Full Day Sabah Tea Plantation & WWII Memorial

Exploring Sabah’s Tea and War Heritage in a Full Day

If you’re after a day filled with scenic beauty, cultural insights, and meaningful history, this Full Day Sabah Tea Plantation & WWII Memorial tour offers plenty to love. It combines the tranquility of Borneo’s highest organic tea farm with a poignant visit to the Kundasang War Memorial, giving you a well-rounded glimpse into Sabah’s natural and historical landscape. One of the standout features is the chance to enjoy pesticide-free tea at 2,272 feet above sea level, where the lush rainforest not only provides a stunning backdrop but also keeps the plantation free of pesticides, making for a truly authentic organic experience.

A key highlight is the guided tour of the Sabah Tea factory, which provides insight into the process of tea-making — a fascinating peek behind the scenes. However, it’s worth noting that the factory is closed on Sundays and Public Holidays, so the schedule may require some planning. This tour is best suited to those who appreciate scenic drives, cultural heritage, and a touch of history, especially if you’re looking to explore beyond the usual city sights with a private, well-organized trip.

Key Points

• Authentic Sabah Tea Experience: The only organic tea farm in Borneo, offering pesticide-free leaves cultivated at high altitude.
• Historical Reflection: The Kundasang War Memorial offers a peaceful, contemplative space to honor WWII heroes.
• Guided Tours Included: Insightful visits to the tea factory (except on holidays) and a comprehensive walk through the memorial gardens.
• Comfortable Transport: An air-conditioned vehicle ensures a comfortable journey through Sabah’s scenic countryside.
• Flexible Itinerary: With a private tour, your schedule can adapt somewhat, offering a personalized experience.
• Value for Money: At $170 per person, it provides a full day packed with meaningful sights, good food, and cultural insights.

A Deep Dive into the Day’s Highlights

Starting with the Kundasang War Memorial

The tour kicks off early, with a pickup around 8:00 am, setting the tone for a day of both reflection and adventure. The Kundasang War Memorial, often called the Kundasang War Memorial by locals, is a serene space dedicated to those who fought during WWII. We loved the way the memorial gardens—divided into Australian, English, Borneo, and Contemplation sections—create a peaceful environment for remembrance. As one reviewer, Margaret P., put it, “Very moving and interesting roadtrip in the mountains,” emphasizing how this site isn’t just a quick stop but an emotionally resonant experience.

The memorial’s lush gardens are complemented by the scent of roses lingering in the air, offering a tranquil environment for reflection. It’s a good two-hour stop, giving enough time to walk around, absorb the history, and perhaps take some photos of Mount Kinabalu in the distance if the weather cooperates.

The Sabah Tea Garden Experience

The centerpiece of the tour is the Sabah Tea Garden, which is notably the only organic tea farm in Borneo. Located at 2,272 feet above sea level, the plantation’s altitude makes for a cooler climate perfect for high-quality tea production. Here, the leaves are 100% pesticide-free, thanks to the surrounding rainforest drawing insects away naturally. We loved the insights from the guided tour, which explained how the tea is cultivated and processed, making the experience both educational and sensory.

Visitors get to walk through the lush fields, breathe in the crisp mountain air, and see the tea factory in action (except on Sundays and public holidays). The factory tour offers a behind-the-scenes look at how tea leaves are dried, sorted, and packaged, adding an authentic touch to the experience. The included set lunch and Sabah Tea welcome drink make this a relaxing, delicious break amid the scenic views.

One reviewer, Jeffrey, praised the flexibility and enthusiasm of their guide, Jeff, noting that “the tour went above and beyond to accommodate us,” even when booking errors occurred. It’s clear that the tour provider values customer experience and strives to make each trip memorable.

Additional Details and Practicalities

The entire experience is conducted in a private vehicle, ensuring comfort and avoiding the crowds often found in large group tours. The vehicle is air-conditioned, which is a real plus given the sometimes humid climate of Sabah. The tour duration is approximately 10 hours, so you’re looking at a full, well-paced day that balances sightseeing with relaxation.

The timing is flexible enough to cater to your preferences, with factory tours available at 8:30 am, 10:30 am, and 2:30 pm, though the factory is closed on Sundays and public holidays. The tour includes a driver-cum-guide, who provides context and local knowledge, enriching the experience beyond just sightseeing.

The set lunch is included and offers a taste of local cuisine, making this a convenient all-in-one package. Plus, the welcome refreshment and refreshing drinks throughout the day help keep energy levels up, especially if you’re not used to high-altitude, mountain air.

What to Expect — the Full Itinerary Breakdown

Kundasang War Memorial: Expect a peaceful stroll through gardens representing different nationalities involved in WWII. The gardens include Australian, English, Borneo, and Contemplation sections, each with its own character. It’s a thoughtful, calm space ideal for taking in the history and beauty of Sabah’s landscape. The fact that admission is free makes this a valuable and accessible stop.

Sabah Tea Garden: Expect a lush, expansive plantation with rolling green fields and cool mountain air. The guided tour here is informative, explaining everything from the plantation’s organic certification to the traditional processing methods. You’ll get to walk through the fields, learn about the sustainable farming practices, and enjoy the fresh, aromatic tea samples. The factory visit is a highlight but note it’s closed on Sundays and public holidays — so plan accordingly.

Enjoying the Views: Mount Kinabalu often looms majestically in the background, a constant reminder of Sabah’s incredible natural scenery. The cool mountain breeze and the scent of tea leaves drying in the sun create a sensory-rich environment that many find restorative.

Authentic Experiences and Review Insights

From the reviews, one thing stands out: the personalized service and attention to detail. Jeffrey, the guide, was praised for going out of his way to ensure guests had a memorable experience, even accommodating booking mishaps. This level of service, combined with the scenic and historical highlights, makes the tour feel thoughtful and well-managed.

Travelers also appreciated the value for money despite the tour’s not-cheap price tag, noting the comprehensive coverage of key sights and the quality of the guides. It’s clear that this tour isn’t just about ticking boxes but about creating a meaningful connection with Sabah’s landscape and history.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who appreciate scenic drives, authentic local culture, and meaningful historical sites. If you’re interested in learning about WWII history while enjoying fresh mountain air and lush greenery, this trip hits the mark. It’s also suitable for those who prefer private tours and flexible schedules over large group excursions.

Nature lovers will enjoy the views of Mount Kinabalu from the plantation and the peaceful gardens of the memorial. Foodies will appreciate the included set lunch featuring local flavors, while those seeking a well-rounded cultural experience will find plenty to savor here.

However, if you’re on a tight schedule or dislike early mornings, you might want to check the specific timings, especially if the factory is closed on Sundays or holidays, as that can affect the flow of the day.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a compelling blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and historical reflection. The private setup, knowledgeable guides, and inclusion of key sites make it a strong value proposition for anyone wanting to explore Sabah’s mountains and history in one day. While the price might seem high compared to some other tours, the personalized service and comprehensive itinerary justify the expense.

It’s ideal for history buffs, nature enthusiasts, and those looking for a more intimate, tailored experience away from crowded group tours. Remember to plan around the factory’s schedule if you want to see the processing in action, and be prepared for some impressive views and reflective moments along the way.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, especially since it’s a private tour with comfortable transportation. However, those with mobility issues should consider the walking involved at the memorial gardens.

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes a private vehicle, driver-guide, set lunch, Sabah Tea welcome drink, a guided visit to the tea factory (except on Sundays/public holidays), and the Kundasang War Memorial.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, there is free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start. Full refunds are processed if canceled in time.

What should I wear?
Comfortable, casual clothing suited to cooler mountain weather and walking shoes are recommended. Bring a hat and sunscreen if the weather is sunny.

Does the factory tour run every day?
No, the factory is closed on Sundays and public holidays. Be sure to confirm your tour timing accordingly.

How long is the entire experience?
Approximately 10 hours, making it a full-day commitment with plenty of breaks and sightseeing.

Is food included?
Yes, a set lunch is included, giving you a taste of local cuisine amid your scenic journey.

Are there any additional costs?
Admission to the WWII Memorial and the tea factory are included in the tour price. You might want to bring extra for souvenirs or additional snacks.

What’s the best time of day for this tour?
Starting at 8:00 am ensures you hit the key sites comfortably within the day, but confirm the schedule with your guide if you have specific preferences.

This tour offers a balanced mix of relaxation, education, and reflection, perfect for those eager to discover Sabah’s natural beauty and poignant history in a personalized setting. Whether you’re a history buff or a nature lover, it’s a full-day journey worth considering.