Things to Do at Mari Mari Cultural Village

Complete Guide to travel to Mari Mari Cultural Village in Kotakinabalu

About Mari Mari Cultural Village

travel to Mari Mari Cultural Village is an award-winning living museum located in the outskirts of Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, offering visitors an immersive experience into the rich cultural heritage of Borneo's indigenous tribes. This authentic cultural village showcases the traditional lifestyles, customs, and practices of five major ethnic groups: Bajau, Lundayeh, Murut, Rungus, and Dusun. The village was established to preserve and promote the diverse cultural traditions of Sabah's native communities through interactive demonstrations and educational experiences. Spanning across lush tropical surroundings, travel to Mari Mari Cultural Village features traditional houses built using authentic materials and construction methods passed down through generations. Visitors can witness live demonstrations of traditional crafts, cooking methods, and cultural practices while learning about the unique customs and beliefs of each tribe. The village serves as both an educational center and a conservation effort to ensure these precious cultural traditions are preserved for future generations.

What to See & Do

Traditional Tribal Houses

Explore authentic replicas of traditional homes from five different tribes, each built using original materials and techniques, showcasing unique architectural styles and cultural significance.

Cultural Performances

Watch captivating traditional dances, music performances, and ceremonies performed by local artists in traditional costumes, including the famous Sumazau dance and bamboo music.

Traditional Craft Demonstrations

Observe skilled artisans creating traditional handicrafts such as basket weaving, beadwork, pottery, and wood carving using age-old techniques and natural materials.

Fire-Making and Blowpipe Activities

Participate in hands-on experiences learning traditional survival skills like fire-making using bamboo and try your accuracy with the traditional blowpipe hunting method.

Traditional Cuisine Tasting

Sample authentic local delicacies prepared using traditional cooking methods, including rice wine, traditional cakes, and dishes cooked in bamboo over open fires.

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Daily 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (last tour starts at 3:30 PM). Tours run approximately every hour with guided sessions lasting 2.5 hours.

Tickets & Pricing

Adults: RM180, Children (4-12): RM90, Children under 4: Free. Prices include guided tour, cultural performances, hands-on activities, and traditional lunch. Advance booking recommended.

Best Time to Visit

Best visited during dry season (March-September) for optimal weather. Morning tours (9:00 AM or 10:30 AM) offer cooler temperatures and better lighting for photography.

Suggested Duration

2.5-3 hours for the complete guided tour experience, including cultural performances and traditional lunch.

Getting There

travel to Mari Mari Cultural Village is located approximately 25 kilometers from Kota Kinabalu city center, about a 45-minute drive through scenic countryside. Most visitors opt for organized tours that include round-trip transportation from hotels in Kota Kinabalu. For independent travelers, rental cars or taxis are available, though the village is not accessible by public transportation. The journey takes you through rural areas and oil palm plantations, offering glimpses of local life. GPS coordinates and detailed directions are provided upon booking confirmation.

Things to Do Nearby

Crocker Range National Park
Malaysia's largest national park featuring montane forests, diverse wildlife, and hiking trails with stunning mountain views, located about 30 minutes from the cultural village.
Tamparuli Suspension Bridge
Historic suspension bridge featured in a famous Malaysian folk song, offering scenic river views and local market experiences in the charming town of Tamparuli.
Kota Kinabalu Wetland Centre
Important bird sanctuary and mangrove ecosystem featuring boardwalk trails, bird watching opportunities, and environmental education programs about coastal conservation.
Tuaran Beach
Popular local beach destination with golden sand, calm waters, and beachfront restaurants serving fresh seafood, perfect for relaxation after cultural exploration.

Tips & Advice

Wear comfortable walking shoes and light, breathable clothing suitable for outdoor activities in tropical humidity.
Bring insect repellent and sunscreen as the village tour involves outdoor walking through natural surroundings.
Don't miss the traditional lunch included in your tour - it's an authentic culinary experience featuring local ingredients and cooking methods.
Participate actively in the hands-on activities like blowpipe shooting and fire-making for a more engaging cultural experience.
Respect local customs and ask permission before photographing people, especially during cultural performances and demonstrations.
Book in advance during peak tourist seasons (June-August, December-January) as tours can fill up quickly.
Bring cash for purchasing authentic handicrafts and souvenirs directly from local artisans at the village gift shop.

Tours & Activities at Mari Mari Cultural Village