Klias River Fireflies & Wildlife Safari Cruise from Kota Kinabalu
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Klias River Fireflies & Wildlife Safari Cruise from Kota Kinabalu

Active
(4 reviews)
8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Spot wildlife and fireflies on the banks of the Klias River on river cruise from Kota Kinabalu that goes deep into the protected Klias Wetland. The afternoon departure time ensures that you’ll arrive at the river as animals become most active, you’ll see a spectacular natural show when thousands of fireflies come out after sunset, and the night concludes with a traditional kampong-style dinner.

- Catch the evening hours when animals come out to hunt
- Included dinner is a great chance to try local cuisine
- Travel to the river in a climate-controlled vehicle for a comfortable excursion
- Convenient pickup and drop-off at Kota Kinabalu hotels

Available options

Klias River Safari Tour

Klias River Safari Tour<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Light Refreshment
Boat Cruise
Dinner
Air-conditioned vehicle
Tour with English speaking guide
Hotel or Cruise Terminal pickup and drop off (please select the correct pickup point during booking)

Detailed itinerary

1
Stop 1

1430hrs depart from the city hotel and the journey takes approximately 2 hours drive to the Southern part of Kota Kinabalu. Enjoy the scenic view as you pass through paddy fields, oil palm plantation and native houses among others. Upon arrival, light refreshment (local tea / coffee served with local cakes) is served in the typical village house. With the bizarre-looking proboscis monkeys gaining as much popularity with the tourists as the Orang Utan, the Klias Wetland with its large proboscis population is fast becoming the latest ecotourism destination in Sabah.

These tree-dwelling animals normally hunt for food in the evenings so many boat cruises depart the Kota Klias jetty at around 1600hrs. Other riverside residents that may be spotted are macaques, crocodiles, monitor lizards, tree snakes and birds such as the eagle. Back on the jetty enjoy a natural light show when thousands of fireflies put on a glowing performance for your benefit. A sumptuous kampong styled dinner is served. After dinner, return to Kota Kinabalu.

What's not included

Gratuities
Surcharge of USD 15 per pax for hotel pickup outside 1km radius from the city center is applicable.
Surcharge 30% to be applied during super peak / festive season & must be paid on the day of travel

Available languages

Guide guide
EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.0
2 reviews
5★
1
4★
0
3★
1
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor 2.0
2 reviews
5★
0
4★
0
3★
1
2★
0
1★
1

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Raincoat, Hat / cap, Insect repellent, Mineral water, Binocular, Extra cloth for changing in case of raining
1 Borneo Hotels & Outskirt Hotels Pick up & drop-off additional charges applied. Additional USD 15 per person
Surcharge 30% to be applied during super peak / festive season & must be paid on the day of travel
Minimum 4 travelers is required to operate this tour, we have the right to cancel if travelers is not enough

Meeting point

meeting point for cruise arrival

Important notes

Please wait at Hotel Lobby or Meeting Point 15 minutes before the time specified on this voucher to start.

Please call hotline number at least 24 hours before to confirm your pick up point.

Hotline number : +60 10 777 3860 (Daily : 7:00am - 9:00pm)

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

Adults
Age 12-99
1
Childs
Age 2-11
0
Infants
Age 0-1
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 15
  • Adult required for booking
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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