Kota Kinabalu’s 15 Top Tours & Experiences (With Prices)

Kota Kinabalu stands out as a hub for adventures, cultural explorations, and natural beauty. With its proximity to UNESCO-listed sites, vibrant marine parks, and lush rainforests, it’s a perfect playground for those eager to experience Borneo’s true essence. Whether you’re interested in conquering Mount Kinabalu, exploring indigenous cultures at Mari Mari Village, or snorkeling over coral reefs, there’s something here for every type of traveler. One of our favorites is the 2D1N Mount Kinabalu Climbing, which offers a well-organized way to reach Borneo’s highest point with summit photos and good company. The diversity of options means you can tailor your trip from high-altitude adventures to underwater expeditions or wildlife cruises.

Quick Overview

Kota Kinabalu offers a mix of mountain climbs, cultural tours, marine adventures, and wildlife experiences. Highlights include climbing Mount Kinabalu, snorkeling at Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, and visiting the Mari Mari Cultural Village. For wildlife lovers, the Klias River Fireflies cruise is a magical night experience. Dive enthusiasts can enjoy learning to dive or taking fun dives, while island-hopping tours bring sunshine and vibrant coral to your day. Now, let’s explore each in detail.

1. 2D1N Mount Kinabalu Climbing

Climbing Mount Kinabalu is one of Borneo’s most iconic experiences. This 2D1N Mount Kinabalu Climbing tour provides a supported, organized ascent, complete with overnight accommodation in a shared dormitory, five meals, and the chance to take photos from the summit. Supported by porters and guided by an English-speaking coordinator, you’ll ascend to the summit plateau of Borneo’s highest peak, crossing the UNESCO-listed Kinabalu Park. This tour is perfect if you’re looking for a manageable yet rewarding adventure. Guests rave about the smooth organization and helpful guides, with reviews highlighting the well-planned logistics and memorable sunrise at the top. The cost of $1,000 reflects the value of the included meals, permit, and support staff.

Bottom Line: This tour is ideal for active travelers seeking a guided, hassle-free climb with exclusive private activity options for your group.

2. Guided Snorkeling Day Trip, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia

For those who prefer staying near the water, the Guided Snorkeling Day Trip offers a relaxed but vibrant underwater experience. This full-day tour takes you to three different sites within the protected Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, perfect for both beginners and experienced snorkelers. The tour includes unlimited purified water, a delicious island lunch, and a small group size of no more than 12 for personal attention. Guests mention the abundance of colorful fish and coral, as well as the attentive guides. It’s priced at $65, making it an excellent value—especially if you love marine life and want a relaxed day swimming in crystal-clear waters.

Bottom Line: Best suited for snorkelers of all levels who want a hassle-free, intimate marine experience without the crowds.

3. Kota Kinabalu: Mari Mari Cultural Village Tour with Lunch

Enjoy Borneo’s diverse cultures at the Mari Mari Cultural Village. This tour showcases traditional homes, cultural performances, blowpipe hunting, and fire-making demonstrations—all within a rainforest setting. Visitors love participating in activities like bamboo cooking and dancing, with a traditional meal included. The tour is a fantastic way to understand Sabah’s indigenous tribes in an authentic environment. Priced at just $63, it offers rich cultural insights without breaking the bank. Reviews mention the engaging guides and the fun, interactive nature of the visit.

Bottom Line: Ideal for culture enthusiasts wanting an immersive experience that combines education with hands-on activities.

4. 2d1n Mount Kinabalu Via Ferrata – Walk The Torq

If climbing Mount Kinabalu sounds appealing but you’re after an adrenaline boost, the Via Ferrata offers a private 2-day trek that includes a high-octane Via Ferrata experience. No prior mountain climbing experience is needed—just a good level of fitness. The tour covers everything from park fees to accommodation and meals, with stress-free hotel pickup in Kota Kinabalu. Guests love the personalized approach and the chance to stand on the summit with a guide to support every step. The $1,200 price tag reflects the exclusive nature and included logistics.

Bottom Line: Perfect for active travelers seeking a private, guided adventure that combines trekking with the thrill of Via Ferrata.

5. Learn to Dive | RAID Open Water 20 Diver Course | Kota Kinabalu

Ever thought about exploring beneath the waves? The RAID Open Water 20 Diver Course offers a 3-day class designed for new divers. The course includes online pre-study, classroom sessions, and practical dives in the clear waters around Kota Kinabalu, centered at Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park. It’s a great value at $375, especially considering all gear, meals, and instruction are included. Students rave about the patient guides and the confidence they gain after completing the course. This is ideal if you want a solid foundation to explore Borneo’s underwater world.

Bottom Line: Perfect for beginners ready to earn their open water certification and experience Borneo’s marine beauty firsthand.

6. Leisure Diving | Fun Dives | 3 Dives in TARP, Kota Kinabalu

For certified divers, the Leisure Diving tour offers three guided dives across different sites in Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park. Led by experienced PADI instructors, this tour costs $105 and includes all necessary equipment. Reviewers highlight the quality of the reefs and the variety of marine life, including turtles and colorful coral. The small group setting provides personal attention and the chance to explore lesser-visited sites beyond the usual tourist spots.

Bottom Line: Best suited for certified divers looking to maximize their underwater time without the hassle of organizing gear or transfers.

7. RAID Try-Dive Experience in Kota Kinabalu

Curious about scuba diving but not ready to commit? The RAID Try-Dive lets you sample the experience with a professional instructor guiding you in shallow water. The 6-hour tour costs $110 and includes a reef dive after a short lesson. It’s perfect if you’re new to diving or want a gentle introduction. Guests praise the friendly, professional crew, and many mention how safe and fun the experience was. It’s a great way to see Borneo’s marine life in a controlled setting.

Bottom Line: Great for beginners who want a guided taste of scuba with no prior experience needed.

8. Leisure Scuba Diving Trip (3 Dives)

For certified divers seeking an all-day adventure, the Leisure Scuba Diving package offers three dives at Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park. The $130.16 includes boat transfers and guided dives, with reviews mentioning the diversity of sea creatures and the quality of the reefs. The trip runs from 8:45 AM to around 4 PM, with plenty of time to relax and enjoy the underwater sights. It’s a reliable, comprehensive option for those wanting a full day underwater.

Bottom Line: Ideal for experienced divers wanting a full-day, all-inclusive diving experience with knowledgeable guides.

9. 2d1n Kinabalu Park & Poring Canopy Walk & Desa Cow Farm Tour

This 2D1N tour offers a comprehensive look at Sabah’s natural attractions. It includes a walk through the 140-million-year-old rainforest canopy, a visit to the Desa Dairy Farm, and a soaking session at Poring Hot Springs. The tour’s value lies in its all-in-one approach, with hotel pickup, meals, and park fees included. Reviewers appreciate the smooth organization and the chance to see wildlife and lush landscapes without the hassle of planning each activity separately.

Bottom Line: Suitable for nature lovers wanting an easy, guided overview of several top attractions.

10. Borneo (Klias) River Cruise & Fireflies Tour

Experience the wetlands with the Klias River Cruise & Fireflies. This 9-hour tour costs $50 and includes a boat cruise to see proboscis monkeys, long-tailed macaques, and the enchanting fireflies. The evening atmosphere, combined with a Malaysian buffet dinner, makes it a memorable wildlife encounter. Guests mention the knowledgeable guides and the chance to see nocturnal wildlife in their natural habitat.

Bottom Line: Perfect for wildlife enthusiasts wanting a relaxed, evening cruise with excellent animal sightings.

11. Join us for a RAID Try Dive in Kota Kinabalu

This Try Dive experience is a repeat favorite. With a 4:1 student-to-instructor ratio, it’s suitable for first-timers eager to see underwater life without diving certification. The 6-hour tour includes a reef exploration and a guided shallow water lesson, with all gear provided. Reviewers highlight the professional staff and the ease of meeting at Jesselton Point. Lunch is included, and most leave with a new appreciation for Borneo’s marine biodiversity.

Bottom Line: Great for anyone curious about diving, or looking for a short, safe, and guided underwater adventure.

12. Island Hopping

The Island Hopping tour covers multiple islands in Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park. For $125, you’ll visit Sapi Island, Manukan Island, and more, with snorkel gear included. Reviewers love the clear waters, the free lunch on Sapi Beach, and the relaxed pace. The round-trip transfers from your hotel make it easy to enjoy a day of sun, swimming, and exploring without extra planning.

Bottom Line: Excellent for those wanting a flexible, leisurely day with multiple stops and all equipment included.

13. Kinabalu Park & Poring Hot Spring & Canopy Walk

This full-day tour combines Sabah’s top natural highlights, including Kinabalu Park’s botanical gardens, Poring Hot Springs, and the canopy walk. It’s priced at $125.88 and includes all transfers, admission, and meals. Reviewers mention the breathtaking views at Kinabalu and the fun of walking among the trees. It’s best suited for those wanting a comprehensive day in nature without logistical headaches.

Bottom Line: Perfect for nature lovers who want an all-in-one experience with easy transportation.

14. (3 Days) PADI Open Water Diver Course Kota Kinabalu

Want to turn your snorkeling into full-fledged diving? The 3-Day PADI Open Water Course offers comprehensive training. For $438, you receive all equipment, instruction, and meals. The trip includes multiple dives at Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, with reviews praising the patient guides and the confidence gained. It’s ideal for those committed to becoming certified divers.

Bottom Line: Best for beginners eager to earn a certification and explore Borneo’s underwater world independently later.

15. Kinabalu Park With Rumah Terbalik & Desa Cow Farm

This one-day tour offers a taste of Sabah’s natural and cultural highlights, including visiting the Upside Down House, Desa Dairy Farm, and Kinabalu Park. It’s a budget-friendly option at about $130, with all transportation, lunch, and guide commentary included. Reviewers mention the fun of the Rumah Terbalik and the scenic drive.

Bottom Line: Suitable for travelers wanting a quick, diverse overview of Sabah’s sights without heavy physical activity.

How to Choose Your Perfect Kota Kinabalu Tour

When selecting your tour, consider your budget, fitness level, and interests. If you’re after mountain adventure, the 2D1N Mount Kinabalu Climbing or the Via Ferrata suit active souls. For marine lovers, snorkelers and divers should look at the snorkeling trip, fun dives, or try dives. Cultural aficionados will value the Mari Mari Village or the combined Kinabalu Park & Poring excursions. Budget travelers might prefer the Island Hopping or Rumah Terbalik day trips for maximum fun at a reasonable price. Booking in advance is recommended, especially for popular options like the mountain climb or diving courses.

Final Thoughts

Kota Kinabalu offers a versatile range of tours—from conquering Mount Kinabalu to exploring marine parks, cultural villages, or experiencing wildlife on river cruises. For high-altitude adventurers, the climb and Via Ferrata are top contenders. For underwater explorers, the snorkeling and diving options shine, especially with the full-day dive trips. Cultural lovers should not miss the chance to visit Mari Mari Village, offering an authentic glimpse into Sabah’s traditions. With so many options, it pays to book early and pick the experiences that best match your interests and energy level. Happy exploring in this vibrant corner of Borneo!