What is Sabah Agriculture Park

Hidden deep in the lush heart of Tenom, the Sabah Agriculture Park is one of the most unique destinations in Malaysian Borneo. Covering over 1,500 acres (202 hectares), this vast agro-tourism attraction is part botanical garden, part research center, and part outdoor adventure park. Managed by the Department of Agriculture Sabah, it was officially opened to the public in 2001 and has since become a must-visit destination for travelers looking to experience Sabah beyond its beaches and islands.

Unlike other parks that focus solely on flora, the Sabah Agriculture Park combines science, sustainability, and scenic beauty. Here, you’ll find tropical gardens, native orchid collections, fruit trees, lakes, and even a mini animal park. Whether you’re a nature lover, photographer, or family traveler, this park promises a full day of exploration and relaxation.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know from top attractions to how to get there, travel tips, nearby places to stay, and why it’s perfect for both international tourists and West Malaysia visitors.

Why Visit Sabah Agriculture Park – Top Attractions

Ornamental & Themed Gardens

One of the highlights of Sabah Agriculture Park is its series of beautifully designed themed gardens. Each area showcases a specific plant family, design style, or ecological theme. Among the most popular are:

• Bougainvillea Garden – A burst of pinks, purples, and reds featuring hundreds of bougainvillea varieties.

• Cactus & Succulent Garden – Desert-themed garden with rare cactus species that thrive in Tenom’s dry climate.

• Hibiscus Garden – Dedicated to Malaysia’s national flower, featuring dozens of hibiscus varieties.

• Parasitic & Carnivorous Garden – Showcasing fascinating plants like pitcher plants (Nepenthes) and mistletoes.

• Tropical Orchard Section – Featuring mangoes, bananas, durians, and exotic fruits like cempedak and rambutan.

Each garden includes interpretive signs explaining plant uses, origin, and conservation value making the park both educational and visually stunning.

Native Orchid Centre

Sabah is world-renowned for its orchids, and the Native Orchid Centre is one of the most valuable parts of the park. Home to over 400 orchid species, many of which are endemic to Borneo, this center serves as both a conservation and research hub.

Some rare species you can find include:

• Phalaenopsis gigantea (Elephant Ear Orchid)

• Paraphalaenopsis labukensis (Rat Tail Orchid)

• Dendrobium sabahense – native only to Sabah’s forests

Visitors can stroll through misty walkways surrounded by blooming orchids in every shape and color a paradise for macro photographers and plant enthusiasts alike.

Living Crop Museum & Evolution Garden

For travelers who enjoy learning while exploring, the Living Crop Museum and Evolution Garden are must-sees. These exhibits display over 400 plant species related to food, medicine, and beverages.

At the Living Crop Museum, explore sections dedicated to:

• Coffee and cocoa (a nod to Tenom’s famous coffee culture)

• Rice, sugarcane, and rubber plantations

• Medicinal and herbal plants used by indigenous communities

Meanwhile, the Evolution Garden showcases the fascinating story of plant adaptation from simple algae to complex flowering plants. It’s a journey through millions of years of botanical history, presented in an engaging, walkable format.

Lakes, Bridges & Outdoor Activities

The park’s natural landscape includes serene lakes like Lake Sapong and Lake Rundum. Wooden jetties and suspension bridges connect the islands within these lakes, creating picturesque photo spots and relaxing picnic areas.

Visitors can enjoy:

• Boating & fishing (permit required)

• Camping on designated islands

• Birdwatching & nature walks

Families can take advantage of shaded picnic spots and resting huts perfect for an outdoor lunch surrounded by greenery.

Animal Park & Bee Centre

To complement the flora, the park also features a small Animal Park, home to deer, goats, rabbits, ducks, and chickens a favorite for children.

Nearby, the Bee Centre offers insight into Sabah’s honey production. Learn about local bee species and sample natural honey products made from the surrounding flora.

Getting There & Travel Tips

Getting There from Kota Kinabalu or West Malaysia

Tenom is approximately 164 km from Kota Kinabalu (KK) about 3 hours by car. The most convenient way to get there is by self-drive car rental or private driver service, as public transportation is limited.

Directions from Kota Kinabalu:

• Take the KK–Tambunan–Keningau–Tenom route via the Crocker Range Highway.

