6D5N Kota Kinabalu & Kundasang Adventure With Luxurious Gaya Island Resort Stay Print

Kota Kinabalu / North Borneo Cruises - Sunset Dinner Cruise

Welcome to the vibrant heart of Kota Kinabalu! Upon your arrival, we'll whisk you away from the airport to a 4-star hotel for check-in.  

After settling in, seize the opportunity to dive into the lively streets of Kota Kinabalu at your leisure. 

As the afternoon fades to evening, at 16:45 Hrs, we'll escort you to the Sutera Marina Jetty, setting the stage for an evening you won't soon forget aboard the North Borneo Cruises. Embark on a captivating Sunset Dinner Cruise, where the splendor of the South China Sea unfolds before your eyes, cruising by scenic islands and quaint water villages along the enchanting coast of Sabah. 

Ascend to the upper deck for breathtaking sea panoramas, basked in the glow of a setting sun, complemented by a soothing breeze. Below deck, a cozy, air-conditioned space with locally infused decor welcomes you, where live acoustic melodies weave through the air, enhancing the evening's ambiance. 

Indulge in a buffet dinner that showcases Sabah's most coveted flavours, under the backdrop of a sky transitioning from the hues of sunset to the sparkle of stars. As Kota Kinabalu's shoreline comes alive with twinkling lights, savour a sweet dessert or a glass of wine, letting the gentle motion of the North Borneo Cruises along the Waterfront carry you away. 

Following this memorable journey, we'll ensure your safe return to the hotel, concluding a day of enchantment. 

Tamparuli Town / Nabalu Market / Desa Cow Farm / Mountain Resort

Prepare for a day brimming with adventure as we collect you from your hotel lobby for an unforgettable journey into the heart of Sabah's verdant landscapes.   

Your trip kicks off with a stop at the charming town of Tamparuli. Here, a stroll across the iconic "Jambatan Tamparuli" bridge immerses you in the town's allure. 

As you ascend the serpentine roads of the Crocker Range, the adventure continues to Nabalu town, a stopover offering fresh local produce, delightful snacks, and unique handicrafts and souvenirs.   

Indulge in a delightful lunch at a local eatery before embarking on your next adventure to the Desa Cow Farm.  

As you navigate the winding roads, with each turn presenting a more stunning view than the last, you'll know you've arrived at this idyllic destination when the breathtaking expanse of the farm unfolds before you, nestled at the foothills of Mount Kinabalu. Spanning 199 hectares of unspoiled beauty, Desa Cattle Farm offers an unparalleled experience where you'll have the unique opportunity to mingle with the cattle, feed the adorable calves, and savor dairy products fresh from the source. 

After your farm visit, make your way to Kundasang and settle into the comfort of a mountain resort, where you'll immediately notice the refreshing, high-altitude air. Enjoy the freedom to explore the resort at your leisure. 

Your day concludes with a sumptuous dinner followed by a restful overnight stay amidst the peaceful embrace of the mountains. 

Canopy Treetop Walk / Poring Hot Spring / Kinabalu UNESCO Global Geopark / Kota Kinabalu

Wake up to your third day in Sabah with a magical morning, as the mists part to reveal the sun rising over Mount Kinabalu.  

Start your day with an exhilarating Canopy Treetop Walk at Poring Hot Springs, offering stunning views from 60 meters above the jungle floor after a brief hike. Relax afterward in the therapeutic Japanese-style open-air sulphur baths amidst beautiful gardens, or opt for a refreshing cold dip.  

Refuel with lunch at a quaint local restaurant, then explore Kinabalu UNESCO Global Geopark, Malaysia's first UNESCO World Heritage Site! Located 1,500 meters above sea level and covering 754 square kilometers, it houses Mount Kinabalu, one of Southeast Asia's highest peaks. The park's crisp air and a guided stroll through the Botanical Garden reveal its rich biodiversity, offering insights into the park's unique ecological system. 

You will pause for a scrumptious lunch at a local eatery before going back to Kota Kinabalu, where the rest of the day is yours to unwind or continue your city exploration. 

Free and Easy / Kota Kinabalu Jetty / Gaya Island Resort

Embark on a leisurely morning as today is free and easy. Savor your breakfast and check out from your hotel, preferably by 11:00 hrs. 

Following checkout, you'll be transferred to the jetty, where a scheduled speedboat awaits to whisk you away to the enchanting 5-star Gaya Island Resort. 

Following a swift 10-minute speedboat journey, you'll arrive at a sanctuary of natural beauty and serene luxury, nestled within the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park. The friendly and attentive staff will welcome you warmly upon arrival. 

Once you've checked in and received your welcome drinks, retreat to your contemporary, elegant hillside villa.  

Here, you can enjoy a plethora of amenities, including plush bedding, a writing desk, a powered safe, and a flat-screen TV with satellite channels. The spacious en-suite bathroom comes with an oversized bathtub and dual vanity units. 

The highlight of the villa is the breathtaking views that span from the lush mangrove forests to the majestic Mount Kinabalu. Allow yourself some time to relax and immerse yourself in the tranquil ambiance of the golden hour. 

For dinner, five distinct restaurants await to satisfy every culinary desire: Feast Village, Fisherman's Cove, Omakase, Pool Bar & Lounge, and Tavajun Bay. Each venue offers a unique menu, ensuring that there's something to delight every palate.  

Gaya Island Resort

After enjoying a delicious breakfast, you have the freedom to explore at your leisure or participate in the resort's scheduled recreational activities for the day. 

Start your day with a visit to the Gaya Island Resort Marine Centre. Engage in an enlightening journey as you learn about the conservation efforts involving sea turtles. And how these beautiful creatures are rescued. Delve into the process of cultivating coral fragments, a crucial step towards restoring the vibrant life beneath the sea. 

Prepare for an exceptional guided snorkelling adventure, led by our Resident Marine Biologist. A distinctive feature of this experience is the practice of snorkelling without fins, a measure taken to protect our precious house reefs. Please note that this exclusive activity is limited daily to minimize our impact on the marine ecosystem. 

You can also embark on an adventure through Gaya Island's pristine nature trails, offering a unique experience of the island's exceptional botanic reserve and diverse wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for a chance to spot exotic wildlife such as Proboscis Monkeys, Red Giant Flying Squirrels, Bearded Pigs, Twilight Fireflies, Elephant Foot Yam, and more. 

Conclude your day of adventure with a visit to the Spa Village. Immerse yourself in a serene environment where you can luxuriate in treatments that embody the cultural healing traditions of Sabah's indigenous peoples.  

As the day draws to a close, enjoy some leisure time at your own pace. Whether you choose to dine at one of the resort's exquisite restaurants, take a gentle walk on the beach, or simply relax in your villa, the evening is yours to savor the peace and beauty of Gaya Island. 

Gaya Island Resort / Kota Kinabalu Jetty / Kota Kinabalu International Airport / Departure or Extend Tour

After enjoying breakfast, check out from the Gaya Island Resort and take a scheduled speedboat ride to transfer you back to the mainland.    

Transfer to Kota Kinabalu International Airport for your flight or consider extending your trip in Sabah!