Kinabalu Park, Desa Dairy Farm & Poring Hot Springs Tour

Exploring the Kinabalu Park, Desa Dairy Farm & Poring Hot Springs Tour

This full-day trip from Kota Kinabalu offers a well-rounded chance to experience a slice of Sabah’s natural and rural charm. It’s a thoughtfully curated journey that combines lush scenery, authentic local stops, and relaxing moments in natural hot springs. What we particularly like is the seamless combination of sightseeing and leisure, all arranged for you, which makes for a stress-free escape from city life. However, it’s worth noting that the tour can be quite long—about 8 hours—so it’s best suited for those with a good level of energy and an interest in nature and local culture.

One of the highlights is definitely the Treetop Canopy Walkway, providing a bird’s-eye view of the forest canopy at 30 meters above the ground—an experience that’s both exhilarating and scenic. Plus, the stop at Desa Dairy Farm gives a glimpse into Sabah’s agricultural side, with stunning views of Mount Kinabalu in the background. That said, the tour involves a fair amount of travel—about three hours between stops—so patience and good shoes are recommended. Perfect for active travelers, nature lovers, and those wanting a mix of relaxation and cultural insight, this tour is a solid choice for a full-day experience.

Key Points

• Scenic Journey: Enjoy a picturesque drive through Sabah’s countryside en route to Poring.
• Diverse Stops: From a bustling fruit market to serene hot springs, the itinerary offers variety.
• Nature & Adventure: The canopy walk is a standout, adding a touch of adventure to the day.
• Relaxation Focus: The hot springs provide a soothing break, especially after a day of sightseeing.
• Convenience: Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, taking the hassle out of organizing transport.
• Value for Money: For the price, it combines several well-known attractions, making it a practical choice.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Starting with Nabalu Market

The tour kicks off early, with pickup from your hotel around 7:15 AM. The first stop, Nabalu Market, is a lively spot where locals and visitors alike browse a colorful array of tropical fruits and souvenirs. You’ll have about 20 minutes here, which is enough to grab a fresh snack or pick up a unique gift. The market’s location offers a nice snapshot of local life and the chance to soak in some mountain scenery—the lush, green backdrop makes for a striking photo op. From reviews, travelers find this stop worthwhile, especially if you’re into authentic markets rather than touristy gift shops.

Desa Dairy Farm – “The Little New Zealand”

Next, the journey takes you about 45 minutes to Desa Dairy Farm, affectionately called Sabah’s “Little New Zealand” thanks to its rolling pastures and grazing cows. The farm is a favorite for those who enjoy seeing how local dairy products are made, with free entrance and a chance to admire Mount Kinabalu peeking over the fields. Visitors often mention the breathtaking view of Mount Kinabalu, which makes the experience even more memorable. It’s a peaceful, scenic stop that provides both photo opportunities and a sense of rural life. The farm’s popularity is evident—it’s a hit with both locals and visitors.

Poring Hot Springs & The Canopy Walkway

The highlight for many is arriving at Poring Hot Springs, nestled within Kinabalu Park. The treetop canopy walk is a major draw—accessible via a 20-minute hike, this suspension bridge offers panoramic views of the forest below. According to reviews, this is a “must-try” for adventure seekers and nature fans, with the added thrill of being 30 meters above ground.

After the walk, you can choose to relax in the Japanese-style open-air hot springs, where sulphuric waters are believed to have medicinal properties. Many travelers mention how relaxing it is to soak in the warm waters after a morning of walking and sightseeing. Best of all, the hot springs are free to use, although the Japanese baths themselves are part of the experience.

Kinabalu Park – Malaysia’s First UNESCO Site

Your last major stop is Kinabalu Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Covering 754 square kilometers, it’s a botanical and ecological treasure. The park’s history is fascinating; it was established based on scientific research conducted during the early 1960s, and it’s home to Mount Kinabalu, one of Southeast Asia’s highest peaks. Though the tour only allocates about 45 minutes here, the views of Mount Kinabalu from the park are stunning and provide a perfect photo backdrop. You’ll get a taste of Sabah’s rich biodiversity and the importance placed on conservation.

End of the Day

The tour concludes with a return to your hotel, usually around 3:30 or 4 PM, providing a full day of diverse experiences packed into roughly 8 hours. The included lunch helps keep energy levels up, and the air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort during the long drive.

Practical Aspects & What to Expect

Transport is in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle, and the group size is capped at 15 participants, which allows for a more intimate experience. The tour includes pickup and drop-off—key for travelers staying in central Kota Kinabalu—and all entrance fees are covered, adding to the convenience.

The tour operates most days, but be aware of potential surcharges during peak or festive seasons—about 30% extra—and for pickups outside certain areas, like hotels beyond 1 km from the city center. The minimum booking is four travelers, so if you’re traveling solo or in a smaller group, it’s worth checking availability ahead.

What We Like

The mix of scenic stops and cultural insights makes this tour stand out. The treetop walk is genuinely fun and offers a unique perspective on Sabah’s lush forests. The convenience of hotel pickup means no stress about finding meeting points, and the price, roughly $125, offers good value given the inclusions and variety of experiences.

Considerations

It’s a long day, so travelers should be prepared for several hours on the road. The drive between stops might be tiring if you’re not used to long bus journeys. Also, the schedule is quite packed, so if you prefer a slow pace or more time at each site, this might feel rushed.

Final Thoughts

This tour strikes a good balance between natural beauty, cultural experience, and relaxation. It’s especially suited for active travelers who enjoy scenic drives and outdoor activities but also want the convenience of organized logistics. The stops feature some of Sabah’s top attractions, with the treetop walk and hot springs standing out as highlights praised by past travelers.

If you’re after a value-packed day with a variety of sights and don’t mind a long day in the vehicle, this trip is a smart choice. It offers an authentic glimpse into Sabah’s rural and natural landscape, with enough flexibility to choose between relaxing at the hot springs or getting a bit of adventure on the canopy walk.

For those eager to explore beyond the city and see some of Sabah’s iconic scenery, this tour presents a worthwhile, well-organized option.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included if your accommodation is within the specified area. Be sure to select your pickup point when booking.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 8 hours, starting around 7:15 AM and returning in the late afternoon.

What should I bring for this tour?
Comfortable walking shoes, a hat or cap, raincoat or warm jacket depending on the weather, personal toiletries, and a camera for capturing the views.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all entrance fees are included in the tour price, covering stops at Nabalu Market, Desa Dairy Farm, Poring Hot Springs, and Kinabalu Park.

Can I customize the itinerary?
The tour offers some flexibility—such as choosing to relax in the hot springs or hike the canopy walkway—but the schedule is generally fixed to maximize the experience.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but consider the long drive and walking involved. Elderly travelers should assess their comfort with walking and outdoor activity levels.

Final Words

This guided tour from Kota Kinabalu offers a well-rounded day exploring Sabah’s natural beauty and cultural highlights. It’s a great way to see some of the island’s most iconic sites without the hassle of planning each stop yourself. From breathtaking mountain views to relaxing hot springs, there’s plenty to enjoy—especially if you appreciate active outdoor experiences blended with restful moments.

While it’s a full day with a bit of travel, the variety of sights and the convenience of included transport make it a practical choice for travelers eager to make the most of their time in Sabah. If you’re after a mix of scenic landscapes, cultural touchpoints, and leisure, this tour is definitely worth considering.