Kota Kinabalu City Day Tour & Filipino Market Shopping
Active
4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Shimmy through the sights, sounds and leafy streetscapes of Kota Kinabalu City. Architectural heritage, Buildings that withstand the WW2 and a view point of the whole city in all its unassuming charm, you might want to get your cameras ready for this one.
Available options
Kota Kinabalu City Day Tour & Filipino Market Shopping
Pickup included
What's included
English Speaking Guide
Hotel Pickup & Drop off
Land Transportation (Seat-In-Coach)
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
The Sabah City Mosque, also known as Sabah Floating Mosque. Get those shutters snapping as it is the largest dome of its type in Malaysia.
Notes: Effective from 27 January 2020, the mosque is temporarily closed until further notice. The tour itinerary will be adjusted to include a photo stop outside the mosque.
2
Next stop, the Goddess of mercy and compassion, “Kuan Yin”, stands tall at The Puh Toh Tze Buddhist temple, located off Tuaran Road. Built in 1980, the temple stands out with its traditional Chinese roofing and structure. Ten large statues of deities adorn the temple with the Goddess of Mercy, Kuan Yin, standing tall at the main entrance of the temple.
3
Known as Menara Tun Mustapha (Sabah Foundation Building). Built in 1977, this 30-storey circular glass sculpture boasts a unique edifice utilizes a single column structure that is one of the very few in the world.
4
Stop 4
Dive deep into the history that shaped Sabah into what it is today. A heritage Village on the museum grounds grants u passage into the different types of traditional houses of various indigenous groups that brings color and richness to Sabah.
5
Stop 5
Winding roads will usher you to Signal Hill where you be greeted with a beautiful birds eye view of the city skyline and nearby islands.
6
Get your knick knacks and travel souvenirs here, also some fishy favorites such as dried seafoods.
What's not included
Personal Travel Insurance
Beverages
Meals
Any Items Not Mentioned
Available languages
Audio guide
CMN
EN
Guide guide
CMN
EN
Written guide
CMN
EN
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
4.3
10 reviews
5★
7
4★
1
3★
1
2★
0
1★
1
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Children must be accompanied by an adult
Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking
A minimum of 2 people per booking is required
Important notes
Hotel pickups commence prior to this time, you must contact the local service provider to verify your exact pickup time.
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
