ARTICLE #37:—
3D2N Itinerary: Sabah & Sarawak Special (2025 Edition)
The Perfect 3-Day Borneo Itinerary for First-Time Travellers
Introduction
Short trips don’t need to feel rushed—especially when travelling in Sabah or Sarawak. With careful planning, a 3 days 2 nights (3D2N) trip can give you the perfect mix of culture, nature, food, and sightseeing. This itinerary is designed for first-time visitors who want a smooth, enjoyable, and hassle-free Borneo experience without wasting time on unnecessary detours.
Below is a complete 3D2N Itinerary that works for both Sabah (Kota Kinabalu) and Sarawak (Kuching). You can choose which version you prefer, depending on your destination.
PART A — 3D2N ITINERARY FOR SABAH (KOTA KINABALU)
Day 1: Arrival + Kota Kinabalu City Highlights
Morning
✔ Arrive at Kota Kinabalu International Airport (KKIA)
✔ Check-in at hotel or homestay
✔ Early lunch at Welcome Seafood or Filipino Market
Afternoon
- Signal Hill Observatory
– Scenic panoramic view of KK city. - Atkinson Clock Tower
– One of the oldest landmarks in Sabah. - Kota Kinabalu Waterfront
– Relax, walk, buy souvenirs.
Evening
✔ Sunset at Tanjung Aru Beach (one of the best sunsets in Malaysia)
✔ Dinner at Tanjung Aru food stalls or nearby cafes
Day 2: Island Hopping (Manukan + Sapi)
Morning
✔ Head to Jesselton Point Jetty (8:00am)
✔ Purchase island hopping package (Manukan + Sapi)
Activities
Snorkeling
Banana boat
Parasailing
Beach picnic
Photo spots
Lunch
✔ Pack food or buy at the island café
Afternoon
✔ Return to KK around 3–4pm
✔ Visit Imago Shopping Mall or Oceanus Waterfront
Evening
✔ Dinner at Warisan Square
✔ Optional: KK Night Market
Day 3: Kundasang Day Trip + Departure
Morning (7:00am)
Travel to Kundasang (2-hour drive). Visit:
✔ Kinabalu Park
✔ Desa Dairy Farm
✔ Kundasang Valley viewpoint
Afternoon
✔ Lunch at Kundasang
✔ Drive back to the airport
Evening
✔ Fly home with beautiful memories of Sabah
PART B — 3D2N ITINERARY FOR SARAWAK (KUCHING)
Day 1: Kuching City + Culture Exploration
Morning
✔ Arrive at Kuching International Airport
✔ Check-in at hotel
✔ Brunch: Try Mee Kolok or Laksa Sarawak
Afternoon
- Kuching Waterfront
– Peaceful river view, great photos - Darul Hana Bridge
– Modern, iconic landmark - DUN Sarawak Building
– Perfect for evening photography
Evening
✔ Sunset river cruise (optional)
✔ Dinner at Topspot Seafood
Day 2: Wildlife Day — Semenggoh Orangutan Centre + Bako National Park
Morning (8:00am)
✔ Visit Semenggoh Wildlife Centre
– Feeding time for orangutans
– Easy to access
– Best for families
Late Morning to Afternoon
✔ Head to Bako National Park
– Take a speedboat to the park
– Trek 1–2 hours
– Spot proboscis monkeys, wild boars & exotic plants
Evening
✔ Return to Kuching
✔ Dinner at Waterfront’s local stalls
Day 3: Heritage + Souvenirs + Departure
Morning
✔ Visit the Cat Museum
✔ Explore Carpenter Street
✔ Try local snacks at old Chinese shops
Afternoon
✔ Souvenir shopping at Main Bazaar
✔ Lunch at a local kopitiam
✔ Head to airport
ESTIMATED BUDGET (3 DAYS 2 NIGHTS)
Sabah (Kota Kinabalu)
Category Estimated Cost
Hotel (2 nights) RM150–RM350
Food RM100–RM200
Island Hopping RM150–RM250
Transport RM60–RM150
Entry Tickets RM10–RM30
Total RM470–RM980
Sarawak (Kuching)
Category Estimated Cost
Hotel (2 nights) RM120–RM300
Food RM80–RM150
Bako + Semenggoh RM40–RM80
Transport RM50–RM120
Entry Tickets RM10–RM20
Total RM300–RM670
TRAVEL TIPS FOR 3D2N TRIPS
Don’t plan more than 3 major activities per day
Book island tours early
Always carry insect repellent
Expect rain (Borneo weather changes fast)
Try as many local foods as possible
Choose a hotel near the city for easier transport
Conclusion
A 3D2N trip to Sabah or Sarawak is perfect for travellers who want a short escape filled with nature, culture, and unforgettable scenery. Whether you’re relaxing on Sabah’s islands or exploring Sarawak’s national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, Borneo offers a complete adventure even in a short amount of time.
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