Exploring the Kota Kinabalu & Kundasang nature circuit
There’s no country with quite so many amazing cities as Malaysia and Kota Kinabalu is another incredible city that should be on the top of every traveller’s bucket list.
Sprawling with nature, beauty and adventure, the city is a traveller’s dream with endless possibilities for all.
But the crutch of any explorer’s plans is the fact that time is limited and being able to explore every possibility of a city, unfortunately, can not happen.
So we’re here to provide you with a quick guide on how to make the most of Kota Kinabalu’s nature circuit in a few days.
An island adventure
Like many Malaysian cities, the metropolis clashes with nature and the seas in the most beautiful combination; creating another dimension to the city.
The first spot for visitors to explore is Tunku Abdul Rahman Park which is home to sweeping beaches and isn’t too far away from Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal.
There are five picturesque islands to explore within the park and each offers something unique to your clients experience.
Manukan Island is the perfect spot for beach lovers. Palm trees with cute macaques line the soft white sand on the island and for those looking to explore the marine wildlife there are plenty of snorkelling opportunities.
But don’t worry, you’re not stranded in a deserted island, there are restaurants, clubhouses, chalets and recreational facilities throughout!
The smallest island amongst the park is Mamutik Island, offering beautiful beaches and amazing coral reefs. There are facilities on the island, making it a perfect destination if you’re looking to get away for a while.
Sulug Island, similarly to Mamutik Island, is another small island that’s best for travellers who prefer a quiet and tranquil atmosphere.
Finally, there’s Sapi Island, which features one of the nicest beaches in the park, popular snorkelling and diving spots and one of the longest island to island ziplines in the world.
A journey to Kinabalu Park
A trip to Kota Kinabalu wouldn’t be complete without visiting Kinabalu Park; Malaysia’s first world heritage site.
Kinabalu Park houses the amazing Mt Kinabalu – the highest in Malaysia.
The park is rich with unique wildlife and incredibly picturesque scenes that will sit with you for years.
Travellers can enjoy a park that boasts an estimated 4,500 species of plants which include 1,500 species of orchids, 77 of which are endemic to Kinabalu. The park also supports 289 species of birds and 290 different types of butterflies.
To make the most out of the park, travellers should take the Poring Hot Spring tour, which is about an hour away from Kinabalu Park. This is a journey that takes tourists through the park in the morning and then after lunch they will hit Poring Hot Spring.
Here travellers can take a soothing sulphur bath in the Japanese-styled open-air tubs. Your clients can relax in the all-natural mineral-rich hot springs water, surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens. There is also a cold water pool nearby for those who prefer a cold dip.
But the journey through the park wouldn’t be complete without an immersive exploration of Mount Kinabalu’s treetops.
Poring Treetop Canopy Walk invites travellers to witness the majestic grandeur of a hundred million-year-old rainforest, spanning from a 105m length walkway that is suspended 30 metres above the lush jungly tangles.
Your clients can take in the beautiful sights and sounds and discover unique rainforest creatures from a bird’s eye view. They should also keep an eye out for some rare feathered beauties.
The park has every type of travellers demands met with options for bird-watching, guided trekking, climbing and camping. Kinabalu Park has such a rich array of wildlife that every traveller will marvel at this incredible display of nature.
So if your client is the outdoorsy type with just a few days to explore Kota Kinabalu and Kundasang, there are plenty of ways for them to utilise their time around the city and nearby attractions.
Latest News
Princess names the Sun, unveils Sanctuary Collection, Star Princess to Alaska in ’26
A huge bottle Veuve was smashed into the side of the ship to make things official. So no, we couldn't snag a glass.
Collette special offers across peak northern summer season
Global tour operator Collette has announced a series of special offers on selected dates across a range of tours in the peak northern hemisphere 2024 summer season. Greece The offers include ‘Greece & Its Islands’ features classics such as the Parthenon as well as the picturesque islands of Mykonos and Santorini. A saving of $700 […]
Air India and All Nippon codeshare between the two countries
Air India and All Nippon Airways have signed a codeshare agreement connecting their networks. The new commercial partnership will provide more travel opportunities for customers of both India’s leading global airline and the largest Japan’s largest carrier. Effective from 23rd May, the Air India and All Nippon Airways agreement will see passengers fly to their […]
A&K offers minimum 18 weeks paid parental leave
A&K Travel Group will now provide a minimum of 18 weeks paid parental leave for both care-givers, setting a new standard for the travel industry. By providing 18 weeks of paid time off for all new parents, regardless of gender, A&K Travel Group is not only enabling parents to spend valuable time with their newborns […]
NH Hotel Group rebrands as Minor Hotels Europe & Americas
Hang around the bends of the hotels. We imagine they will be full of a lot of branded content.
Scenic Eclipse II – the business of creating unforgettable life-changing memories
These cruise brothers from another mother offer a view of cruising on Scenic Eclipse II that is poles apart.
MSC builds new hospital ship with Mercy Ships
If you want to read a story that puts a smile on your face then this is the one for you.
“I peed on myself watching this” – Social media users squirm at Royal Caribbean’s Harmony of The Seas 55ft dive video
TW is not responsible for any involuntary actions your body might have after watching this video.
FLIGHT REVIEW: Qantas Boeing 787 Dreamliner business class
The real bonus is you're unlikely to be around screaming children. Hoorah!
Traveltek offers travel agents new rapid deploy cruise website
As always, if you have any issue with the platform, just turn it off and on again.
Experience whale watching & classical music at the Australian Festival of Chamber Music in Townsville
Disappointedly, the whales do not start singing in tune with the orchestra. Opportunity missed.
Fond, very Fond. London hotel famed for James Bond link adds ‘Classic Comforts’ lunch menu
James Bond author Ian Fleming was so fond if this hotel, it inspired the legendary phrase ‘shaken, not stirred’.
What sets Eclipse Travel apart with Africa expert Hilary Dubyk: Travel Weekly TV
If you want to know more about Africa, then Hilary Dubyk is your person.
Surge in Australians visiting Japan
Feel like all of your friends have just returned from Europe? Now it's Japan.
Seabourn announces Western Kimberley Traditional Owners as Godparents of Seabourn Pursuit
Seabourn has named Western Kimberley Traditional Owners, the Wunambal Gaambera, as Godparents of the ultra-luxury purpose-built Seabourn Pursuit. It is the first cruise line to appoint Traditional Owners as godparents of a ship. Seabourn Pursuit embarks on its inaugural season in the Kimberley region this June. The naming ceremony will take place on Seabourn Pursuit’s […]
Sydney named 17th best place to work remotely
If you struggle to get a seat within Sydney's coffee shops, you now know why.
W Melbourne grows sales team
We appreciate the thought that has gone into this team photo.
Cunard welcomes new ship Queen Anne
This might be the most impressive ship handover in ship handover history.
Intrepid Travel appoints Yvette Thompson as general manager sales & marketing ANZ
It isn't end-of-day Monday and Yvette Thompson has already nabbed herself an impressive promotion.
Anna Fawcett re-joins Global Touring in newly-created APAC role
With such an impressive CV, Global Touring is no doubt thrilled to have Fawcett back.
“We know our response has been far from perfect” – Emirates’ open letter following Dubai flooding
If you also need to write an apology letter, then this is a pretty good template.
Malolo Island Resort opens brand new Spa
Fiji’s Malolo Island has added another string to its bow – opening its $1.3 million day spa on Thursday, 18th April 2024. (Lead Image: matriarch Rosie Whitton with spa staff) Located at the edge of the resort’s luscious patch of tropical rainforest, the new “Leilani’s Spa” adds another level of elevated experiences to Malolo’s already […]
Virgin Australia’s HILARIOUS second instalment of the ‘Bring on Wonderful’ campaign
We don't use the word 'hilarious' lightly, but this is worthy of the title.
Visit Sunshine Coast reveals new brand identity
If you were looking for another reason to visit the Sunshine Coast then this is it.
Sofitel launches brand campaign starring Sex Education’s Gillian Anderson
We can confirm the content of this video is less spicy than Sex Education.
Holland America Line gives agents the chance to visit Alaska on 11-day Famil
If you've ever wanted to see a Polar Bear (and who doesn't?), now is your time.
More than 65 luxury agents gather in Sydney for Best of the Best dinner
This looks like a fabulous do. We imagine there may be a few (or maybe 65) sore heads this morning!
Globally-renowned chefs gather for Vivid Food 2024
As a human, we agree that food is a fundamental part of the human experience. Some might say the most fundamental.
Air New Zealand returns to Hobart and Seoul
If you notice an uptick in Kiwis making their way through the Mona, you know why.
European Waterways targets multi-generational families with ‘floating villa’ deal
The jury is still out on whether spending a week on a 'floating villa' with family is a hell or a paradise.
Luxury Escapes launches ‘sail away’ sale
Rest assured, you'll be getting your 'sails' and 'sales' mixed up for the rest of the day.
Rex-owned National Jet Express adds weekly charter between Brisbane and Orange
This is for mining and civil contractors, so please, put your holiday attire away.
Let the games begin. Viking introduces eye-watering benefits for the industry’s top 10 advisors
Did someone say 'trip to Venice'? Hold my coat, this one is far too good to miss!
Best friends or frenemies? What is the REAL relationship between sales and marketing?
We can all stop fighting over the corner office because our mothers were right - we are all important in our own way.
The Walshe Group Announces Two Key Appointments
What we really want to know is whether they got joint or separate welcome parties.
FAMIL: Agents explore the delights of Mauritius on 7-day tour
Go green with envy as you read this fabulous itinerary! Time to book that second honeymoon.