Mari Mari Cultural Village
Discover the vibrant heritage of Sabah's indigenous tribes through immersive cultural experiences, traditional homes, and lively performances.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal tours
Mari Mari Cultural Village
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal tours
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the vibrant heritage of Sabah's indigenous tribes through immersive cultural experiences, traditional homes, and lively performances.
"A truly enchanting experience, exceeding expectations with magical moments and enriching cultural insights."
🎯 Book in Advance
Secure your spot, especially for group tours, to avoid disappointment and potential delays. :ticket:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking around different village replicas, so comfortable footwear is a must. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Traditional Tribal Houses
Various tribal village replicas
Step into the authentic homes of Sabah's indigenous communities, from the longhouses of the Dusun to the unique dwellings of the Murut.
Cultural Performances
Main village stage
Witness vibrant dance routines and traditional music that showcase the rich heritage and artistic expressions of the local tribes.
Hands-On Activities
Various activity stations
Try your hand at traditional crafts, blow darts, and learn about local customs through interactive demonstrations.
Local Culinary Delights
Dining area
Savor authentic Bornean cuisine, experiencing the unique flavors and ingredients of the region.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Peak Times
Embrace the Full Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book in Advance
Secure your spot, especially for group tours, to avoid disappointment and potential delays. :ticket:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking around different village replicas, so comfortable footwear is a must. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the Moments
Bring your camera or phone to document the vibrant performances and unique cultural displays. :camerawithflash:
🙋♀️ Engage with Guides
Ask questions and interact with the knowledgeable guides for a richer, more educational experience. :speech_balloon:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book in Advance
Secure your spot, especially for group tours, to avoid disappointment and potential delays. :ticket:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking around different village replicas, so comfortable footwear is a must. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the Moments
Bring your camera or phone to document the vibrant performances and unique cultural displays. :camerawithflash:
🙋♀️ Engage with Guides
Ask questions and interact with the knowledgeable guides for a richer, more educational experience. :speech_balloon:
🍽️ Enjoy the Local Food
Don't miss the opportunity to taste traditional Bornean dishes prepared on-site. :knifeforkplate:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Mari Mari Cultural Village for its immersive and educational experience, highlighting the engaging cultural performances and hands-on activities. Guides are often commended for their knowledge and passion. However, some guests have reported organizational issues, including long wait times for guides and perceived preferential treatment for foreign tourists, as well as concerns about driver welfare.
"I gave 2 stars because it was the management at fault, not the entertainers'. Dancers and tribe house representatives gave their best.
What ticked me off :
1) We arrived at 9.15am yet we were made to wait for 1 hour because they don't have enough tour guide. But the foreigner (read: mat salleh) groups get to go before us when they arrived much later?? Foreigner first policy is it?
2) Our tour guide, Erwin is not well trained. We missed a full tour of the Bajau house, the house is dark and closed by the time we reached. He even gave a disdain look and said he's just a guide, not a runner when we asked if he could call someone to assist for the Bajau house. We asked to try 'sumpit' activity and his answer was 'oh kamu mau try ka?' Dude of course 😅 we paid 100+ and we want the full experience. He should also recognise his group members as some were left behind. And we found the henna activity on our own, some members didn't know there's this activity and was a bit sad they missed out.
3) MOST IMPORTANT : as we know, driver gets complimentary meal. Front desk did not allow our driver to pick us up, citing the van is lowered but there were other vans coming out. Our driver asked several times but was denied entry. We were asked to walk all the way back to the entrance. Ok that's fine but our driver didn't eat at all when there is complementary food for him! And we have to rush to another location! Terrible la you all, to your own people some more. Honestly disappointed to witness this."
Irfarina Nazli
"We had a truly wonderful experience at Mari Mari Cultural Village in Sabah! It was both educational and immersive, offering us a fascinating glimpse into the diverse cultures and rich history of the indigenous tribes of Borneo. Every station was well thought out and gave us a deeper appreciation of the traditional lifestyles, customs, and crafts.
A special shoutout to our guide, Nisa, who made the tour even more enjoyable. She was incredibly knowledgeable, professional, and spoke excellent English, which made everything easy to understand and engaging. Her passion for the culture really shone through in her storytelling and explanations.
Highly recommended for anyone visiting Sabah and wanting to experience the heart and soul of local heritage. Thank you to everyone at Mari Mari Cultural Village for such a memorable day!"
Endra Mirza
"Introduce the characteristics of many aboriginal food and housing, and the service staff is also very kind, and you can also have lunch here. You can enjoy their performance, which is quite good, and the service of helping tourists get tattoos is completely free."
Tp
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Mari Mari Cultural Village is located about 45 minutes to an hour's drive from Kota Kinabalu city. Many visitors opt for pre-booked tours that include transportation, or they arrange for a private taxi or Grab. Some TikTok videos showcase the scenic drive to the village. +1
Typically, the standard ticket price does not include transportation from Kota Kinabalu. It's advisable to check with your tour provider or book a package that includes transfers for convenience.
