Kundasang Day Trip

Traveling through Sabah, one of Malaysia’s most striking regions, often leads to the lush landscapes and towering peaks around Mount Kinabalu. The Kundasang Day Trip promises a full day of natural beauty, cultural sights, and authentic local experiences—all within a manageable 10-hour itinerary. Whether you’re in Kota Kinabalu for a short visit or looking to get a taste of Sabah’s countryside, this tour offers a balanced mix of scenery, culture, and delicious food.

What we particularly love about this experience is the stunning panoramic views of Mount Kinabalu, the chance to visit the charming Desa Dairy Farm, and explore lively local markets that showcase Sabah’s unique crafts and produce. At the same time, the organized nature of the trip, with a knowledgeable guide and comfortable transportation, makes it a hassle-free way to see a lot in one day.

A possible consideration is the long travel times between stops, especially the over two-hour van rides, which can be tiring if you’re not used to extensive road trips. Still, for those who enjoy scenic drives and want a rundown of the region, this trip hits most of the essential highlights.

This tour is best suited for travelers craving a full day of natural beauty and cultural insight without the hassle of planning multiple independent visits. It’s ideal for people who enjoy guided experiences, want to see iconic sights like Mount Kinabalu from different angles, and appreciate having a local guide to enrich the journey.

Good To Know

• Comprehensive Itinerary: Combines scenic views, farm visits, and markets in one day.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable local guides provide insights and cultural context.
• Convenient Transportation: Round-trip transport from Kota Kinabalu saves logistics worries.
• Authentic Experiences: Visit Desa Dairy Farm and vibrant markets for genuine local flavor.
• Opt for Flexibility: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance offers peace of mind.
• Small Group Size: Limited to 10 participants, ensuring personalized attention.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Starting Points and Early Morning Pickup

The tour begins with pickup options at Kota Kinabalu International Airport or other designated locations in Kota Kinabalu. The small-group nature (max 10 people) means you’ll likely be picked up by a friendly driver and guide, setting a relaxed tone for the day. Early pickup ensures you’ll make the most of daylight hours for sightseeing and avoid the midday traffic—important for a full 10-hour trip.

The Scenic Drive to Kundasang

The drive from Kota Kinabalu to Kundasang takes approximately 2.08 hours, giving you time to settle in and enjoy your surroundings. The landscape changes dramatically from urban to tropical mountain scenery, with lush greenery and occasional glimpses of Mount Kinabalu’s silhouette in the distance. Some travelers mention that the van ride is comfortable and that the views along the way are worth the journey, though it’s a long stretch, so bring a snack or a good playlist.

Pekan Nabalu and Market Shopping

The first stop is the bustling Pekan Nabalu, a lively market town famous for local crafts, fresh produce, and souvenirs. You’ll have about 30 minutes here to browse, haggle, and sample some snacks. Reviewers often highlight the markets as a highlight, praising the authentic handicrafts and vibrant atmosphere. It’s a good chance to pick up a unique Sabah souvenir, like woven baskets or local spices, directly from the artisans.

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Kinabalu Park: UNESCO Heritage Site

Next, you’ll visit Kinabalu Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, renowned for its biodiversity and spectacular scenery. While the itinerary emphasizes sightseeing, many visitors find that walking through the park’s well-maintained trails and viewing platforms allows for some memorable photos and a chance to experience Sabah’s natural richness firsthand. The guide typically shares insights about the park’s flora and fauna, making this stop both beautiful and educational.

Fish Spa at Bombon Kg. Marakau

A fun and relaxing break comes with the Fish Spa experience in Bombon Kg. Marakau. Expect to dip your feet into tanks of tiny fish nibbling away dead skin—an oddly ticklish but popular activity. It’s a short stop (about an hour), but many say it’s a quirky highlight and a good way to refresh after a long drive.

Poring Hot Springs: Relaxation and Adventure

One of the tour’s major highlights is the visit to Poring Hot Springs. Here, you’ll find natural thermal baths perfect for unwinding, plus optional short hikes or canopy walks. The scenery is lush and tropical, and the warm springs are famed for their relaxing qualities. Expect to spend about 1.5 hours here, with the possibility of enjoying a soak or a walk in the rainforest.

Lunch at Poring Hot Springs

A designated hour for lunch is included at Poring. The meal options are usually simple, local-style dishes, offering a taste of Sabah’s cuisine, which often features fresh vegetables, rice, and seafood or chicken. It’s a good chance to refuel before heading to the final stops of the day.

Desa Dairy Farm: Cows, Milk, and Scenic Views

The highlight for many travelers is the Desa Dairy Farm. This picturesque farm sits high on the hill, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Visitors can enjoy a guided tour, sample fresh dairy products, and take plenty of photos of the charming cows grazing against a stunning backdrop. As one reviewer noted, “The scenery here is just incredible, and the dairy products are surprisingly fresh and tasty.” The stop usually lasts about an hour, making it a perfect blend of relaxation, photo ops, and farm fresh treats.

Return Journey and Drop-Off

After the farm visit, a 2.5-hour van ride takes you back to Kota Kinabalu, providing time to unwind and reflect on the day. The tour concludes with drop-offs at the initial pick-up points, making for a hassle-free end to the adventure.

Value and Practicalities

At $76 per person, this tour offers good value considering the number of stops, inclusion of entry fees, and professional guidance. The price covers transportation, guide services, market visits, and the Desa Dairy Farm entry—costs that would be challenging to organize independently. The small group sizes mean more personalized attention and fewer crowds, making the experience more relaxed and engaging.

The tour’s duration of 10 hours means you’ll get a full day’s worth of sightseeing without feeling rushed. The timing is flexible, with available start times that likely depend on demand, so checking availability in advance is recommended.

The inclusion of bottled water and light snacks helps keep everyone energized, especially during longer drives. However, travelers should bring comfortable shoes for walking, a rain jacket or umbrella (common in Sabah’s tropical climate), and be prepared for some altitude and varying weather conditions.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for curious travelers wanting a blend of natural scenery, local culture, and unique activities like the fish spa and dairy farm visit. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate knowledgeable guides who can enhance the experience with insights and stories. Since it’s a small group, it works well for travelers seeking intimacy and a more personalized feel.

However, it’s not recommended for those with heart problems, height phobias, or altitude sickness, as some stops involve minor hikes or higher elevations. It’s also not ideal for heavy-luggage carrying or those planning to stay in Kota Kinabalu for only a short time, as the day trip is quite comprehensive.

The Sum Up

The Kundasang Day Trip offers a well-rounded experience of Sabah’s scenic beauty and local culture, all within a comfortable, guided framework. The opportunity to see Mount Kinabalu from different angles, visit a working dairy farm, and explore vibrant markets makes it an enriching day out. The tour’s structured yet flexible approach, combined with the expertise of local guides, ensures an enjoyable and educational adventure.

Travelers who value natural landscapes, cultural authenticity, and hassle-free planning will find this trip particularly appealing. It’s a fantastic way to add depth to your Sabah visit without committing several days to separate excursions.

If you’re looking for a full-day escape that showcases the best of Kundasang’s natural charm and local warmth, this tour is a smart choice. Just remember to bring your camera, comfortable shoes, and an appetite for adventure—and you’re set for a memorable day.

FAQs

• What is the duration of the tour?

The tour lasts approximately 10 hours, starting with pickup in the morning and returning by late afternoon or early evening.

• Are there pickup and drop-off options?

Yes. The tour includes round-trip transportation from Kota Kinabalu, with pick-up at Kota Kinabalu International Airport and other specified locations.

• What is included in the price?

The fee covers transportation, a knowledgeable local guide, entry fees to Desa Dairy Farm, a visit to Nabalu Market, scenic stopovers, bottled water, and light snacks.

• Is the tour suitable for children or elderly?

As long as participants can handle some walking and minor hikes, the tour is suitable. However, it’s not recommended for those with heart problems, high blood pressure, or altitude sickness.

• How much free time is there at each stop?

The market stop is about 30 minutes, the Fish Spa is approximately one hour, Poring Hot Springs allows for 1.5 hours, and the Desa Dairy Farm visit lasts around an hour.

• Can I cancel the tour?

Yes. Cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

• Is the tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the activity is accessible for wheelchair users, but it’s best to confirm specific needs with the provider beforehand.

• What should I bring?

Comfortable shoes, an umbrella, a jacket, and rain gear are recommended due to Sabah’s tropical weather.

• Are meals included?

Lunch at Poring Hot Springs is included, but other meals and extra snacks are not.

• What is the guide’s role during the tour?

Guides provide insights into the sites visited, share local stories, and ensure a smooth, enjoyable experience for all.

This detailed look at the Kundasang Day Trip hopefully gives you all the information you need to decide if it’s the right fit for your Sabah adventure. Whether you’re seeking stunning mountain views or cultural encounters, this tour delivers on both fronts with a good dose of comfort and local charm.

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