The Bongawan River Cruise takes you into a quiet stretch of Borneo’s mangroves for a relaxed, nature-focused outing. Accompanied by certified expert guides, you will glide through dense waterways and watch as the riverbanks change with the light. Along the way, look out for proboscis monkeys, long-tailed macaques and a variety of exotic birds in their natural habitat. As evening falls, the sky will offer dramatic sunset views and, after dark, thousands of fireflies will light up the trees, creating an atmospheric finish to the cruise.
The experience is suitable for nature lovers and photographers seeking a peaceful escape. You will also enjoy a local dinner after the cruise. Please note that on Fridays the mosque is not available. The meeting point for pick-up is at Burger King, The Shore.
Duration: 8 hours
User reviews, Exceptional, 4.9 out of 5 stars from 90 reviews
At the Mari Mari Cultural Village in Sabah, you will explore traditional houses and learn about the customs of five major ethnic groups: the Dusun, Rungus, Lundayeh, Bajau and Murut. As you move through the village, a guided tour will introduce interactive demonstrations and hands-on activities such as fire‑making, blowpipe shooting and rice‑wine brewing. Along the way, you will sample traditional snacks and watch a vibrant cultural performance featuring tribal dances and music.
The experience includes an entry ticket, a guide who will take photos for you, and round-trip transfer from your hotel. A traditional Sabahan lunch served in a communal setting is also part of the visit. This programme is suitable for families, students and travellers who are curious about local customs and enjoy active, participatory visits.
Duration: 5 hours
User reviews, Exceptional, 5 out of 5 stars from 6 reviews
You will set out from your Kota Kinabalu hotel in the afternoon and, on arrival, be offered a welcome drink and high tea to relax before the tour begins. The trip takes you into the mangroves to search for wildlife, including the shy proboscis monkey. These leaf‑feeding primates often hide in the trees and may peer down at visitors as if playing hide-and-seek. In the river channels you will also visit the “monkey king” family; they are often tolerant of people and some baby monkeys may come forward to take bananas from you.
As you continue, you will stop at Superview Beach, also called Sky‑mirror Beach, a popular sunset spot on this mangrove tour known as “Sky Mirror.” The shallow water can reflect the sky like a mirror, giving you the chance to take striking mirror and sunset photos. After sunset, the boat drifts back into the mangroves to look for fireflies. Large groups of fireflies light up the trees like tiny stars, creating a calm, magical atmosphere as you float among them.
Duration: 6 hours - 8 hours
User reviews, Very good, 4.2 out of 5 stars from 59 reviews
This experience will introduce you to the stunning Malaysian countryside and its abundant wildlife. You’ll visit the charming village of Kawa Kawa where you’ll find vibrant greenery and a shy population of Malaysia’s famous proboscis monkeys. You’ll take a cruise down the river, passing the monkeys’ habitats and looking out for other rare creatures.
You'll return to the jetty where you’ll be treated to a delicious dinner of local specialties before heading on a second boat trip. During your evening cruise, you’ll take in the magical sight of fireflies illuminating the night sky.
Duration: 9 hours
User reviews, Exceptional, 5 out of 5 stars from 4 reviews
On this full-day snorkeling tour in Kota Kinabalu, you’ll visit Manukan and Sapi Islands with hotel pickup and drop-off included. You’ll travel by scenic speedboat to Manukan Island, where short nature trails invite gentle exploration and pristine sandy beaches offer space to relax. Along the way you can take things at your own pace, whether that means a peaceful walk or simply soaking up the sea views.
After exploring Manukan, you’ll head to Sapi Island to snorkel among vibrant coral reefs that are ideal for swimming and observing marine life. Lunch is served on Sapi’s sandy shores, giving you a chance to rest and enjoy the surroundings. Later, you’ll have free time to relax on the beach or take a short jungle walk for a bit more adventure before returning to the mainland.
Duration: 7 hours
User reviews, Very good, 4.3 out of 5 stars from 3 reviews
If you are on holiday in Kota Kinabalu, this tour is presented as an ideal outing to add to your plans. You will take part in a satisfying tour experience that is run by a highly experienced tour guide based in Kota Kinabalu. The emphasis is on a well-organised, guest-focused outing that aims to make the most of your time in the area.
As you move through the experience, the guide will lead the group and share local knowledge and practical tips. Along the way you may ask questions and expect attentive support from someone familiar with the destination. The overall aim is a smooth, enjoyable tour delivered by an experienced local guide, giving you a straightforward and pleasant addition to your Kota Kinabalu holiday.
Duration: 9 hours
User reviews, Very good, 4.2 out of 5 stars from 42 reviews
On this two-part river cruise, you’ll get to see wildlife, taste local food and visit a beach to take in scenic sunset views. You’ll also have the opportunity to see Likas Floating Mosque.
For the first part of the cruise, you’ll float along the river looking out for animals including proboscis monkeys. You’ll then head to Nanamun Beach, a renowned sunset spot. The second part of the cruise happens once evening falls, when you can enjoy traveling on the water surrounded by fireflies light up the skies.
You’ll also be treated to a buffet dinner at a riverside restaurant, as well as traditional local snacks such as coconut pudding.
Duration: 9 hours
User reviews, Good, 3.7 out of 5 stars from 3 reviews
Your tour begins at the striking Yayasan Sabah Tower, an architectural landmark that offers panoramic views of the city skyline. You will then visit Kinabalu Tower, the Sabah state administration building, where you will learn about the city's development and its regional importance. Pause at Puh Toh Tze Temple to soak up the calm, spiritual atmosphere and see intricate Buddhist statues and elements of local cultural heritage. Along the waterfront you’ll view the Floating Mosque, noted for its grand structure and its reflection across the surrounding lagoon; on Fridays only outside views are possible because of prayers.
As you move through the city, explore Anjung Kinabalu Market, a local favourite with sea and city views that gives a glimpse into everyday life. Stroll past Padang Merdeka, a historic field tied to Sabah’s path to independence, and walk along Australia Lane before arriving at lively Gaya Street, with its shops, markets and street scenes. The tour finishes with a delicious local lunch, giving you a final taste of Sabah’s flavours.
Duration: 4 hours
User reviews, Exceptional, 4.9 out of 5 stars from 16 reviews
On this customizable excursion, you can enjoy white water rafting with an optional firefly cruise.
You’ll head to the Kiulu River for a family-friendly rafting experience. Here you’ll get to navigate rapids that can reach Grade 2 on rainy days.
Afterwards, you can choose to take a mangrove river cruise and see wildlife including lizards, crocodiles and macaques. You’ll also get the chance to see a scenic sunset in a secret spot. Finally, as evening falls, you can watch the fireflies light up the sky.
User reviews, Exceptional, 5 out of 5 stars from 1 review
This guided tour takes you through the Ranau–Kundasang region and to Kinabalu National Park, Malaysia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site. As you move through the park and surrounding highlands, you will encounter diverse mountain scenery and learn about the natural significance of this protected area.
You will also explore Poring within the Kinabalu Geopark, where the forest setting leads to the Kipungit Waterfall tucked deep inside Poring. Along the way there are high chances to see the Rafflesia, the world’s largest flower; sightings depend on blooming times and may incur additional costs. The experience focuses on nature and landscape, giving you opportunities to observe unique flora and enjoy the park’s quieter, more remote spots.
Duration: 8 hours - 10 hours
User reviews, Exceptional, 4.8 out of 5 stars from 8 reviews
An evening on the Klias River offers a calm mix of riverside scenery and local flavours. You’ll be collected from your hotel and driven to the Klias Forest Reserve, arriving at the jetty where a cup of coffee or tea and traditional Malay treats will be served as you take in the surroundings. Along the way and during the cruise you may spot wildlife in its natural habitat, including proboscis monkeys, a variety of exotic birds and crocodiles, though sightings cannot be guaranteed.
After the river cruise, a traditional Malay buffet dinner is included. As night falls, you’ll glide along the riverbanks to see the mesmerising display of fireflies lighting up the mangroves — a tranquil, atmospheric end to the evening. This experience includes hotel pickup and drop-off, afternoon tea and dinner, and is suited to nature lovers and families seeking an immersive riverside outing.
Duration: 7 hours
User reviews, Excellent, 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2 reviews
This one day tour to Mengalum Island gives you the chance to check out marine life and enjoy a range of activities, all in the company of your guide.
You’ll head off on a boat for two snorkeling sessions, where you’ll swim among fish and turtles, and explore the coral reefs. There’s also the chance for you to have a go at standup paddleboarding or paddle a kayak. You’ll enjoy a BBQ-style lunch and strolls along sandy beaches, while a photography service is on hand to capture mementos of the day.
There are a number of additional tours available on the day, including mangrove and firefly tours.
This airport transfer offers reliable, convenient transport to and from the pickup location. You will travel in comfortable, air-conditioned vehicles with on-time pick-ups and drop-offs. Professional drivers will ensure a smooth, stress-free journey and will take you directly to your destination while avoiding traffic jams.
Customer service is available 24/7 and can provide an escort for your travel. You will receive attentive assistance throughout the transfer, and customised services are offered to bring a more unique experience tailored to your needs.
User reviews, Excellent, 4.4 out of 5 stars from 7 reviews
This tour will give you insight into rural life in Malaysia as you explore the countryside and visit farms in the Mount Kinabalu region. Your first stop will be the town of Nabalu where you can take photos of the majestic mountain and shop for fresh fruit.
At Desa Cattle Dairy Farm, you’ll find the largest collection of cows in the state of Sabah, roaming amid postcard-perfect alpine scenery. After a local lunch, you’ll visit the fish spa of Bombon Kg. Marakau where you can receive a unique foot treatment courtesy of the tiny nibblers. Your next stop will be Ranau Rabbit Farm – home to more than 400 adorable bunnies. The final location along your route will be the quaint town of Tamparuli where you’ll be treated to a famous wild-boar snack from a roadside stall.
Duration: 9 hours
User reviews, Exceptional, 4.8 out of 5 stars from 4 reviews
Set against the backdrop of Mount Kinabalu — the highest peak in Southeast Asia — these options give you a mix of outdoor thrills and local sights near Kinabalu Park, an area noted for plant life that spans four climatic zones. You will choose from three combinations of activities that take you to a dairy farm, a lively fruit market and either ATV terrain or a paragliding launch.
Tour A pairs an ATV experience with paragliding. Along the way you will visit a dairy farm, have time at the Nabalu Fruit Market to buy fruits and souvenirs, and have lunch before heading to the paragliding base. Tour B focuses on the dairy farm and ATV riding, and also includes a stop at the Nabalu Fruit Market and a midday meal. Tour C combines the dairy farm visit with paragliding, with a market stop for shopping and lunch as part of the route. Each option highlights different ways to enjoy the local landscape and culture while visiting the named sites: the Dairy Farm, ATV Base, Paragliding Base and Nabalu Fruit Market.