Kota Belud Sunday Market Tour from Kota Kinabalu
Active
4h - 5h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
In northern Borneo, take in local color and atmosphere at Kota Belud Tamu, or the Kota Belud Sunday market. Observe the ornate outfits of the Bajau horsemen, which pop with bright shades of various colors, and peruse a vast array of stalls selling artisanal products.
- Full day exploring Kota Belud's unique attractions
- Wandering through the Kota Belud Tamu—Sunday market
- Traditional & colorful costumes worn by Bajau horsemen
- Deeper look at local farm products & handicraft production
- Local buffaloes for sale & graceful beauty queens
Available options
Kota Belud Sunday Market Tour from Kota Kinabalu
Pickup included
What's included
Set Lunch.
Air-conditioned vehicle
English Speaking Guide.
Hotel or Cruise Terminal pickup and drop-off (please select the correct pickup point during booking)
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
The journey will take about 1 hour and 15 minutes drive to Kota Belud. Rice fields, villages and beautiful scenery can be seen along the way. Kota Belud is the land for the Bajau, a local native tribe who are popularly known as Cowboy of the East.
On every Sunday, the Bajaus bring out their local produces, handicrafts etc to be sold in this large open-air market. The market is also the local point for the locals to socialize and mingle in group.
Note: -
During a special event “Tamu Besar” (normally on month of October or November), you may be able to see the Bajau’s horsemen with their traditional colorful costumes on Parade in the field. Buffalo is used widely in the rice cultivation in the areas around Kota Belud as farming method has never been modernized. You may also be able to see the numerous buffalo’s line up to be auctioned to the highest bidder.
What's not included
Surcharge 30% to be applied during super peak / festive season & must be paid on the day of travel
Gratuities
1 Borneo Hotels & Outskirt Hotels Pick up & drop-off additional charges applied. USD 9 per person
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
1 Borneo Hotels & Outskirt Hotels Pick up & drop-off additional charges applied. Additional USD 9 per person
Minimum 4 travelers is required to operate this tour, we have the right to cancel if travelers is not enough
Surcharge 30% to be applied during super peak / festive season & must be paid on the day of travel
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)
Hotel pickups commence prior to this time, you must contact the local service provider to verify your exact pickup time.
Times are subject to change due to local traffic conditions.
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
