Desa Dairy Farm Kundasang Guide: Best Tips & Activities (2025)

Introduction

Nestled amidst the cool mountain air and the lush greenery of Sabah, Desa Dairy Farm Kundasang offers a surreal escape that blends Borneo’s natural charm with a taste of New Zealand. Located at the foothills of Mount Kinabalu, this working dairy farm is not just a stopover — it’s an experience.

With its wide-open pastures, grazing Holstein Friesian cows, and scenic panoramas, it’s no wonder this farm has become a must-visit spot for families, honeymooners, and local travelers from Peninsular Malaysia looking for a chill weekend getaway.

Whether you’re sipping fresh milk, tasting locally made cheese and ice cream, or simply admiring the view, Desa Dairy Farm Kundasang delivers that picture-perfect vibe — and this blog will walk you through everything you need to know for your visit.

Why Locals Refer Desa Dairy Farm As "Little New Zealand"

Many people refer to Desa Dairy Farm Kundasang as Malaysia’s version of New Zealand, and once you’ve been, it’s easy to see why. The rolling green hills, cold weather, and free-roaming black-and-white cows offer an uncanny resemblance to the farmlands of New Zealand.

Even the breed of cows raised here — Holstein Friesians — is originally from New Zealand, brought in for their high milk yield and ability to adapt to the cooler highland temperatures of Kundasang.

But what sets Desa Dairy Farm Kundasang apart is its Sabahan character.

Unlike the polished commercial farms overseas, this place maintains its local charm — a blend of rustic landscapes, friendly staff, and authentic Malaysian farm life. It’s not just a copy of something abroad; it’s a destination that stands on its own.

You get to enjoy the cool mountain air, fresh dairy treats, and the warmth of local hospitality, all in one unique setting.

Where Is Desa Dairy Farm Located?

Desa Dairy Farm Kundasang is nestled in the cool highlands of Mesilau, a small village in Kundasang, Ranau. Perched at around 2,000 meters above sea level, the farm offers panoramic views of Mount Kinabalu and fresh, crisp mountain air that adds to its unique charm.

Desa Dairy Farm is one of the top attractions in the Mesilau area, drawing visitors with its scenic beauty and peaceful atmosphere.

The surrounding landscape features vast rolling pastures and open skies, which are especially captivating in the early morning. For travelers unfamiliar with the area, Kundasang is roughly a two-hour drive from Kota Kinabalu, making it a popular weekend destination for those coming from the west coast of Sabah or even Peninsular Malaysia.

If you’re planning your visit to Desa Dairy Farm Kundasang this year, you’ll find that it’s well-signposted and easy to locate with GPS apps. Simply enter “Desa Dairy Farm” into Google Maps, and it’ll take you right to the entrance.

How to Get to Desa Dairy Farm from Kota Kinabalu

Getting to Desa Dairy Farm Kundasang from Kota Kinabalu is part of the adventure. The most popular and convenient way to travel is by car, either self-driving or with a private driver.

The journey takes about two hours, winding through scenic routes that pass through towns like Tamparuli and stops such as Jambatan Tamparuli and Pekan Nabalu, where many travelers take a break to enjoy mountain views and local snacks. Those who prefer a hassle-free experience often opt for guided tours that include round-trip transport and curated stops.

Public transport options are limited and not recommended unless you’re very familiar with local routes. There are no direct buses that go to Desa Dairy Farm Kundasang, so visitors relying on public transport often need to arrange a combination of minivan rides and local taxis.

If you’re traveling with family or a group, booking a private transfer from Kota Kinabalu Airport or city hotels is a highly practical option. You’ll arrive relaxed, and can even include the farm in a full-day itinerary that explores other nearby attractions.

Travel Options

Self-drive: Highly recommended for flexibility. The road is well-paved with scenic stops like Pekan Nabalu, Jambatan Tamparuli, and Mount Kinabalu Park.
Private tours or transfers: Ideal for families or groups who want a stress-free day trip.
Public transport: Limited and not direct — best avoided unless you’re adventurous.

Opening Hours, Entrance Fees & Ticket Price

Before heading to Desa Dairy Farm Kundasang, it’s important to know that walk-in payments are no longer accepted. All tickets must now be purchased in advance through their official booking portal. This system helps manage daily visitor flow and ensures a more relaxed, enjoyable experience, especially during weekends and school holidays.

The farm operates daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, including public holidays. To enjoy the best views of Mount Kinabalu, plan your visit between 8:00 AM and 10:00 AM, when the skies are usually clearest and the air is crisp.

Late mornings often bring in fog that may obscure the mountain, so early birds are rewarded with better photo opportunities and fewer crowds.

Currently, ticket prices are as follows: RM5 for Malaysian adults with MyKad and RM10 for non-Malaysians. Children above 7 years old are charged RM4. Admission is free for children under 7 and for persons with disabilities.

