Things to Do at Mari Mari Cultural Village
Complete Guide to Mari Mari Cultural Village in Kota Kinabalu
About Mari Mari Cultural Village
What to See & Do
Traditional House Demonstrations
Walk through authentic replicas of five different ethnic group homes, each with distinct architectural styles and cultural artifacts that guides explain in detail
Blowpipe and Fire-Making Activities
Try your hand at traditional hunting techniques with blowpipes and learn the surprisingly tricky art of starting fire using bamboo - harder than it looks
Traditional Cooking Experience
Watch (and sometimes participate in) preparing local dishes using bamboo cooking methods and traditional ingredients you might not encounter elsewhere
Cultural Performances
Evening visits include traditional dances and music performances that give context to the cultural demonstrations you've experienced
Handicraft Workshops
Learn basic techniques for making traditional items like woven baskets or beadwork - you'll actually take something home that you made yourself
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Daily 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, with cultural shows typically starting around 4:30 PM for afternoon tours
Tickets & Pricing
Around RM 150-180 for adults including cultural show and traditional lunch; children roughly half price. Book through hotels or tour operators for better rates
Best Time to Visit
Late afternoon tours (2:00 PM start) are worth it for the cultural performances, though morning visits tend to be less crowded and cooler
Suggested Duration
Full experience takes about 4-5 hours including lunch and cultural show; shorter visits possible but you'll miss the performances
Getting There
Things to Do Nearby
Another cultural village experience focusing specifically on Kadazan-Dusun warrior traditions - less polished than Mari Mari but more specialized
Decent zoo and botanical garden about 15 minutes away, good for families and worth combining if you have kids along
Mountain park with hiking trails and cooler temperatures - completely different experience but accessible from this direction
Historic hanging bridge made famous by a local folk song - quick stop that's become surprisingly popular with locals and visitors