Kinabalu Park and Poring Hot Spring Tour – Your Ultimate Guide to Exploring Sabah’s UNESCO World Heritage Site

Looking for an adventure in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah? Why not take a day tour to Mt. Kinabalu National Park and Poring Hot Springs! This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers an abundance of natural beauty, wildlife, and outdoor activities, making it the perfect choice for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. This tour will take you on a journey through one of the most unique ecosystems in the world, providing you with an unforgettable experience.

Overview

The Kinabalu Park and Poring Hot Spring Tour is the ideal way for first-time visitors to Sabah to explore the natural wonders of Mt. Kinabalu without having to climb it. The day trip from Kota Kinabalu allows you to explore the park’s main attractions, including the Poring Hot Springs, the Canopy Walkway, the Kundasang War Memorial, and the Desa Dairy Farm. All of these sites are surrounded by spectacular scenery, and a knowledgeable guide will help you understand the unique flora and fauna native to the area.

What’s Included

The Kinabalu Park and Poring Hot Spring Tour includes lunch and transportation between the various attractions. However, it does not include return air ticket travel insurance personal expenses or items not mentioned in the itinerary.

Itinerary

The tour starts at 7:30 AM, and a comfortable bus will take you to the Kinabalu Park entrance. A knowledgeable guide will accompany you throughout the day, providing you with insights into Sabah’s natural history and culture. After entering the park, you will embark on a short trek to the Canopy Walkway, where you will experience a panoramic view of the rainforest from above. This walkway is 157.8 meters long and suspended 41 meters above the ground, offering an exhilarating experience and a unique perspective on the forest below. Next, you will visit the Poring Hot Springs, where you can take a relaxing dip in one of the natural hot pools, which are believed to have therapeutic properties. The hot springs also offer the opportunity to walk on the suspension bridge, which crosses a waterfall. After the hot springs, you will head to the Kundasang War Memorial, which commemorates the brave soldiers who gave their lives during the Second World War in Borneo. This tranquil site is surrounded by beautiful gardens and offers stunning views of the valley below. Finally, the tour will conclude at the Desa Dairy Farm, a picturesque dairy farm that produces some of the freshest milk, yoghourt, and ice cream in Sabah. You can observe cows and goats grazing in the fields and even try some of the delicious dairy products.

What to Bring

When preparing for the Kinabalu Park and Poring Hot Spring Tour, you should bring comfortable walking shoes, light clothing, a hat, sunglasses, and plenty of water. A poncho or an umbrella might also come in handy as Sabah’s weather can be unpredictable.

Final Thoughts

The Kinabalu Park and Poring Hot Spring Tour is an adventure you should not miss while in Kota Kinabalu. By exploring Sabah’s UNESCO World Heritage Site with a guide, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the natural history and beauty of this unique ecosystem. Don’t wait and book the tour here to experience Sabah’s beauty and immerse yourself in its rich culture.

Frequently Asked Questions about Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu is a vibrant city in the state of Sabah, Malaysia. Located on the northwest coast of Borneo Island, the city is known for its sunny weather, beautiful beaches, and tropical islands. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about Kota Kinabalu.

How do I get to Kota Kinabalu?

Kota Kinabalu International Airport is the main gateway to the city. It is served by several major airlines such as AirAsia, Malaysia Airlines, and Singapore Airlines. There are direct flights from Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, Hong Kong, Taipei, Seoul, and Tokyo, among others. You can also take a ferry from Labuan Island or Brunei Darussalam.

What are some of the must-see attractions in Kota Kinabalu?

Kota Kinabalu is a fascinating place that offers visitors a variety of attractions. Some of the most popular attractions include:

Mount Kinabalu

Mount Kinabalu is the highest peak in Malaysia and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers, offering stunning views of the surrounding rainforest and wildlife.

Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park

The Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park is a group of five islands located just off the coast of Kota Kinabalu. It is a popular destination for snorkelling and diving, offering crystal clear waters and a variety of marine life.

Sabah State Museum

The Sabah State Museum is a great place to learn about the history and culture of Sabah. It has a collection of artifacts, costumes, and exhibits showcasing the diverse cultural heritage of the Sabahans.

Gaya Street Sunday Market

The Gaya Street Sunday Market is a bustling market that takes place every Sunday in the heart of Kota Kinabalu. It is a great place to experience local culture and try local food.

What is the best time to visit Kota Kinabalu?

Kota Kinabalu has a tropical climate with high humidity and temperatures ranging from 22°C to 32°C throughout the year. The best time to visit Kota Kinabalu is from March to October when the weather is dry and sunny. However, if you want to climb Mount Kinabalu or visit the rainforest, it is best to visit during the dry season from April to September.

What are some of the local dishes to try in Kota Kinabalu?

Kota Kinabalu is a food lover’s paradise with a variety of local and international cuisines. Some of the must-try local dishes include:

Nasi Lemak

Nasi Lemak is a popular rice dish that is often eaten for breakfast. It comes with coconut milk rice, fried anchovies, peanuts, cucumber, and spicy sambal.

Laksa

Laksa is a spicy noodle soup that is popular in Sabah. It comes with a variety of toppings such as shredded chicken, prawns, and tofu.

Satay

Satay is a grilled meat skewer that is often served with a sweet and spicy peanut sauce. It is a popular snack in Kota Kinabalu.

Can I do a day trip to Mount Kinabalu?

Yes, it is possible to do a day trip to Mount Kinabalu from Kota Kinabalu. However, it is recommended to stay overnight at one of the park’s accommodations to fully enjoy the climb and avoid altitude sickness.

What are the best beaches in Kota Kinabalu?

Kota Kinabalu is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Malaysia. Some of the best beaches to visit include:

Tanjung Aru Beach

Tanjung Aru Beach is a popular beach located just a few kilometers from the city centre. It offers stunning sunset views, clear waters, and white sand.

Sapi Island Beach

Sapi Island is one of the five islands in Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park. It offers turquoise waters and a variety of water activities such as snorkelling, diving, and sea kayaking.

Manukan Island Beach

Manukan Island is the second largest island in Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park. It offers a wide range of water activities such as parasailing, jet skiing, and banana boat rides.

Is Kota Kinabalu a safe city to visit?

Kota Kinabalu is generally a safe city to visit. However, as with any city, it is important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings. It is recommended to avoid walking alone in dark areas at night and to keep your valuables secure.

Can I use my credit card in Kota Kinabalu?

Credit cards are widely accepted in Kota Kinabalu, especially in hotels, shopping malls, and restaurants. However, it is recommended to have some cash on hand for small transactions and street food.

Do I need a visa to visit Kota Kinabalu?

Citizens of most countries can enter Malaysia without a visa for a period of up to 90 days. However, it is recommended to check with your embassy or consulate before traveling to Kota Kinabalu to ensure you have the necessary visa requirements.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu, also known as KK, is a picturesque city located in the northwest coast of Borneo Island. It is the capital of Sabah, a state in Malaysia that offers a wide range of attractions for tourists. If you are planning to visit Kota Kinabalu, here’s how you can spend your time in this captivating city:

1. Explore the Islands

Kota Kinabalu is famous for its surrounding islands, which consist of Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, Sapi Island, Manukan Island, Mamutik Island, and Gaya Island. These islands offer stunning beaches with crystal clear water, coral reefs filled with diverse marine life, and lush greenery to relax and admire the beauty of nature. You can go snorkeling, diving, kayaking, parasailing, or simply relax on the beach.

2. Visit the Cultural and Historical Sites

Kota Kinabalu has a rich cultural heritage that you can experience by visiting places like the Sabah State Museum, Monsopiad Cultural Village, Mari Mari Cultural Village, and the Sabah Art Gallery. Additionally, you can visit historical sites like the Atkinson Clock Tower, the Australian War Memorial Park, and the Kota Kinabalu City Mosque.

3. Try the Local Cuisine

Kota Kinabalu’s food scene is one of the best in Malaysia, particularly for seafood. You can try fresh seafood dishes like grilled fish, prawns, crabs, and lobsters in various local restaurants. Other popular dishes include Hinava, a raw fish salad, Tuaran Mee, a stir-fried noodle dish, and Kundasang Vegetables, fresh vegetables grown in the nearby highlands.

4. Take a Sunset Cruise

A sunset cruise is an excellent way to witness the stunning sunset over the South China Sea while enjoying the calm of the ocean. You can choose from a variety of options like a luxury yacht, a traditional wooden boat, or a catamaran while sipping on cocktails and enjoying snacks.

5. Shop at Local Markets

Kota Kinabalu offers an array of local markets where you can buy a variety of souvenirs, handicrafts, and local goods. Some of the prominent ones include the Filipino Market, which offers a variety of handicrafts and souvenirs; the Gaya Street Sunday Market, which sells fresh produce and traditional foods; and the Kota Kinabalu Handicraft Market, which specializes in handmade products.

6. Trek Mount Kinabalu

Mt. Kinabalu, the highest peak in Southeast Asia, is located within the Kinabalu Park World Heritage Site. You can go hiking, trekking or rock climbing in the mountain with the help of a guide. The climb can take up to 2 days, but the picturesque view from the top is worth the effort.

7. Relax at a Hot Spring

Poring Hot Spring and Nature Reserve is located within Kinabalu Park and is an excellent place to relax and enjoy natural hot spring baths. You can soak in mineral-rich hot water, enjoy nature walks or visit the butterfly farm in the reserve.

8. Visit the Lok Kawi Wildlife Park

The Lok Kawi Wildlife Park is an excellent place to get up close and personal with native Borneo wildlife like orangutans, proboscis monkeys, and pygmy elephants. The park also has a botanical garden, an aviary, and a children’s zoo.

Book Your Tour Now

Kota Kinabalu has a wide range of attractions and activities to offer for tourists. Whether you love nature, culture, or adventure, KK has something to cater to all your interests. So, go ahead and visit Kota Kinabalu to experience the magical beauty of Borneo’s coastal city.