Sabah: Kundasang Nature Day Tour

If you’re planning a day trip to Sabah and want a taste of its stunning landscapes without the hassle of planning every detail, the Kundasang Nature Day Tour offers an enticing option. This full-day excursion, offered by Milas Travel & Tours, promises a combination of scenic views, outdoor adventures, and relaxing moments — all packed into about ten hours.

What really draws us to this tour is the chance to walk among treetops on a canopy walk and unwind in hot springs—two experiences that stand out as authentic, memorable highlights. Plus, a visit to the charming Desa Dairy Farm gives a glimpse into local life and farm life in this cool, high-altitude region.

A little caution: some reviewers have found the pace a bit heavy on driving and felt the guiding could be more engaging. But for travelers who appreciate flexible, private group excursions with a mix of nature and culture, this tour hits the right notes.

This tour suits those who want a well-rounded, accessible introduction to Kundasang’s natural beauty—especially if you enjoy outdoor activities, picturesque views, and the comfort of private transportation.

Key Points

• Convenient private transportation makes exploring Kundasang stress-free.
• The canopy walk offers a fun, elevated perspective of the forest canopy.
• Hot springs provide a relaxing soak after a day of exploring.
• The Dairy Farm is a charming stop to learn about local agriculture.
• The tour includes all entrance fees, ensuring no surprises in costs.
• Some reviews mention long driving times and a less personal guiding experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Practical Overview of the Kundasang Nature Day Tour

When considering this tour, the first thing to note is the cost of $140 per person. That price covers quite a lot: private transport, a driver-guide who speaks both Malay and English, and all entrance fees and taxes. So, you’re paying for a hassle-free day with a lot of inclusions—no need to worry about logistics or ticket lines.

However, the value depends heavily on how much you enjoy outdoor adventures and nature-focused stops. For those who love scenic landscapes, engaging in light walks, or relaxing in hot springs, this is a well-rounded package. But if your style is more about cultural museums or urban exploration, you might find it less compelling.

The duration of 10 hours makes it a full day but not overly long—perfect for a day trip from Kota Kinabalu or as part of a wider exploration of Sabah. Starting times vary depending on availability, so it’s worth checking your schedule early.

Itinerary Breakdown: What You’ll Experience

Pickup & Transport

The tour begins with pickup from your hotel in Kota Kinabalu, usually around 10 minutes before the scheduled start. The transport is private, which means you won’t be stuck in a large bus with strangers; instead, you’ll enjoy a comfortable drive with a driver-guide who speaks both Malay and English. Travel times can be significant, especially if you are visiting during weekends or holidays, when crowds tend to flock to Kundasang.

Nabalu Town & Scenic Views

Your first stop might be Nabalu Town, where you’ll get beautiful vistas of the mountains and local markets. It’s a great chance to stretch your legs, snap some photos, and see local life in this peaceful highland town. The views here are a highlight, especially if you enjoy landscape photography.

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Desa Dairy Farm – A Farmyard Charm

Next, the Desa Dairy Farm is a major highlight. This working dairy farm is known for its fresh milk, cheese, and ice cream, and it offers a chance to see how dairy products are made in a cool mountain climate. Several visitors note the farm’s charm and the opportunity to taste fresh dairy. This stop provides a pleasant break from driving, and it’s especially nice if you enjoy farm life and local produce.

Fish Spa at Moroli River

Afterward, you’ll experience the Fish Spa by the Moroli River. It’s a fun and soothing activity where tiny fish nibble away at your feet, leaving you feeling refreshed. Reviewers mention this as a unique and relaxing activity, although it’s not a traditional spa; it’s more of a quirky outdoor experience. Be prepared for some splashes and a bit of ticklish fun.

Hot Springs for Relaxation

Then, the tour takes you to Kundasang’s hot springs, where you can unwind in warm, soothing waters. Some pools are outdoor, and there are indoor options available at an additional cost if you prefer privacy. The natural hot springs are often cited as a relaxing highlight, perfect after a busy morning of sightseeing.

Canopy Walk Adventure

Finally, the canopy walk provides a thrilling view from 60 meters above ground. Walking among the treetops gives you an elevated perspective of the forest, with the chance to spot wildlife and enjoy the lush greenery. The platform and walkways are well-constructed, but because it’s high above the ground, it’s not recommended for those with vertigo or height sensitivities.

Some reviews find the canopy walk enjoyable, although one reviewer felt the overall experience was somewhat limited, citing the long drives and minimal guidance. The camera/video fees are an added expense, but they allow you to capture the stunning views.

The Realities: What to Expect and Consider

The reviews paint a mixed picture. One guest appreciated the personalized experience where the driver was flexible enough to let them customize stops, making the day more tailored to their interests. On the other hand, others felt that the guiding was more driver than guide, adding little extra insight during the journey. If you’re hoping for an in-depth local perspective, you might want to prepare some questions or bring a guidebook yourself.

The driving time is a significant factor. With the scenic spots spread out, expect some hours on the road. This isn’t a flaw, but it’s worth considering if you prefer more time at each stop or shorter travel distances.

The canopy walk fee (MYR 5 for cameras and MYR 30 for video cameras) is an extra cost from the base tour price, and the hot spring indoor baths are also paid separately if you want privacy or more comfort.

Weather can be cool, especially at Kinabalu Park (around 1500 meters altitude). Bringing a sweater is wise, and rain gear might be useful depending on the season.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This Kundasang Nature Tour suits travelers who appreciate a mix of scenic nature, outdoor activities, and relaxed farm visits. It’s ideal if you’re wanting a full-day, hassle-free experience with private transport and a guide who can speak your language. It’s also good for those interested in local food, farm life, and natural hot springs.

However, if you’re looking for a deep cultural or historical experience, or prefer avoiding long drives, this may not be the best fit. The tour’s pace and focus are more on nature and outdoor fun, rather than cultural storytelling.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a well-rounded taste of Kundasang’s natural attractions, from canopy walks to hot springs, with the convenience of private transport and all-included entry fees. Travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, scenic views, and a little adventure will find this experience enjoyable and worth the price.

While some might feel the journey is a bit long and the guiding could be more engaging, the flexibility and ease of the package make it a practical choice for most visitors. The stops at dairy farms, river fish spas, and hot springs are authentic and highlight some of the best natural features Sabah has to offer.

Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or in a small group, this tour provides a safe, comfortable, and memorable way to explore the highlands of Sabah.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is suitable for children, especially the farm visit and fish spa, but keep in mind the canopy walk is high up and may not be suitable for very young or height-sensitive children.

What should I bring on this tour?
Bring a sweater or light jacket for higher altitudes, comfortable walking shoes, rain gear if necessary, and a camera (note the additional fee for video). Also, pack sunscreen and insect repellent.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included. You’ll need to arrange your own or bring snacks for the day.

Can I customize the itinerary?
The guide can accommodate some changes, as indicated by positive reviews describing personalized experiences. Confirm your preferences when booking.

How long is the driving?
Expect several hours of driving spread throughout the day. This is normal given the distances between attractions in Kundasang.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, but some stops like the canopy walk may have limitations. Check with the operator if you have specific accessibility needs.

This Kundasang Nature Day Tour offers a practical, enjoyable way to experience some of Sabah’s most scenic and relaxing highlights, perfect for those wanting a day immersed in nature with minimal planning.

You can check availability for your dates here: