Kundasang: Day Tour with Desa Dairy Farm and Alpaca Club

Traveling through Sabah, Malaysia, we found a surprisingly full 12-hour adventure that takes in some of the most charming sights around Kundasang. For $108 per person, this private tour offers a well-rounded peek into the area’s natural beauty, cultural landmarks, and farm life. Led by friendly guides who speak both Malay and English, the experience is designed to give you a taste of “Little New Zealand,” thanks to the lush scenery and mountain vistas.

What we really appreciate about this tour is its balance—you’re not just staring at pretty views but actively engaging with local life through visits to farms and markets. Plus, the fact that all entrance fees, taxes, and services are included means no surprise costs cropping up during the day. On the flip side, this is a long day, so if you’re not used to early starts or long drives, it’s worth considering your stamina.

This tour suits travelers eager for an authentic, comprehensive snapshot of Kundasang in a single day—families, solo travelers, or those with limited time who want a bit of everything. If scenic views and farm animals are your thing, this could be just the right fit.

Key Points

Diverse Experiences: Combines quirky attractions like the Rumah Terbalik with scenic viewpoints of Mount Kinabalu.
Farm Encounters: Offers genuine farm visits, including Desa Dairy Farm and Alpaca Club, perfect for animal lovers.
Cultural Highlights: Includes a visit to the Sabah City Mosque, adding cultural depth.
All-Inclusive Price: Entrance fees, taxes, and guide are covered, making it straightforward.
Flexible & Private: Private group setting ensures personalized attention and flexibility.
Weather Preparedness is Key: Be ready for possible weather changes—bring a jacket, hat, and camera.

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Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

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Rumah Terbalik: The Quirky Icon

Our adventure begins with a visit to the Rumah Terbalik—a house built upside down, designed to give visitors a playful perspective on traditional architecture. It’s an Instagram favorite for a reason, but it’s more than just a photo op. The guided tour (about 1.5 hours) provides insight into local creativity and humor, making it a fun start to the day. One reviewer mentioned, “It’s a fun place that catches your eye immediately,” emphasizing its appeal to families and photo lovers alike.

Mt Kinabalu Viewing Platform: A Breathtaking Stop

Next, we stop at a scenic viewpoint offering spectacular views of Mount Kinabalu, the third-highest peak on an island and the 20th most prominent mountain in the world. This photo stop (roughly an hour) provides ample opportunity to admire the mountain’s grandeur and take those postcard-worthy shots. We loved how the guide pointed out features of the mountain and explained its significance, making the views even more meaningful.

Pekan Kundasang: Local Markets and Panoramas

A quick break at Pekan Kundasang allows us to stretch, grab a snack, and browse local markets. This town is lively, with stalls selling fresh produce and souvenirs. It’s a good chance to experience local life and pick up unique keepsakes. The vibrancy here contrasts nicely with the mountain serenity, offering a well-rounded snapshot of the area.

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Desa Dairy Farm: Authentic Farm Experience

One of the tour’s highlights is the Desa Dairy Farm, where you witness how milk is produced and get up close with the farm’s cows. We appreciated the opportunity to walk around, see the farm in action, and enjoy the scenic surroundings. Multiple reviews praise this stop for its authenticity—“You get a real taste of farm life,” commented a visitor. It’s especially great for families or animal enthusiasts. The farm isn’t just a photo stop but a chance to understand local dairy farming practices.

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Alpaca Club: Lovable Encounters

Next, we head to the Alpaca Club, an adorable spot where you can meet and feed these gentle, fluffy creatures. The 1-hour visit offers some interactive fun, and the alpacas’ curious faces are irresistible. One traveler noted, “It’s wonderful to get so close to these adorable animals,” which sums up the charm. It’s a peaceful break amid the day’s busier sightseeing spots.

Sabah City Mosque: Architectural Beauty

Finally, we visit the Sabah City Mosque, a stunning structure that showcases intricate architecture and peaceful surroundings. It’s a brief stop (around 30 minutes) but adds a quiet, cultural note to the day. The attention to detail in the mosque’s design is striking, making it worth a quick visit for those interested in local religious architecture.

Return to Kota Kinabalu

After a full day, we are driven back to our hotel in Kota Kinabalu, tired but satisfied. The private transportation ensures a smooth ride back, with plenty of time to reflect on the day’s highlights.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Value for Money: At $108, this tour includes all entrance fees, taxes, and a dedicated guide, which means fewer surprises and a more relaxed experience. The private group setting allows for personalized attention and flexibility not typical of larger tours.

Diverse Attractions: The mix of quirky attractions, scenic vistas, and farm visits means you’re not just ticking boxes but truly experiencing different facets of Kundasang. From fun photo spots to meaningful farm encounters, there’s a good balance here.

Authentic Experiences: Visiting real farms and local markets offers a genuine look at Sabah’s rural life. The farm visits aren’t just staged; you’re actively engaging with animals and local producers.

Breathtaking Scenery: The views of Mount Kinabalu alone are worth the trip. The tour’s layout ensures you get time to savor these vistas without feeling rushed.

Considerations for Travelers

While this tour offers a lot, keep in mind it’s quite full, and you’ll be on the move almost constantly. If you’re not keen on early mornings or long drives, it’s worth preparing physically for a full day. Also, weather in the mountains can change quickly—bring a jacket, hat, and camera to capture the moment. The tour is not suitable for those over 95 years old, so check personal mobility needs beforehand.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This is an ideal choice for travelers with a limited schedule who want a comprehensive taste of Kundasang’s highlights. Families will love the farm visits and fun photo spots, while those curious about Malaysian culture and nature will appreciate the mix of scenic views and cultural sites. It’s especially perfect for animal lovers, as you’ll get close to farm animals and alpacas alike.

Final Thoughts

This Kundasang day tour offers a well-rounded, engaging experience at a fair price point, especially considering all inclusions. It’s a great way to add some rural charm and mountain majesty to your Sabah trip without the hassle of planning multiple stops. You’ll leave with plenty of photos, new farm friends, and a sense of connection to this beautiful part of Malaysia.

For travelers who enjoy a mix of quirky sights, scenic vistas, and farm life, this tour hits the spot. It’s best suited for those wanting an authentic, fun, and hassle-free day—especially if you’re short on time but keen to see what makes Kundasang special.

FAQ

What is included in the price?
All entrance fees, taxes, and services charges are covered. The tour includes private transportation and guides who speak both Malay and English.

How long is the tour?
It lasts roughly 12 hours, starting from and returning to Kota Kinabalu, with multiple stops along the way.

Is lunch provided?
No, lunch is not included. There is a designated break time at Pekan Kundasang where you can buy food and snacks.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a hat, a camera, a jacket, and cash for personal expenses or souvenirs.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s suitable for families, especially those interested in farms and animals, but check personal mobility needs as it involves some walking and standing.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you peace of mind if your plans change.

Are the guides bilingual?
Yes, guides speak both English and Malay, ensuring clear communication throughout the day.

Do I need to reserve ahead of time?
Yes, reservations are recommended, and you can book now and pay later—allowing flexibility in your travel planning.

To sum it up, this tour offers a balanced, authentic experience of Kundasang’s scenic beauty, farm life, and cultural highlights—all packed into a single day for a fair price. Whether you’re a nature lover, animal enthusiast, or just seeking a memorable escape from city life, it’s worth considering. Just be prepared for a busy but rewarding adventure—beautiful views and charming encounters await.