Kinabalu Park, Desa Dairy Farm & Poring Hot Springs Tour

Exploring Sabah’s Natural Treasures: Kinabalu Park, Desa Dairy Farm & Poring Hot Springs Tour

Traveling through Malaysia’s Sabah region offers a chance to experience some of Borneo’s most iconic natural sights. This tour, priced at around $125 per person, promises an engaging day of scenic drives, educational stops, and relaxing hot springs, all with the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off. While it doesn’t include a strenuous hike, it balances comfort with authentic local experiences—a good option for those who want a taste of Sabah’s lush landscape without the hassle of planning logistics themselves.

What we love about this tour is its well-organized itinerary that covers diverse highlights—from a lively fruit market to a UNESCO-listed national park—plus the chance to unwind in naturally warm waters. The scenic drive through the countryside reveals Sabah’s lush greenery and majestic mountain views. We also appreciate the flexibility to choose whether to relax or hike at Poring Hot Springs, catering to different energy levels. A potential drawback might be the long travel time, around 3 hours each way, which could feel a bit tiring for some travelers. Still, the value of experiencing multiple attractions in one day makes it worthwhile, especially for those short on time.

This tour is ideal for active travelers, families, or anyone wanting a balanced day out immersed in nature, without the need to arrange transportation or worry about the details. If you enjoy scenic drives, outdoor relaxation, and a bit of local culture, this trip hits many marks.

Good To Know

• Convenience & Comfort: Hassle-free pickup, drop-off, and air-conditioned transport make the day smooth.
• Diverse Experiences: From a lively fruit market to the UNESCO-listed Kinabalu Park and relaxing hot springs.
• Flexibility at Poring: Options to hike or relax in the springs suit different preferences.
• Value for Money: Includes lunch, entrance fees, and expert guiding.
• Scenic Drive: Enjoy views of Sabah’s countryside, mountains, and Mount Kinabalu.
• Authentic Local Stops: Desa Dairy Farm and Nabalu Market provide genuine cultural insights.

A Deep Dive Into the Tour Itinerary

Starting Point: Nabalu Market

The tour kicks off early from your Kota Kinabalu hotel, setting the tone with a roughly 3-hour drive through Sabah’s picturesque landscape. The Nabalu Market is your first stop—here, you can browse stalls brimming with fresh tropical fruits and local souvenirs. We liked the opportunity to pick up some snacks or mementos, and as one reviewer, Graham, noted, “Enjoyed the treetop walk and hot springs,” which hints at the quality of the experiences to come.

This stop is quick—about 20 minutes—but worth it for a taste of local life and some colorful photos.

Desa Dairy Farm: The Little New Zealand

Next, the journey takes you to Desa Dairy Farm, often dubbed “The Little New Zealand of Sabah” thanks to its sprawling pastures and Mount Kinabalu’s distant silhouette. Here, you’ll see cows grazing peacefully and may get a chance to sample fresh Desa milk. The farm offers a serene setting that’s excellent for photos and a quick lesson in Sabah’s dairy industry.

The 45-minute visit is not just about seeing cows; it’s about appreciating the lush landscape and the cool mountain breeze. The farm’s environment is especially photogenic and a nice break from the more crowded spots.

Poring Hot Springs & Treetop Canopy Walkway

Arguably the star of the day, Poring Hot Springs delivers both relaxation and a bit of adventure. The highlight here is the canopy walkway—an elevated 100-meter path that juts through the treetops at about 30 meters above ground. This provides a thrilling perspective of the rainforest canopy and the surrounding mountains.

The hot springs, with their sulphuric waters, are believed to have healing powers, and soaking in them is a perfect way to unwind. While some might prefer to lounge in the Japanese-style outdoor baths, others may want to explore the surroundings or take a short hike. The tour allows choice—to relax or to seek some light trekking.

Reviewers like Graham appreciated the canopy walk, calling it “a long but worth-it experience,” and mentioned enjoying the hot springs as a soothing end to the visit. The entrance fee is included, simplifying the process.

