15 Must-Try Tours In Sabah

Sabah is a treasure chest for travelers seeking diverse experiences: crystal-clear waters, vibrant marine life, lush wetlands, and rich cultural traditions. What sets Sabah apart is its unique combination of natural beauty and authentic local encounters. Whether you’re snorkeling over coral gardens, spotting proboscis monkeys in the wild, or exploring indigenous villages, there’s plenty to explore here. We particularly love the Full-Day Guided Snorkeling Tour from Kota Kinabalu for its stunning reefs and helpful guides. This diversity of options makes Sabah an ideal destination for adventure, relaxation, or cultural discovery.

Here’s a quick overview: the list below covers a wide range of tours, including snorkeling trips, cultural village visits, wildlife safaris, water sports, and even luxury golf outings. Each offers a different way to experience Sabah’s natural and cultural richness. Now, let’s explore the best tours in Sabah, one by one.

1. Full-Day Guided Snorkeling Tour from Kota Kinabalu

At number one, this full-day snorkeling tour takes you to the colorful reefs of Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park. The tour includes sailing by catamaran and exploring multiple islands, where you’ll see a host of vibrant reef fish and coral gardens. The guides are praised for their helpfulness in pointing out marine life, making the experience enjoyable for beginner and advanced snorkelers alike. The highlight is relaxing on sandy beaches and enjoying a delicious a la carte lunch at a tropical island café, creating a perfect balance of activity and downtime. With a 4.5-star rating based on 62 reviews, many travelers find this tour excellent value at $66 per person. The water clarity and variety of marine species often leave visitors astounded.

Bottom Line: An ideal choice if you want an accessible, all-in-one snorkeling adventure with great guides and scenic island stops, perfect for families or anyone eager to explore Sabah’s marine wonders.

2. Bongawan Wetland: Proboscis Monkey and Fireflies Shared Tour

This river cruise offers a peaceful evening in Bongawan Wetland, where you might spot Sabah’s unique proboscis monkeys—endemic to Borneo—and witness the enchanting glow of fireflies. The tour is known for its intimate setting, allowing close encounters with wildlife. As you cruise along the river, the guide shares insights into the wetland’s ecosystem and the importance of conservation. The highlight, for many, is the chance to see these rare primates in their natural habitat and enjoy the magical firefly displays at sunset. With a 4.2-star rating from 132 reviews, this tour offers excellent value at $54 per person. It’s suited for nature lovers who appreciate tranquility and wildlife.

Bottom Line: Perfect for an evening wildlife experience, especially if you’re interested in seeing the proboscis monkey and fireflies in an authentic setting.

3. Kota Kinabalu: Mari Mari Village & Bongawan Cruise Package

Combining culture with wildlife viewing, this full-day package is a well-rounded introduction to Borneo’s indigenous traditions and rainforest inhabitants. The tour includes a cruise along Bongawan River to see proboscis monkeys and fireflies, followed by a visit to the Mari Mari Cultural Village. Here, you’ll experience hands-on activities with five different indigenous tribes, explore traditional longhouses, and enjoy local meals. This tour scores a perfect 5-star from six reviews, highlighting its rich cultural content and seamless organization. It’s priced at $116, making it a great value considering the variety of experiences packed into one day.

Bottom Line: An excellent option for travelers wanting a mix of wildlife and cultural activities, ideal for those with a full day to explore Sabah’s heritage and nature.

4. Flavours of Sabah: A Cooking Class

For those interested in Sabah’s culinary traditions, this interactive cooking class offers a taste of local flavors. Hosted in Kampung Kibabaig by Didie, the owner of D’Joy & Jacob’s Cafe, you’ll learn to prepare dishes like Hinava and Linopot with fresh local ingredients. The experience lasts around 2.5 to 3 hours and includes pickup and drop-off within Kota Kinabalu and Penampang. The reviews are glowing, with a 5-star rating for its authentic, friendly atmosphere and the chance to take home new recipes. The cost is $64 per person, which is a small investment for a rich cultural and culinary education.

Bottom Line: Perfect for food lovers who want a hands-on, authentic Sabah cooking experience, and those eager to bring a taste of Borneo back home.

5. Sabah: Koisaan Cultural Village

This cultural tour immerses visitors in Borneo’s indigenous heritage through visits to authentic longhouses and lively performances. At Koisaan Cultural Village, you’ll explore 11 different ethnic houses and enjoy traditional music and dance. The tour is designed to give a deep dive into Sabah’s diverse cultures, making it ideal for curious travelers interested in local traditions. With a 5-star rating from 2 reviews, visitors appreciate the engaging activities and friendly hosts. The cost is only $14, making it a budget-friendly cultural highlight.

Bottom Line: A cost-effective way to gain insight into Sabah’s diverse ethnic groups with interactive performances and traditional architecture.

6. Sabah: Mantanani Island Day Tour with Lunch

This day trip takes you to the stunning Mantanani Islands, renowned for their crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and vibrant marine life. The tour includes exploring the islands, snorkeling, and enjoying a local lunch. Many travelers love the opportunity to relax on unspoiled beaches and snorkel among coral reefs. Priced at $96 per person, the tour is a good value for those seeking a full day of island-hopping combined with scenic boat rides and water activities like snorkeling and swimming. It’s perfect for beach lovers and those looking for a serene escape.

Bottom Line: An excellent choice for a relaxing day at Sabah’s beautiful islands, especially if you want time to snorkel and enjoy quiet beaches.

7. Kota Kinabalu: Kiulu White Water Rafting with Lunch

For adventure seekers, this white water rafting experience on the Kiulu River is a great pick. Suitable for beginners and families, the tour offers 1.5 hours of gentle rapids amid lush rainforest scenery. The tour includes safety briefing, professional guides, and a hearty local lunch afterward. With a modest cost of $62 per person and a 5-star review from one traveler, it’s a fun, accessible way to add some adrenaline to your Sabah itinerary. The scenic river views and relaxed pace make it suitable for most fitness levels.

Bottom Line: Ideal for families or first-timers wanting an exciting but manageable white water experience with local flavor.

8. Private Arrival Transfer : Kota Kinabalu International Airport

Start your trip smoothly with this private airport transfer. The service ensures you avoid the hassle of public transport or taxis, with a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle ready to take you directly to your accommodation. Priced at about $26.11 per person, this is a practical choice for first-time visitors or travelers with early or late flights. Many reviews emphasize the professionalism and convenience of this service.

Bottom Line: A no-stress way to begin your Sabah adventure with reliable, private transportation from the airport to your hotel.

9. Sabah: Dreamer Island Snorkeling Day Tour Ticket

This full-day snorkeling tour to Dreamer Island offers a chance to explore pristine waters filled with lively fish and colorful coral gardens. The tour includes a bus transfer, guided tours, and activities like snorkeling, swimming, and even jet skiing and parasailing. Guests generally love the natural beauty and the variety of water sports available, with some noting excellent water clarity and marine diversity. The price is $55 per person, making it a worthwhile day for both relaxing and active beach fun.

Bottom Line: Ideal for families and adventure lovers eager to snorkel, jet ski, and soak up Sabah’s coastal beauty in a single day.

10. Sabah : Mamutik & Sapi Island Excursion Ticket

This excursion combines visits to two popular islands, Mamutik and Sapi, known for their white beaches and excellent snorkeling. The tour includes a boat ride, guided activities like swimming and snorkeling, and the opportunity to try parasailing and banana boat rides. Many reviews highlight the friendly guide Tommy and the well-organized schedule, though some note the use of life jackets in calm waters. Costing $50 per person, it’s a flexible choice for travelers who want a quick escape to Sabah’s vibrant marine environment.

Bottom Line: Great for snorkeling enthusiasts and families seeking a compact, lively island experience with additional water fun.

