The Essence of Kota Kinabalu

Lincoln, MY
100% of travellers recommend this
Excellent (1 reviews)

Included

  • inclusion
    A half day tour with a professional English Speaking Guide
  • inclusion
    All entrance and donation fees for visits as mentioned in the description
  • inclusion
    All applicable taxes and service charges
  • inclusion
    Transportation by air-conditioned vehicle

Excluded

  • exclusion
    Tours, inclusions of any kind and other services that are not outlined in the tour description
  • exclusion
    Travel insurance coverage for customers (highly recommendable)
  • exclusion
    Personal expenses such as meals, drinks, tips and gratuities, shopping, portage fees and optional tours, unless otherwise stated
  • exclusion
    Supplements charge 15 usd/pax/way for transfers outside from the general pick-up/drop-off location.

Pickup

Check if pick-up is available from your location, you will select during checkout (providers may allow other pickup locations)

Pickup Location
1 City Hotel
Alpha Hotel
Ang's Hotel
AR Residence
Borneo Vista Suites Hotel
Celyn City Hotel
Century Hotel
Cititel Express Kota Kinabalu
D'Borneo Hotel
Diamond Inn
Dreamtel Kota Kinabalu
Gaya Centre Hotel
Grand M Hotel
High Street Inn
Hii-5 Hotel
Hilton Kota Kinabalu
Holiday Inn Express Kota Kinabalu City Centre, an IHG hotel
Horizon Hotel
Hotel 7 Suria
Hotel Capital
Hotel Deleeton
Hotel Eden54
Hotel Full Hua
Hotel Grandis
Hotel Holiday
Hotel Kinabalu
Hotel Kooler Inn
Hotel Rafflesia
Hotel Shangri-La
Hotel Sixty3
Hotel Suang Hee
Hotel Traveller
HotSpot by SSVC
Hyatt Regency Kinabalu
Imperial Boutec Hotel
Imperial International Hotel
Impiana Mutiara Hotel
Kinabalu Daya Hotel
King Park Hotel Kota Kinabalu
KK Suites Hotel
KK Times Square Hotel
KK Waterfront Hotel
Kota Kinabalu Marriott Hotel
Le Hotel Kota Kinabalu
Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu
Little Gaya Hotel
Lucky 11 Hotel
Mandarin Hotel
Marina Court Resort Condo
Mercure Kota Kinabalu City Centre
Ming Garden Hotel & Residences
Monaco Boutique Hotel
Oceania Hotel
OYO 1159 Hotel New Sabah
OYO 218 Storytel
OYO 597 Winner Hotel
OYO 699 Plaza Hotel
OYO 818 Hotel 11
OYO 89482 Hotel Casero Inn
OYO 89847 Switz Paradise Hotel
OYO 89932 Dd Homestay
Oyo 90847 Hotel Asia City
Park Hotel
Promenade Hotel Kota Kinabalu
Qlio Hotel
Raia Hotel Kota Kinabalu
Ruby Hotel
Sabah Oriental Hotel
Sky Hotel
Stanton Hotel
Summer Lodge
Super OYO 89965 Stay Inn Ii
Tang Dynasty Hotel
Tang Dynasty Park Hotel
The Jesselton Hotel
The Klagan Hotel
The Mama's Soho @ Imago Riverson
The Palace Hotel Kota Kinabalu
Tuaran Beach Resort
Wah May Hotel
Walk In Hotel
Walk In Hotel @ Kota Kinabalu - New Wing
Winner Hotel
Zara's Boutique Hotel
Hotel pickup is available from central Kota Kinabalu.Transfer outside these areas, supplements apply.

What to expect

1

Sabah

You will be warmly greeted by your guide and driver at your Kota Kinabalu hotel (conditions apply) for your 3-hour tour through the capital of Sabah. The city packs a surprising punch of surprises as you and you travel companions move through the streets and alleys of former ‘Singgahmata (translated as ‘The Place where the Eye Lingers’). Depending on the location of your hotel, we include visits that depict historical, cultural and authentic aspects.

2

Sabah Foundation - Masjid

We begin with the Wisma Tun Mustapha, better known as the Sabah Foundation Building. From afar, the typical glass-and-steel building has been one of the city’s most recognisable landmarks.

Duration 45 minutes
Admission Admission Included
3
Kota Kinabalu City Mosque

We pass by one of the most religious sites in KK – the State and City Mosque – while we weave through the streets to learn a bit more about other impressive, more modern landmarks, such as the University of Sabah, before passing by the Sabah Museum. A great collection of the traditions of the indigenous people living on is on permanent display here.

4
Signal Hill Observatory Platform

We end the day with heading up to Signal Hill – it is the spot around Kota Kinabalu that shows you the central business district and its off-the-coast islands from a bird’s eye view. When time permits, we include a quick browse at Kadaiku, a small centre for admiring local handicraft from the local tribe’s community. Our half-day tour comes to an end, and your guide and driver for these three hours will bring you back to your hotel in the heart of Kota Kinabalu.

Duration 60 minutes
Admission Admission Included

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

  • Additional information
    Due to the nature of this tour, we regret to inform you that this excursion is not suitable for wheelchair users.
  • Additional information
    For security reasons, coaches are not allowed to head up to the top of Signal Hill – alternative transportation may be used during this half day tour when group sizes exceed a certain number.
  • Additional information
    In the event of no-show or change of accommodation without prior consent and confirmation from us within 48 hours may result in the applicable cancellation charges as outlined in the terms and conditions.
  • Additional information
    Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Additional information
    It is the responsibility of the customer to provide us with the correct hotel information, should pick-up and drop-off services be included in the package. Any changes in accommodation outside 48 hours will be handled accordingly: changes within 48 hours may be on request.
  • Additional information
    Please ensure that you bring sunglasses, a hat /cap and sunblock with a high SPF factor when traveling with us on this tour – even when it is cloudy, the sunrays still have an immense power.
  • Additional information
    Please note pickup and drop-off services may not be confirmed for customers staying at private residences, apartment complexes, or other non-registered tourism accommodations. Customers may be asked to meet at a nearby hotel for pick-up and drop off.
  • Additional information
    Return transfers for this excursion apply only / are inclusive for customers staying in and inside central Kota Kinabalu. Transfers outside these areas, including any accommodation, such as Rasa Ria / Nexus / Beringgis, cruise ports and Kota Kinabalu’s International Airport are excluded. Supplements apply for customers who want to join this excursion outside one of these regions.
  • Additional information
    Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Additional information
    This tour is operated on full private basis with English Speaking Driver
  • Additional information
    We always will make efforts to confirm the exact pick-up time upon reservation. For any operational issues in which are not able to confirm the exact pick-up time in advance, we reserve the right to inform you the day before the departure of the tour.
Provided by Asian Trails LTD

What our experts say

  • icon
    Visit nearby Filipino Market for local food.
  • icon
    Bring a hat and sunglasses for sun protection.
  • icon
    Try the local seafood at nearby restaurants.
  • icon
    Signal Hill provides a great sunset view.
  • icon
    Check out local handicrafts at Kadaiku.

More About this Experience

Introduction

The Essence of Kota Kinabalu tour offers a captivating exploration of Sabah's gateway to Borneo. Formerly overlooked on the tourism map, Kota Kinabalu, or KK as it is known by locals, has blossomed into a vibrant and culturally rich city. This half-day tour allows visitors to immerse themselves in the city's historical values, landmarks, and authentic cultural experiences, while still embracing modernity. With a knowledgeable guide and driver leading the way, travelers will uncover the hidden delights and surprising treasures that make Kota Kinabalu such a pleasure to wander through.

What to expect?

During this three-hour tour, travelers can anticipate a diverse itinerary that includes visits to historical and cultural landmarks. The tour begins with a visit to the iconic Sabah Foundation Building, also known as the Wisma Tun Mustapha, giving visitors a glimpse of Kota Kinabalu's architectural charm. Next, the tour passes by the Kota Kinabalu City Mosque, a religious site of great significance, and other modern landmarks like the University of Sabah and the Sabah Museum, which showcases the traditions of the indigenous people. The tour concludes with a trip to Signal Hill Observatory Platform, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city's central business district and surrounding islands. If time permits, a stop at Kadaiku, a center for local handicrafts, provides an opportunity to admire the unique creations of the local tribes.

Who is this for?

The Essence of Kota Kinabalu tour is tailored for travelers who are curious about Kota Kinabalu's rich cultural heritage and historical landmarks. It appeals to those who appreciate a balance between embracing modernity and preserving traditional values. This tour is suitable for individuals, couples, families, and groups who seek a relaxed yet immersive experience in a vibrant city that combines natural beauty, cultural diversity, and a thriving travel hub.

Why book this?

Embarking on the Essence of Kota Kinabalu tour allows travelers to uncover the heart and soul of the city through its historical and cultural highlights. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, visitors gain unique insights into the city's development, architectural marvels, and the traditions of its indigenous people. This tour offers a perfect blend of old and new, providing a deeper understanding of Kota Kinabalu's identity and offering an experience that goes beyond the surface of typical tourist attractions. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a culture seeker, or simply someone who enjoys exploring hidden gems, this tour is sure to captivate and leave a lasting impression.

Good to know

It is important to note that the total duration of the Essence of Kota Kinabalu tour is 180 minutes. The tour covers various points of interest, with the opportunity to visit the Sabah Foundation Building, Kota Kinabalu City Mosque, Signal Hill Observatory Platform, and Kadaiku, a center for local handicrafts. The tour includes transportation from your hotel in Kota Kinabalu and back. Visitors are advised to wear comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking. Don't forget to bring your camera to capture the breathtaking views from Signal Hill Observatory Platform and to document the unique cultural experiences along the way.

Reviews

Travelers who have experienced the Essence of Kota Kinabalu tour have praised it for its insightful exploration of the city's historical and cultural landmarks. Visitors appreciate the knowledgeable guides who share detailed information about each stop and provide a deeper understanding of Kota Kinabalu's heritage. The tour's selection of attractions, including the Sabah Foundation Building, Kota Kinabalu City Mosque, and Signal Hill Observatory Platform, has impressed visitors with their natural beauty and architectural marvels. Overall, reviews highlight the tour as an enriching and enjoyable experience that allows travelers to see Kota Kinabalu through a new lens, gaining a deeper appreciation for the city's essence.

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