• Enjoy breathtaking mountain views, one of Sabah’s most scenic drives.

From West Malaysia:

• Fly to Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI).

• Rent a car or book a driver from KK to Tenom.

• Combine your visit with nearby stops in Keningau, Tambunan, or Crocker Range Park.

For eco-travelers, the Sabah State Railway offers a scenic train ride from Tanjung Aru (KK) to Tenom, passing through Beaufort’s lush countryside.

Opening Hours & Entrance Fees

• Open: Tuesday – Sunday (9:00 am – 4:30 pm)

• Closed: Mondays (except public holidays)

Entrance Fees:

• Malaysians: RM10 (Adults), RM5 (Children/Students)

• Non-Malaysians: RM25 (Adults), RM10 (Children)

Accommodation (inside park):

• Hostel beds: From RM25/person/night

• Chalets: From RM150/night

• Camping: RM10–RM20/person/night (own gear required)

Suggested Itinerary

What to Bring & Safety Tips

• Comfortable walking shoes or sandals

• Sun hat, sunscreen & mosquito repellent

• Drinking water and light snacks

• Camera or smartphone

• Raincoat or poncho (weather can change quickly)

• Stay on marked paths and avoid feeding animals

Where to Stay Near the Park

Prefer to stay outside the park? Tenom town (10–15 min away) offers good options:

• Perkasa Hotel Tenom – mid-range comfort

• Yit Foh Coffee Park Chalet – near Tenom’s famous coffee factory

• Local homestays – for cultural immersion

Nearby attractions: Sabah Murut Cultural Centre, Tenom Coffee Factory, and Crocker Range National Park.

Sabah Car Rental – The Best Way to Explore

The easiest and most flexible way to reach Tenom and explore surrounding areas is by car rental from Kota Kinabalu. It allows you to stop along scenic viewpoints and small towns at your own pace.

Travel Tip: Choose a car with good engine power, as some routes through Crocker Range involve winding hills. Book your car online in advance, especially during weekends and school holidays.

Local Food & What to Eat in Tenom

After exploring, enjoy Tenom’s best local delights:

• Tenom Coffee – world-famous local brew; visit Yit Foh Coffee Factory.

• Tenom Mee – a regional noodle dish served with pork or seafood.

• Local fruits – try durian, rambutan, or tarap (Borneo’s native fruit).

Small cafés and stalls around Tenom offer authentic local dishes perfect for refueling after a long day in nature.

Best Time to Visit Sabah Agriculture Park

The ideal months are February to August, during the dry season when orchids bloom and paths are most comfortable.
Avoid heavy monsoon months (October–January) if camping or hiking.

Morning visits are best for cooler weather and great photo lighting.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Where is Sabah Agriculture Park located?
It’s located in Lagud Sebrang, Tenom, about 3 hours’ drive from Kota Kinabalu.

2. How big is the park?
It covers over 1,500 acres (202 hectares) of land, making it one of the largest agro-tourism parks in Malaysia.

3. Can I visit without a tour guide?
Yes, the park is self-guided. Maps and signboards are available at the entrance for easy navigation.

4. Is it suitable for children and families?
Absolutely! With the Animal Park, Bee Centre, and lakeside picnic areas, it’s perfect for family visits.

5. Are there restaurants inside the park?
There’s a small park café serving local snacks and drinks. Alternatively, you can bring your own picnic.

6. Can I camp overnight?
Yes, camping is allowed at designated areas around the lake. You must bring your own gear and register at the entrance.

7. What’s the best way to reach Tenom without driving?
You can take the Sabah State Railway train from Tanjung Aru (Kota Kinabalu) to Tenom, then hire a taxi or Grab to the park.

Conclusion

The Sabah Agriculture Park in Tenom is more than just a tourist spot it’s a living museum of nature, agriculture, and community spirit. Whether you’re coming from Kota Kinabalu, Kuala Lumpur, or overseas, this park offers an authentic look into Sabah’s botanical and agricultural treasures.

From vibrant gardens to tranquil lakes and hands-on learning experiences, it combines beauty, education, and relaxation a true hidden gem in Borneo.

Rent a car in Kota Kinabalu, take the scenic drive to Tenom, and experience one of Sabah’s most inspiring agro-tourism destinations the Sabah Agriculture Park!