Kota Kinabalu & Kundasang Highland Escape

Package overview

Sabah combines two very different climates in a short drive: warm island beaches around Kota Kinabalu and the cool highlands of Kundasang at the foot of Mount Kinabalu.

The sample plan starts with a Tunku Abdul Rahman marine park island day, then moves inland for two nights near Kundasang with a visit to the war memorial and a dairy farm.

Sunrise views of Mount Kinabalu from Kundasang are the highlight; travellers who want the summit climb need a separate, longer trekking arrangement.

Trip highlights

• Island hopping at Tunku Abdul Rahman Park
• Kundasang highlands and Desa Dairy Farm
• Kundasang War Memorial and market
• Mount Kinabalu sunrise viewpoints
• Kota Kinabalu waterfront and Filipino market

Sample day-by-day itinerary

The order of visits can change depending on weather, opening hours and traffic.

1. Day 1

   Arrival in Kota Kinabalu

   • Arrive at Kota Kinabalu International Airport and transfer to the city hotel.
   • Evening waterfront walk and dinner at the Filipino market area.
2. Day 2

   Tunku Abdul Rahman island day

   • Boat transfer to the islands for snorkelling and beach time.
   • Picnic lunch on the island (arranged locally).
   • Return to the hotel in the late afternoon.
3. Day 3

   Kota Kinabalu – Kundasang

   • Scenic drive to the highlands with a stop at the Nabalu market.
   • Check in near Kundasang with Mount Kinabalu views, weather permitting.
   • Afternoon at Desa Dairy Farm and the Kundasang War Memorial.
4. Day 4

   Kundasang and Kiulu or Poring

   • Optional sunrise viewpoint stop for Mount Kinabalu.
   • Choose between the Poring hot springs and canopy walkway, or a Kiulu river rafting session.
   • Return to Kota Kinabalu for the final night.
5. Day 5

   Kota Kinabalu – home

   • Morning free for handicraft shopping or a café stop.
   • Transfer to the airport for the flight home.

What is included and not included

Departure dates

Sample dates These dates are illustrative examples only. Real departure dates must be confirmed with the airline and hotel at the time of enquiry.

• Sample: 19 – 23 Mar 2027 Illustrative date only
• Sample: 14 – 18 Aug 2027 Illustrative date only
• Sample: 27 – 31 Oct 2027 Illustrative date only

Important travel notes

• The highlands are considerably cooler than the coast; bring a light jacket for the evenings.
• Island trips may be cancelled by the jetty operator if the sea is rough.
• Mountain views depend on cloud cover, which is often clearest in the early morning.
• Passport, visa and travel insurance requirements are the traveller's responsibility and must be verified with the relevant official authority.