Kota Kinabalu: Private Kundasang and Poring Hot Spring Tour

This private day trip from Kota Kinabalu to Kundasang, Kinabalu Park, and Poring Hot Springs costs around $118 per person and offers an intimate exploration of Sabah’s lush landscapes. Guided by a knowledgeable local, you’ll enjoy a mix of natural wonders, cultural encounters, and relaxing hot springs, all within a comfortably paced day. The tour includes pick-up and drop-off at your hotel, making it a hassle-free way to see some of Sabah’s most treasured sights.

What we love about this experience is the chance to visit Sabah’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site, explore the botanical gardens, and soak in natural thermal waters — all with your own guide who can tailor the day to your interests. Plus, the visits to the bustling Nabalu Handicraft Market add a cultural touch and a chance to pick up unique souvenirs. However, travelers should be aware of the lengthy drives involved, which some reviewers found to eat into the time for actual activities.

This tour is best suited for those who appreciate scenic drives and want a personalized, guided experience rather than big-group bus tours. If you’re eager to explore Sabah’s pristine nature at your own pace and enjoy some leisure time in natural thermal springs, this trip offers a lot of value. However, if you’re sensitive to long hours in the car or prefer a more tightly scheduled experience, you might find some parts less satisfying.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Private, personalized experience with a focus on natural scenery and local culture.
Visit Sabah’s UNESCO Heritage Site, Kinabalu Park, with opportunities for walking and photography.
Relax in Poring Hot Springs, a perfect way to unwind after the drive.
Cultural shopping at Nabalu Market, with local handicrafts and souvenirs.
Long drives are a feature — plan for some hours on the road.
Guides can vary; some reviews mention more of a driver than guide, which might affect your experience.

Prefer personalized experiences? Here are other private options we've covered in Kota Kinabalu

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point: Hotel Pickup and Transportation

The tour begins with a convenient pickup from your hotel in Kota Kinabalu. The private nature of this trip means you won’t be sharing with strangers, which is a plus for those who value flexibility and a relaxed pace. The transportation is roundtrip, ensuring you don’t have to worry about logistics, but be prepared for a fair amount of driving, as the destinations are spread out.

The Drive to Kundasang and Nabalu Market

The journey from Kota Kinabalu to Kundasang takes approximately 2 hours, giving you a chance to enjoy Sabah’s scenic countryside. The roads wind through verdant hills and terraced farmland — an inviting glimpse into the local life and landscape. Once in Kundasang, your first stop is the Nabalu Handicraft Market. Here, you’ll find a lively assortment of handmade crafts, local products, and souvenirs, making it a great spot to stretch your legs and pick up a memento of Sabah.

One reviewer, Michela, shared her disappointment, pointing out that “the ratio between driving and actual activities felt excessive,” with long hours in the car and limited stops. She also mentioned the guide was more of a driver and drove recklessly, which made the long journey less enjoyable. Keep in mind that some parts of this trip can feel rushed if you’re hoping for a deeper experience at each stop.

More Great Tours Nearby

Kinabalu Park and Botanical Gardens

Next, the tour takes you to Kinabalu Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its incredible biodiversity. The botanical garden is a highlight, showcasing a wide variety of plant species, with many visitors describing it as “a feast for the eyes.” You’ll get to walk on Silau-Silau trails, which provide stunning views and photo opportunities.

We loved the way the guided walk gave insight into Sabah’s flora, but some reviews mention inconsistencies. For example, Elena shared how she enjoyed the hanging bridges and the chance to see gibbons, adding a sense of adventure to the walk. Conversely, Aleksandra’s review points out that the guide got lost and led her in circles, emphasizing the importance of clear guidance.

While in Kota Kinabalu, here are other experiences we've covered

Poring Hot Springs: Relax and Rejuvenate

After exploring the park, the trip heads to the Poring Hot Springs, famous for their natural mineral waters. Soaking in these thermal waters is a highlight for many travelers, offering a relaxing break amid the green surroundings. Entry to the hot springs is included; however, the bath tub costs an additional RM 10 for the first 3 hours.

