8 Best Private Drivers In Kota Kinabalu

Private drivers in Kota Kinabalu provide reliable transportation with local expertise and English-speaking guides. The city’s top private experiences include island-hopping tours to pristine Dinawan Island, cultural visits to the fascinating Water Gypsy villages, and guided trips to majestic Mount Kinabalu National Park.

I especially love the cultural tours through Kampung Gypsy – the drivers know exactly when to visit for authentic local interactions and the best photo opportunities. The Kinabalu Park excursions are also fantastic, with drivers timing the trips perfectly to avoid the crowds.

Check out these carefully selected private driver tours that showcase the best of Kota Kinabalu:

Key Points

• Convenient Transfer Services offer private one-way airport or city transfers in Kota Kinabalu, priced at $58.83 for up to 6 people with professional English/Malay-speaking drivers.
• Comprehensive City Tours provide a full-day private tour exploring Kota Kinabalu’s key landmarks and the unique floating houses in the Water Gypsy village.
• Knowledgeable guides and scenic views are highlighted in Nature Exploration Tours, which include visits to Desa Dairy Farm, Kinabalu National Park, and Poring Hot Spring Canopy Walk.
• Cultural Insights at Kampung Gypsy offer a private tour with traditional welcome drinks, cultural performances, and activities like salted fish display, Congkak game, batik painting, and henna tattoos.
• Dinawan Private Island Experience provides a guided day trip from Kota Kinabalu via speedboat, with activities like snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboarding, and beach relaxation, along with lunch and high tea.

Dinawan Private Island Hopping by Speedboat From Kota Kinabalu Include Lunch

As a highlight of the Dinawan Private Island experience, travelers can embark on a guided day trip from Kota Kinabalu via a 15-20 minute speedboat journey.

The tour includes snorkeling at two locations, kayaking, standup paddleboarding, and beach relaxation. Lunch and high tea are provided, and the use of snorkeling equipment, kayaks, and paddleboards is included.

Hotel transfers from downtown Kota Kinabalu are provided, and the tour starts at 8:30 am. While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, infants can join for free.

The tour is recommended by 93% of travelers, with an average rating of 4.5 stars from 40 reviews.

Read our full review: Dinawan Private Island Hopping by Speedboat From Kota Kinabalu Include Lunch Review
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Private Tour Kampung Gypsy Kota Kinabalu Sabah Water Village

A popular cultural experience in Kota Kinabalu is the Private Tour Kampung Gypsy Kota Kinabalu Sabah Water Village. Priced at $67.77 per person, this 2-hour private tour provides an in-depth look into the Sea Gypsy community.

Guests can expect a traditional welcome drink, cultural performances, a salted fish display, and the opportunity to try on Sea Gypsy costumes. Other activities include a Congkak game, batik painting, and henna tattoo application.

With knowledgeable guides and positive customer reviews, this tour offers an immersive experience into the history and traditions of the Bajau people, whose roots in Kota Kinabalu date back to 9 BC.

Read our full review: Private Tour Kampung Gypsy Kota Kinabalu Sabah Water Village Review
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Private Desa Dairy Farm, Kinabalu National Park, Hot Spring & Canopy Walk Tour

Exploring the natural wonders of Kota Kinabalu, the Private Desa Dairy Farm, Kinabalu National Park, Hot Spring & Canopy Walk Tour offers an immersive experience for visitors.

Priced from $139 per person, the tour includes transportation, an English-speaking guide, and admission tickets. Highlights include a visit to the Desa Dairy Farm, Kinabalu National Park, and the Poring Hot Spring Canopy Walk.

While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, most travelers can participate. With an impressive 5-star rating from 8 reviews, the tour is praised for its knowledgeable guide, scenic views, and well-organized itinerary.

Visitors can take advantage of the free cancellation policy and the option to reserve now and pay later.

Read our full review: Private Desa Dairy Farm, Kinabalu National Park, Hot Spring & Canopy Walk Tour Review
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Kota Kinabalu: Private One-Way Airport or City Transfer

For travelers in Kota Kinabalu, the private one-way airport or city transfer offers a convenient and comfortable way to reach their destination.

Priced at $58.83 per group (up to 6 people), the transfer is flexible, with no upfront payment required and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Travelers can opt for extra transfers to nearby attractions like Kinabalu National Park.

The service features air-conditioned vehicles and professional drivers fluent in English and Malay, ensuring a stress-free journey.

While short stops are included, food and drinks aren’t provided.

An additional 50% surcharge applies for transfers between 10 PM and 7 AM.

Read our full review: Kota Kinabalu: Private One-Way Airport or City Transfer Review
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Kota Kinabalu : Snorkeling at Ara Dinawan Private Island

Those seeking a unique snorkeling experience can embark on a journey to Ara Dinawan Private Island, located just a 15-minute speedboat ride from Kota Kinabalu.

Priced from €83.94 per person, this full-day activity offers a range of optional experiences, including a tea ceremony, guided tours, and a set lunch.

Highlights include snorkeling and water activities, as well as access to facilities like paddleboards and kayaks.

However, previous guests have expressed disappointment with the snorkeling quality and activity standards, noting issues with the coral reef condition and lack of guidance.

The island provides a chance to enjoy nature and explore the surroundings.

Read our full review: Kota Kinabalu : Snorkeling at Ara Dinawan Private Island Review
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Fullday Private KK City & Water Gypsy Kota Kinabalu Sabah

One can embark on a comprehensive full-day private tour exploring the vibrant city of Kota Kinabalu and the fascinating Water Gypsy community in Sabah.

The tour includes visits to key landmarks, such as the Kota Kinabalu City Mosque, the Handicraft Market, and the Signal Hill Observatory Platform.

Guests will also have the opportunity to venture out to the Water Gypsy village, where they can observe the unique floating houses and learn about the local way of life.

This private tour offers a well-rounded experience, allowing travelers to explore the diverse cultural and natural wonders that Kota Kinabalu and its surroundings have to offer.

Read our full review: Fullday Private KK City & Water Gypsy Kota Kinabalu Sabah Review
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Kota Kinabalu: Exclusive Private Tour to Discover the City

This private tour offers travelers an exclusive opportunity to explore the vibrant city of Kota Kinabalu. Priced at €84.61 per person, the 1-day half-day city tour showcases the city’s key attractions, including the University Malaysia Sabah Mosque, Tun Mustapha Tower, and Puh Toh Si Chinese Temple.

Lunch and shopping at the Teck Guan Cocoa Embassy are also included. With complimentary hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as live English and Chinese-speaking guides, this tour provides a hassle-free and comprehensive exploration of Kota Kinabalu.

The tour’s flexibility, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and the option to reserve now and pay later, make it an appealing choice for visitors seeking an immersive city experience.

Read our full review: Kota Kinabalu: Exclusive Private Tour to Discover the City Review
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Kota Kinabalu: Private Kundasang and Poring Hot Spring Tour

Travelers embarking on the Private Kundasang and Poring Hot Spring Tour can expect a comprehensive exploration of Kota Kinabalu’s breathtaking natural wonders.

Priced at $112.95 per person, this private tour offers free cancellation, round-trip transportation, and a knowledgeable guide.

Highlights include a visit to the Nabalu Handicraft Market, relaxation at the Poring Hot Springs, a stroll through Kinabalu Park’s botanical gardens, and a thrilling Canopy Walk.

The tour also includes lunch and access to the Poring Hot Spring Bath Tub.

While the Silau-Silau trails may be slippery, the overall experience is positive, with reviews praising the organization and local cuisine provided by the guide Alvin.

Read our full review: Kota Kinabalu: Private Kundasang and Poring Hot Spring Tour Review
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Sum Up

Kota Kinabalu offers a variety of private tour options for travelers. They can explore the city’s highlights, island-hop by speedboat, visit traditional water villages, and discover natural wonders like Kinabalu National Park. These private tours provide a personalized and convenient way to experience the best of Kota Kinabalu. Travelers can choose from a range of activities to suit their interests and preferences.