Kundasang : Poring Hot Spring + Desa & Meal Shared Tour

Traveling to Sabah offers many opportunities to encounter Malaysia’s natural beauty and local culture. This particular tour promises a well-rounded day exploring some of Sabah’s top sights, from the soothing waters of Poring Hot Springs to the scenic views at Desa Dairy Farm. We haven’t taken this exact trip ourselves, but after reviewing the details and feedback, it seems like a great way to experience some of Sabah’s highlights in a single day.

What we like most about this tour are the variety of activities packed into one day, allowing travelers to see different facets of Sabah—nature, local craftsmanship, and rural life—and the knowledgeable guides who apparently enhance the experience with insights and friendly service. On the other hand, a potential drawback is the long travel times between stops, which could be tiring for some, especially if you’re not accustomed to full days on the move.

This tour seems best suited for travelers who appreciate a mix of nature, culture, and a bit of adventure. If you’re looking for a relaxed, slow-paced trip, this might feel a little packed. But if you’re eager to see a lot in one day and enjoy guided experiences, this tour offers good value for its price.

Key Points

• Diverse itinerary: Includes markets, a dairy farm, hot springs, and canopy walk.
• Cultural insight: Visit to Nabalu Handicraft Market offers local crafts and souvenirs.
• Natural beauty: Poring Hot Springs and canopy walk showcase Sabah’s lush landscapes.
• Knowledgeable guides: Reviews highlight friendly, well-informed guides like Raus.
• Good value: At $91, it covers transport, entrance fees, and a meal.
• Long travel times: Expect around 2.5 hours of van rides each way, so prepare for a full day.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Introduction: What to Expect from This Day Trip

If you’re considering a day trip from Kota Kinabalu to explore Sabah’s countryside, this Kundasang tour offers a comprehensive package. It’s designed for those who want to experience the natural hot springs, see rural dairy farming, and browse local crafts—all within a manageable, guided setting.

One thing we really appreciate is the ease of logistics—your day starts with hotel pickup, so there’s no stress about transportation. Plus, all entrance fees and lunch are included, giving you a straightforward experience. The tour’s structure combines scenic drives with engaging stops, ensuring no dull moments and a nice balance of activities.

However, keep in mind that the itinerary is quite packed. Reviews note that you’ll need some physical fitness—especially for the canopy walk—and patience for the travel times. It’s especially ideal for travelers eager to maximize their Sabah experience without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. If you’re a curious explorer craving authentic moments and stunning views, this could be just the ticket.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Pickup and Journey to Sabah’s Countryside

Your day starts early with hotel pickup in Kota Kinabalu. From there, it’s roughly 2.5 hours of scenic van rides to reach the first major stop, allowing you to relax and enjoy the changing landscapes. These drives are a good chance to get a sense of Sabah’s rural areas and perhaps spot some wildlife or local life along the way.

Stop 1: Pekan Nabalu Market

The first stop is the Nabalu Handicraft Market, a lively spot brimming with local crafts, textiles, and souvenirs. It’s a lively introduction to Sabah’s artisans, and you’ll get a chance to pick up authentic souvenirs or just soak in the sights and sounds of a bustling local market. Visitors often mention that the market is a great place to see local products and chat with vendors, which adds a touch of genuine Sabah culture to your day.

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Stop 2: Desa Dairy Farm – “Little New Zealand”

Next, you’ll visit the Desa Dairy Farm, often called “Little New Zealand” for its rolling green fields and dairy operations. This is a highlight for many travelers, especially those interested in rural farming life. You’ll have about an hour of free time to explore and sample fresh dairy products, including ice cream, yogurt, and milk. The farm’s reputation for fresh, locally-made products makes it a tasty and authentic stop.

Stop 3 & 4: Poring Hot Springs and Canopy Walk

The core of the day is spent at Poring Hot Springs, famous for their therapeutic mineral waters. You’ll enjoy soaking your tired muscles in the warm pools and taking in the lush jungle scenery. Many reviews highlight that this is a calming, rejuvenating experience—perfect after a long van ride.

Then, the adventure turns slightly more active with a canopy walk. Walking among treetops, with views down into the forest canopy, offers a perspective unlike any other. It’s a fun, exhilarating experience that’s well-loved by those who aren’t afraid of heights. One reviewer noted: “Canopy walk was fun, our guide Raus was great, knowledgeable and a very nice man!” For others, the physical challenge of the walk might be a consideration, especially if you’re not used to heights or walking on suspension bridges.

Lunch and Optional Activities

A tasty lunch at the local restaurant provides a chance to recharge before heading further into nature or sightseeing. Afterward, if time permits, there’s a quick photo stop at Kinabalu Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers stunning views of Mount Kinabalu and the surrounding landscape.