11. Lok Kawi Wildlife Park

A visit to Lok Kawi Wildlife Park offers a look at Borneo’s endemic animals like proboscis monkeys, orangutans, and Malayan tigers. This guided tour provides an in-depth exploration of both the zoological and botanical parts of the park, with convenient hotel pickup and drop-off. The 5-hour trip is suited for wildlife lovers and those wanting an educational experience. Visitors appreciate the detailed commentary and the chance to see animals in near-natural habitats, with a 4-star rating from 2 reviews. The price of $70 includes entrance fees and transportation.

Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers interested in Borneo’s wildlife, complemented by easy logistics and educational value.

12. Kota Kinabalu: Golf Excursion at Sutera Harbour Private Tour

Golfers will enjoy this private golf tour at Sutera Harbour, featuring a 27-hole ocean-view course. The experience includes private transport, a guide, a golf buggy, and access to club facilities. With lush greens and breathtaking scenery, this tour is suited for experienced players and beginners alike. The premium service, including equipment rentals and optional caddie service, offers excellent value for $135 per person. After your game, unwind with a drink at the clubhouse while taking in the sunset.

Bottom Line: A top choice for golf enthusiasts wanting a luxurious, scenic round in one of Sabah’s best courses.

13. Kota Kinabalu Islands Hoping

This island-hopping tour takes you to Manukan and Mamutik Islands for about five hours of swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing. The well-organized schedule features short boat rides, plenty of free time, and opportunities to explore underwater life. Travelers enjoy the ease of visiting two islands in one trip, with many appreciating the friendly guide service. The trip costs $28 per person, making it affordable for those wanting a quick, active escape from the city.

Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers seeking a quick, fun day of snorkeling and beach time with minimal fuss.

14. Kota Kinabalu: Luxurious Golf Tour at Dalit Bay Private Tour

For a high-end experience, this luxury golf tour at Dalit Bay offers an 18-hole course with stunning river and mountain views. The private tour includes transportation, equipment, and access to premium clubhouse amenities. Priced at $209 per person, it’s suited for serious golfers or those who want to enjoy Sabah’s scenic landscapes with top-tier facilities. The seamless service and breathtaking scenery make it worth the premium price for a memorable round.

Bottom Line: Perfect for golf enthusiasts seeking a premium, private experience amid Sabah’s natural beauty.

15. Sabah: Benoni Sunset Train Tour

Concluding our list is the Benoni Sunset Train Tour, which offers a relaxing 1-day journey aboard a scenic train ride. The highlight is watching the sunset in Sabah from a comfortable train, with onboard activities ensuring a leisurely experience. Many travelers enjoy the peaceful pace and spectacular views. The tour begins and ends at Tanjung Aru station, costing about $106 per person.

Bottom Line: A relaxed, scenic way to enjoy Sabah’s countryside and sunset, ideal for travelers craving a peaceful, atmospheric experience.

How to Choose Your Best Sabah Tour

When selecting from these options, consider your budget, interests, and physical preferences. If snorkeling and marine life excite you, the Full-Day Guided Snorkeling Tour offers excellent value and scenery. Interested in cultural insights? The Koisaan Cultural Village is budget-friendly and hands-on. For wildlife lovers, the Proboscis Monkey and Fireflies Tour delivers intimate animal encounters. If you’re a golfer or want luxury, Sabah’s golf tours provide premium options, while island lovers should consider the Mantanani Island or island-hopping trips. Booking early is recommended, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred dates.

Final Thoughts

Sabah’s diverse tours give every traveler a chance to experience something memorable—whether it’s the underwater spectacle of snorkelling, culture in indigenous villages, or wildlife safaris. The Full-Day Guided Snorkeling remains a standout for its combination of reef beauty and friendly guides, while the cultural and wildlife options broaden your understanding of Borneo’s unique environment. For those seeking luxury, Sabah’s golf tours promise a relaxing, scenic round. Whatever your style, plan ahead and book early—Sabah’s adventures are well worth the effort.