MARI MARI CULTURAL VILLAGE, SABAH

Overview

Mari Mari Cultural Village is a living museum located near Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, offering visitors a guided journey into the traditional homes and lifestyles of Sabah’s indigenous groups.

The village showcases the heritage of several ethnic communities including the Kadazan-Dusun, Rungus, Murut, Bajau, and Lundayeh people. Each traditional house is carefully reconstructed to reflect authentic architecture and cultural practices.

Visitors are guided through interactive demonstrations such as bamboo cooking, fire-making techniques, blowpipe hunting, tattoo traditions, and traditional rice wine (tapai) preparation.

The experience concludes with a cultural performance featuring traditional music and dance, giving guests a deeper appreciation of Sabah’s rich cultural diversity.

Facilities at Mari Mari Cultural Village

• Traditional Ethnic Houses (Kadazan-Dusun, Rungus, Murut, Bajau, Lundayeh)
• Cultural Performance Stage
• Guided Tour Service
• Souvenir and Handicraft Shop
• Traditional Food Demonstration Area
• Rest Areas and Sheltered Walkways
• Visitor Reception Centre
• Photography Zones
• Parking Facilities
• Washrooms and Basic Amenities

Areas Open to Tourists

• Traditional Kadazan-Dusun House
• Rungus Longhouse
• Murut Warrior House
• Bajau Sea Gypsy House
• Lundayeh Highlands House
• Cooking Demonstration Area
• Fire-Making & Survival Skills Area
• Cultural Performance Hall

How to Access

By Car / Taxi

• Located approximately 25–30 minutes from Kota Kinabalu city centre
• Accessible via main road networks with clear signage
• Grab and taxi services widely available

From Kota Kinabalu City Centre

• Approximately 30 minutes by car
• Easy access via Jalan Penampang route

From Kota Kinabalu International Airport

• Approximately 15–20 minutes by car
• Taxi and Grab services available at arrival terminal

Other Transport Options

• Hotel shuttle services (selected packages)
• Private guided cultural tours
• Travel agency tour packages

Transportation services listed on this website are for reference only and may vary over time. Please verify with the respective provider for the most up-to-date information.

Entrance Fees

• Adult Ticket: Approx. RM 100–150 (including guided tour & activities)
• Children Tickets: Discounted rates available
• Group Packages: Special rates for tour groups
• Cultural Show Access: Included in standard package
• Optional Add-ons: Souvenir photos and additional experiences available

Prices and schedules listed on this website are for reference only and may vary over time. Please verify with the respective provider for the most up-to-date information.

Visitor Experience

• Guided Cultural Journey: Visitors are taken through different traditional houses representing Sabah’s major ethnic groups.
• Live Demonstrations: Experience fire-making, bamboo cooking, tattoo art, and blowpipe hunting techniques.
• Interactive Learning: Guests are encouraged to participate in cultural activities and storytelling sessions.
• Cultural Performance: Traditional dance and music performances showcase Sabah’s rich heritage.

Key Tips for Visitors

• Join Morning Tours: Early sessions are cooler and less crowded.
• Book in Advance: Tours are guided and may have limited daily slots.
• Wear Comfortable Clothing: Expect walking between different cultural houses.
• Bring Cash: Useful for souvenirs and optional photo packages.
• Respect Cultural Practices: Follow guide instructions during demonstrations.

Nearby Tourist Attractions

• Kota Kinabalu City
• Lok Kawi Wildlife Park
• Tanjung Aru Beach
• Signal Hill Observatory Platform
• Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park
• Kokol Hill Viewpoint
• Sabah State Museum