Kundasang cool air in one long day. This private day trip from Kota Kinabalu is built around a string of fun stops heading up toward Mount Kinabalu views, starting with the upside-down Rumah Terbalik in Tamparuli and ending with photo time at Kundasang. I like the mix of quirky and real, especially the hands-on dairy farm moments and the chance to watch or take part in farm activities. I also like the playful break at the fish spa, where the experience doubles as a leg massage and a conversation-starter.

One thing to plan for: admission fees and lunch are not included, so your total day cost can be higher than the base price once you pay at the stops. Also, it’s a tight schedule of many different places, so if you hate being in-and-out, you’ll want to treat each stop like a taste, not a long stay.

Key things to know before you go

• Private group of up to 6 means a calmer pace than big bus tours.
• Start at 7:30am from Kota Kinabalu Airport, with hotel or airport transfer included.
• Upside-down Rumah Terbalik is your first real photo-and-giggle stop.
• Desa Dairy Farm is the heart of the day, with kid-friendly farm activities.
• Fish spa at Bombon Kg. Marakau includes feeding fish for a spa-style leg massage.
• Tamparuli Suspension Bridge entrance is free, and you’ll also see a traditional dance performance first.

From Kota Kinabalu to Kundasang: why this day feels special

This is one of those Sabah days where the change in air is half the reward. You leave Kota Kinabalu early and work your way into the cooler highlands around Kundasang, which means the day feels less hot, more crisp, and more comfortable for walking and photos.

I also like that the tour doesn’t depend on one single attraction. You get several different vibes in about 7 hours total: a themed oddball house, a scenic suspension bridge, real farm life, a fish spa break, bunny time, and then a final selfie stop for the road-tripping photos. It’s a classic “one day, many memories” approach, and it works well for families and groups who want variety without planning a route yourself.

Rumah Terbalik in Tamparuli: the upside-down house stop

Your first activity is Rumah Terbalik, the upside-down house at Tamparuli. The whole idea is exactly what it sounds like: the building is flipped, so floors face the sky and everyday items hang from above. Even if you’re not into optical illusions, it’s a fun way to shake up the day early, especially because it’s timed for about 1 hour.

What makes this stop good value is that it’s low-pressure. You don’t need special skills or long prep. You just walk in, look around, and take photos from a bunch of angles. If you’re traveling with kids, this is also the kind of place where everyone can find something entertaining in seconds.

Practical tip: wear comfortable shoes. You’ll spend time moving around inside and taking photos, and you’ll want stable footing.

Tamparuli Suspension Bridge plus a traditional dance warm-up

After the upside-down house, you head to the Tamparuli Suspension Bridge, with about 30 minutes set aside. The bridge itself is about views and the feeling of being above Tamparuli. The important detail here is that the suspension bridge entry is free, so you’re only paying for what you choose to do beyond basic viewing.

Even better, the day includes a traditional dance performance before you head to the bridge. That adds cultural context and gives you a short, calm break before moving back outdoors. It’s also handy if your group needs something to watch while the driver is getting everyone organized.

Practical tip: bring a light layer. Bridges and open-air viewpoints can feel cooler even when the town is comfortable. And keep an eye on your phone lanyard or strap if it’s windy.

Desa Dairy Farm: “Little New Zealand” style, but in Sabah

Then the day turns practical and hands-on at Desa Dairy Farm. This is the stop that gives you the “I’m actually in the highlands” feeling, thanks to cool air, foggy surroundings, and a countryside feel that’s different from the coast.

This is also where the tour earns its family-friendly reputation. You get activities suitable for children and adults, including opportunities like feeding cattle, milking the calf, and watching cows being milked. Even if you’re not planning to actively participate, the chance to see farm routines up close is the point.

The food perks matter too. The farm experience includes chances to taste things like fresh milk and gelato ice cream from the cow farm area. Those add-ons can turn this from a “look and leave” stop into a real break.

What to watch for: farm activities can be weather-dependent. If the area is misty or cooler than expected, you might feel colder than you think. A light jacket makes a difference, especially if your day starts warm in Kota Kinabalu.

Bombon Kg. Marakau fish spa: fun massage with a big sensory factor

Next up is Bombon Kg. Marakau (Fish Spa), around 2 hours. The concept is simple: you feed the fish for spa treatment, and the interaction is also described as a leg massage. It’s playful, and it tends to be the type of activity people remember because it’s not something you can replicate at home.

That said, fish spa is also a sensory experience. If your group is squeamish about the idea of fish nibbling, you’ll want to keep your expectations realistic and decide on your comfort level on the spot. The best move is to ask how the session works right there, so you know what’s happening before you commit.

