Day Trip Kundasang Sabah

Planning a day trip from Kota Kinabalu that offers a mix of quirky sights, scenic landscapes, and family-friendly activities? This Day Trip to Kundasang Sabah provides just that, with a carefully curated itinerary that promises engaging stops, breathtaking views, and authentic experiences. While it’s a well-rounded tour ideal for those wanting a taste of Sabah’s highlights, keep in mind that some attractions are outside your control—like entrance fees—and the tour involves a fair amount of outdoor walking and exposure to the elements.

What we love about this experience is how it combines unusual photo opportunities like the Upside Down House, the chance to get up close with dairy cows, and the possibility of relaxing Fish Spa treatments—all within a manageable 7-hour window. The small group size and private transportation mean you’ll get personal attention and flexibility. A potential downside? The tour’s pace can be busy, especially if you’re not keen on rushing from site to site.

This trip suits travelers who are eager for a mix of fun, nature, and local culture—perfect for families, couples, or solo explorers looking to maximize a day outside the city. If you’re after a comprehensive snapshot of Kundasang with authentic touches, this tour will mostly meet your expectations.

Good To Know

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• Diverse Attractions: From quirky upside-down houses to scenic mountain views and dairy farms.
• Authentic Experiences: Feeding cattle, milking calves, and enjoying local dairy products.
• Comfort & Convenience: Private, air-conditioned transport with a friendly driver-guide.
• Balanced Pace: Mix of sightseeing, photo stops, and leisure activities.
• Good Value: All-inclusive private tour for up to 6 people at a reasonable price.
• Best for: Families, first-time visitors, or anyone wanting a compact day of fun and nature.

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

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

The Upside Down House at Tamparuli

Your day begins with a visit to the famous Rumah Terbalik, a house built entirely upside down. This quirky attraction, with its floor facing the sky, is more than just a fun photo spot—it’s a conversation starter and perfect for snapping memorable pictures. Inside, everything from furniture to appliances is hung from the ceiling, giving you a true sense of disorientation. Reviewers highlight how enjoyable it is to walk through and see how everything is turned on its head; one mentioned, “you can see all inside and outside, and the theme is that everything is upside down.”

While the admission ticket isn’t included in the price, the unique experience is worth a quick visit. Expect to spend about an hour here, enjoying the novelty and capturing some fun shots.

Tamparuli Suspension Bridge

Next, you’ll cross the Tamparuli Suspension Bridge, which offers great views of Tamparuli town and its surrounding landscape. It’s a free stop, providing opportunities for photos, especially if you’re into capturing local life and lush scenery. The bridge’s swinging walkway can be a little thrilling, especially on windy days, but it’s manageable for most travelers. It’s a quick 30-minute stop, but enough to appreciate the view and grab a few photos.

Desa Dairy Farm and the “Little New Zealand”

A highlight for many is the Desa Dairy Farm, dubbed the “Little New Zealand” of Sabah. The highland location offers cool, crisp air and panoramic views of rolling green pastures. Here, you can enjoy tasting fresh milk and gelato, which many reviewers find to be a real treat. The farm also offers hands-on activities like feeding cattle and milking calves, making it a fun, interactive experience for children and adults alike.

One reviewer noted that the dairy farm’s natural fog and mountain scenery create a vibe reminiscent of New Zealand, making it a photo-worthy spot. Expect to spend around two hours here, giving plenty of time for grazing cows, photo ops, and enjoying the fresh air.

Fish Spa at Bombon Kg. Marakau

For a bit of relaxation, the tour includes a Fish Spa experience. You’ll feed fish that nibble away dead skin, leaving your feet feeling refreshed after a leg massage. This quirky activity, which lasts around two hours, gets rave reviews for its novelty and fun factor. Reviewers mention that the Fish Spa is a relaxing and amusing break, especially as you watch tiny fish gently nibbling at your toes.

Arnab Village and Interactive Animal Encounters

Animal lovers will appreciate a visit to Arnab Village, where you can pet fluffy rabbits and enjoy the scenic surroundings. It’s a relaxed stop, usually about an hour long, offering a calming contrast to the more active sites. The reviewer notes that petting the rabbits and taking in the views is a simple pleasure that adds to the tour’s charm.

Kundasang Selfie Corner

Finally, the Selfie Corner caters to those who love capturing the perfect Instagram shot. With creatively designed backdrops and lush landscapes, it’s a quick 30-minute stop but packed with photo opportunities. Many travelers have appreciated this spot for its “Instagram-able” appeal and scenic backdrop, perfect for wrapping up the day with some memorable photos.

Transport and Guide Experience

The tour is operated by Jelajah Borneo Tour, a company praised in reviews for its knowledgeable guides and friendly service. The vehicle is air-conditioned, comfortable, and private, which ensures a relaxed experience without the hustle of large groups. Pickup is offered, starting early at 7:30 am from Kota Kinabalu Airport or your hotel, with a smooth transfer to Kundasang.

Reviewers frequently mention how the driver, often the guide as well, is attentive and accommodating. One reviewer even commented, “Our driver was very helpful and served my group well, making the trip enjoyable.” The tour includes a traditional dance performance before crossing the Tamparuli Suspension Bridge, adding a cultural touch to the experience.

Price & Value

At approximately $194.78 for a group of up to 6, this tour offers solid value considering the private transport, guide, and multiple attractions. While it doesn’t include entrance fees or lunch, many of the stops don’t require tickets or have minimal costs. Travelers often appreciate the personalized nature of this private tour, which allows for flexibility and a more intimate experience.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Dress comfortably and bring layers, as highland areas like Desa Dairy Farm can be cooler and foggy.
• Bring cash or cards for optional entrance fees or purchases, especially at the dairy farm or Fish Spa.
• Wear sturdy shoes for walking around the Upside Down House, suspension bridge, and dairy farm.
• Reserve in advance—the tour is popular and often booked about 25 days ahead.
• Time your meals beforehand, as lunch isn’t included, and some stops are short.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This day trip is ideal for those who want a well-rounded experience covering quirky attractions, nature, and local culture without long travel times. It’s perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy photo opportunities and outdoor activity. If you love scenic views, interactive animal encounters, and a touch of fun, this tour provides a lot of value for a single day.

Travelers looking for an in-depth exploration of Kinabalu Park or detailed hiking might find this tour a bit light on the natural trails, but for a balanced snapshot of Kundasang, it hits the mark.

FAQs

Is pickup offered for this tour?
Yes, pickup is available, starting from Kota Kinabalu Airport or your hotel, making the day seamless from start to finish.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 7 hours, giving plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Are entrance fees included?
No, admission tickets for attractions like Rumah Terbalik and Desa Dairy Farm are not included, so budget accordingly.

What is the group size?
The tour is private, accommodating up to 6 people, ensuring personalized attention and flexibility.

Can I customize the stops?
Since this is a private tour, there is some flexibility, but it’s best to check directly with Jelajah Borneo Tour beforehand.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not part of the package, so plan to bring snacks or eat before/after the tour.

Final Thoughts

This Day Trip to Kundasang Sabah genuinely offers a taste of the region’s unique charm, combining fun, scenic views, and authentic experiences. The mix of quirky sights like the upside-down house and the breathtaking highland landscapes makes it a versatile choice. Most travelers will find the tour well-paced and adding good value, especially with knowledgeable guides and private transportation.

If you’re looking for a day filled with memorable photo opportunities, animal encounters, and stunning mountain vistas—all in a comfortably private setting—this trip ticks those boxes. It’s particularly suited for families, first-time visitors, or anyone eager to explore Sabah’s highlights without the hassle of planning each detail.

While it’s not a deep-dive into Sabah’s natural parks or cultural history, it strikes a fine balance that makes for a most enjoyable day outside Kota Kinabalu. Just come prepared for a bit of outdoor activity, bring your camera, and enjoy this lively and scenic adventure.