Kota Kinabalu is a fantastic base for exploring some of Borneo’s most compelling sights, especially if you love full-day adventures that combine nature, wildlife, and local culture. Whether it’s the tranquil waters of Mantanani Island or the wildlife-rich rainforests of Sepilok, this city offers a diverse range of experiences that fit into a single day. We particularly like the Full Day Tour in Mantanani for its remote island charm and the chance to snorkel over historic wrecks. Meanwhile, the Bongawan River Cruise delivers a scenic journey with wildlife sightings, making it a favorite for nature lovers. If you’re interested in seeing orangutans and sun bears, the Full-Day Sepilok Orangutan, Sun Bear & Sandakan City Trail offers an engaging look at Borneo’s incredible conservation efforts.
Looking for a mix of culture, nature, and history? The Full Day Sabah Tea Plantation & WWII Memorial combines a relaxing high tea with poignant history, while the Kinabalu Park trips showcase Borneo’s remarkable biodiversity. Every tour offers something unique, helping you craft a day that fits your interests—be it wildlife, mountain views, or cultural insights.
1. Full Day Tour in Mantanani
At number one, the Full Day Tour in Mantanani is perfect for those craving a peaceful escape to a lesser-known island. Just about an hour by speedboat from Kota Kinabalu, Mantanani Island is a quiet paradise, with crystal-clear waters lapping against white sandy beaches. The islands are famous for their shipwrecks, which still hide secrets and are now home to a variety of marine life. Snorkelers will love exploring the wrecks and observing marine creatures such as Lionfish, Scorpionfish, octopuses, and glass fish.
What makes this tour stand out is the chance to slow down and enjoy nature away from crowded tourist spots. The boat ride itself offers scenic views, and spending time on the island means relaxing on pristine beaches or discovering the secrets of the wrecks. The tour lasts around 8 hours and costs $150 per person, with excellent reviews praising its clarity and tranquility. The only downside might be the weather—since it’s a boat trip—so plan accordingly.
Bottom line: If a laid-back island day with snorkeling among wrecks sounds appealing, this is a top choice. It’s especially suited to those who love marine life and peaceful beaches.
2. Full Day Bongawan River Cruise with Proboscis Monkey Sightseeing
For around $45, the Full Day Bongawan River Cruise with Proboscis Monkey Sightseeing offers a mix of wildlife viewing and scenic river exploration. The tour takes 5 to 6 hours, starting with a pickup from your hotel and a journey through lush mangrove forests. The real highlight is spotting Borneo’s famous proboscis monkeys, long-tailed macaques, monitor lizards, and even fireflies at dusk.
What’s great about this tour is how it combines a scenic boat ride with the chance to see endemic wildlife in their natural habitat. Several reviews note the friendly crew and the opportunity to take photos of shy monkeys in the wild. You’ll also enjoy a local Malay buffet dinner and relaxing beach time at sunset, making it a well-rounded experience. Keep binoculars handy—these shy animals often stay at a distance.
Bottom line: This tour offers good value for wildlife lovers who want to see proboscis monkeys up close and enjoy a peaceful river cruise. It’s flexible for different interests with options for photo sessions and firefly viewing.
3. Full-Day Sepilok Orangutan, Sun Bear & Sandakan City Trail from Kota Kinabalu
The Full-Day Sepilok Orangutan, Sun Bear & Sandakan City Trail is a full-on wildlife immersion, priced at $150. It’s perfect for animal enthusiasts wanting a deeper dive into Borneo’s conservation efforts. This 10-hour tour includes visits to two major centers: the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Center, where you can watch orangutans during feeding times in their rainforest habitat, and the Borneo Sun Bear Conservation Center, home to adorable rescued sun bears.
What makes this trip special is the chance to see orangutans and sun bears in natural-looking enclosures that mimic their wild environment. The tour is highly rated for its educational value and the opportunity to learn about conservation challenges. It’s ideal for travelers with a keen interest in wildlife and those who enjoy guided explanations about animal behavior. It also includes lunch and hotel transfers, making logistics straightforward.
Bottom line: Perfect for wildlife lovers eager to see orangutans and sun bears in a responsible setting, giving a meaningful perspective on Borneo’s endangered species.
4. Full-Day Sepilok Orangutan and Proboscis Monkey from Sandakan or Kota Kinabalu
At number four, this Full-Day Sepilok Orangutan and Proboscis Monkey tour combines two incredible primates in one day. Departing from Sandakan or Kota Kinabalu (with own flights), it takes 10 hours and covers visits to the Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary and the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Center. It’s an intensive but rewarding option for wildlife fans.
