Kundasang : Poring Hot Spring + Desa & Meal Shared Tour

If you’re planning a day trip from Kota Kinabalu to Sabah’s lush highlands, the Kundasang: Poring Hot Spring + Desa & Meal Shared Tour offers an engaging mix of natural beauty, local culture, and fun activities. While we haven’t taken this tour ourselves, we’ve analyzed its highlights, reviews, and itinerary to give you a clear picture of what to expect.

Two things we particularly like about this experience are the chance to relax in natural hot springs—a perfect way to unwind—and the opportunity to enjoy authentic Sabahian products at Desa Dairy Farm. The tour’s comprehensive nature means you’ll see several key sights packed into a single day.

A potential consideration is the physical demand of activities like the canopy walk, which might be challenging for some travelers. Still, it’s well-suited for those eager to explore Sabah’s natural and cultural treasures in one go.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation without the hassle of organizing multiple visits on their own. It suits those with a reasonable level of mobility and curiosity about local life and landscapes. If your goal is to enjoy picturesque views, learn about local crafts, and soak in warm springs, this tour should fit the bill.

Key Points

• All-in-One Experience: Combines cultural, natural, and culinary sights in a single day.
• Authentic Local Markets: Nabalu Handicraft Market offers vibrant local products and crafts.
• Relaxing Hot Springs: Poring Hot Springs provide a soothing natural bath amid jungle surroundings.
• Adventure & Views: The canopy walk offers a unique perspective of Sabah’s forest canopy.
• Farm Visit & Tasting: Desa Dairy Farm, dubbed ‘Little New Zealand,’ serves fresh dairy delights.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with insights and friendly service.

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The Itinerary Breakdown: What You Can Expect

Starting early with hotel pickup, the tour sets a brisk but manageable pace. You’ll head north from Kota Kinabalu, enjoying a scenic 2.5-hour drive through Sabah’s green landscape. The first stop is Pekan Nabalu, a lively market where local artisans sell handmade crafts, souvenirs, and snacks. Here, you’ll get a feel for the local vibe and may want to pick up some keepsakes or try fresh fruits.

Next, you’ll visit Desa Dairy Farm, often called ‘Little New Zealand’ for its rolling pastures and dairy farms. We loved the idea of tasting fresh, on-site dairy products—from creamy ice cream to rich yogurt and fresh milk—making it a tasty and authentic experience. According to reviews, this is a highlight, with visitors appreciating the chance to see how dairy is produced in a tropical climate and to sample delicious farm-fresh treats.

Following the farm visit, you’ll head to Poring Hot Springs, a natural thermal spot renowned for its mineral-rich waters. The pools are set in a serene rainforest environment, perfect for soaking away travel fatigue. Many travelers enjoy the calming warmth and the chance to unwind in nature. After some leisure time, you’ll get to explore the canopy walk, a suspended bridge among the treetops offering sweeping views of the jungle canopy. Our reviewers noted that the walk is enjoyable but might require a bit of physical fitness—“you really need to have a certain physical fitness,” as one traveler pointed out.

Post-lunch, the tour includes a photo stop at Kinabalu Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. While it’s a quick visit, it provides an excellent chance to snap photos of Malaysia’s highest mountain and lush surroundings. The day wraps up with a scenic drive back to Kota Kinabalu, with the option to reflect on a full day of natural beauty, local flavor, and cultural insights.

The Highlights in Detail

Nabalu Handicraft Market

This market embodies Sabah’s vibrant local culture. You’ll find handmade textiles, wooden carvings, jewelry, and souvenirs that reflect indigenous artistry. It’s a lively spot where you can browse at your leisure and perhaps pick up a unique gift. Visitors have praised guides for sharing stories about the crafts and local traditions, adding depth to the shopping experience.

Desa Dairy Farm

Dubbed ‘Little New Zealand,’ this farm is a delightful surprise in Sabah’s highlands. It’s not just a picturesque pasture—it’s also a working dairy farm where you can see cows grazing and learn about dairy production. The fresh dairy products are a major draw, especially the ice cream, which reviews frequently mention as “creamy” and “delicious.” Visitors appreciate the chance to sample products made right there, making it more than just a photo stop.

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Poring Hot Springs & Forest Walks

The thermal waters are known for their skin-healing properties and relaxing warmth. Surrounded by rainforest, it’s a peaceful setting. After soaking or simply strolling by the pools, you can tackle the canopy walk, which provides panoramic views of Sabah’s rainforest. While some reviews note that the walk requires a good level of fitness, others found it an enjoyable adventure, especially with a friendly guide explaining the flora and fauna.

Scenic Photo Stops

A quick visit to Kinabalu Park offers breathtaking scenery and photo opportunities of Malaysia’s highest mountain, Mount Kinabalu. The park’s lush landscape and mountain views are undoubtedly picture-perfect and are a fitting way to cap your day.

Transport, Timing, and Practicalities

The tour is designed for convenience, with hotel pickup and drop-off included, eliminating the hassle of arranging transport yourself. The entire day involves a round trip of approximately 5-6 hours of travel, so expect some time on the road but with plenty of interesting stops along the way.

The tour operates with a small group size, which enhances the experience—more personalized insights from guides and less crowding at each site. The driver and guide speak both English and Chinese, accommodating a broad range of travelers.

The price of $91 per person might seem steep for a day trip, but it covers all entrance fees, lunch, transport, and the guide, offering good value considering the number of attractions and activities included. Reviewers note that the tour’s itinerary is packed, making it an efficient way to see significant sights without the stress of planning.

What to Bring

Comfortable shoes are a must, especially for walking on uneven terrain or the canopy walk. An umbrella or rain gear is advisable, as Sabah’s weather can be unpredictable. A waterproof bag, personal medications, and a jacket will ensure you’re prepared for the rainforest environment.

Limitations & Considerations

• The tour isn’t suitable for people with heart problems, fear of heights, altitude sickness, or high blood pressure.
• Large luggage or big bags are not allowed on the tour.
• Be prepared for a full day of sightseeing, so pace yourself accordingly.

Authentic Experiences & Guide Insights

One of the tour’s biggest strengths is the guides, who are praised in reviews for their knowledge and friendliness. “Our guide Raus was great, knowledgeable, and very nice,” said one traveler. Having someone to explain local customs, the significance of the sites, and point out hidden details makes the tour more meaningful.

Travelers also appreciated the stunning views and the chance to see Sabah’s forests, farms, and markets firsthand. The canopy walk in particular drew enthusiastic feedback, with some mentioning it as “fun,” though noting it’s more suitable for those comfortable with heights.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This full-day adventure suits travelers who want a convenient overview of Sabah’s highlands and cultural highlights. It’s perfect for those who appreciate nature, local crafts, and good food in one trip. The mix of relaxing thermal springs and active treetop walks offers a balanced experience, although the physical aspects might not appeal to everyone.

The tour’s value lies in its inclusiveness—entrance fees, lunch, transport, and a knowledgeable guide are bundled into a reasonable price. You’ll leave with photos, souvenirs, and a deeper understanding of Sabah’s landscape and community.

It’s especially suited for solo travelers, couples, or small groups who like to keep a packed itinerary and want someone else to handle the logistics. If you love stunning views, learning about local products, and exploring in comfort, this tour is a solid choice.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off at your hotel in Kota Kinabalu. Outskirt hotels may incur an extra surcharge.

How long is the drive from Kota Kinabalu?
The drive to Kundasang takes approximately 2.5 hours each way, offering scenic views along the way.

What are the main activities?
Visiting Nabalu Market, Desa Dairy Farm, soaking in Poring Hot Springs, walking the canopy walk, and a quick stop at Kinabalu Park.

Is lunch provided?
Yes, a meal is included and typically features local dishes at a restaurant near Poring Hot Springs.

Can I participate if I don’t like heights?
The canopy walk involves heights, so it might not be suitable for people afraid of heights. Always assess your comfort level.

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

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the activities are generally suitable for children with good mobility, but caution is advised for the canopy walk.

How much free time is there at each stop?
You’ll have around 30 minutes at Nabalu Market, an hour at Desa Dairy Farm, and about 1.5 hours at Poring Hot Springs.

How many people are in the group?
The group size is small, enhancing the personalized experience, but exact numbers can vary.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in your travel plans.

This Kundasang tour offers a well-rounded taste of Sabah’s natural beauty and local culture, wrapped into a single, easy-to-book package. Whether you’re soaking in hot springs, tasting fresh dairy, or walking among the treetops, you’ll come away with vivid memories and plenty of stories to tell.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby