In short
- Temperatures drop to 15°C at Desa Dairy Farm.
- Poring Hot Springs requires swimwear and a towel.
- Bring non-slip walking shoes and a rain jacket.
In this article
Day tours from Kota Kinabalu cover a wide range of climates. You will visit a hot lowland rainforest and cool mountain pastures on the same day.
How cold does it get in Kinabalu Park and Desa Dairy Farm?
Temperatures in the highlands range from 15 to 24 degrees Celsius. Desa Dairy Farm sits around 1,500 meters above sea level.
The higher elevation creates a cool climate year-round. You will notice a sharp drop in temperature after driving up from Kota Kinabalu.
What should I wear to Desa Dairy Farm?
Wear a warm sweater or fleece. The farm's 1,500-meter elevation means temperatures dip to 15 degrees Celsius.
Layering is important. You might feel cold during the early morning views. A light jacket over a t-shirt works best as the sun comes out.
What shoes do I need for Kinabalu Park?
Pack comfortable, non-slip walking or hiking shoes. You will need them for the Silau-Silau Trail and Botanical Garden.
The dirt trails can be damp and slippery near the riverbanks. Sturdy shoes also help when walking on the 373-meter Poring Canopy Walkway.
What to pack for Poring Hot Springs?
Bring swimwear, a towel, and a change of clothes. You will need these for the communal sulphur bath pools.
Poring is a lowland rainforest area, so it feels warmer than Kinabalu Park. If you plan to hike to the Kipungit Waterfall for a cold dip, keep your swimsuit on.
Should I bring a rain jacket?
Yes, pack a light waterproof jacket or raincoat. The rainforest environment means showers can fall at any time.
A small, packable jacket will keep you dry on the nature trails. It also blocks the wind at higher elevations near the Park Viewing Deck.
What else should I pack for the day tour?
Bring sun protection, insect repellent, and motion sickness pills. The drive from Kota Kinabalu takes 2 hours on steep, winding roads.
Wear a hat and sunglasses for the midday sun. Apply insect repellent before walking the rainforest trails. Bring your own drinking water and light snacks.
Questions travellers ask
Do I need cold weather gear for Kundasang?
You do not need heavy winter coats. A warm sweater or fleece is enough for temperatures dropping to 15 degrees Celsius.
Are towels provided at Poring Hot Springs?
You must bring your own towel and swimwear for the open-air sulphur baths and waterfall.
Are the trails paved at Kinabalu Park?
The Silau-Silau trail is a damp dirt path along a stream. Non-slip walking shoes are highly recommended for safety.
