Kota Kinabalu - Day Trip Attractions

Find out some of the attractions situated further away from Kota Kinabalu City that are perfect for day trip or even overnight stay.


Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park
The marine park consists of 5 islands, Pulau Gaya, Pulau Sapi, Pulau Sulug, Pulau Manukan and Pulau Mamutik. You can choose to do island hopping, you probably stay an hour in each island and move on to another if you are to visit all 5 islands. I personally do not recommend island hopping because it is obviously very rush, and you do not get to fully relax and explore the underwater. You may also explore short trekking trails to the top of the hill and have a bird’s eye view of  South China Sea.


Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre Rasa Ria
If you can’t make it for the famous Sepilok Orang Utan Sanctuary in Sandakan, why not visit the smaller orang utan rehabilitation centre in the nature reserve at Rasa Ria. It takes in injured orang utans, give them medical treatments, teach them how to look for food in the wild and once they are fit and ready to live on their own, they are then released into the surrounding nature reserve. More Information


Mari Mari Cultural Village
In this village, you will be introduced to various traditional homes of Sabahan ethnic communities such as Dusun, Bajau, Rungus, Murut and Lundayeh. The surrounding area is designed in such a way to showcase unique ingenious architecture, simulated lives and ritualistic ceremonies back in the ancient time of Borneo. If you are interested, you must book through their office, individual drop-ins are not allowed. More Information


Kipandi Butterfly Park
This park is situated in Moyog, 36KM before Tambunan Town coming from Penampang road. This park is run by NGO joint collaboration with Sabah Wildlife Department. There are over 100 butterfly species recorded in this park and 400 species of native orchids can be seen here too. More Information


Lok Kawi Wildlife Park
This park is fully developed by Sabah Wildlife Department not just for recreational purposes but in the name of conservation. It consists of zoological and botanical component. Want to have glimpse of Borneo exotic wildlife that come close to extinction? This is the place to be. Borneo Pygmy Elephants, Sumatran Rhinoceros, Orang Utan, Malayan Tiger and Proboscis Monkey are among the highlights. More Information


Desa Dairy Farm
Desa is a local chain owned by Sabah. You will see Friesian cattle walking around the green meadows. The milking session will start in the afternoon around 2pm and if you are interested, you may hire a car and a driver to bring you there. Tour company does not have any tour packages to this farm. More Information


Kinabalu National Park
Kinabalu Park was declared as UNESCO World Heritage site in the year 2000. Mt. Kinabalu is the main attraction here, but if you are not into climbing, check out its surroundings. This park boasts to have thousands of flora and hundreds of fauna and some are endemic to Borneo. Take a stroll along the park for a day or two. More Information


Sabah Tea Garden
Situated after Kinabalu National Park, Sabah Tea Garden is worth a visit. Take a tour around its tea plantation and its factory, get to know how the famous Sabah Tea is harvested and packaged. More Information


Poring Hot Spring
Poring is located in the lowlands near Kinabalu National Park HQ. The spring’s hot sulphuric minerals believed to have healing properties. Besides the spring, there is also a butterfly farm, Poring Orchid Conservation Centre, Tropical Gardens and Canopy Walkway. More Information


Padas River Water Rafting
If you are in for adrenaline rush, sign up for this trip located in Pangi near Tenom. There are 7 exciting rapids ranging from class 3 to 4 or even goes up to class 5 during rainy season.  The water rafting distance is about 9 kilometers. More Information


Mantanani Island
This island is located in Kota Belud, few hours from KK City. It is a great spot for snorkeling and diving (some say this is a diver’s paradise). Sit back and enjoy the serene environment around the island and explore the underwater world. More Information 


Pulau Tiga “Survivor Island”
This island has chalet to offer those who are interested in staying overnight. This option will give you more time to explore the island and relax on the white sandy beach. There are countless number of hammock running across the beachfront offering superb view of the beach. Currently boat transfer can only be arranged through tour packages. More Information


Klias Wetland River Cruise
This is a popular place among locals and tourists, the main attraction is to see proboscis monkey in the wild and fireflies. The river cruise take place in the evening, so you will make your way from Kota Kinabalu around 1pm or 2pm. More Information