Mari Mari Cultural Village & Klias Wetlands Firefly Cruise
Active
10h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Mari Mari Cultural Village is located deep in the countryside about 25 minutes away from modern and developing Kota Kinabalu City. The village operates as a museum that preserves Borneo ethnic culture. It aims to share the knowledge, history, culture and tradition of Borneo with you so that it is not forgotten.
Afterwards proceed 2 hours south by road from Kota Kinabalu and located in the largest protected Wetlands Reserve in Sabah. This makes it a great location from Kota Kinabalu for spotting wildlife as you join a late afternoon river cruise along Klias River. Your trip ends with a sparkle as Fireflies normally come out on display after sunset in the trees surrounding the river.
Available options
Kota Kinabalu Outskirt Hotels
Pickup & Drop Off : Tour Transfer Service / Pickup & Drop off Kota Kinabalu Outskirt Hotels<br/>Pickup included
Kota Kinabalu City Hotels
Pickup & Drop Off : Tour Transfer Service / Pickup & Drop Off Kota Kinabalu City Hotels<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Licensed Nature Guide
Bottled water
Lunch
Dinner
Return Tour Transfer Choose from K.K City Hotels or K.K Outskirt Hotels
Afternoon River Cruise
Local Hi Tea Favorites Upon Arrival At Klias
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
A introduction of ethnic communities of Sabah in a well organized village comprising Cultural Dance performance.
2
Stop 2
Take a boat ride on the mangrove river and you will encounter wildlife. End the night observing fireflies illuminate on tree branches like a Christmas tree .
What's not included
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
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Important information
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Experience Different Ethnic Groups of Sabah
Blow Pipe Making Demonstration
Fire Starting Demonstration Using Bamboo
Tattoo Making Demonstration
You will be looked after during your trip by an English Speaking Nature Guide
Join One Afternoon River Cruise.
Dinner Buffet Style With A Selection Of Malaysian Dishes.
Catch A Glimpse Of Fireflies Slowly Lighting Up And Decorating the Mangrove Trees.
The Cruise Will Take 2 Hours Journey Down The Klias Wetlands / Garama River. Be On The Lookout for Macaques,Silver Leaf Monkey and Proboscis Monkey.
Important notes
Things to Bring Along;
• Cap / Hat
• Extra Bottle Water
• Extra Pocket Money
• Comfortable Walking Shoes
• Casual Wear (light clothing)
• Poncho
• Insect Repellent
• Sun Cream
• Binocular
• Camera
• Personal Medication (if Needed)
About Kota Kinabalu
Kota Kinabalu, the capital of Sabah, is a vibrant city nestled between the South China Sea and the lush mountains of Borneo. Known for its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality, it's a gateway to some of the world's most breathtaking landscapes, including Mount Kinabalu and the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park.
Top Attractions
Mount Kinabalu
A UNESCO World Heritage Site and the highest peak in Southeast Asia, offering challenging climbs and breathtaking views.
Nature
2-4 days for summit climb
Climbing permit: RM300-500, Guided tours: RM1,500-3,000
Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park
A group of five islands known for their pristine beaches, coral reefs, and marine life.
Nature
Half-day to full day
Boat tours: RM100-200, Snorkeling gear rental: RM20-30
Kota Kinabalu City Mosque
A stunning mosque with a unique architectural design, featuring a pink-domed roof and surrounded by a man-made lagoon.
Architecture
1-2 hours
Free
Sabah State Museum
A comprehensive museum showcasing the history, culture, and natural heritage of Sabah.
Museum
2-3 hours
RM5-10
Filipino Market
A bustling market offering a variety of souvenirs, handmade crafts, and local delicacies.
Market
1-2 hours
Free entry, bargaining expected
Must-Try Local Dishes
Hinava
A traditional Sabahan dish made with raw fish marinated in lime juice, ginger, and chili.
Main Dish
Gluten-free, dairy-free
Tuhau
A sweet and savory glutinous rice cake wrapped in banana leaves, often filled with palm sugar and peanuts.
Snack
Vegetarian, gluten-free
Kuih Mor
A steamed glutinous rice cake with a sweet and tangy flavor, often served with coconut milk.
Dessert
Vegetarian, gluten-free
Laksa Sabah
A spicy noodle soup with a rich, aromatic broth, typically made with seafood, chicken, or beef.
Main Dish
Contains seafood, gluten-free
Popular Activities
Mountain climbing
Caving
Whitewater rafting
Beachcombing
Spa treatments
Hot springs
Visiting museums
Attending festivals
Best Time to Visit
March to October
This is the dry season, offering sunny weather and lower humidity, ideal for outdoor activities and beach trips.
24°C to 32°C
75°F to 90°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Malay
- Widely spoken: English, Chinese dialects, Indigenous languages
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
Malaysian Ringgit (MYR)
Time Zone
GMT+8
Electricity
240VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Kota Kinabalu is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, petty crime and scams can occur, so it's essential to stay vigilant and take necessary precautions.
Important Precautions:
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-hailing apps
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Be cautious when using ATMs
Getting there
By air
- Kota Kinabalu International Airport • 7 km from city center
By bus
Kota Kinabalu Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Affordable and widely available, but can be crowded during peak hours.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Grab
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
City Center
Tanah Runcing
Likass
Day trips
Island Hopping in Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park
3-15 km from Kota Kinabalu • Half-day to full day
Explore the beautiful islands of the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, known for their pristine beaches, coral reefs, and marine life.
Kinabalu Park
90 km from Kota Kinabalu • Full day
A UNESCO World Heritage Site and the home of Mount Kinabalu, offering stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and challenging trekking routes.
Poring Hot Springs
100 km from Kota Kinabalu • Full day
A relaxing retreat featuring natural hot springs, lush rainforests, and a variety of outdoor activities.
Festivals
Kota Kinabalu International Fest (KKIF) • July
Sabah Fest • May to June
Hari Raya Aidilfitri • Varies (Islamic calendar)
Pro tips
- Visit the Gaya Street Sunday Market for a taste of local culture and cuisine
- Take a boat tour to the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park for a day of snorkeling and island hopping
- Climb Mount Kinabalu for a challenging and rewarding adventure
- Explore the Sabah State Museum to learn about the history and culture of Sabah
- Try local dishes like Hinava, Tuhau, and Kuih Mor for an authentic taste of Sabahan cuisine
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
