View across the river in Kuching, Borneo at sunset. The orange glow of the sun is disappearing over the mountains in the distance, with palm trees and low rise buildings silhouetted on the other shore of the river.
|

Things to Do in Kuching With Kids: Family Travel Guide

ByJulia Thompson

Thompsons vs the World contains affiliate links and is a member of the Amazon Services LLC Affiliates Program. Making a booking via these links will mean that we receive a small fee but this is at absolutely no cost to you. The price you pay will always remain the same. For more information please see our Privacy Policy.

When we were planning the Borneo leg of our family gap year through Southeast Asia, Kuching wasn’t originally at the top of our list.

Like many travellers, we were focused on the headline destinations in Sabah — orangutans, rainforests, and Mount Kinabalu. Sarawak felt a little more off-the-radar.

But after spending several weeks travelling through both Sabah and Sarawak with our kids, Kuching quickly became one of the most unexpectedly enjoyable stops of the whole trip.

It’s relaxed. Walkable. Packed with interesting wildlife experiences nearby. And it has just enough quirky attractions to keep kids entertained without the chaos you sometimes find in bigger Southeast Asian cities.

Still, because Kuching isn’t always on the typical Southeast Asia itinerary, many families wonder:

Are there actually enough things to do in Kuching with kids to make it worth visiting?

In our experience — absolutely.

From spotting orangutans in the wild to exploring national parks, quirky museums and riverside food stalls, there are plenty of memorable things to do in Kuching with kids.

If you’re planning what to do for three days in Kuching with kids (or longer), here are the places and experiences our family loved most.

Table of Contents

Wander the Riverside Waterfront

One of the joys of a stay in Kuching is slowing down and just wandering along the riverside, soaking up the glorious views and stopping every now and again for a cold drink or a snack from one of the little stalls.

The views across the water to the spectacular floating mosque and the mountains beyond is breathtaking, especially at sunset when the heat of the day cools and lights start to sparkle on the river. 

And if you can time your strolls with the evening call to prayer than that makes the experience even more magical.

Wide sandy beach at Bako National Park with colorful wooden boats resting in shallow water, rugged cliffs on the left, and misty mountains across the sea under a bright blue sky. The calm shoreline near Kuching shows the scenic coastal landscape families can expect when visiting Bako National Park in Borneo.

Bako National Park

One of the absolute highlights when looking for things to do in Kuching with kids is escaping the city for a day in the rainforest. And part of the draw of Kuching is that it’s just such a great base for taking day trips out of the city to see some real iconic Borneo sights. 

If it’s wildlife watching you’re after, then a day (or overnight) trip to Bako National Park is a must-do on any Kuching itinerary.

Getting to Bako National Park takes around 1-1.5hours, including the initial Grab ride or bus journey to the boat jetty then the boat trip round the coastline to the park entrance. 

Once there, you can hike the trails to seek out the endangered proboscis monkeys, watch the wild bearded pigs snuffling in the undergrowth, marvel at the views out to the ocean that are peppered with huge limestone karst rock formation or simply chill out on the gorgeous beaches.

There are 16 trails through the park to suit all ages and abilities; call in to the reception desk on arrival and they will provide you with a map and advice on which to tackle. Despite the heat, the boys loved scrambling over tree roots and exploring the isolated beaches here. And the tiny bearded piglets were a total crowd-pleaser too.

One of the reasons this is such a wonderful day trip is because you really feel like you’re completely removed from real life. And if you really want to maximise that desert island feeling then book a stay in one of the park lodges. You’ll then be able to take a night tour with one of the rangers and – if you wake up early – then your wildlife spotting chances will be much higher. 

If it’s wildlife you are dreaming of in Borneo, then splitting your time between Sarawak and Sabah means you’ll get to visit Bako National Park as well as taking in all the amazing nature in Sabah – seeing the orangutans in Sepilok, watching giant squirrels take flight at the Rainforest Discovery Centre, wildlife spotting while cruising the Kinabatangan River AND checking out the world’s smallest bears at the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre.

DBKU Cat Museum

If you’re wondering what to do in Kuching with kids beyond wildlife and national parks, the Cat Museum is easily the quirkiest attraction in the city. 

Translated, the word Kuching in Malay literally means ‘cat’ This is cat city, and for our cat-obsessed youngest child, this was enough reason to visit on it’s own. There are cat statues dotted around the city to find and plenty of *actual* cats all over the city too. But for a true cat-lover, then a pilgrimage to the quirky Cat Museum is the pinnacle of any Kuching visit.

To be straight – this is not a high brow experience. There’s plenty of little bits and pieces that cat-lovers will enjoy – including the huge cat face at the entrance, the photo opps inside and the displays of absolutely anything and everything cat-related, from figurines to movie posters and even a mummified cat. 

It’s a mixed up array of all things cat – some displays are interesting and explain the significance of cats in different cultures which is quite engaging. Other displays just seem to be piles and piles of cat memorabilia. 

If you approach this as just a bit of a fun experience though it’s definitely worth a visit. And at only RM30/£5/US$6.70 for a family of four, it’s pretty good value for a couple of hours.

Borneo Cultures Museum

Only completed in 2022, this excellent museum gives you a real insight into Borneo history and culture and is an excellent stop for building a bit of education into your stay in Kuching. 

There’s a whole floor dedicated to exhibits and activities for children so there’s more than enough to keep them occupied. As well as the children’s exhibits – which centre around rivers and ecosystems – our boys were also fascinated by the array of weapons on display around the museum.

As it’s so new, the whole place feels really fresh and modern. Kids under 12 are free, which is a real bonus. Adult admission is RM50/£9.50/US$13. 

Semenggoh Wildlife Centre

Orangutans are often right up at the top of the bucket list for anyone visiting Borneo for it’s spectacular wildlife. And this is a great, easy opportunity to see them up-close-and-personal. 

The wildlife centre is both a rehabilitation centre and a nature reserve, so you’ll see orangutans here in a semi-wild environment. There are over 20 rehabilitated orangutans living within the reserve; all success stories of the centre over the years. 

Feeding times on the forest platforms are at 9am and 3pm each day; make sure you arrive at least 30-60minutes before this to give yourself enough time to enter the centre and either walk to the platforms or take the trolley (for a small additional fee – totally worth it to avoid missing the feeding and/or dealing with moaning, sweaty kids!).

Entrance is RM10/£1.90/US$2.50 for adults and RM5/£0.95/US$1.25 for children from 6-17. Children under 6 are free. 

The easiest way to get to Semenggoh from Kuching is to take a Grab taxi, which is likely to cost around RM30/£5/US$6.70 each way. 

Several human skulls hang within a large metal cage inside a traditional longhouse at Annah Rais outside Kuching, Borneo.
Child walking up a narrow bamboo staircase between rustic wooden buildings in a traditional Bidayuh village setting outside Kuching Borneo. The scene captures a cultural stop on a Kuching itinerary with weathered wood textures and bright blue sky overhead.

Annah Rais Longhouse

If a bit of real Borneo culture is on your wish list of things to do in Kuching with kids, then a half day trip to Annah Rais makes for a fascinating experience.

A traditional Bidayah village that’s open to the public, you can spend a good hour or two simply wandering the village set up on raised bamboo platforms. It’s really interesting to see the way of life here and how the community live in such close proximity to each other. 

There’s also a traditional longhouse in the centre of the village that has images of the village at different times of it’s history. The longhouse also houses the skulls that date back to the village’s head-hunting days. 

You’ll find that there are a handful of tiny restaurants set up in front of people’s homes – have lunch here as it’s a great way to support the community and learn more in the process. The meals are tasty and incredibly affordable – we paid RM45/£8.50/US$11.50 for a meal and drinks for the four of us.

You can also arrange to stay overnight here if you want to really immerse yourself in village life.

Where to Stay in Kuching

Kuching has a surprisingly wide range of accommodation options, from budget hostels to stylish riverside hotels.

If you’re visiting with kids, though, there’s one feature that makes a big difference: a swimming pool.

After long, hot days exploring wildlife centres, museums and national parks, having somewhere to cool off is absolute gold — both for parents and slightly overheated children. This really is something to consider wherever you are planning to stay in Borneo.

These two places stood out for us when deciding where to stay in Kuching with kids.

Waterfront Hotel Kuching

If location is your priority when choosing where to stay in Kuching with kids, Waterfront Hotel is hard to beat.

Sitting directly beside the Kuching Waterfront promenade, this modern hotel places you within walking distance of the Borneo Cultures Museum, riverside food stalls, boat jetties and evening markets.

The real highlight for families is the large rooftop infinity pool, which overlooks the Sarawak River and the city skyline. After a long day out at places like Bako National Park or Semenggoh Wildlife Centre, the kids will absolutely love having somewhere to splash around while you relax with the views.

Rooms are spacious, modern and comfortable, with plenty of space for families travelling with luggage or backpacks. The breakfast buffet is also excellent, with a wide mix of local and Western options — ideal when travelling with picky eaters.

Another big bonus is that the hotel sits directly above a shopping mall, which means easy access to restaurants, snacks and air-conditioning when the afternoon heat kicks in.

Double rooms typically start from around RM530/£100/US$135 per night, which represents excellent value for such a central location.

🏨 Check availability at Waterfront Hotel Kuching and enjoy one of the best family-friendly locations in the city.

Treehouse Hostel

If you’re travelling on a tighter budget during your family adventures in Borneo, Treehouse Hostel is one of the most unique places to stay in Kuching.

Located in the centre of the city, just a short walk from the waterfront, this place is in a great location for such a good price.

Despite being a hostel, there are private family rooms available, which makes it a good option for parents travelling with children who still want a bit of privacy.

The atmosphere is relaxed and friendly, and the communal areas are great for meeting other travellers exploring Sarawak. Staff are also extremely helpful when arranging transport or tours to places like Bako National Park or Semenggoh Wildlife Centre.

Rooms are simple rather than luxurious, but they’re clean, comfortable and perfectly adequate if you’re mostly out exploring during the day.

Private family rooms usually start from around RM150/£28/US$38 per night, making this one of the most affordable options when deciding where to stay in Kuching with kids.

🏨 Check current prices for Treehouse Hostel if you’re looking for a fun, budget-friendly base in central Kuching.

Silhouette of a child looking out over the Sarawak River at sunset in Kuching Borneo with pink and orange skies reflecting on the water and a small boat drifting past. The peaceful waterfront view showcases a scenic moment to include in a Kuching itinerary.

How to get around in Kuching

If you stay in the central part of the city by the waterfront, then many of the attractions of Kuching will be in walking distance. However, for any travel slightly further afield then a Grab taxi is by far the easiest way to get around.

Grab taxis here and cheap and plentiful, and are the best option not only for getting around the wider city of Kuching but also for getting to and from the day trips further afield. 

As a guide, a Grab to/from the boat jetty to Bako National Park should be around RM30-35/£5-6.50/US$6.70-8.90. And if you’re heading to Semenggoh Wildlife Centre then a Grab is likely to set you back about the same amount.

Is Kuching Worth Visiting With Kids?

If you’re wondering is Kuching worth visiting, the short answer is yes — especially if you’re travelling with children.

When you’re travelling through Malaysian Borneo, it’s easy to focus on the bigger names like Kota Kinabalu or Sandakan.

But what makes Kuching special is the balance it offers.

It’s a manageable, relaxed city where you can explore museums, markets and the waterfront on foot — something that can be surprisingly rare in Southeast Asia. At the same time, it sits within easy reach of some truly spectacular nature experiences.

Within a short drive or boat ride you can:

  • Spot orangutans at Semenggoh Wildlife Centre
  • Explore jungle trails and wildlife in Bako National Park
  • Visit traditional Bidayuh longhouse villages
  • Learn about Sarawak’s diverse culture and history

For families travelling Borneo with kids, this mix is ideal. You get wildlife, culture and adventure without needing to move accommodation every day.

Kuching also tends to feel less hectic and more affordable than some other destinations in Southeast Asia, which makes it a really enjoyable place to pause and reset during a longer trip.

So if you’re planning what to do for three days in Kuching with kids, you’ll find there’s more than enough here to fill your itinerary — and chances are you’ll leave wishing you had stayed a little longer.

Silhouette of a wild bearded pig walking along the beach at sunset in Bako National Park, with soft orange and pink skies reflecting over the sea and distant mountain shapes on the horizon. This peaceful wildlife moment highlights the unique animals families might spot during a visit to Bako National Park from Kuching.

Best Time to Visit Kuching With Kids

If you’re planning things to do in Kuching with kids, timing your visit well can make a big difference — especially given Borneo’s tropical climate.

Kuching is warm and humid year-round, with daytime temperatures typically sitting between 27–32°C (80–90°F). The biggest difference between seasons is rainfall rather than temperature.

Dry Season (May to September) – Best for Outdoor Adventures

For most families, the best time to visit Kuching with kids is between May and September.

During these months, rainfall tends to be lighter and less frequent, which makes it easier to enjoy the region’s outdoor highlights such as:

  • Hiking trails in Bako National Park
  • Wildlife spotting at Semenggoh Wildlife Centre
  • Exploring the riverside waterfront
  • Visiting traditional villages like Annah Rais Longhouse

Even in the dry season you should still expect the occasional tropical shower, but these usually pass quickly.

Rainy Season (November to February) – Greener but Wetter

The wettest months in Kuching are typically November through February, when heavier rain showers are more common.

That said, visiting during the rainy season isn’t necessarily a bad idea — the surrounding rainforest becomes incredibly lush, and wildlife can still be spotted.

The key difference is that you may need to be a bit more flexible with outdoor plans, which can be harder when travelling with younger kids.

Shoulder Seasons (March–April & October)

These months offer a nice balance between fewer crowds and manageable rainfall, making them a good option for families planning a longer Southeast Asia itinerary.

Whenever you visit, the key to enjoying what to do in Kuching with kids is simple: plan outdoor activities in the mornings when temperatures are cooler, and save museums, cafes or pool time for the afternoon heat.

How Many Days Do You Need in Kuching With Kids?

If you’re planning things to do in Kuching with kids, most families will find that two to three days is the perfect amount of time to explore the city and enjoy a couple of nearby wildlife experiences.

One day can easily be spent wandering the Kuching waterfront, museums and markets, while another is ideal for a wildlife day trip to Bako National Park or Semenggoh Wildlife Centre. If you have a third day, you can slow the pace a little and visit places like Annah Rais Longhouse or the quirky Cat Museum.

If you’re planning a short stay and want help organising your time, we’ve put together a detailed guide to what to do for three days in Kuching with kids, including wildlife trips, cultural experiences and easy activities for families.

FAQs

Is Kuching worth visiting with kids?

Yes — Kuching is one of the most family-friendly cities in Malaysian Borneo. It’s compact, easy to walk around, and surrounded by incredible wildlife experiences including orangutans at Semenggoh Wildlife Centre and jungle trails in Bako National Park.

How many days do you need in Kuching?

Three days in Kuching is ideal for most families. This gives you enough time to explore the waterfront, visit the Borneo Cultures Museum, see orangutans at Semenggoh, and take a day trip to Bako National Park.

Is Kuching safe for families?

Yes, Kuching is widely considered one of the safest cities in Malaysia. It has a relaxed atmosphere and is easy to explore with children, especially around the central waterfront area.

How do you get to Kuching?

Most travellers reach Kuching by flying into Kuching International Airport (KCH). There are frequent domestic flights from Kuala Lumpur, Kota Kinabalu and other Malaysian cities. From the airport, it takes about 20 minutes by Grab taxi to reach the Kuching waterfront area.

Can you see orangutans in Kuching?

Yes — one of the most popular things to do in Kuching with kids is visiting Semenggoh Wildlife Centre, about 30 minutes from the city. This rehabilitation centre allows visitors to see semi-wild orangutans during daily feeding times at 9am and 3pm.

Is Kuching good for a family trip to Borneo?

Kuching is one of the best places in Borneo for families. It’s safe, compact and easy to navigate, while still offering incredible wildlife experiences nearby such as national parks, orangutan sanctuaries and traditional villages.

Final thoughts

Kuching might not be the first place that appears on most Southeast Asia itineraries, but for families travelling through Borneo it’s a brilliant stop.

Between spotting orangutans, hiking through rainforest in Bako National Park, exploring quirky museums and wandering the relaxed waterfront, there are plenty of things to do in Kuching with kids to fill several memorable days.

For us, it was the perfect balance of adventure and downtime during our wider Borneo travels.

If you’re wondering what to do in Kuching with kids, this relaxed riverside city offers the perfect mix of wildlife, culture and adventure.

If you’d like more family travel inspiration, practical planning tips, and detailed guides to travelling Borneo with kids, you can join our newsletter below.

We share:

• Family adventure itineraries
• Wildlife experiences around the world
• Honest tips from our own family travels

👉 Sign up below and start planning your next family adventure.

Looking for more Borneo travel inspiration?

We have a whole heap of other posts covering all of our Malaysia travel adventures – both in Borneo and the rest of the country – to help you plan the perfect family trip.

Julia Thompson is the writer behind Thompsons vs The World, a family travel blog dedicated to providing advice and guidance to travel-loving families who want to see the world. Having travelled extensively pre-children (for both work and play) Julia was determined to build a life full of adventure and wonder for her two boys. These family adventures range from campervanning across the UK and Europe to leaving 'real-life' behind for a year on a family gap year that crossed three continents. A natural planner, she loves nothing more than a good Lonely Planet and organising the next adventure :)

Similar Posts