Sabah: Kota Kinabalu Park and Hot Spring Day Trip

Exploring the natural wonders of Sabah is a must-do for any adventurous traveler. The Kota Kinabalu Park and Hot Spring Day Trip offers a comprehensive experience, taking visitors through a UNESCO World Heritage site, a dairy farm, and a relaxing hot spring retreat. From scenic landscapes to culture, this day trip promises to deliver a diverse array of experiences that will leave you eager to uncover more of what this remarkable region has to offer.

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Key Points

Comprehensive day trip exploring Kota Kinabalu Park and Poring Hot Springs, priced at $72.78 per person with hotel pickup, guided tour, and lunch included.
Visit to Pekan Nabalu Market, a local market showcasing fresh produce, handicrafts, and insights into the daily life of the Kadazan-Dusun people.
Guided hikes and trails in the UNESCO-listed Kinabalu Park, offering breathtaking views of Mount Kinabalu and diverse flora and fauna.
Opportunity to taste fresh milk and cheese at Desa Dairy Farm, providing insights into the local dairy industry.
Relaxing soak in the therapeutic sulfur baths of Poring Hot Springs, complemented by a butterfly garden and snack break.

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Overview of the Day Trip

This day trip offers visitors the chance to explore the natural wonders of Kota Kinabalu Park and the therapeutic Poring Hot Springs.

Priced from $72.78 per person, the 1-day excursion includes hotel pickup, a guided tour, entrance fees, and lunch.

This 1-day excursion includes hotel pickup, a guided tour, entrance fees, and lunch, priced from $72.78 per person.

Highlights include visiting a local market, trekking in the UNESCO-listed Kinabalu Park, and relaxing in the sulfur-rich hot springs.

Whether you’re interested in wildlife, culture, or simply unwinding, this trip provides a well-rounded experience.

With flexible cancellation policies and an English-speaking guide, it’s an accessible way to discover Sabah’s diverse landscapes.

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Exploring Pekan Nabalu Market

The day trip begins with a visit to Pekan Nabalu Market, a bustling locale where travelers can enjoy the local culture.

Situated at the foothills of Mount Kinabalu, the market offers a vibrant array of fresh produce, handicrafts, and local delicacies.

Visitors can browse stalls filled with exotic fruits, vegetables, and spices, interacting with friendly vendors and learning about their wares.

This one-hour exploration provides a glimpse into the daily life of the Kadazan-Dusun people, the indigenous community of the region, setting the stage for the day’s adventures in Kinabalu Park.

Discovering Kinabalu Park

After exploring the vibrant Pekan Nabalu Market, the group heads to the renowned Kinabalu Park.

As a UNESCO World Heritage site, the park offers a wealth of natural wonders:

Diverse flora and fauna, including rare and endemic species.
Breathtaking vistas of Mount Kinabalu, the highest mountain in Southeast Asia.
Guided hikes and trails that provide opportunities to immerse in the lush rainforest environment.
An optional canopy walk, allowing visitors to experience the park from a unique elevated perspective.

The guided tour ensures an informative and enriching exploration of this natural treasure.

Visiting Desa Dairy Farm

Next, the group makes its way to Desa Dairy Farm. Here, they get a chance to taste the fresh milk and cheese produced on-site.

The guides provide an overview of the local dairy farming industry and its importance to the community. Visitors can observe the cows and learn about the milking process. The tasting allows everyone to appreciate the quality of the products.

This stop offers a glimpse into the agricultural heritage of the region and complements the natural attractions visited earlier. With the farm experience, the tour provides a well-rounded understanding of Sabah’s diverse landscapes and livelihoods.

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Optional Canopy Walk

Though visitors have the option to embark on the canopy walk at Kinabalu Park, it’s important to note that this activity may not be suitable for everyone.

The canopy walk at Kinabalu Park may not be suitable for all visitors, as it poses certain physical and psychological challenges.

The canopy walk offers breathtaking views, but it requires navigating a series of suspended bridges high above the ground. Before attempting the walk, consider the following:

Physical ability: The canopy walk involves ascent and descent of stairs, which may be challenging for those with mobility issues.
Fear of heights: The elevated walkways can be daunting for individuals with a fear of heights.
Weather conditions: The canopy walk may be closed during inclement weather for safety reasons.
Time constraints: The canopy walk can take up to an hour to complete, which may impact the overall tour schedule.

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Relaxing at Poring Hot Springs

Leaving the optional canopy walk behind, the tour now takes visitors to the soothing Poring Hot Springs. After an exciting morning, guests can relax and unwind in the therapeutic sulfur baths. The hot springs offer a unique opportunity to soak in the natural mineral waters and enjoy the tranquil surroundings.

| Activity | Duration |

| — | — |

| Soak in Hot Springs | 1 hour |

| Explore Butterfly Garden | 30 minutes |

| Stroll Canopy Walkway | 45 minutes |

| Grab a Snack at Cafes | 15 minutes |

With ample time to experience the hot springs, travelers can fully enjoy the serene and rejuvenating atmosphere before heading back to the hotel.

Highlights of the Itinerary

The day trip begins with a pickup from the hotel, whisking visitors away to the Pekan Nabalu Market. Here, they can explore the local market and its vibrant atmosphere for an hour.

Next, the guided tour takes them to the Kinabalu Park, where they’ll learn about the UNESCO World Heritage site’s rich biodiversity and enjoy stunning views of Mount Kinabalu during a 2-hour visit.

The itinerary also includes:

A stop at the Desa Dairy Farm for milk and cheese tasting.
An optional canopy walk at Kinabalu Park.
Relaxation at the therapeutic Poring Hot Springs.
A return to the hotel by 5:30 PM.

Practical Information

The day trip offers convenient hotel pickup from Kota Kinabalu, typically between 7:00-7:15 AM.

The tour includes a lunch stop and all entrance fees. While a one-way transfer surcharge applies for certain districts, the bulk of the experience is covered in the price.

The trip may not be suitable for those prone to motion sickness, as it involves some hiking to reach the canopy walk.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Yes, you can bring your own food and drinks on the tour. The tour does not provide meals or beverages other than what’s included, so bringing your own is allowed and recommended if you have special dietary requirements or preferences.

Is There an Age Limit or Minimum Age Requirement for the Tour?

There’s no age limit or minimum age requirement for this tour. Children of all ages are welcome to join, though parents should consider their child’s mobility and ability to participate in the activities.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Fit My Interests?

The tour generally follows a set itinerary, but travelers can check with the operator about customizing the trip to fit their interests. Some flexibility may be available, subject to guide and logistical constraints.

Is There an Option to Extend the Duration of the Tour?

Yes, you can extend the duration of the tour. The provider offers flexible options to customize the itinerary and extend the trip length based on your interests and schedule. Additional fees may apply for extended tours.

Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment or Attire for the Activities?

Comfortable walking shoes, light clothing, and swimwear are recommended for the day trip. Bring a towel and sunscreen as well. No special equipment is needed, but guests should prepare for some light hiking and relaxing in the hot springs.

The Sum Up

The Sabah: Kota Kinabalu Park and Hot Spring Day Trip is an excellent way to discover Sabah’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. From the UNESCO-listed Kinabalu Park to the soothing Poring Hot Springs, this tour offers a well-rounded experience that caters to nature enthusiasts, culture seekers, and those seeking relaxation. With convenient hotel pickup and a diverse itinerary, it’s an enticing option for a memorable day in Sabah.