Mari Mari Cultural Village (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Mari Mari Cultural Village?
What makes it 81% Kids-Friendly: Kids under 12 pay less yet can join every craft, blowpipe and bamboo dance, keeping them excited and learning; adults must supervise on uneven paths and near fire demos, but overall visit is rewarding.
Positives:
- Inclusive Package: Admission covers all demos, guided tour, and buffet lunch for ages 4 and up.
- Free Entry Under 4: Children under 4 enter free, so your 3-year-old can join without extra cost.
- Interactive Learning: Kids learn by doing, keeping them engaged through the tour.
Challenges:
- Uneven Terrain: Village paths have steps and a suspension bridge. Carry toddlers as strollers are not recommended.
- Bench-Style Seating: Buffet tables use benches without high chairs. Bring a portable booster or sit kids on laps.
What is Mari Mari Cultural Village?
- A living cultural village showcasing the traditional architecture and customs of Sabah’s five indigenous tribes
- Authentically reconstructed longhouses and stilt dwellings set within a tropical rainforest clearing
- A heritage center presenting demonstrations of age-old crafts, rituals and culinary practices
What is so special about Mari Mari Cultural Village for with kids?
- Guided exploration of five authentic tribal homes immerses kids in Sabah’s cultures.
- Hands-on activities like bamboo dances and craft workshops keep children engaged.
- Interactive blow-pipe and fire-making demos offer memorable family fun.
- All-inclusive admission covers live performances and a Sabahan buffet lunch.
Recommended visit duration: 3-4 hours
Why 3-4 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: This timeframe covers guided tours, hands-on demos, cultural performances, and buffet lunch without rushing children.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Mari Mari Cultural Village
Guided Tribal Home Tour:
Explore five traditional houses of local ethnic groups, led by a village guide.
Tip: Let kids sit on woven mats in each home and ask the guide questions.
Magunatip Bamboo Dance:
Join the bamboo-pole dance for a fun balancing game.
Tip: Time your jumps to the poles’ clapping rhythm and cheer each child.
Blow-Pipe & Fire Demos:
Watch and try Murut blow-pipes and bamboo fire-making.
Tip: Have younger kids take turns under guide supervision with smaller blow-pipes.
Hands-On Craft Workshops:
Make simple bead bracelets and help cook rice in bamboo tubes.
Tip: Let kids pick their bead colors and wrap their bamboo parcel with help.
Live Cultural Performances:
Watch tribal dances in full costume and join in audience dances.
Tip: Stand at the front row to let children see closely and follow steps.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Mari Mari Cultural Village
- First Session: Book the 10 AM slot to avoid afternoon heat and larger afternoon crowds.
- Pack Snacks: Carry water and light snacks; there are no snack vendors between demo stations.
Reviews of Mari Mari Cultural Village
Kathrine Finn
I don’t normally do these kind of touristy things but it had been recommended by many people and I had a free afternoon. It was so very well organised. From the very start when I was collected by friendly and chatty Arshad in their minivan to meeting our guide, the charismatic and funny Ven Allen, the whole experience was an excellent experience. They even catered a late lunch and accommodated my ...
Weilong Tan
Visited Mari Mari Cultural Village and it was such a fantastic experience! We got to learn about the five different houses and see how they used to live, from starting fire and making food out of coconuts to honey harvesting and making fibres from tree bark. Everything was so interesting and well explained. We also got to try two types of rice wine and some snacks during the session, which was a ...
Krishnadev K G
Me and My friends visited Mari Mari Cultural Village , and we had an absolutely amazing time! It was so much more than a museum. Every single part of the tour was interactive and engaging, from learning to use a blowpipe (harder than it looks!) to seeing fire made with bamboo and tasting the traditional rice wine. A special shout-out to our guide, Clare! She was super energetic and friendly, and ...
Alexis Jackson
Took my family & friends to get educated on my family's tribe(s)! They enjoyed it and I love watching the immerse into the culture. Tour guides we're very informative & welcomed any questions. Afif did great!
Endra Mirza
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 th...
When is the best time to visit Mari Mari Cultural Village (Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia)?
Visit between April and October to avoid frequent afternoon showers. If you come in the rainy season (November–March), bring a raincoat and check if demos move under shelters.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| 3 Adult tickets (age 12+) | MYR 285 |
| Child ticket (under 4) | MYR 0 |
| Total Estimated | MYR 285 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of Mari Mari Cultural Village
Address: Jalan Kionsom, Inanam, 88450 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
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About Mari Mari Cultural Village
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+60 13-881 492110 BEST nearby Activities
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