Day 1 Arrive in Kota Kinabalu / North Borneo Cruises - Sunset Dinner Cruise Welcome to Kota Kinabalu! We'll pick you up from the airport and take you to The Luma Hotel. After checking in, explore and enjoy Kota Kinabalu city. At 1645hrs, we'll go to Sutera Marina Jetty for the North Borneo Cruises' Sunset Dinner Cruise. Experience the beauty of the South China Sea, passing islands and water villages along Sabah's west coast. Upper deck offers ocean views, sunset ambiance, and sea breeze. Below, an ethnic-themed air-conditioned restaurant features live music. Dinner is buffet-style, featuring Sabah's culinary delights. After the cruise, we'll take you back to the hotel. Dinner The LUMA Hotel (or similar 4-star hotel)
Day 2 Manukan Island Resort Following breakfast, check out and prepare for transfer to the Jetty. At 1130hrs, a scheduled boat will transport you to the luxurious 5-star Manukan Island Resort in Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park. Upon arrival, enjoy leisure time at your own pace! Manukan Island Resort is nestled within natural surroundings, offering many recreational activities like snorkelling, scuba diving, and parasailing. Equipment for these activities is readily available for rent (own expense). Indulge in the harmony of nature during your stay at Manukan Island Resort while relishing in modern comforts. Take in the breathtaking views overlooking the South China Sea. Breakfast Manukan Island Resort
Day 3 Mari Mari Cultural Village Following an overnight stay at the Manukan Island Resort, you will take a boat transfer from the island back to the mainland. You will be making a lunch stop at Sabah's first-ever local fast-food restaurant, Borenos! This eatery is renowned for sourcing its ingredients from the finest local produce and farm-fresh chickens, earning high recommendations from the locals. After a satisfying lunch, get ready for the next immersive experience at Mari Mari Cultural Village! The journey will take you along a lengthy road enveloped by a rich spectrum of greenery and under the expanse of wild blue skies. Once you reach the cultural village, you will witness each tribe house offering a unique display of culture, folklore, and lifestyle practices through interactive demonstrations suitable for the whole family. From blowpipe shooting to rice wine tasting, there's plenty to thrill those inclined towards cultural experiences. In addition to sampling traditional treats that have stood the test of time, seize the chance to witness a unique method of cutting tree barks to craft traditional warrior vests. Take a leap onto the 'Lansaran,' a traditional trampoline-like floor located in one of the tribe houses. The cultural-immersed tour will conclude with a high tea, showcasing traditional tribe snacks and pastries. Following this delightful experience, you will be transported back to your hotel in Kota Kinabalu City, where you can enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure. Breakfast / Lunch / Hi-tea The LUMA Hotel (or similar 4-star hotel)
Day 4 Choice of Day Trip to Kundasang Day Trip OR Kiulu White Water Rafting Kundasang Day Trip Embark on a scenic 30-minute drive through the countryside, heading towards the fascinating Rumah Terbalik (Upside Down House) and gain insights into its cultural elements. Following this visit, enjoy a picturesque 1-hour and 30-minute drive to Kinabalu National Park, passing through villages and paddy fields along winding mountainous roads of the Crocker Range. Pause at the Nabalu Handicraft Market for a chance to browse and purchase local produce and unique handicraft souvenirs. Upon arrival at Kinabalu National Park, relish the refreshing cool air as you embark on a nature trail walk through the Botanical Gardens, with the majestic Mount Kinabalu as your backdrop. Delve into an incredible array of approximately 4,500 plant species, including 77 Bornean-endemic varieties. Keep an eye out for the park's diverse birdlife, boasting a total of 289 species. Following the nature walk, indulge in a delightful lunch at a local restaurant. Post-lunch, depart for the expansive 199-hectare Desa Cow Farm! Experience the farm firsthand, sampling fresh dairy products, getting up close to cattle, and even bottle-feeding calves. As the day of exploration concludes, you'll be transferred back to your respective hotels. OR Kiulu White Water Rafting Opt for an exhilarating water rafting adventure! Your River Guide will provide safety instructions and detail the various rapids before you collect your rafting gear. Helmets? Check. Paddles? Check. Lifejackets? Double check! The rafting experience typically spans 1 hour and 30 minutes, contingent upon rapids and river conditions. Navigate through bumpy riverbeds, immersing yourself in a whirlwind of adrenaline and excitement until you reach the endpoint. Don’t miss the breathtaking sights of the tropical rainforest as you cruise through The Wall Rapid and Holy Smoke Rapid. For the more adventurous, try Body Rafting for an even more vigorous experience! Upon reaching the endpoint, change into dry clothing and savour a riverside lunch by the Kiulu River before returning to your hotel. Breakfast / Lunch The LUMA Hotel (or similar 4-star hotel)
Day 5 Departure or Extend Tour Enjoy breakfast at your hotel and have some free time at your leisure until your departure flight takes you back home sweet home. Breakfast End