Sabah: Sunset Railway Tour Experience (Every Saturday)

If you’re seeking a relaxed way to explore Sabah’s lush landscapes and cultural charm, the Sunset Railway Tour offers a surprisingly authentic glimpse into the region’s natural beauty. This Saturday-only journey takes you aboard a vintage train, winding through rural villages, jungles, and along the coast—culminating in a stunning sunset at Benoni Beach.

What really caught our attention are three aspects: the atmospheric vintage train, the breathtaking sunset views, and the local interactions—you can expect waves from villagers and a welcoming atmosphere both on and off the train. The delicious packed dinner served onboard adds a local flavor to the experience.

A potential drawback? Since it’s a shared tour, the group size might vary, and some travelers might prefer a more private or customizable experience. Also, the timing is quite scheduled, so those seeking a more flexible or longer exploration might find it a bit constrained.

This tour suits travelers who love scenic, cultural, and nostalgic experiences. If you’re after a peaceful way to enjoy Sabah’s sunset, enjoy historic trains, or want a memorable way to see local life, this journey fits the bill.

Key Points

• Scenic sunset views over Benoni Beach are the highlight of the trip.
• The vintage train adds a nostalgic touch to the journey.
• The experience includes cultural insights and friendly local interactions.
• The price offers solid value, with included transportation, entrance, and dinner.
• It’s a shared tour, so group sizes and dynamics vary.
• The tour’s timing and schedule suit those who enjoy a well-organized experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Authentic Ride through Sabah’s Countryside

This Sunset Railway Tour is designed to offer more than just a train ride; it’s a glance into Sabah’s serene landscape, its community, and its natural beauty. Starting from Kota Kinabalu, the pickup at your hotel is seamless—our review mentions hassle-free round-trip transport, which is a big plus for relaxing your day. You’ll depart around 4:00 pm, heading towards Tanjung Aru Station to board an authentic vintage train, a charming throwback that immediately sets a relaxed tone for the journey.

The train, described as nostalgic and comfortable, offers nice views through its open windows. It’s often less crowded—some reviews mention only about 10% full—making the experience feel intimate and calm. The train travels through villages, lush greenery, tunnels, and jungle, giving you a varied landscape that many travelers find more engaging than a typical bus or car tour.

The Route and Stops

The route takes you from the city towards Papar District, with stops at Kinarut, Papar, and Kimanis Stations. These stations aren’t just railroad points—they’re gateways to local life. The train then makes a notable U-turn at the Benoni Estuary, leading to the highlight of the trip: Benoni Beach.

Here, you’ll get to relax and take in the sunset—one reviewer described it as “the icing on the cake,” with the sun setting over the water in vibrant hues. Expect plenty of photo opportunities, with about 30 minutes on the beach to soak in the views and snap shots. The beach stretch is free and right next to the tracks, making it a perfect casual stop.

The Return Journey and Dinner

After the sunset, the train heads back in the dark, but the experience remains lively. Onboard, a packed dinner is served—reviewers noted the delicious quality, and some appreciated the full set of cutlery, which made the meal feel more restaurant-like. You can enjoy your meal en route, with the opportunity to chat with fellow travelers or simply enjoy the scenery.

The trip wraps up around 8:00 pm with a return to Tanjung Aru Station, followed by transfer back to your hotel. The timings are quite structured, which benefits travelers who prefer a well-organized schedule, but might feel restrictive for those wanting more flexibility.

The Value of the Experience

At $98 per person, this tour offers a good balance of cost and experience. Everything is included—transportation, entrance fee, and dinner—which simplifies planning and budgeting. The reviews highlight that the value is high, especially given the scenic views, cultural ambiance, and local interactions.

The guides and staff from TYH Borneo Tours & Travel are praised for their punctuality, good communication, and safe transport. While they are a newer operator in this experience, the feedback suggests they handle the logistics efficiently, making the overall outing smooth and enjoyable.