One reviewer, Dennis, praised the tour for excellent organization and the guide’s local food knowledge, which added authenticity to the experience. The hot springs offer a soothing finish, but do note that the hot spring baths are not included in the base price and are optional extras.

Final Thoughts and Considerations

While the natural scenery across the tour is undeniably beautiful, some travelers feel the long drives and limited stop times diminish the overall experience. Michela noted that while the landscapes are stunning, “the experience itself felt rushed and not very engaging.” If your priority is maximizing time in natural spots rather than on the road, this might be a point to consider.

Another aspect to keep in mind is the variability of guides. While some, like Alvin, receive glowing reviews for their local knowledge, others have reported guides who are less informative or even somewhat reckless. It’s worth asking about the guide’s experience or being prepared for a more driver-focused experience.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

Bring essentials: Passport or ID, umbrella, rain gear, jacket, and sturdy shoes are recommended, especially since the trails can be slippery.
Expect a full day: The total duration is long, and the guide will inform you about the drive time so you can plan your expectations accordingly.
Prepare for the weather: Sabah’s weather can be unpredictable; rain or shine, the tour goes on.
Consider your comfort: If you are prone to motion sickness or long car rides, bring necessary medication.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal for nature lovers who want a personalized experience, with a focus on scenic drives, botanical beauty, and hot springs. It’s perfect for those who enjoy flexibility and cultural shopping, thanks to the market stop. However, if you prefer a faster-paced tour with less time in transit, or are sensitive to long hours on the road, you might find this trip a little sluggish or tiring.

It’s also a good option for travelers who want to explore Sabah’s biodiversity and enjoy a relaxing soak in natural thermal waters, coupled with a guide who can provide some local insights — but be mindful of the variability in guide quality.

Final Words

For a personalized day out of Kota Kinabalu, this private tour offers a nice balance of scenic beauty, cultural stops, and relaxation. The inclusion of Kinabalu Park’s botanical gardens and Poring Hot Springs makes it a well-rounded experience, particularly suited for those who prefer to travel at their own pace and enjoy intimate guided visits.

While some reviews point out issues like long drives and inconsistent guide quality, many travelers leave satisfied thanks to stunning views, delicious local food, and the chance to explore Sabah’s natural treasures. If those elements match your travel style, this tour is worth considering. Just pack your patience, a sense of adventure, and a love for nature — Sabah’s landscapes won’t disappoint.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off at your hotel in Kota Kinabalu, making it convenient and hassle-free.

What is the price of the tour?
It costs around $118 per person, which includes transportation, a private guide, and all entry tickets.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, the Poring Hot Spring bath tub costs RM 10 for the first three hours, and meals are not included in the price.

How long is the drive?
Expect approximately 2 hours each way from Kota Kinabalu to Kundasang, with some additional driving between stops.

Can I customize this tour?
This is a private tour, so in theory, your guide may tailor the experience slightly, but the itinerary is fairly fixed.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the nature-focused activities and walking trails might be suitable for children, provided they are comfortable with long drives and outdoor walking.

What should I pack?
Bring essentials like a passport or ID, rain gear, an umbrella, sturdy shoes, and personal medications. The trails can be slippery, so caution is advised.

Is the tour available rain or shine?
Yes, the tour runs rain or shine — Sabah’s weather can be unpredictable, so come prepared.

Are guides fluent in English and Chinese?
Yes, guides are available in both languages, making communication easier for diverse travelers.

What is the level of guide expertise?
Reviews vary; some travelers report excellent guides, while others mention that the guide was more of a driver. Clarifying guide experience beforehand might help set expectations.

Exploring Sabah’s natural beauty in a relaxed, guided setting offers a fantastic way to see some of Malaysia’s most treasured landscapes. While not perfect, this tour balances scenic drives with engaging stops — ideal if you’re looking for a personal experience and don’t mind some long hours in the car.