5 Best Things to Do in Kota Kinabalu
What is Kota Kinabalu Most Famous For?
Discover the best things to do in Kota Kinabalu, a city on the island of Borneo that is full of natural wonders and rich cultural heritage. From lush forests to undersea adventures and historical treasures, the attractions in this coastal city are sure to carve unforgettable memories into your travel diary.
In this article, we’ve rounded up the most extraordinary and unforgettable experiences that Kota Kinabalu has to offer. Read on to discover the must-visit spots, exhilarating adventures and unique experiences that will make your visit extraordinary.
What are the best things to do in Kota Kinabalu?
1. Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park
Five islands, one paradise
Ideal para: Foto, Aventura
Plunge into the underwater marvels of Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, a breathtaking paradise composed of 5 enchanting islands and their surrounding reefs. Just a 20-minute boat ride from Kota Kinabalu’s coast, the park is an ideal day trip destination with its host of activities ranging from thrilling water sports to serene beachside picnics.
Apart from Sulug Island, all the islands are accessible to the public. Each island, with its turquoise waters brimming with colourful marine life and pristine white sand beaches, offers an unforgettable journey into nature’s wonders. For hiking enthusiasts, Gaya Island and Sapi Island offer enticing nature trails. For an adrenaline rush, ride the Coral Flyer zipline stretching from Gaya to Sapi Island.
Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park
2. Kinabalu National Park and Mt. Kinabalu
Boasting rich biodiversity
Ideal para: Foto, Aventura
Embrace the call of the wild at Kinabalu National Park, one of Kota Kinabalu’s most treasured attractions, just a 2-hour drive from the city. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a haven of biodiversity and home to more than 4,500 species of flora and fauna.
Towering over the landscape is the majestic Mt. Kinabalu, which holds the title of the tallest mountain in Borneo, a paradise for avid mountaineers. From adrenaline-fuelled mountain climbing adventures to the exhilarating treetop canopy walks offering an aerial view of the rich ecosystem and wildlife, there’s an experience for everyone. If you’re seeking a slower pace, take a tranquil stroll through the park’s trails to admire equally stunning vistas.
Localização: Kinabalu Park, 89300 Kundasang, Sabah, Malaysia
Abre: Daily from 8 am to 5 pm
Telefone: +60 (0)88-523 500
Kinabalu National Park and Mt. Kinabalu
3. Mari Mari Cultural Village
Dive into the rich cultural heritage of the region
Ideal para: História, Foto, Viagens alternativas
The Mari Mari Cultural Village welcomes you on a journey to discover the captivating traditions and customs of the area. In the village you get to step back in time and experience firsthand how the 5 main ethnic tribes in northeast Borneo used to live. Witness their way of life and traditions as you explore the houses, each representing a different indigenous tribe and built by the descendants of the tribe it represents.
To truly immerse yourself in the cultural experience, visit the numerous demonstration huts. Witness the intricate process of crafting a traditional blowpipe or starting a fire using bamboo or learn about tattoo-making or rice wine making.
Localização: Jalan Kionsom, Inanam, 88450 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
Abre: Two shows daily from 10 am to 1pm and from 2 pm to 5 pm
Telefone: +60 (0)13-8814 921
Mari Mari Cultural Village
4. Sabah Museum
Showcasing Sabah’s heritage
Ideal para: História, Casais, Famílias
The Sabah Museum is a captivating cultural treasure that serves to preserve the state’s history and heritage. Explore its exhibits and embark on a vibrant journey into the rich history and diverse culture of the people of Sabah.
The Sabah Museum is much more than just a history lesson though; it’s a huge complex, surrounded by lush gardens. Here you’ll find the Heritage Village that allows visitors to see several meticulously reconstructed traditional Sabah houses, while the Ethnobotanical Garden bursts with a diverse array of indigenous plant species. So, grab your camera and check out all the stunning indoor and outdoor exhibits in this fabulous museum.
Localização: sabah museum complex, Jalan Muzium, 88300 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
Abre: Daily from 9 am to 5 pm
Telefone: +60 (0)88-225 033
Sabah Museum
5. Signal Hill Observatory
Panoramic views of the city
Ideal para: Foto, Econômico
The Signal Hill Observatory offers a feast for the eyes. Only a 1.7 km walk from the city center, it offers unobstructed views of the sprawling city, its coastline and the majestic Mt. Kinabalu in the distance.
Accessible via wooden steps, the ascent is an invigorating 15-minute climb that rewards you with an unparalleled panorama. You can also get to the observatory by car from the Jalan Bukit Bendera road, but parking may be a challenge during peak hours. Whichever way you choose, the stunning views from the top are worth the effort. As day turns to dusk, the observatory offers the most popular front-row seats for witnessing Kota Kinabalu’s breathtaking sunsets.
Localização: 78, Jalan Asrama, signal hills, 88400 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
Abre: Daily from 8 am to midnight
Signal Hill Observatory
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