Kinabalu Park & Poring Hot Spring & Canopy Walk

Traveling to Malaysia’s Borneo region offers a treasure trove of outdoor adventures, and this all-in-one tour from Kota Kinabalu packs in some of the best natural attractions. It’s a well-organized day of stunning scenery, cultural insights, and relaxing moments—all without the hassle of planning each stop independently. With a 4.5-star rating from over 80 reviews, it’s clear many travelers find this experience both memorable and worthwhile.

Our review highlights three things we love about it: convenience and inclusiveness, expert guides who bring the parks alive, and breathtaking views that make the price feel like a real bargain. One thing to consider is the duration—a full 12-hour day might be long for some, especially if you’re not used to early starts or long bus rides. This tour is perfect for nature lovers, curious travelers, and anyone eager to see Sabah’s highlights in one go, especially those who prefer having everything arranged and guided.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience: Visit Kinabalu Park, Poring Hot Springs, and Nabalu Market without any extra hassle.
• Guided insight: Knowledgeable guides like Diana and Tan enhance the trip with facts and personal support.
• Stunning scenery: Expect iconic views of Mount Kinabalu, lush rainforests, and scenic hilltop markets.
• Comfortable transportation: Air-conditioned vehicle and hotel pickup/drop-off make logistics straightforward.
• Value for money: For around $125, you get admission fees, meals, guided walks, and transportation.
• Ideal for nature enthusiasts and those wanting a relaxed yet comprehensive day trip from Kota Kinabalu.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point: Kota Kinabalu at 7:00 am

The day begins early to maximize your time exploring Sabah’s natural highlights. The tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off, which means you avoid the stress of finding meeting points, a definite plus for travelers staying outside central Kota Kinabalu or in more remote accommodations. The air-conditioned coach ensures a comfortable ride, especially considering the approximately 3-hour journey to Kinabalu Park.

Stop 1: Tamparuli and the Suspension Bridge

Your first taste of local charm comes at Tamparuli, famous for its suspension bridge. A short 20-minute walk on the Jambatan Tamparuli provides a fun photo opportunity and a sense of small-town life in Sabah. It’s a quick but atmospheric start, with no admission fee, and sets the tone for a day immersed in nature and local culture.

Stop 2: Nabalu Market

Next, you’ll visit Nabalu Market, perched on a hillside overlooking Mount Kinabalu. Here, local vendors sell fresh produce, fruits, vegetables, and handicrafts—an authentic peek into Sabah’s rural livelihood. Reviewers love how knowledgeable guides like Diana help explain what’s on display, making the visit both educational and picturesque. The market offers great photo ops and the chance to see Mount Kinabalu from afar, weather permitting.

Stop 3: Kinabalu Park

The highlight for many is visiting Kinabalu National Park, Malaysia’s first UNESCO World Heritage site. Sitting at 1,500 meters altitude, the park’s air feels cooler and fresher—a pleasant change from city life. The towering Mount Kinabalu (at 4,095 meters) dominates the landscape, and from the park, you’ll get an impressive view of its cloud-kissed peaks.

During your 1.5-hour visit, you can stroll along nature trails and the botanical gardens, where guides like Tan showcase Sabah’s unique flora and fauna. From carnivorous pitcher plants to orchids, this biological treasure trove is a highlight. Reviewers like Clare often mention how guides are not just knowledgeable but supportive—Tan, in her case, helped her conquer her fear of heights on the canopy walk, making the experience all the more personal.

Drive through Kundasang

As you pass Kundasang, a town famous for its cabbage roundabout and rolling hills, the scenery is postcard-perfect. The drive offers a glimpse of Sabah’s lush, green landscape and fertile valley views, which many travelers find soothing and photogenic.

Stop 4: Poring Hot Springs and the Canopy Walk

The afternoon is dedicated to relaxation and adventure at Poring Hot Springs, where you can take a soothing sulphur bath. The open-air pools surrounded by landscaped gardens provide a gentle, warm soak that many reviews describe as restorative after a busy morning. It’s not a swimming pool, so don’t expect to splash around, but the experience of bathing amidst nature is appreciated by visitors.

The tour’s pièce de résistance is the Canopy Treetop Walk, a suspended walkway 30 meters above ground, stretching 105 meters. Reaching it involves a short 20-minute hike, but the views of the rainforest canopy are worth every step. Reviewers like Ganesh note how breathtaking the rainforest trees are—some towering over a hundred million years old—and how the walk offers a rare perspective of Sabah’s ancient forests.

Returning to Kota Kinabalu

After enjoying the canopy walk and some final moments at Poring, the group begins the return trip, arriving back in the city in the evening. The entire day is structured to provide a balance of activity and downtime, with plenty of opportunities to relax and take photos.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Convenience and Comprehensive Coverage

This trip’s biggest selling point is its all-inclusive nature. Everything from meal, transportation, admission fees, and guided walks are included, saving you time and potential stress. The transport is air-conditioned, and the group sizes are typically small—reviews mention groups of only six to thirty—making the experience more personal.

Insightful Guides

Guide quality seems to be a recurring theme in reviews. Diana, Tan, and others are praised for their knowledge, patience, and support. One reviewer shared how Tan helped her over rope bridges, turning what could be intimidating into a moment of achievement. Such personal touches elevate the experience beyond just sightseeing.

Stunning and Varied Scenery

From the spectacle of Mount Kinabalu to the lush rainforests and the relaxing hot springs, this tour offers a well-rounded taste of Sabah’s natural beauty. The landscape shifts smoothly from mountain vistas to rainforest canopies, with plenty of photo opportunities along the way.

Value for Money

At $125.88 per person, the cost includes entrance fees, meals, and guided walks. Many reviewers, like Riana, mention that it’s “great value,” especially considering the long day and multiple stops. The included lunch, which typically features local cuisine, adds to the overall experience, rounding out your day with authentic flavors.

Potential Drawbacks or Considerations

While the tour receives high praise, some reviews highlight possible downsides. The full-day commitment—around 12 hours—means long bus rides, which might be tiring for some. One review mentioned rough roads and a driver on a stick shift that was less smooth, so expect an adventure in comfort. Weather can also impact the experience: rain might obscure views or make certain trails slippery, but the tour generally offers options to reschedule if weather conditions are poor.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

If you enjoy nature, scenic landscapes, and a guided experience, this tour hits the sweet spot. It’s perfect for first-time visitors to Sabah who want to see its highlights without the hassle of organizing transportation and tickets. Adventure seekers and those interested in botany or rainforest ecosystems will find plenty to marvel at, especially during the canopy walk and botanical garden walks.

Families with children might appreciate the manageable pace and included amenities, though very young kids should be prepared for a full-day outing. For travelers on a tight schedule or those who prefer self-guided independence, this might feel a bit structured, but overall, most will find the convenience and expertise well worth it.

The Sum Up

This full-day tour from Kota Kinabalu offers a well-balanced mix of adventure, education, and relaxation. The inclusion of guides like Diana and Tan, who go above and beyond to support and inform, makes the experience feel personalized and engaging. The scenery is breathtaking, from Mount Kinabalu’s grandeur to rainforest canopies, and the hot springs provide a soothing end to the day.

The value-for-money aspect is hard to beat, considering all the inclusions—admission, meals, transport, and guided walks—packaged into a manageable 12-hour window. Whether you’re a nature lover, a photographer, or simply someone eager to tick off Sabah’s top attractions, this tour has something to offer.

However, be prepared for a full day with some long drives and variable weather. It’s best suited for those who want a curated experience that minimizes hassle and maximizes discovery. In short, it’s a fantastic way to see Sabah’s highlights with knowledgeable guides, comfortable logistics, and unforgettable views.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics simple, especially if you’re staying outside central Kota Kinabalu.

How long is the total tour?
The experience lasts approximately 12 hours, from early morning pickup to evening return.

Are admission tickets included?
Yes, admission fees for Kinabalu Park and Poring Hot Springs are included, along with guided walks and canopy access.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, rain gear just in case, a hat, sunscreen, and a camera are recommended. Be sure to advise any dietary requirements when booking.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and children should be accompanied by an adult. The full-day schedule suits most but check if your kids are comfortable with long rides and walking.

How many people are in a typical group?
Group sizes are typically small, capped at 30 travelers, which helps with a more personalized experience.

Can I join this tour if I’m staying outside Kota Kinabalu?
Yes, but note an additional MYR 30 per person surcharge applies for pick-up outside the city or 1Borneo area.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to rain or storms, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is food included?
Yes, a local lunch is provided as part of the package, offering a taste of Sabah cuisine.

Can I customize the itinerary?
This is a fixed tour, but the guides are helpful and accommodating within the scheduled stops.

Exploring Sabah’s lush landscapes with a knowledgeable guide, comfortable transport, and all-inclusive convenience makes this tour a fantastic choice for those wanting to experience the best of Kinabalu and Poring without the hassle. Whether it’s your first trip or your fiftieth, you’ll leave with stunning memories and a deeper appreciation for Malaysia’s natural beauty.