North Borneo Heritage Train


TOUR INFORMATION

TOUR CODE: ABK-LT12
DESCRIPTION: NORTH BORNEO HERITAGE TRAIN
REGION: Kota Kinabalu
DURATION: 5 Hours
MINIMUM: 2 Pax
AVAILABILITY: Every Wednesday (Day Tour) / Every Saturday (Sunset Tour)
PICK UP POINT: Your Hotel in Kota Kinabalu City
PICK UP TIME: 08:15 Hrs (Day Tour) / 14:45 Hrs (Sunset Tour)
DROP OFF POINT: Your Hotel in Kota Kinabalu City
DROP OFF TIME: 14:15 Hrs (Day Tour) / 20:45 (Sunset Tour)
* All timings are estimated and for reference purposes only. Actual timing will be provided prior to your departure.

Tour highlights

  • Enjoy a comfortable train ride through Sabah’s stunning countryside
  • Discover the vibrant local wet market and other attractions in Papar during the day tour
  • Stop by the picturesque Benoni Beach on a sunset tour and soak in the breathtaking coastal views
  • Take part in fun activities, such as batik painting and henna tattoo, throughout the journey
  • Light refreshments and a delicious meal included
  • Hotel pickup / drop off

Sample itinerary

Day Tour

Day 1 - North Borneo Heritage Train - Day Tour

Your journey begins with a pick-up from your hotel lobby, where you will be whisked away for a real feel of a bygone era. Upon arrival at Tanjung Aru Train Station, hop on the train to experience Borneo's historical grandeur.

09:00 Hrs: Your train ride starts now! Take part in the henna tattoo-making activity while indulging in the light refreshments served during the ride. Wind your way through scenic landscapes on the only railway track in Sabah since 1896. This 134 km line stretches south from Kota Kinabalu to Tenom (Pangi Station). Originally used to transport tobacco to the coast, today it serves as a vital public transport for locals.

10:30 Hrs: You have arrived in Papar. Mingle with the locals at the wet market and the vintage shophouses that lace the charming small town. Feel free to explore exciting spots around town as you complete the mission book for your treasure hunt activity.

11:30 Hrs: Get on the train and enjoy a delicious lunch onboard on your return journey to Tanjung Aru Station.

13:30 Hrs: Your adventure concludes as you return to Tanjung Aru Station and are transferred back to your hotel.

Meals : Lunch / Light-refreshment

Sunset Tour

Day 1 - North Borneo Heritage Train – Sunset Tour

Your evening begins with a hotel pick-up, where you’ll be whisked away for a memorable sunset journey aboard the North Borneo Heritage Train. Step back in time as you arrive at Tanjung Aru Train Station, ready to experience the golden hour magic of Sabah’s countryside.

15:30 Hrs: Arrive at Tanjung Aru Station and board the North Borneo Heritage Train. Settle into your seat and enjoy light snacks served onboard before your journey starts.

16:00 Hrs: The train departs from Tanjung Aru, gliding past Kinarut, Papar, and Kimanis stations toward the Benoni Estuary. Take in the changing landscapes bathed in soft afternoon light while joining the fun Henna tattoo activity onboard.

18:00 Hrs: Arrive at Benoni Beach, one of Sabah’s most picturesque coastal gems. Step off the train to capture the breathtaking sunset and feel the gentle sea breeze. Passengers who wish to stay on board can take part in the Batik painting activity for a creative way to experience local culture as daylight fades.

18:30 Hrs: Depart from Benoni Beach and begin your return journey to Kota Kinabalu, watching the countryside transform under the twilight sky.

18:50 Hrs: Enjoy a delicious packed dinner served onboard as the rhythmic clatter of the train accompanies your meal.

20:00 Hrs: Arrive back at Tanjung Aru Station, where your unforgettable sunset adventure concludes. You’ll then be transferred back to your hotel with memories of a truly magical Borneo evening.

Meals : Light-refreshment / Dinner

Meals 01 Light Refreshments, 01 Lunch OR 01 Dinner
Includes Hotel Pickup & Dropoff (For Option With Hotel Transfers)*, Train Ticket, Train Passport Book (Mission Book), Treasure Hunt Activity, Henna Tattoo Activity, Goodies, Meals as Stated

*Note: We will pick you up from your hotel and transfer directly to Tanjung Aru Train Station (seat-in-coach).
Excludes Tour Guide, Alcoholic Drinks, Personal Expenses, Personal Travel Insurance and Any Items Not Mentioned

 

  • Comfortable walking shoe
  • Umbrella/Cap
  • Camera
  • Baby Car Seats (for infants aged 0-2) and Child Booster Seats (for children aged 3-11) are available for rental. Please check with your tour consultant for availability.
  • The train runs every Wednesday only.
  • Passengers are offered free seating on one of the five colonial-style train carriages.
  • Each carriage provides the amenity of a modern unisex washroom.
  • Each carriage accommodates 32 passengers, with a total train capacity of 160 passengers.
  • Windows remain open throughout the journey to enhance the overall heritage experience.
  • High-powered fans line the ceilings to ensure maximum comfort.
  • This package is based on a join-in basis of shared guide and transport vehicle. Private Guide or Tour is available upon request at a reasonable fee. Please inform us when making the bookings.
  • Departure time is approximate and varies from different hotels due to traffic conditions, please reconfirm with our staffs. Should the transport be delayed, please call the relevant telephone number as stated on the voucher before making alternative arrangements.
  • Amazing Borneo Tours reserves the right to alter routes, timetables, itineraries and accommodation reserved should conditions beyond our control render it necessary.
  • Tipping is like giving a hug. Although it’s never expected, it’s always very much appreciated.