice cream, yogurt, and milk, which many reviewers said were noticeably delicious and creamy.

This stop is more than just a treat for the taste buds; it’s an insight into Sabah’s dairy industry, which is surprisingly thriving given the tropical climate. Visitors have appreciated guides like Raus, who shared interesting facts about the farm’s operations and the local dairy industry.

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Relaxation and Adventure at Poring Hot Springs

The next highlight is Poring Hot Springs, famed for their therapeutic mineral waters. The hot springs have a relaxing appeal, and many travelers find soaking in the warm waters a perfect way to unwind after a morning of sightseeing.

For those craving a bit more activity, there’s also a treetop canopy walk. This elevated walkway among the treetops offers panoramic views of the forest—an exciting and somewhat nerve-wracking experience. Reviewers like Nadia praised their guide Raus for making the walk enjoyable and sharing interesting insights about the forest ecosystem.

However, it’s worth noting that the canopy walk demands a decent level of physical fitness and comfort with heights. One reviewer, Veit, highlighted that you really need to be in good shape for it. If heights or physical exertion aren’t your thing, you might prefer simply relaxing in the hot springs.

Lunch and Scenic Photo Stops

After the canopy walk, you’ll enjoy a hearty lunch at the Poring Hot Springs restaurant. The meal is included, and while details about the menu are not specified, most find it satisfying after a morning of adventure.

The tour includes a quick photo stop at Kinabalu Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, weather and time permitting. It’s a brief chance to snap pictures of Malaysia’s highest peak and the surrounding lush scenery.

Return Journey and Final Impressions

The return trip takes approximately 2.5 hours, giving you time to reflect on what you’ve seen and experienced. Many reviews note the guides’ friendliness and their ability to share stories about Malaysia’s culture and natural wonders, making the long drive part of the overall enjoyment.

Analyzing the Value

At $91 per person, this tour provides a comprehensive day out, covering transport, all entrance fees, lunch, and guided commentary. The inclusion of key highlights like the hot springs, farm, and canopy walk means you’re getting a lot of diversity in one package.

Compared to arranging individual activities, this tour offers convenience and a well-organized schedule. The emphasis on local guides, like Raus, adds value through authentic insights and safety, especially during more adventurous parts like the canopy walk.

Physical and Practical Considerations

While most travelers find the tour enjoyable, it’s important to note the physical demands. The canopy walk, as one reviewer shared, is a highlight but also a test of stamina and nerve. The tour advises bringing comfortable shoes, rain gear, and personal medication—wise tips considering the tropical climate and outdoor activities.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is ideal for those who appreciate a mix of culture, nature, and a touch of adventure. It suits solo travelers, couples, and small groups who are comfortable with moderate physical activity and heights. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a well-rounded day exploring Sabah’s natural attractions without the hassle of planning multiple stops.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

The Kundasang: Poring Hot Spring + Desa Dairy Farm tour is a thoughtfully curated experience offering genuine value. You get a taste of Sabah’s local craftsmanship, natural hot springs, farm life, and forest views—all in one day.

The guides’ knowledge, especially Raus’s, and the stunning scenery make this tour memorable. Be prepared for some physical activity, especially the canopy walk, and plan for weather changes with rain gear and a jacket.

This tour is best suited for curious travelers eager to explore Sabah’s highlights comfortably while enjoying authentic experiences. If you value a well-organized day with diverse stops and cultural insights, this tour could be a highlight of your Sabah trip.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from hotels in Kota Kinabalu. Outskirt hotels incur an additional MYR 100 surcharge.

How long is the travel time from Kota Kinabalu?
The journey to Kundasang takes about 2.5 hours each way, making it a full-day trip.

What should I bring on the tour?
Comfortable shoes, an umbrella, a jacket, rain gear, personal medication, and a waterproof bag are recommended.

Are there any restrictions for the canopy walk?
Yes, it’s not suitable for those afraid of heights, with heart problems, altitude sickness, or high blood pressure. You need a reasonable level of fitness.

What’s included in the tour cost?
Round-trip transport, all entrance fees, lunch, and a driver-guided experience are included.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour suitable for children or elderly?
While mostly suitable for active travelers, the canopy walk may be challenging for very young children or elderly individuals with mobility or health issues. Always check your personal comfort level.

To sum it up, this tour offers a terrific mix of relaxation, scenery, and cultural insights, all with the convenience of guided logistics. It’s a fantastic way to spend a day exploring the natural and local wonders of Sabah, especially if you want a balanced, well-organized adventure without doing all the planning yourself.

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