Yes, you can drive your own car. There is parking available at the village. However, some reviews mention issues with drivers being denied entry to pick up guests, so confirm pick-up arrangements beforehand.
The journey from Kota Kinabalu typically takes around 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on traffic conditions.
The village is accessible via main roads. GPS navigation is recommended, and many tour operators will provide clear directions or handle the logistics of getting there.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, but generally, expect to pay over RM100 per person for the full experience, which often includes a guided tour, cultural performances, and a meal. It's best to check their official website or booking platforms for the most current pricing.
It is highly recommended to book your tickets in advance, especially if you plan to visit during peak season or on weekends. This helps ensure availability and can sometimes lead to a smoother entry process.
The village typically opens in the morning and operates throughout the day, often concluding in the late afternoon or early evening. Specific hours can vary, so it's wise to confirm them when booking.
While the core experience is generally consistent, some tour packages might offer variations. It's worth inquiring about any special packages or inclusions when you book.
The entrance fee usually covers a guided tour of the traditional houses, cultural performances, hands-on activities like blow darts, and a traditional Bornean meal.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You'll explore replicas of traditional homes of five major Sabahan ethnic groups, witness cultural dances and music, try traditional crafts, and learn about their unique customs. +1
Yes, guided tours are a key part of the experience. Knowledgeable guides will lead you through the village, explaining the history and traditions of each tribe.
Absolutely! The village is designed for interaction. You can learn about their daily lives, try their crafts, and even participate in some of their traditional activities. +1
Expect to see traditional dances, music performances, and demonstrations of tribal skills. The Murut tribe's 'headhunter' traditions are also often highlighted. +2
Yes, it's a very educational and engaging experience for children, offering a hands-on introduction to different cultures.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, a traditional Bornean meal is typically included in the entrance fee, offering a taste of local cuisine.
You can expect to try authentic local dishes prepared using traditional methods and ingredients native to Sabah.
It's advisable to inquire about dietary options when booking, as traditional meals may not cater to all specific needs.
While a meal is included, there might be opportunities to purchase snacks or drinks, though this is not the primary focus.
Dining is usually a communal experience, often served buffet-style, allowing you to sample various local delicacies.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed, and encouraged, to capture the vibrant cultural displays and traditional settings.
While generally permitted, it's always respectful to ask permission before taking close-up photos of individuals, especially during private moments or ceremonies.
The traditional houses, cultural performance areas, and the scenic village grounds offer excellent photo opportunities. +1
Often, performers are happy to pose for photos after their shows, especially if you engage with them respectfully.
Capturing the intricate details of the tribal houses, the vibrant costumes during dances, and the hands-on craft activities make for memorable shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: Wear comfortable shoes as there's a fair bit of walking. Ensure children are supervised during activities. The included meal is a good way to ensure everyone gets fed, but it's wise to check for any specific dietary needs beforehand.
✈️ Day-Trippers from Kota Kinabalu
Key for day-trippers: Book a tour that includes pick-up and drop-off to maximize your time. Aim for a morning visit to enjoy the cooler temperatures and potentially fewer crowds. The included meal means you won't need to worry about lunch arrangements.
🌍 Culture Enthusiasts
For culture buffs: Take your time to absorb the details at each tribal house. Engage with the guides and performers to ask specific questions. Consider visiting during a weekday to have more personal interactions.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Sabah's Diverse Tribes
The Dusun are known for their agricultural practices and intricate weaving, while the Rungus are famous for their longhouses and vibrant beadwork. The Lundayeh have a history tied to hunting and gathering, and the Bajau are traditionally seafaring people. The Murut are perhaps the most historically recognized for their warrior culture and headhunting traditions, which are depicted in a respectful and educational manner.
This immersive experience allows visitors to not only see but also feel the cultural tapestry of Borneo. The village aims to educate and foster appreciation for these diverse communities, offering a glimpse into a way of life that is rapidly evolving in modern times.
Hands-On Cultural Immersion
These interactive sessions are led by members of the respective tribes, who share their knowledge and skills with enthusiasm. It's a fantastic opportunity to learn firsthand about the practical aspects of tribal life and to appreciate the ingenuity and artistry involved. The guides often facilitate these activities, ensuring everyone has a chance to participate and enjoy the experience.
This hands-on approach makes the cultural learning process more memorable and engaging. It transforms a typical museum visit into an active exploration, allowing you to create your own connection with the heritage of Sabah.
Culinary Journey Through Borneo
Expect to sample a variety of local delicacies that highlight the unique flavors of the region. This culinary experience is often served buffet-style, allowing you to try different dishes and discover new favorites. It's a chance to understand how the local environment and resources have shaped the food traditions of the indigenous communities.
While the specific menu can vary, the emphasis is always on fresh, local ingredients and traditional cooking methods. This gastronomic adventure is a delightful complement to the cultural immersion, rounding off a truly holistic visit to the village.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit