Kota Kinabalu: Mari Mari Cultural Village Tour

The Mari Mari Cultural Village in Kota Kinabalu offers a unique opportunity to take in the vibrant traditions of Sabah’s indigenous tribes. Visitors can explore authentic dwellings, learn traditional farming and hunting techniques, and savor the flavors of indigenous cuisine. With round-trip transfers, meals, and an English-speaking guide included, this 4-hour cultural experience promises to be both enriching and convenient. For those seeking to uncover the rich heritage of Borneo, the Mari Mari Cultural Village tour is an intriguing prospect worth considering.

Key Points

• The Mari Mari Cultural Village tour in Kota Kinabalu offers a 4-hour immersive experience into the traditions and customs of 5 major tribes in North East Borneo.
• The tour includes round-trip transfers, an English-speaking guide, meals, and entrance fees, providing a comprehensive cultural exploration for travelers.
• Visitors can expect to learn about the skilled farming and trading practices of the Dusun and Rungus tribes, as well as the resourceful hunting and fishing techniques of the Lundayeh.
• The tour also explores the adventurous lifestyles of the Bajau and Murut tribes, giving guests a deeper understanding of the diverse cultural tapestry of Sabah.
• The tour offers pickup and drop-off at 6 convenient locations around Kota Kinabalu, making it accessible for travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The "Kota Kinabalu: Mari Mari Cultural Village Tour" offers a 4-hour cultural experience priced from Kč 2,161 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Customers can reserve their spot and pay later. The tour showcases the traditions and customs of North East Borneo‘s 5 main tribes, including the Dusun, Rungus, Lundayeh, Bajau, and Murut.

This cultural tour showcases the traditions and customs of North East Borneo’s 5 main tribes, including the Dusun, Rungus, Lundayeh, Bajau, and Murut.

Pickup and drop-off are available at 6 locations around Kota Kinabalu. The tour includes return transfer, entrance fee, English-speaking guide, and meals.

Participants should bring their passport, comfortable clothing, and cash for souvenirs.

Cultural Experience

Visitors enjoy the vibrant cultural tapestry of Sabah, experiencing the diverse traditions and customs of North East Borneo’s 5 main tribes.

They’ll discover:

• The skilled farming and trading practices of the Dusun and Rungus people.

• The resourceful hunting and fishing techniques of the Lundayeh.

• The adventurous cowboy and sea gypsy lifestyles of the Bajau.

The blending of history and contemporary life showcases how these tribes have adapted while preserving their cultural heritage.

It’s an enlightening glimpse into the region’s rich cultural diversity.

Itinerary and Pickup Information

The tour offers pickup from 6 convenient locations across Kota Kinabalu, including Borneo Mall, Pan Borneo Hotel, Lintas Plaza, Karambunai Resort Golf Club, and Rasa Ria Reserve by Shangri-La.

The main stop is the Mari Mari Cultural Village, where visitors enjoy the traditions and customs of North East Borneo’s 5 main tribes.

At the Mari Mari Cultural Village, visitors enjoy the traditions and customs of North East Borneo’s 5 main tribes.

At the end of the tour, guests are dropped off at the same locations as pickup. Guests should wait in their hotel lobby 10 minutes before the scheduled pickup time.

The tour includes round-trip transfers, an English-speaking guide, and lunch or high tea, depending on the session.

Inclusions and Amenities

The tour includes a round-trip transfer, with hotel pickup available.

Plus, the package includes:

• An English-speaking driver and guide to enhance the cultural experience

• Lunch and high tea, with beverages and miscellaneous charges covered

• Entrance fees to the Mari Mari Cultural Village, allowing visitors to enjoy the rich heritage of Sabah’s diverse tribes.

With these inclusions, the tour offers a comprehensive cultural exploration, catering to the needs of travelers seeking an authentic and well-rounded experience.

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Preparation and Recommendations

Although the tour provides a comprehensive culture, visitors should prepare accordingly.

Guests are advised to bring their passport or ID card, comfortable shoes and clothing, a hat and sandals, and a charged camera or smartphone.

Plus, it’s recommended to have some Malaysian Ringgit (MYR) cash on hand for any purchases during the tour, as not all vendors may accept credit cards.

Following these simple preparatory steps will ensure visitors are equipped to fully engage with and appreciate the vibrant cultural experience at the Mari Mari Cultural Village.

Customer Reviews

Reviewers have overwhelmingly praised the Kota Kinabalu: Mari Mari Cultural Village Tour, with an overall rating of 5 out of 5 stars based on 2 reviews.

Customers highlighted the lively presentation, with hands-on stations and tastings that enhanced the experience. Guides and drivers, identified with their respective tribes, further immersed visitors in the cultural tapestry of Sabah.

The tour’s blend of history and contemporary life left a lasting impression on those who participated.

• Lively presentation with hands-on stations and tastings

• Guides and drivers identified with their tribes, enhancing the experience

• Blend of history and contemporary life left a lasting impression

Exploring the Tribes of North East Borneo

Visitors to the Mari Mari Cultural Village in Kota Kinabalu are immersed in the vibrant cultural tapestry of Sabah, featuring the traditions and customs of the region’s five main indigenous tribes.

The Dusun and Rungus tribes are skilled farmers and traders, while the Lundayeh are resourceful hunters and fishermen. The Bajau are adventurous "cowboys of the sea," and the Murut are a legendary warrior tribe.

Throughout the tour, guests witness the blending of history and contemporary life, gaining a deeper understanding of the cultural richness that defines North East Borneo.

Taking in the Blending of History and Contemporary Life

How does the Mari Mari Cultural Village tour blend history and contemporary life for visitors? The tour offers a multifaceted experience that seamlessly intertwines the past and present:

• Visitors enjoy the traditional lifestyles and customs of Sabah’s five main indigenous tribes, including the Dusun, Rungus, Lundayeh, Bajau, and Murut.

• They witness demonstrations of ancient skills, such as fire-starting and dart-making, while also engaging with modern-day artisans showcasing their crafts.

• The tour’s authentic settings, from longhouses to rice fields, create a tangible connection to the region’s heritage, while the inclusion of contemporary elements, like a suspension bridge, adds a touch of modernity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Children Welcome on the Tour?

Yes, children are welcome on the tour. The tour includes activities and experiences suitable for all ages, providing a culture for families and groups of all compositions.

Can Dietary Restrictions Be Accommodated?

The tour provider can accommodate dietary restrictions with advance notice. Guests should inform the provider of any special dietary needs when booking the tour so appropriate arrangements can be made for the included lunch and refreshments.

Are There Any Physical Requirements for Participants?

The tour doesn’t have any specific physical requirements, but participants should be able to walk comfortably for the duration of the experience. Those with mobility issues can notify the operator in advance to accommodate their needs.

Is There an Option for a Private Tour?

There’s no mention of a private tour option for this cultural village experience. The tour is offered in a join-in group format, providing a shared culture for participants.

Can the Tour Be Extended or Customized?

The tour can be extended or customized, but it depends on the operator. Some tours may offer longer durations or additional activities for an extra fee. Customers should inquire about any customization options when booking the tour.

The Sum Up

The Mari Mari Cultural Village Tour in Kota Kinabalu offers a captivating 4-hour cultural experience that delves into the vibrant traditions of five indigenous tribes of Sabah. Priced at Kč 2,161 per person, the tour provides an immersive opportunity to explore the region’s rich heritage, from unique farming and hunting techniques to the blending of history and contemporary life. It’s a must-do experience for those seeking to deeply connect with Borneo’s cultural diversity.

You can check availability for your dates here: