Mari Mari Cultural Village Tour with Transport, Guide and Lunch

Kota Kinabalu , Malaysia

Mari Mari Cultural Village Tour with Transport, Guide and Lunch

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About this experience

Discover the rich heritage of Sabah at the Mari Mari Cultural Village, a living museum showcasing the traditions of five major ethnic tribes: Dusun, Rungus, Lundayeh, Bajau, and Murut. Engage in hands-on activities such as fire-making, blowpipe shooting, and rice wine brewing while savoring traditional snacks. Enjoy a vibrant cultural performance featuring tribal dances and music, followed by a traditional Sabahan lunch served in a communal setting. This engaging experience is perfect for families, students, and curious travelers eager to learn and participate in local customs.

- Duration: 5 hours, starting at 9:00 AM with hotel pick-up
- Guided tour through traditional houses and interactive cultural demonstrations
- Includes a traditional Sabahan lunch and expert photography from the guide
- Ideal for families and those interested in cultural experiences
- Includes entry ticket, guide and round trip transfer from your hotel

Available options

Mari Mari Cultural Village Tour with Transport, Guide and Lunch

Pickup included

What's included

Bottled water

Lunch

Air-conditioned vehicle

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Step into the lush rainforest and discover Sabah’s heritage at Mari Mari Cultural Village. This immersive journey takes you through traditional homes of five ethnic tribes, each showcasing unique architecture and customs. Along the way, you’ll witness fascinating demonstrations such as bamboo fire-starting, ancient hunting methods, and the art of tattoo-making. Try your hand at blow-piping, walk across a bamboo bridge, and taste traditional delicacies including homemade rice wine and freshly prepared snacks. The experience comes alive with vibrant cultural performances—complete with rhythmic gong beats, warrior dances, and colorful storytelling—that capture the spirit of Sabah’s people. With opportunities to interact with villagers and performers, you’ll leave not just with memories, but with a deeper appreciation for the rich traditions that continue to thrive in Borneo today.

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

1 reviews

5★

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1★

Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

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