Kinabalu Park: A UNESCO Heritage Site

The tour concludes at Kinabalu Park, which covers over 750 square kilometers and is home to Mount Kinabalu’s stunning scenery. The park’s rich biodiversity and mountain views make it a must-see. The short 45-minute stop includes a chance to admire the mountain’s grandeur and learn a bit about the park’s history and conservation efforts.

Travelers often find the views of Mount Kinabalu from the park breathtaking. It’s a moment of quiet reflection amid Sabah’s wilderness, and a good photo opportunity to cap off the day.

Practical Details and What to Expect

Transportation and Group Size

The tour uses an air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring comfort on the long drive. It’s limited to a maximum of 15 travelers, which strikes a good balance between intimacy and social atmosphere. The pickup service is a major plus, especially if you’re staying in central Kota Kinabalu, eliminating the hassle of finding meeting points.

Duration and Timing

Starting early at 7:15 am, the tour runs close to 8 hours. The lengthy drive means you’ll spend a good chunk of time on the road, but the stops break up the journey nicely. Reviewers noted that it’s a long day, but “worth it for the experience,” as Graham put it.

Costs and Surcharges

The price of $125.51 per person covers most essentials—entrance fees, guide service, and lunch. However, during peak seasons or festive times, a 30% surcharge applies, so travelers should budget accordingly. For pickups outside the city center, an additional USD 10 per person fee is applicable, which is good to keep in mind when booking.

What to Bring

Comfortable shoes are a must—especially for the canopy walk and light hikes. Don’t forget a hat or cap, raincoat (rain is common in rainforest areas), personal toiletries, and a camera. The tour is suitable for most travelers, but be aware that some walking is involved.

Authentic Traveler Experiences

Graham’s review sums up the tour nicely: “It was a long day trip from KK but worth it for the experience. Enjoyed the treetop walk and hot springs.” This comment highlights how the mix of scenic views and relaxing spots creates a balanced day. Several travelers appreciated the free cancellation policy, which offers peace of mind in uncertain times.

Some reviews mention the well-organized nature of the tour, praising the guide’s professionalism and the smooth logistics. The inclusion of lunch and entrance fees provides good value for this type of full-day experience.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a practical way to experience Sabah’s natural beauty without the stress of planning every detail. The mix of scenic drives, engaging stops, and relaxation opportunities makes it suitable for a variety of travelers—whether you’re after stunning views, local culture, or a soothing soak in hot springs. It’s a dependable choice for families, solo travelers, or couples seeking a day of gentle adventure and rest.

While it’s a long day, the diversity of sights and the opportunity to unwind in natural hot springs make it a memorable outing. The included lunch and transport, plus the flexibility to hike or relax, add to its appeal and overall value.

In short, if you’re looking for a balanced day trip that combines iconic landscapes with cultural stops and some relaxation, this tour delivers. It’s best suited for active, curious travelers who want to see the highlights of Sabah’s countryside with minimal fuss.

FAQs

What is the tour duration?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, starting at 7:15 am and returning late afternoon, with multiple stops along the way.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel or cruise terminal pickup and drop-off are included, with extra charges applicable outside the city center or at outskirt hotels.

What is the price of the tour?
It costs around $125.51 per person, covering guide services, entrance fees, and lunch. Additional surcharges might apply during peak seasons or for certain pickup locations.

Can I customize the experience?
Yes, at Poring Hot Springs, you have the option to relax in the baths or go for a short hike on the canopy walkway.

Are entrance fees included?
All included stops have their entrance fees covered, making the experience straightforward and hassle-free.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable hiking shoes, a hat, rain gear, personal toiletries, and a camera. The tour involves some walking and outdoor exposure.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but keep in mind the long drive and walk involved. It’s best for families comfortable with outdoor activities.

What is the group size?
The tour operates with a maximum of 15 travelers, offering a good balance of intimacy and social interaction.

Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, with a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

This detailed review aims to help you decide if this Sabah day trip fits your travel style—balancing scenic sightseeing with relaxing moments in nature, all wrapped up in a convenient package.