Kota Kinabalu , Malaysia

The Essence of Kota Kinabalu

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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

Sabah’s gateway to Borneo has long been on the radar for those eager seeing more of the natural splendour of Malaysia’s green heart. However, the city has blossomed over the years, where it once did not have a prominent position on the tourism map. Called KK by its residents, Kota Kinabalu has turned into a melting pot of culture, food and a strong affinity towards that what keeps the city such a pleasure to wander through. Its demands to follow in the footsteps of the 21st century are there, but holding tight to its historical values, sights and landmarks makes it an excellent example of old versus new. Turn your Malaysia Borneo exploration complete with our half-day touring the sights, sounds and cultural aspects of one of Malaysia’s thriving travel hubs.

Available options

Private Morning Tour

Private Tour : Half Day Kota Kinabalu City Tour in the morning.<br/>Pickup included

Private Afternoon Tour

Private Tour : Half Day Kota Kinabalu City Tour in the afternoon<br/>Pickup included

What's included

A half day tour with a professional English Speaking Guide

Transportation by air-conditioned vehicle

All applicable taxes and service charges

All entrance and donation fees for visits as mentioned in the description

Detailed itinerary

You will be warmly greeted by your guide and driver at your Kota Kinabalu hotel (conditions apply) for your 3-hour tour through the capital of Sabah. The city packs a surprising punch of surprises as you and you travel companions move through the streets and alleys of former ‘Singgahmata (translated as ‘The Place where the Eye Lingers’). Depending on the location of your hotel, we include visits that depict historical, cultural and authentic aspects.

We begin with the Wisma Tun Mustapha, better known as the Sabah Foundation Building. From afar, the typical glass-and-steel building has been one of the city’s most recognisable landmarks.

Stop 3 Pass by

We pass by one of the most religious sites in KK – the State and City Mosque – while we weave through the streets to learn a bit more about other impressive, more modern landmarks, such as the University of Sabah, before passing by the Sabah Museum. A great collection of the traditions of the indigenous people living on is on permanent display here.

Stop 4

We end the day with heading up to Signal Hill – it is the spot around Kota Kinabalu that shows you the central business district and its off-the-coast islands from a bird’s eye view. When time permits, we include a quick browse at Kadaiku, a small centre for admiring local handicraft from the local tribe’s community.

Our half-day tour comes to an end, and your guide and driver for these three hours will bring you back to your hotel in the heart of Kota Kinabalu.

What's not included

Tours, inclusions of any kind and other services that are not outlined in the tour description

Personal expenses such as meals, drinks, tips and gratuities, shopping, portage fees and optional tours, unless otherwise stated

Supplements charge 15 USD/pax/way for transfers outside from the general pick-up/drop-off location.

Travel insurance coverage for customers (highly recommendable)

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

This tour is operated on full private basis with English Speaking Driver

Return transfers for this excursion apply only / are inclusive for customers staying in and inside central Kota Kinabalu. Transfers outside these areas, including any accommodation, such as Rasa Ria / Nexus / Beringgis, cruise ports and Kota Kinabalu’s International Airport are excluded. Supplements apply for customers who want to join this excursion outside one of these regions.

Due to the nature of this tour, we regret to inform you that this excursion is not suitable for wheelchair users.

We always will make efforts to confirm the exact pick-up time upon reservation. For any operational issues in which are not able to confirm the exact pick-up time in advance, we reserve the right to inform you the day before the departure of the tour.

Please note pickup and drop-off services may not be confirmed for customers staying at private residences, apartment complexes, or other non-registered tourism accommodations. Customers may be asked to meet at a nearby hotel for pick-up and drop off.

Please ensure that you bring sunglasses, a hat /cap and sunblock with a high SPF factor when traveling with us on this tour – even when it is cloudy, the sunrays still have an immense power.

It is the responsibility of the customer to provide us with the correct hotel information, should pick-up and drop-off services be included in the package. Any changes in accommodation outside 48 hours will be handled accordingly: changes within 48 hours may be on request.

In the event of no-show or change of accommodation without prior consent and confirmation from us within 48 hours may result in the applicable cancellation charges as outlined in the terms and conditions.

For security reasons, coaches are not allowed to head up to the top of Signal Hill – alternative transportation may be used during this half day tour when group sizes exceed a certain number.

Important notes

Our office hours are from 08:30 hrs. until 18:00 hrs. from Monday to Friday

Hotel pickups commence approximately 30 - 60 minutes prior to this time, exact pickup time will be advised on reconfirmation.

- Travelers will be required to have mobile data connectivity and registered with contract tracing application (PDPA compliance) in destination.

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