Return Journey

The day concludes with a roughly 2.5-hour drive back to Kota Kinabalu, giving you a chance to rest and reflect. The entire trip wraps up with drop-off at your hotel, making it a convenient, all-in-one experience.

What’s the Value of This Tour?

At $91 per person, this tour offers an inclusive package that covers transportation, entrance fees, and lunch. Considering that you get to visit multiple attractions with guided insight, it’s a good value—especially for those who prefer not to organize individual tickets or transportation.

The reviews suggest that guides are a highlight, with friendly, knowledgeable service that enhances the experience. For example, Nadia mentioned, “Our guide Raus was great, knowledgeable and a very nice man,” which suggests you’re in good hands.

However, the long drives mean you’ll want to weigh whether spending most of your day in transit matches your travel style. It’s a full day, and if you’re looking for a more relaxed pace, you might prefer fewer stops or a private tour.

The Experience’s Strengths and Considerations

The standout aspect of this tour is the combination of natural and cultural highlights. The hot springs provide a soothing break, while the canopy walk offers a unique perspective on Sabah’s lush forests. The Desa Dairy Farm adds a charming rural element and great photo opportunities, especially if you love farms or fresh dairy.

The guides receive high praise for their friendliness and knowledge, which makes a big difference in how much you enjoy each stop. The inclusion of a local market also means you’ll get a taste of authentic Sabah life, not just tourist spots.

On the flip side, the long travel times—around 5 hours total—may feel tiring, especially if you’re not used to full-day excursions. The physical demands of the canopy walk could also be a consideration for less active travelers or those with health issues. And, if you’re traveling with young children or have mobility concerns, this might not be the best fit.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who enjoys a full day of diverse experiences—a bit of shopping, nature soaking, and light adventure—this tour offers excellent value. It’s perfect for solo travelers, couples, or small groups eager to see Sabah’s countryside without the hassle of planning each stop. Nature lovers will relish the hot springs and forest views, while culture seekers will appreciate the local market and farm visit.

This tour is less suited for travelers seeking a slow, relaxing day or those with mobility or health issues that make long bus rides or heights challenging. It’s also best for those who are comfortable with a packed schedule and appreciate guided commentary.

Final Thoughts

This Kundasang tour strikes a nice balance between nature, culture, and adventure. The inclusion of the hot springs, canopy walk, local market, and dairy farm provides a well-rounded glimpse of Sabah’s rural charm and natural beauty. The experienced guides and all-inclusive pricing make it a convenient option for travelers wanting a straightforward, value-packed day.

While the long drives might be a downside for some, the variety of sights and the chance to see Sabah’s lush landscapes and learn about local life make this trip worthwhile. Plus, if you’re lucky, you’ll get to enjoy some stunning views and hear fascinating stories from guides like Raus, making it more than just a sightseeing tour—it becomes a memorable day in Sabah.

This experience is best suited for active, curious travelers eager to pack in as much as possible and who value guided insights and authentic encounters. It’s a solid choice for those looking to tick off key sights in Sabah in a single day, with enough flexibility to enjoy the scenery and local flavor.

FAQs

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off within Sabah, round-trip transport, all entrance fees, lunch, and a driver.

Are there any extra costs not covered?
Yes, outskirt hotel pickup incurs an additional MYR 100 surcharge, tipping is not included, and personal expenses are on you.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour involves some physical activity and heights at the canopy walk, so it may not be ideal for small children or those with mobility issues.

How long are the travel times?
Travel between Kota Kinabalu and Sabah’s countryside is approximately 2.5 hours each way, making for a full day of transport.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, an umbrella, a jacket, rain gear, personal medication, and a waterproof bag are recommended.

Can I book this tour last minute?
Yes, it’s possible as long as there are availability slots; just check the schedule. Cancellation is free if you cancel 24 hours in advance.

Is the tour suitable for people afraid of heights?
No, the canopy walk involves heights and may not be suitable for those with acrophobia.

What’s the best time to take this tour?
Check availability for starting times—generally, mornings are best for avoiding afternoon crowds and enjoying cooler weather.

Will I have enough free time at each stop?
Most stops offer around 30 minutes to an hour, enough to explore or sample local products, but not to linger too long.

To sum it up, this tour offers a well-organized way to see Sabah’s countryside, enjoy therapeutic hot springs, and experience local life through markets and farms. It’s ideal for curious, active travelers who want a guided, worry-free day filled with natural beauty, cultural insights, and a touch of adventure. If that sounds like your kind of trip, this could be a memorable addition to your Sabah itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: