Malaysia’s Sabah region packs several outstanding tour experiences into one compact corner of Borneo. The Klias River Cruise stands out as a top pick, offering reliable sightings of rare proboscis monkeys in their natural habitat. Nature enthusiasts should prioritize the island-hopping excursions to Mamutik and Sapi – they’re perfect for snorkeling and beach activities without the tourist crowds you’ll find elsewhere in Southeast Asia.
We especially love the Weston Wetland River Cruise for its authentic glimpse of local ecosystems, complete with expert naturalist guides who know exactly where to spot wildlife. The Bongawan Wetland tour is another winner, taking you through less-visited areas rich in native birds and plant species.
For the energetic traveler, Mount Trusmadi offers a challenging but rewarding climb with fewer travelers than you’ll find on more famous peaks. Meanwhile, Semporna’s island tours provide access to some of Asia’s clearest waters and most pristine beaches.
Let’s explore the best tours Sabah has to offer…
Key Points
- Klias River Cruise Day Tour offers a guided 1-day experience with a 30-minute river cruise and wildlife spotting of proboscis monkeys for $46.16 per person.
- Weston Wetland River Cruise Day Tour provides a full-day tour with a high customer satisfaction rating of 4.7 out of 5 for observing diverse wildlife in mangrove forests.
- Private Tour of Kuala Penyu includes a river cruise, proboscis monkey and firefly sightings, and is rated 4.1 out of 5 from over 100 reviews, starting at $53.08 per person.
- Bongawan Wetland Shared Tour offers a journey to the wetlands, including a river cruise, dinner, and firefly tour, priced at €51.62 per person.
- Mount Trusmadi Shared Tour is a 2-day, 1-night adventure to the second-highest peak in Sabah, with guided hikes and comfortable accommodation for $479.61 per person.
Sabah: Klias River Cruise Day Tour Ticket
What better way to learn about Sabah’s lush mangrove forests than with the Klias River Cruise Day Tour? Priced from $46.16 per person, this 1-day activity offers an unforgettable adventure in the heart of Sabah.
The tour starts with a 1.5-hour bus/coach transfer from Kota Kinabalu, followed by a safety briefing at the visitor center. Hop aboard a river boat for a 30-minute cruise, where you’ll have the opportunity to spot proboscis monkeys and other wildlife in their natural habitat.
Enjoy a guided tour, sightseeing, and a stunning sunset viewing before making your way back. The tour includes the river cruise fee, light refreshment, dinner, and hotel transfer.
While personal expenses, insurance, and a CNY surcharge are excluded, this tour promises an immersive and educational nature experience you won’t soon forget. With a minimum booking of 2 people, the Klias River Cruise Day Tour is a must-do for anyone exploring the wonders of Sabah.
Read our full review: Sabah: Klias River Cruise Day Tour Ticket Review
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Morning: Mamutik & Sapi Island Excursion Ticket
The Mamutik & Sapi Island Excursion offers an exhilarating day of adventure and exploration in the stunning islands off the coast of Kinabalu, Sabah. Priced from Kč 1,146 per person, this tour includes round-trip transportation, a guided boat tour, and a range of activities on both Mamutik and Sapi islands.
Guests can look forward to a BBQ lunch featuring fresh seafood and local flavors, as well as opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, jetskiing, banana boat rides, and parasailing. The tour is led by a live guide and provides snorkeling equipment. Personal travel insurance is also included.
While a minimum of four participants is required, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Customers have generally enjoyed the experience, praising the beautiful islands and the knowledgeable guide. However, some have noted the crowds, particularly during peak seasons.
Read our full review: Morning: Mamutik & Sapi Island Excursion Ticket Review
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Sabah: Dreamer Island Snorkeling Day Tour Ticket
Sabah’s Dreamer Island Snorkeling Day Tour Ticket offers an immersive adventure for those seeking to explore the pristine marine sanctuary off the coast. Priced at €50.50 per person, this full-day tour includes pickup, transportation, and a range of activities like swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving, and water sports.
Guests can marvel at the vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life, including colorful fish and sea turtles. The tour also provides a safety briefing, snorkeling equipment, lunch, and personal travel insurance.
While there’s a minimum of 4 people required to book, the tour can be canceled if this minimum isn’t met. Travelers should note the optional surcharges for certain districts and that the snorkeling gear is limited to adult sizes.
With a 4.5/5 customer rating, this tour offers an unforgettable opportunity to experience Sabah’s coastal paradise.
Read our full review: Sabah: Dreamer Island Snorkeling Day Tour Ticket Review
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Sabah: Weston Wetland River Cruise Day Tour Ticket
This Weston Wetland River Cruise Day Tour Ticket in Sabah offers visitors an immersive exploration of the region’s vibrant mangrove ecosystem.
The tour lasts for a full day and includes pickup service, making it a convenient option for travelers. Priced at $64.62 per person, the Weston Wetland River Cruise provides an opportunity to witness the diverse wildlife that inhabits the mangrove forests, including proboscis monkeys and a variety of bird species.
The tour has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 based on 3 reviews, indicating a high level of customer satisfaction. Compared to other nature and wildlife tours in Sabah, this river cruise offers a unique perspective on the area’s rich biodiversity and ecosystem.
Whether you’re an avid nature enthusiast or simply seeking a memorable experience, the Weston Wetland River Cruise Day Tour Ticket is a must-consider activity during your visit to Sabah.
Read our full review: Sabah: Weston Wetland River Cruise Day Tour Ticket Review
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One of the top island hopping tours in Semporna is the Mataking Island Hopping with Snorkel Shared Tour. Priced at £49.28 per person, this full-day excursion takes you to explore three beautiful islands – Timba Timba, Pom Pom, and Mataking.
The tour kicks off at 8 AM with a meet-up at the Infinity Scuba Dive Centre, followed by a 45-minute boat ride to Timba Timba Island. After two hours of exploration, you’ll head to Pom Pom Island Resort for lunch and an hour of snorkeling.
The last stop is Mataking Island, where you’ll spend an hour snorkeling before the 45-minute return journey to Semporna. The tour includes all necessary equipment, fees, and a local guide.
It’s not suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, babies, or seniors, so be mindful of the restrictions. This is an excellent way to experience Sabah’s stunning island landscapes and marine life.
Read our full review: Semporna : Mataking Island Hopping With Snorkel Shared Tour Review
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For travelers seeking to explore the stunning islands of Semporna, the Mabul and Kapalai Island Hopping Shared Tour is a must-consider option. Priced at £49.28 per person, this full-day tour offers a comprehensive experience, including snorkeling sessions, a visit to the Mabul Island village, and free time to explore the islands.
The tour begins with a briefing at the Infinity Scuba Dive Centre before setting off for the first stop, Kapalai Island, where guests can enjoy 1.5 hours of snorkeling. They’ll then travel to Mabul Island for another 1.5-hour snorkeling session and a lunch break, followed by an exploration of the local culture and free time.
The tour includes all necessary equipment and services, making it a convenient and hassle-free way to discover the region’s natural beauty and vibrant communities. With free cancellation and the option to reserve now and pay later, this tour provides flexibility and peace of mind for travelers.
Read our full review: Semporna : Mabul and Kapalai Island Hopping Shared Tour Review
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Morning: Benoni Sunset Train Tour
The Benoni Sunset Train Tour in Sabah, Malaysia, offers a unique and captivating experience for travelers. Priced at €96.51 per person, the one-day tour lasts approximately 3 hours and departs from Stesen Keretapi Tanjung Aru.
The scenic train journey takes passengers through lush forests and rolling hills, culminating in a beautiful sunset viewing at Benoni beach.
Onboard, guests can enjoy a stencil henna tattoo session and a batik painting station, creating memorable keepsakes. The return journey includes a delicious dinner served on the train.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, travelers can book their spot and pay later, making it a hassle-free experience.
While not suitable for wheelchair users, the tour caters to various dietary restrictions. Travelers are advised to bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, and personal medication.
Alcohol and drugs aren’t allowed on the tour, ensuring a relaxing and enjoyable journey.
Read our full review: Morning: Benoni Sunset Train Tour Review
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Travelers seeking a captivating 2-day exploration of Sabah’s natural wonders can embark on the Sutera Avenue + Mengalum Island Shared Tour. This comprehensive package offers a seamless combination of culture and stunning island paradise.
Day 1 takes visitors to Sutera Avenue, a unique heritage-inspired village nestled in the heart of Kota Kinabalu. Here, they’ll explore the rich traditions of Sabah, witnessing cultural performances, touring handicraft workshops, and indulging in a delectable local lunch.
The next day, the adventure continues with a trip to the picturesque Mengalum Island. Guests can look forward to snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters, spotting vibrant marine life, and relaxing on the pristine white-sand beaches. A hearty lunch is provided to fuel the day’s explorations.
Priced at £393.83 per person, this 2-day tour promises an unforgettable experience, blending Sabah’s cultural heritage with its breathtaking natural beauty.
With pickup available, travelers can simply sit back, relax, and enjoy the wonders of this remarkable destination.
Read our full review: 3D2N Sutera Avenue + Mengalum Island Shared Tour Review
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Private Tour of Kuala Penyu Sabah Proboscis & Firefly
What better way to take in Sabah’s natural wonders than a private tour exploring the Kuala Penyu region? This 1-day tour takes guests on an enchanting journey to witness the enigmatic proboscis monkeys and the mesmerizing fireflies.
The tour departs from pickup locations and lasts the entire day, offering ample time to fully appreciate the area’s remarkable biodiversity. Guests will embark on a river cruise to spot the unique proboscis monkeys in their natural habitat, marveling at their distinctive features.
As dusk settles in, the tour transitions to the Bongawan Wetlands, where thousands of fireflies illuminate the night sky in a breathtaking display. Participants can observe this natural phenomenon up close, a truly magical experience.
With a rating of 4.1 from over 100 reviews and a price starting at $53.08 per person, this private tour provides an exceptional value for those seeking an intimate encounter with Sabah’s remarkable wildlife and natural beauty.
An unforgettable way to take in the wonders of this captivating region.
Read our full review: Private Tour of Kuala Penyu Sabah Proboscis & Firefly Review
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For those seeking a captivating outdoor adventure in Sabah, the 2-Day 1-Night Mount Trusmadi Shared Tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in the region’s stunning natural beauty.
Priced at $479.61 per person, this tour whisks travelers away on a two-day journey to the majestic Mount Trusmadi, the second-highest peak in Sabah.
Highlights include a guided hike through the lush rainforest, the chance to spot diverse wildlife, and breathtaking views from the summit.
The tour also includes comfortable overnight accommodation and meals, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience.
With pickup available, this shared tour is a convenient and cost-effective way to explore one of Sabah’s most captivating natural wonders.
Rated as a new activity, the Mount Trusmadi tour promises an unforgettable adventure for outdoor enthusiasts seeking to enjoy Sabah’s magnificent landscapes.
Read our full review: Kota Kinabalu : 2 Days 1 Nights Mount Trusmadi Shared Tour Review
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This captivating shared tour takes visitors on a journey to the Bongawan Wetland, an enchanting destination renowned for its diverse wildlife and mesmerizing natural landscapes.
Priced at €51.62 per person, the tour offers a seamless experience with convenient hotel pickup, a scenic 1.5-hour drive, and a range of activities, including a river cruise to spot the endangered Proboscis Monkey, a delightful dinner, and an awe-inspiring firefly tour.
Travelers can delight in the opportunity to observe the unique wildlife, such as the Proboscis Monkey, and revel in the beauty of the sunset at the Bongawan Wetland.
The tour also includes the enchanting experience of witnessing the illuminated mangrove trees, as fireflies put on a dazzling display.
With an overall rating of 4.1/5 and positive feedback on the knowledgeable guides and value for money, this tour is an enticing option for those seeking an immersive exploration of Sabah’s natural wonders.
Read our full review: Bongawan Wetland: Proboscis Monkey and Fireflies Shared Tour Review
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The Sum Up
Sabah offers a diverse range of tours showcasing its natural wonders. From river cruises and island hopping to wildlife encounters and hiking, there’s something for every traveler. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or culture, Sabah’s tours provide unforgettable experiences. With options catering to different interests and budgets, visitors are sure to find the perfect tour to make the most of their time in this stunning Malaysian state.