Practical tip: you may want to keep your feet bare only as required for the session. Ask what footwear rules are used here, since the day’s attractions don’t list those details.

Arnab Village bunny time and the “pet and pause” hour

After the fish spa, the day shifts to something gentler at Arnab Village. You get about 1 hour to pet a fluffy bunny and enjoy the view. This is a nice tempo change after the fish spa: less intense, more relaxed, and usually a hit with kids.

This stop is also a good place for quick photos that aren’t just landscapes and bridges. A bunny in your frame gives you a memory that looks personal and different from the standard travel shot.

Practical tip: be calm and patient with animals. Even friendly ones can get stressed if people crowd in too fast. Let the staff guide the pace.

Kundasang Selfie Corner: end your day with easy photos

Finally, you reach Kundasang Selfie Corner, with about 30 minutes for pictures. The whole point is simple: a designed backdrop plus green-hill style views around Kundasang.

I like ending here because it’s low effort. By the time you arrive, your group has already done the “activities” parts of the day, so this gives you a chance to grab some final photos without thinking too hard.

Practical tip: if you’re using a wide-angle lens or selfie stick, check the ground first. Some photo corners can have uneven spots, and you don’t want to deal with clumsy balance at the end of the day.

Timing, transportation, and what you’re really paying for

The price is $194.78 per group (up to 6), and the trip typically gets booked about 25 days in advance. That group price matters because it usually beats what you’d pay for separate taxis, especially when you want a driver who stays with you all day and keeps the schedule moving.

What’s included:

• Private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle
• Driver as guide
• Airport transfer or hotel transfer
• Fuel
• A traditional dance performance before the suspension bridge

Not included:

• Lunch
• All fees and taxes

The free part you should know: Tamparuli Suspension Bridge admission is free (so you’re not paying entry there). For the other stops, admission and any activity fees can add up, so budget for tickets and any paid extras.

Is it value for money? For me, yes, if you want a structured day without logistics stress. You’re essentially paying for transport plus a guided flow through multiple places in one day. If you’re the type who enjoys hopping between different experiences—rather than spending half a day in one museum—this format fits well.

Best fit: who this day trip works for

This tour is listed as suitable for most travelers and it’s private, which makes it a good option if you’re traveling with kids or if you just don’t want to deal with a crowded group.

It’s especially strong for:

• Families who want animal and farm time
• Photo-minded groups who enjoy themed spots (upside-down house and selfie corner)
• People who like variety in a single day (bridge + farm + fish spa)

If your group prefers quiet, long nature walks or one deep attraction, you might feel a bit rushed with the multiple stops. The schedule is built for “see a lot,” not “slow travel.”

Service quality: what usually makes this provider feel smooth

The biggest thing I look for in a day trip like this is whether it runs on time and whether the driver helps the day feel organized. This company is known for quick communication on WhatsApp, and the driver style is often described as friendly and patient, including when kids are involved. There’s also mention of a warm handoff at the start of the trip, including airport pickup.

That matters because the day starts early and you’re stacking several different venues. A helpful driver as guide is the difference between a smooth day and a stressful one.

Should you book this Kundasang day trip?

Book it if you want a compact highland day with real farm activities plus quirky photo stops, all handled for you with private transportation. The group price is reasonable for up to six people, and the inclusion of airport/hotel transfer plus air-conditioned comfort helps a lot.

Skip it (or adjust expectations) if you hate paying extra once you’re there. Since lunch and admission/fees aren’t included, you should plan a bit of cash buffer for entry and on-site purchases. Also, if you want one attraction to be the main event, this kind of “many stops in one day” plan can feel like you’re sampling, not settling in.

FAQ

FAQ

What time does the tour start from Kota Kinabalu?

The start time is 7:30am, departing from Kota Kinabalu Airport.

Where does the tour pick up, and is hotel pickup included?

Pickup can be arranged as an airport transfer or hotel transfer, and it’s included in the package.

How long is the day trip to Kundasang?

The duration is about 7 hours.

Is this a private tour?

Yes. This is a private tour/activity, and only your group participates.

What is the maximum group size?

The price is per group up to 6 people.

Is lunch included in the price?

No. Lunch is not included.

Are admission tickets included for all stops?

No. All fees and taxes are not included, and many stops list admission tickets as not included. One noted exception is the Tamparuli Suspension Bridge, which is free.

Is there a free stop on the schedule?

Yes. Tamparuli Suspension Bridge admission is listed as free.

What’s included besides transportation?

Included items include a driver as guide, fuel, air-conditioned vehicle, and a traditional dance performance before boarding the Tamparuli Suspension Bridge.