Kota Kinabalu: Bongawan River Cruise, City Tour & Fireflies

Your journey begins with a pickup from your hotel in Kota Kinabalu, or you may choose a more affordable entry ticket option that allows you to meet directly at the cruise site. Visitors selecting the private tour will be treated to a free visit to the Filipino market, either before or after the cruise experience, whether for a guided journey or tailored brief visits along the way. They will then proceed through areas where the urban urban landscape gently gives way to lush rice paddies and charming villages (not applicable for those opting out of transfer). In the meantime, for the shared tour with transfer, take the opportunity to make an additional stop at the iconic floating mosque and the exquisite chocolate factory at no extra charge.

Upon arrival at the serene Bongawan jetty, guests are greeted with tea and light snacks before head toward the first river cruise navigates through lush mangrove forests when the animals are most active during the cooler parts of the day, sight potential long tail macaques and other wildlife. although wildlife sightings can be a bit unpredictable because of their natural behaviour, the guides' knowledge really boosts the likelihood of having some unforgettable moments.

Following the wildlife cruise, continue to explore the most photogenic moments, the Sky Mirror Beach experience earns its name from the remarkable phenomenon that occurs during low tide when the receding waters leave behind a vast, glassy surface that perfectly reflects the sky above. As the sun sets below the horizon, it paints the sky in beautiful shades of orange, pink, and purple, with these colours reflecting beneath your feet, creates a magical atmosphere that many visitors say is the highlight of their experience. Then return for a delicious Malay-style dinner served on board.

As the dinner end, the tour moves into its final chapter: a delightful firefly cruise that showcases one of nature's most captivating spectacles. The guides often share fascinating facts about these insects' life cycle and behaviour, while encouraging visitors to reduce artificial light and noise to truly enjoy the natural phenomenon. For many travellers, this experience is a unique chance to see a natural wonder that is becoming harder to find, highlighting the importance of preserving pristine environments like Bongawan.

At the end of this cruise, head back to your hotel with included transfers or at your own transport (those opt without transfer) with an unforgettable memories to cherish for a lifetime.