What’s unique here is the chance to see proboscis monkeys and orangutans in their respective natural environments, along with learning about their behaviors and conservation statuses. Admission is included, and the tour provides a comprehensive wildlife snapshot. It’s suitable for travelers with a full day available and a keen interest in primates, with plenty of photo opportunities.
Bottom line: An excellent choice if you want to combine primate viewing with educational insights, especially for those with flexible travel plans and flying into Sandakan or Kota Kinabalu.
5. Full Day Sabah Tea Plantation & WWII Memorial
For history and relaxation, the Full Day Sabah Tea Plantation & WWII Memorial offers a quiet, scenic day out. Priced at $170, the tour includes a visit to the Kundasang War Memorial, with its gardens and poignant exhibits, and the Sabah Tea Garden, located 2,272 feet above sea level. Here, you can enjoy high tea amid organic, pesticide-free tea fields.
What makes this tour stand out is the mix of cultural history and local agriculture. The memorial provides insight into Sabah’s WWII past, while the tea plantation offers a peaceful break amid lush landscapes. Reviews highlight the warmth of the guides and the chance to see the countryside up close. The tour is best suited for history buffs and tea lovers.
Bottom line: A rewarding day for those interested in history, scenic landscapes, and local culture, with a relaxed pace and meaningful stops.
6. Full-Day Kinabalu Park and Poring Hot Spring Day Trip
Number six on our list is the Full-Day Kinabalu Park and Poring Hot Spring Day Trip. This 10-hour tour costs about $127.44 and offers a compact exploration of Sabah’s biodiversity hotspot, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You’ll see a wide range of flora and fauna, including bird species and small mammals, before soaking in the therapeutic waters of Poring Hot Spring.
What distinguishes this tour is the chance to walk along suspension bridges in Kinabalu Park, offering sweeping views of the rainforest canopy. Guide-led nature walks provide insight into the flora and fauna. It’s suited for active travelers who want a mix of wildlife viewing and relaxation in natural thermal baths.
Bottom line: If you’re interested in Malaysia’s first UNESCO site with a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation, this tour hits the mark.
$127.44 per person
7. Full Day JomTour! Memorable Experience in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
For a more personalized and flexible experience, the Full Day JomTour offers a customizable itinerary, costing around $90. It’s suitable for those who want to choose their own attractions, such as the Upside Down House (Rumah Terbalik) or exploring the Nabalu Market. The tour includes private transportation and activities like art and cultural experiences, making it a great choice for families or independent travelers.
Guests mention the ability to tailor the day and the fun of interactive activities like the 3D Wonders Museum, which highlights Sabah’s natural environment in a lively way. It’s less about structured sightseeing and more about creating your perfect day.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers who prefer flexibility, hands-on experiences, and a mix of cultural and fun activities.
$90.00 per person
8. Full Day Kinabalu Park World Heritage Site
The Full Day Kinabalu Park World Heritage Site is a straightforward, no-frills trip to explore Malaysia’s first UNESCO site. While it currently has no reviews, the itinerary offers a quick visit to the park and Nabalu Market, where you can see local crafts and enjoy mountain views.
Ideal for those pressed for time or seeking an affordable introduction to Sabah’s natural beauty, this tour provides a short but enriching experience of the park’s flora and fauna, plus the lively local market.
Bottom line: A practical option for travelers looking for an accessible, budget-friendly day trip with highlights of Sabah’s mountain scenery.
$150.00 per person
How to Choose the Best Full-Day Tour in Kota Kinabalu
When selecting a full-day tour, consider your interests—wildlife, history, culture, or scenery—and your budget. For wildlife lovers, the Sepilok Orangutan and Sun Bear offers an immersive experience, while the MantananI Island provides a relaxing marine escape. Budget travelers might prefer the Bongawan River Cruise, which still packs a lot into a smaller price.
If you’re keen on learning about Sabah’s history, the WWII Memorial is a meaningful choice. For a flexible, personalized day, the JomTour lets you craft your perfect experience.
Advance booking is wise, especially during peak travel months. Check the inclusions—some tours include meals and hotel transfers, saving you hassle and money.
In summary, Kota Kinabalu offers a wide range of full-day tours tailored to different interests—from wildlife and nature to cultural history and relaxation. The Full Day Tour in Mantanani and the Sepilok Orangutan and Sun Bear are especially popular for their unique wildlife encounters. Meanwhile, the cultural and scenic options like the Sabah Tea Plantation & WWII Memorial provide a broader perspective on Sabah’s history and landscape.
Whatever your preference, booking early and choosing a tour that matches your interests will ensure you get the most out of your day in Kota Kinabalu.