Kota Kinabalu, the vibrant capital of Sabah, is a destination filled with natural beauty, cultural experiences, and thrilling adventures. Its surrounding areas like Tuaran, Tamparuli, Penampang, and Papar offer even more opportunities for exploration. Whether you’re a nature lover, culture enthusiast, or adventure seeker, here are the top 10 activities and places to visit in this region.
1. Visit Mari Mari Cultural Village
Activities: Experience Sabah’s ethnic cultures through interactive demonstrations, traditional food tasting, and cultural performances.
Best Time to Visit: Morning tours (9:00 AM – 12:00 PM) for cooler weather.
Location: Inanam, 25 minutes from Kota Kinabalu.
Details: Explore traditional houses of Sabah’s indigenous groups such as the Kadazan, Dusun, and Rungus tribes.
Cost: RM90 for locals, RM180 for foreign tourists.
Contact: +60 16-838 0870, www.marimariculturalvillage.com, @marimarivillage.
Booking: Book via their website or phone.
2. Tamparuli Suspension Bridge
Activities: Walk across this iconic bridge and learn its historical significance.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon for photography.
Location: Tamparuli Town, 40 minutes from Kota Kinabalu.
Details: A famous landmark tied to local folklore with picturesque views of Tamparuli town.
Cost: Free.
Contact: Local tourism office: +60 88-212 121.
Booking: No reservations required.
3. Kipandi Butterfly Park
Activities: Witness over 100 species of butterflies and enjoy the beautiful botanical garden.
Best Time to Visit: Morning (8:00 AM – 10:00 AM) when butterflies are active.
Location: Moyog, Penampang, 30 minutes from Kota Kinabalu.
Details: A sanctuary for rare butterflies, orchids, and pitcher plants unique to Sabah.
Cost: RM10 for locals, RM30 for foreign tourists.
Contact: +60 12-802 4696, www.kipandibutterfly.com
Booking: Tickets available at the entrance.
4. Sabah State Museum
Activities: Explore Sabah’s history, culture, and archaeology through exhibits and artifacts.
Best Time to Visit: Weekdays (10:00 AM – 12:00 PM) for a quieter experience.
Location: Kota Kinabalu city center.
Details: Features a heritage village, natural history exhibits, and local handicrafts.
Cost: RM2 for locals, RM15 for foreign tourists.
Contact: +60 88-253 199, www.museum.sabah.gov.my.
Booking: Tickets available onsite.
5. Lok Kawi Wildlife Park
Activities: View Bornean animals such as orangutans, pygmy elephants, and proboscis monkeys.
Best Time to Visit: Morning (9:00 AM – 11:00 AM) during animal feeding times.
Location: Lok Kawi, Papar, 30 minutes from Kota Kinabalu.
Details: A family-friendly park showcasing Sabah’s unique fauna.
Cost: RM10 for locals, RM20 for foreign tourists.
Contact: +60 88-765 793, www.lokkawiwildlifepark.com.
Booking: Tickets sold at the entrance.
6. Island Hopping at Tunku Abdul Rahman Park
Activities: Snorkeling, diving, and picnicking on pristine beaches.
Best Time to Visit: Dry season (February to August).
Location: Jesselton Point, Kota Kinabalu.
Details: Explore five islands: Manukan, Sapi, Gaya, Mamutik, and Sulug.
Cost: Boat transfer starts at RM40 for locals, RM60 for foreign tourists. Conservation fees: RM3 for locals, RM10 for foreign tourists.
Contact: +60 88-212 121, www.suterasanctuarylodges.com.
Booking: Book at Jesselton Point Jetty
7. Monsopiad Cultural Village
Activities: Learn about Kadazan-Dusun traditions and the legend of Monsopiad, the warrior.
Best Time to Visit: Morning guided tours (9:00 AM – 12:00 PM).
Location: Penampang, 25 minutes from Kota Kinabalu.
Details: A living museum preserving Kadazan-Dusun heritage.
Cost: RM50 for locals, RM85 for foreign tourists.
Contact: +60 88-774 337, www.monsopiad.com, @monsopiadvillage.
Booking: Book via their website.
8. Tuaran Crocodile Farm
Activities: Watch crocodile feeding shows and explore mini cultural exhibits.
Best Time to Visit: Feeding times (11:00 AM or 3:00 PM).
Location: Tuaran, 40 minutes from Kota Kinabalu.
Details: Home to over 1,000 crocodiles and a cultural village.
Cost: RM20 for locals, RM40 for foreign tourists.
Contact: +60 88-788 808, www.crocodilefarmtuaran.com.
Booking: Tickets available onsite.
9. Paragliding at Kokol Hill
Activities: Glide over lush greenery and enjoy panoramic views of Kota Kinabalu and the South China Sea.
Best Time to Visit: Morning (9:00 AM – 11:00 AM) for clear skies.
Location: Menggatal, Kota Kinabalu, 30 minutes from the city.
Details: A thrilling activity for adrenaline junkies.
Cost: RM200 for a tandem flight (local and foreign rates are the same).
Contact: +60 14-688 0012, www.kokolparagliding.com.
Booking: Book via phone or website.
10. Rasa Ria Reserve by Shangri-La
Activities: Jungle trekking, birdwatching, and exploring a private nature reserve.
Best Time to Visit: Morning or evening guided tours.
Location: Tuaran, 40 minutes from Kota Kinabalu.
Details: A conservation-focused experience in a luxurious setting.
Cost: RM65 for locals, RM100 for foreign tourists.
Contact: +60 88-792 888, www.shangri-la.com.
Booking: Book via their website or hotel concierge.
Conclusion
If you enjoyed this article, don’t forget to comment below, like, and share it on your social media to inspire others to explore Kota Kinabalu and beyond. Let’s spread the word about Sabah’s incredible destinations!
Disclaimer:
By booking through Agoda using the links on our blog, or the below search box, you not only get great deals but also support this website. As part of an affiliate program, we earn a small commission at no extra cost to you, helping us cover operational costs and maintain this platform for your benefit. Thank you for choosing to support us through your bookings!
Q&A
The best time to visit is during the dry season, typically from February to August, for clearer skies and better outdoor experiences.
Absolutely! Places like Lok Kawi Wildlife Park, Kipandi Butterfly Park, and Mari Mari Cultural Village are family-friendly and educational for all ages.
Most attractions provide online booking through their official websites or allow walk-in purchases. Contact details and booking links are included for your convenience.
Yes, you can use ride-hailing apps like Grab, or join guided tours that include transportation to major attractions. For nearby islands, boats can be chartered at Jesselton Point.
Don’t miss Sabah specialties like seafood dishes, Tuaran Mee, Hinava (fermented fish salad), and Kuih Cincin.
Sabah is rich in cultural diversity. Respect local customs by dressing modestly in rural areas and asking for permission before taking photos of locals or cultural landmarks.