Again, remember: no tickets are sold at the gate, so make sure to book your time slot ahead of your visit, ensuring a better highland experience at Desa Dairy Farm Kundasang.

Desa Dairy Farm Kundasang Details

Opening Hours:

Monday–Sunday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Ticket Prices:

RM5 for Malaysian adults with MyKad
RM10 for non-Malaysians
RM4 for children above 7 years old
Free admission for children under 7
Free admission for persons with disabilities
No walk-ins; tickets must be booked in advance

What to Expect at Desa Dairy Farm Kundasang

From the moment you step into Desa Dairy Farm Kundasang, the highland charm takes over.

Set against the majestic backdrop of Mount Kinabalu, the wide, green pastures dotted with grazing cows immediately transport you into a tranquil, almost postcard-like setting.

The air is fresh, often chilly depending on the season, and there’s a peaceful hum of farm life that makes the whole experience incredibly grounding. As one of Sabah’s most photogenic spots, it’s no surprise that many visitors come here just for the view, but there’s much more to do than just take pictures.

Inside the farm, you’ll find an educational center that walks visitors through the dairy production process — perfect for curious kids and adults alike. You can see how the milk is collected, processed, and packaged, all on-site.

The real treat comes in tasting the farm’s products. Most people line up for their iconic soft-serve ice cream, made fresh from the milk produced on the farm.

There’s also a mini petting area where you can observe and interact with calves and goats, adding to a fun and well-rounded experience.

Ultimately, Desa Dairy Farm Kundasang offers something wholesome and memorable, so visiting it is a-must for your Sabah trip.

Top Activities You Can Enjoy with Family & Kids

A trip to Desa Dairy Farm Kundasang is especially magical for families traveling with kids.

The open green spaces give children plenty of room to roam and discover, all while being surrounded by some of the most stunning views in Sabah.

One of the main highlights for younger visitors is the opportunity to see farm animals up close. Feeding baby goats or watching the cows graze freely in the pasture offers a rare and delightful connection with nature that kids in urban environments seldom get.

Besides the animal encounters, there’s plenty of enjoyment to be had in simply walking through the farm, taking photos, and enjoying a cup of fresh milk or a swirl of soft ice cream made from the farm’s own dairy.

Many families enjoy sitting on the grass for a casual snack or heading over to the small café for light refreshments. Because the paths are well-maintained, the farm is also stroller-friendly, making it easy for parents with young children to navigate.

In short, Desa Dairy Farm Kundasang is a family-friendly attraction where both kids and adults can relax, learn, and play in a safe, natural setting.

Family-Friendly Activities in Desa Dairy Farm Kundasang

Bottle-feed calves and goats at designated times
Taste the farm’s signature ice cream made from fresh milk
Snap photos at the panoramic viewpoint of Mount Kinabalu
Buy souvenirs like yogurt drinks, milk boxes, or keychains
Let kids roam safely in the open-air spaces

The Best Time to Visit the Farm

Timing your visit to Desa Dairy Farm Kundasang can make a big difference in your experience.

The best time of day to visit is early morning, ideally between 8:00 AM and 10:00 AM. During this time, the weather is at its clearest, providing the best chances to catch an unobstructed view of Mount Kinabalu. The air is cooler and more refreshing, and the crowds are smaller, allowing you to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere without too many distractions.

In terms of seasons, the months of December to February are usually the coolest and driest, which enhances the farm’s already picturesque setting. However, school holidays and weekends tend to be more crowded, so if you’re visiting during peak times, it’s wise to plan ahead.

Avoid the afternoon hours when fog tends to roll in and obscure the mountain view. Always check the weather forecast before going. Knowing the best time to visit Desa Dairy Farm Kundasang ensures you capture its beauty at its finest, and make the most of your highland experience.

Facilities, Parking & Food Options Near the Farm

Desa Dairy Farm Kundasang has thoughtfully designed its facilities to ensure a comfortable and convenient visit for all types of travelers. There is ample parking space available just outside the farm entrance.

From there, it’s just a short walk to the main gates. The site is wheelchair-accessible, and there are clean toilet facilities with baby-changing rooms for families with infants, which makes it very accommodating for seniors and young children alike.

If you’re feeling hungry after exploring the farm, there are several food options nearby. Within the farm, there’s a small café that sells snacks and their signature dairy products such as milk and yogurt. You can enjoy them on the patio overlooking the pastures.

Just a short drive away, you’ll find restaurants like Restoran D’Lengkuas Mesilau, which offers local Malaysian dishes with highland flair. For those looking to enjoy a picnic, the grass fields outside Desa Dairy Farm Kundasang are perfect for a relaxing break in the cool mountain air.

Facilities, Parking & Food

Parking is available right outside the farm entrance
The place is wheelchair-accessible
Toilets are clean and maintained; baby changing areas are available
In-house eatery include the Desa Café (serves light snacks, milk-based desserts)
Nearby eatery include Restoran D’Lengkuas Mesilau (local Malay dishes)

Photography Tips & Photo Spots with Mount Kinabalu Views

Photography is one of the main reasons travelers flock to Desa Dairy Farm Kundasang. The landscape offers a cinematic view of Mount Kinabalu framed by gentle hills and black-and-white cows grazing in the foreground.

If you want to capture that perfect postcard shot, aim to arrive early — before 9:00 AM — when the skies are usually clear and the lighting is ideal for natural photos. The soft morning light adds a dreamy quality to the pastures and makes everything pop.

For the best shots, explore different angles around the fences and grassy slopes. You’ll notice many people love snapping photos near the ice cream truck or along the small road leading to the pasture, where you get a full view of the farm with Mount Kinabalu standing tall in the background.

Beyond Desa Dairy Farm, some of the top places for stunning Mount Kinabalu photography include Sosodikon Hill and Maragang Hill. These nearby vantage points offer expansive panoramic views that are perfect for capturing the mountain in all its glory, especially during sunrise and sunset.

That said, Desa Dairy Farm Kundasang remains a more popular spot for engagement photos and family portraits, thanks to its clean and breathtaking mountain backdrop, as well as easy access with no hiking required.

Nearby Attractions You Can Visit

Maximize your visit with these nearby places

Spring Garden Mesilau – Flower park just 5 mins away
Sosodikon Hill – Quick 15-minute sunrise hike
Alpaca Club & Rabbit Farm – Great for kids
Pekan Nabalu Handicraft Market – Stop on your way down for snacks and souvenirs
Marakau Fish Spa – Dip your feet in natural spring water

Tips for First-Time Visitors

For first-time visitors to Desa Dairy Farm Kundasang, a little planning goes a long way in ensuring a smooth experience.

Start by checking the weather forecast and aim to arrive as early as possible, especially if you’re visiting on a weekend or public holiday. Getting a perfect view of Mount Kinabalu is a key highlight, and the chance to see it unobstructed by clouds is much higher in the early morning.

Wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be walking on slightly uneven terrain, and bring a jacket — the highland breeze can get surprisingly cold even during midday.

It’s also good to remember that Desa Dairy Farm Kundasang is a working farm, so respect the boundaries set for both safety and the animals’ well-being. Stick to designated feeding areas if you’re with kids, and avoid littering to keep the pastures clean.

If you’re unsure about the day’s weather or parking availability, you can contact the ExploreKundasang team for updates or assistance. A little preparation helps make your visit more enjoyable and lets you fully appreciate the unique charm this highland gem has to offer.

Insider Tips for First-Time Visitors

Arrive early (before 9 AM) to avoid crowds and fog
Bring a jacket — temperatures can drop quickly
Weekends and school holidays = peak crowds
Don’t touch animals outside the feeding zones

Conclusion

A visit to Desa Dairy Farm Kundasang is a moment of calm in the cool highlands, where slow travel meets stunning views. With fresh mountain air, wide green pastures, and the unmistakable presence of Mount Kinabalu in the distance, this dairy farm delivers both beauty and authenticity.

Here, you can enjoy feeding calves, enjoying a swirl of homemade ice cream, or just soaking in the chilly breeze; the experience lingers in the heart long after the visit ends.

If you’re planning a longer trip or curious about what else to do in the area, don’t miss our full guide: The Top Best Kundasang Attractions 2025. It covers everything you need to craft your perfect highland getaway — and yes, Desa Dairy Farm Kundasang is just one of many reasons to fall in love with this cool corner of Sabah.

FAQs: Desa Dairy Farm Kundasang

1. What are the opening hours of Desa Dairy Farm Kundasang?

8:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily.

2. What is the best time to visit Desa Dairy Farm Kundasang?

Before 9 AM for clear views and cooler temperatures.

3. Can children feed animals at Desa Dairy Farm?

Yes! Bottle-feeding calves and goats is a highlight for kids.

4. How much is the entrance fee?

RM5 for Malaysian adults with MyKad and RM10 for non-Malaysians. Children above 7 years old are charged RM4. Admission is free for children under 7 and for persons with disabilities. Remember, tickets are only available for purchase online at their official portal.

5. Is the place suitable for elderly visitors?

Yes, it’s a gentle slope farm with resting spots and clean facilities.

Need Help Planning Your Trip? Our Team Is Here for You!

Not sure where to start with your Kundasang trip? You’re not alone. Figuring out the route, timing, entrance fees, and how to fit everything — like Desa Dairy Farm Kundasang, Poring Hot Spring, the Alpaca Club, and more — into one smooth itinerary can feel a bit much, especially if you’re planning from outside Sabah.

That’s why we built ExploreKundasang.com — to make it easier for people like you to experience the best of Kundasang, without the stress. Whether you’re traveling with family, your partner, or in a small group, we’re here to help you plan something simple, smooth, and memorable.

📩 Reach out through our contact page for assistance or help arranging a custom tour. We’re locals, we care, and we’re always happy to help.

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