Cultural host at Mari Mari Cultural Village

A Journey Into

the Living Heritage of Sabah

Step back in time and experience the authentic traditions of North Borneo's indigenous communities.

As it was. As it is.
Discover

Living Museum

Real people, real stories, real experiences

5 Indigenous Tribes

Discover diverse cultures in one village

Daily Sessions

10:00 AM & 2:00 PM

Authentic Sabah

Culture, nature & heritage

Mari Mari Cultural Village cultural performers Sabah
Malaysia

Welcome To

Mari Mari Cultural Village

Hidden within the serene rainforest just outside Kota Kinabalu, Mari Mari Cultural Village offers an extraordinary opportunity to step back in time and experience the authentic traditions of North Borneo's indigenous communities.

More than just a cultural attraction, Mari Mari Cultural Village is a living museum, where history is preserved through real people, real stories, and real experiences.

Guided by knowledgeable local hosts, visitors are taken on a meaningful journey through Sabah's diverse heritage, seeing how ancient traditions continue to thrive in the modern world.

Meet the cultures

One village, many stories

Discover Sabah’s living cultures

Step into the traditions and everyday heritage of five Indigenous communities.

Kadazan-Dusun

Kadazan-Dusun

Renowned as rice farmers, deeply connected to nature and spiritual beliefs.

Rungus

Rungus

Known for longhouse living, beadwork, and strong community traditions.

Lundayeh

Lundayeh

Peaceful highland dwellers with rich hunting and fishing heritage.

Bajau

Bajau

The Cowboys of the East, famous for horse riding and seafaring skills.

Murut

Murut

Once feared headhunters, now celebrated for bravery, culture, and tradition.

Each traditional house you visit is not just a structure. It tells a story. From architecture and tools to rituals and daily routines, every detail reflects the tribe's identity and way of life.

Be part of the story

An immersive cultural experience

You are not just a spectator. Journey through the village with local hosts and experience the traditions up close.

Live cultural demonstrations

Witness fire-starting using bamboo, traditional cooking methods, and blowpipe hunting techniques.

Ancient survival skills

Learn about knowledge passed down through generations in the rainforest.

Cultural storytelling

Interact with friendly guides dressed in traditional attire as they share the meaning of each tradition.

Hands-on participation

Take part in activities, traditional practices, and cultural moments.

Authentic food & rice wine

Taste local delicacies and rice wine unique to each house.

A cultural host in traditional attire in the rainforest
Guided by local hostsReal people.
Real stories.

A journey through the village

Moments to remember

Follow the paths, meet the people and discover the details that make the experience unforgettable.

Guided Cultural Journey
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Guided Cultural Journey

Enjoy a guided tour led by knowledgeable local hosts who share stories, history, and traditions.

Five Traditional Houses
02 / 06

Five Traditional Houses

Explore authentic homes of the Kadazan-Dusun, Rungus, Lundayeh, Bajau, and Murut tribes.

Living Demonstrations
03 / 06

Living Demonstrations

See traditional skills such as bamboo fire-making, blowpipe hunting, and local cooking.

Cultural Performance
04 / 06

Cultural Performance

Experience vibrant traditional dances and music that reflect Sabah heritage.

Sabahan Cuisine
05 / 06

Sabahan Cuisine

Enjoy a local meal prepared using traditional recipes and fresh ingredients.

Nature Walk
06 / 06

Nature Walk

Begin your journey with a scenic walk through the rainforest and village paths.

Plan your visit

Choose your cultural experience

Begin with living heritage, or make an afternoon of culture and a Kokol sunset.

Living heritage

Mari Mari Cultural Village Experience

  • Approximately 2 hours
  • 10:00 AM / 2:00 PM
  • Guided cultural tour
  • Visit 5 traditional ethnic houses
  • Cultural demonstrations
  • Dance performance
  • Sabahan buffet meal

Malaysian

AdultRM 110

ChildRM 100

International Traveler

AdultRM 130

ChildRM 110

Mari Mari Cultural & Kokol Sunset Experience

  • Approximately 5 hours
  • Afternoon session · 2:00 PM–7:00 PM
  • Minimum 4 persons
  • Mari Mari Cultural Village, Kitasoton, Inanam & Kokol Haven Resort, Kota Kinabalu
  • Discover Mari Mari Cultural Village
  • Continue to Kokol Haven Resort
  • Enjoy a scenic sunset experience

Malaysian

per personRM245

International Traveller

per personRM265

Combo Adventure meets heritage

Mari Mari Cultural & Kiulu Rafting

  • Half-day combo tour
  • All levels · Grade I–II rapids · Ages 5+
  • Kiulu River & Mari Mari Cultural Village, Inanam
  • Kiulu River white water rafting
  • Visit 5 traditional ethnic houses
  • Cultural demonstrations & performance
  • Sabahan lunch or hi-tea
  • Certified guides, gear & insurance

Without Transport

AdultRM 265

ChildRM 235

With Transport

AdultRM 365

ChildRM 335

Child rate applies to ages 5–11.

View a package for its complete experience details, availability and current rates.

Good to know

Make the most of your visit

A few helpful details for a comfortable and memorable time in the village.

Hotel pick-up & drop-off in Kota Kinabalu area available upon request. Additional charges may apply

Open Daily

2 Sessions Available Daily

FREE Entry for Children 4 Years Old & Below

Morning Session10:00 AM
Afternoon Session2:00 PM

Before you arrive

Visitor notes

Arrival Time

Please arrive at the designated meeting point on time, as the tour runs on a scheduled session basis.

Dress Comfortably

Wear comfortable clothing and covered walking shoes, as the tour involves walking on uneven paths and jungle trails.

Weather Preparedness

The tour operates rain or shine. It is recommended to bring an umbrella or raincoat.

Insect Protection

As the village is located in a forest environment, insect repellent is highly recommended.

Respect Local Culture

Guests are encouraged to respect local customs and follow the guide's instructions during demonstrations and interactions.

Photography

Photography is generally allowed, but please be respectful and ask for permission when necessary.

Dietary Requirements

Kindly inform in advance if you have any dietary restrictions or special meal requests.

Travel Advisory

It is not recommended to join the tour if you have a return flight scheduled between 9:00 AM and 2:00 PM on the same day the tour commences.

Optional Add-Ons

Private tour guide available upon request with additional charges.