Rickshaw Travel
Borneo

Kota Kinabalu: Gateway to Sabah

Bite-sized trip

    • Itinerary:
      Kota Kinabalu
    • Duration:
      3 days / 2 nights (flexible)
    • Price:
      from £ 389.- per person (excluding flights)
    Kota Kinabalu is a bustling, coastal city and the starting point for a trip through Sabah. During your stay, you can visit the colourful markets full of local produce and watch the sunset from the modern waterfront filled with restaurants. We'll arrange a trip to Kinabalu National Park so you can explore the plants and wildlife from high above the forest floor on a canopy tour, take a dip in hot mineral springs and wander through the tranquil butterfly garden.

    Day 1 – Arrival in Kota Kinabalu

    As you arrive into Kota Kinabalu you will spot Mount Kinabalu below, rising high above this coastal city. After a quick transfer from the airport to your central hotel, you can settle in and start exploring. Your comfortable hotel has a traditional style and is just a short walk from the sights of the city, as well as a wide choice of restaurants. Head down to the waterfront for dinner with a view as the sun sets across the bay.

    Day 2 – Visit Kinabalu National Park

    Today you will explore the World Heritage site, Kinabalu National Park, with a local guide. On your way you will make a stop at Nabalu village and taste some of the local fruits. You can even try your hand at a bit of bargaining if you wish to purchase any handicrafts. Continue your journey, making a stop at Poring which is known for its hot sulphur spring bath and canopy walkway. Visit the interpretive centre and learn about the local flora and fauna. You can then take a short stroll on one of the jungle trails, followed by a dip in one of the soothing, hot mineral springs. Then proceed to Kinabalu National Park – a UNESCO World Heritage site that covers an area of over 750 sq km. The park is home to Mount Kinabalu and a rich diversity of flora and fauna. Explore with your guide before returning to Kota Kinabalu in the late afternoon.

    Hike Mount Kinabalu - Borneo

    Alternative excursions: cycling or cooking

    If the visit to Kinabalu National Park does not sound appealing to you, we can arrange alternative experiences.

    You could explore the local culture and scenery on a guided mountain bike tour. You’ll pedal past local villages and farms, and even tackle some fun jungle trails and hanging bridges.

    Or if you’re a foodie, we can arrange for you to join a traditional cooking class in the home of a local caterer. During this class, you will learn about local recipes, cooking methods and enjoy the amazing taste of the dishes your host helps you prepare.

    Ask your Travel Specialist for more details.

    Day 3 – Departure from Kota Kinabalu

    The following day, it’s time to wave goodbye to Kota Kinabalu and continue on to your next destination and the rest of your Borneo adventure.

    Accommodation

    For this bite-sized trip we offer the following options

    1Add to my trip

    Kota Kinabalu: Gateway to Sabah - In Style Accommodation

    • Price:
      From £ 424.- per person (excluding flights)
    • Included:
      In Style accommodation, excursions, transport and meals as described above

    For this bite-sized trip we have an alternative option available for your accommodation. Our In-Style version is something a bit more special or unique but still with lots of local flavour! If you would like to upgrade your accommodation for this bite-size trip select our In Style option below.

    2Add to my trip

    White water rafting: Kiulu - Day trip

    • Price:
      From £50 per person
    • Included:
      Rafting trip, including transfers

    If you are seeking adventure, take a 45-minute drive through the countryside to Kiulu River, for some white water rafting. This area is perfectly suitable for the novice rafter. You’ll raft through scenic countryside and small villages, before enjoying some lunch at the riverbank. At the end, you’ll return back to your hotel in Kota Kinabalu.

    This bite-sized trip combines well with