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Atmosphere and Cultural Insights

One of the tour’s strengths is how it combines natural scenery with a taste of local life. The train ride itself is an atmospheric way to see Sabah’s countryside, and the stops at stations offer glimpses into small-town life, with friendly locals often waving as the train passes.

Matthias and Christian both mention the welcoming environment and how the experience feels authentic rather than overly touristy. This isn’t a scripted attraction—it’s a chance to see Sabah through a local’s lens, with friendly waves, relaxed pace, and scenic tranquility.

Practicalities and Tips

• The tour is shared, so expect to be traveling with other guests, which can be a plus for social travelers or those seeking a lively atmosphere.
• For pick-ups outside the main coverage area (like Shangri-La Rasa Ria or Nexus Karambunai), an additional RM 40 per person applies—arrange payment directly with the guide.
• Timing-wise, the tour runs every Saturday, with pick-up around 3:15-3:30 pm. Make sure your schedule aligns with these times for a stress-free experience.
• Bring a camera or smartphone—the sunset and village views are picture-perfect. Also, pack light snacks or drinks if desired, though dinner is provided.
• Remember, smoking, alcohol, and littering are not allowed—respect the environment and local customs.

Authentic Experiences Valued by Travelers

Based on reviews, the guided knowledge of the staff adds a lot to the experience—one reviewer appreciated the good communication and the safe transport. The local interactions and chance to witness Sabah’s landscapes from a different perspective are what make this tour stand out.

The sunset at Benoni Beach is a significant highlight—many describe it as breathtaking, with the added bonus of being right next to the tracks, creating an unusual but pleasing setting. The dinner onboard, enjoyed while the train gently returns to the city, is another cherry on top.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience appeals most to travelers who value scenic beauty, cultural authenticity, and nostalgic charm. It’s perfect if you enjoy historic trains or want a peaceful evening activity that combines nature and local life.

It’s also a good fit for those who appreciate organized tours with included meals and don’t mind sharing the journey with others. If you’re after adventure or a highly private experience, this might not be your best pick, but for a relaxed, atmospheric evening, it’s a winner.

The Sum Up

The Sabah Sunset Railway Tour offers a charming way to enjoy Sabah’s landscapes, history, and local culture all in one package. The vintage train evokes a sense of nostalgia, while the sunset at Benoni Beach leaves a lasting impression. With good value, friendly guides, and thoughtfully curated stops, it’s a worthwhile experience for those seeking a peaceful yet memorable evening.

Perfect for photography lovers, history buffs, and anyone wanting to see Sabah from a different angle—this tour balances scenic beauty with cultural insights, all wrapped in a relaxed, atmospheric package.

FAQ

What time does the tour start and end?
Pickup is around 3:15-3:30 pm, with the tour returning to Tanjung Aru Station by about 8:00 pm.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the relaxed pace and scenic nature suggest it could suit families, but check with the provider for age restrictions.

What is included in the price?
The tour price covers return land transfer from your hotel, entrance fees, and a packed dinner onboard.

Can I bring my own food or drinks?
Yes, you are welcome to bring your own snacks, but dinner is provided.

Is the train ride comfortable?
Yes, the vintage train has comfortable seats and is only about 10% full, ensuring a pleasant, breezy experience.

What should I wear?
Light, comfortable clothing suited for an outdoor environment; bring a jacket if you tend to feel chilly in the evening.

Are there any restrictions on smoking or alcohol?
Yes, smoking, alcohol, and drugs are not permitted during the tour.

How many people typically join the tour?
Group sizes are small to moderate, often with only a few guests, making the atmosphere intimate.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in planning your trip.

This sunset railway adventure in Sabah combines scenic views, local culture, and nostalgic travel in a way that’s both laid-back and memorable. Whether you’re a photography enthusiast, a history lover, or simply seeking a peaceful way to end your day, this tour offers a genuine taste of Sabah’s natural and cultural charm.

You can check availability for your dates here: