Singapore To Kota Tinggi One Day Trip That Tourists Have Yet to Discover (Travel Made Easy)
Longing for a weekend getaways from Singapore but don’t know where to go?
Come and explore Kota Tinggi – the mysterious and historical town where Johor Sultanate was established!
The place really offers something different and something unique to you. It is a stunning place where adventure lives.
Whether it is hiking, firefly-watching experience or glamping, the town itself has so much to offer you.
And with lots of exceptional eateries and restaurants around, you’ll never go hungry and the food will keep you coming back for more!
Scroll down for more details and make your trip happen soon!
4 Recommended Itineraries For Kota Tinggi One Day Trip
Route 1: Kiang Kee Bak Kut Teh -> The Pier at Kpg. Makam -> Kota Johor Lama -> Teluk Sengat Crocodile Farm
Route 2: Desaru Beach -> Teluk Sengat Crocodile Farm -> Kota Tinggi Waterfall
Route 3: Desaru Fruit Farm -> Teluk Sengat Seafood Restaurant (Lunch) -> Teluk Sengat Crocodile Farm -> Lotus Desaru Beach Resort Water Theme Park
Route 4: Mount Panti (Gunung Panti) -> Kota Tinggi Waterfall -> Kota Tinggi Town (Dinner)
How To Get To Kota Tinggi From Singapore
Option 1: Private Car From Singapore To Kota Tinggi
SGMYTAXI is one of the most trusted and reliable company offers private car services from Singapore to Kota Tinggi. You can select one way or return trip from Singapore to Kota Tinggi or Kota Tinggi to Singapore.
The booking process is very easy. Kindly fill in the booking form and they will get back to you as soon as they can.
If you have any enquiry, you can also Whatsapp them. Their attentive and prompt customer services ensure you to get the information you want clearly.
Why Choose SGMYTAXI Private Car Service:
- Drivers will pick you up at your doorstep and drop you off at any places you want in Kota Tinggi.
- You can choose your preferred pickup date, time and pickup location in Singapore
- Save time and hassle-free as you don’t need to disembark from vehicles twice for immigration clearance at Singapore and Malaysia borders
- Sit back and relax throughout the journey while driver directly bring you to Kota Tinggi from Singapore without need to wait for other passengers
- Affordable private transfer & reasonable pricing rates
- Simple booking through online or Whatsapp
- Does not need to bring baggage/belongings up and down from checkpoint building and the bus anymore (if you take bus).
- Spacious and comfortable private MPV car that can accommodate up to 10 people and luggage.
- Great customer service
- Hassle-free and a comfortable journey, especially if you travel in a large group, family with children or elderly or colleagues going for a corporate retreat
- Experienced driver who knows the best route to Kota Tinggi.
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Vehicles Details:
SGMYTAXI Happy Customers
SGMYTAXI has been receiving good feedback from customers’ experience.
Option 2: Bus From Singapore To Kota Tinggi
Pros:
- Cheaper than private car
Cons:
- Hassle because you need to bring along all luggage to clear customs.
- Time-consuming due to very long queue at customs.
Recommended For:
- Budget travellers
So far, there is no direct bus that bring you from Singapore to Kota Tinggi. The ways to reach Kota Tinggi by public bus are:
1. Queen Street Terminal -> Larkin Terminal (Johor Bahru) -> Kota Tinggi
Step 1: Queen Street Terminal -> Larkin Terminal (Johor Bahru)
Bus operator: SBS Transit
Coach: SBS Transit 170
Ticket price: SGD2.50
Frequency: 15 minutes
Bus operator: Causeway Link
Coach: Causeway Link CW2
Ticket price: SGD3.30
Frequency: 15-30 minutes
Also read: Bus From Singapore To JB (Latest Guide On Bus Schedule & Ticket Price)
Step 2: Larkin Terminal (Johor Bahru) -> Kota Tinggi
Bus operator: S&S International Express
Coach: STD42
Ticket Price: RM3.90
Departure time: 8:00am, 11:45am, 2:30pm, 5:45pm
2. Kranji MRT Station -> Larkin Terminal (Johor Bahru) -> Kota Tinggi
Step 1: Kranji MRT Station -> Larkin Terminal (Johor Bahru)
Bus operator: Causeway Link
Coach: Causeway Link CW1
Ticket price: SGD1.50
Frequency: 15-30 minutes
Step 2: Larkin Terminal (Johor Bahru) -> Kota Tinggi
Bus operator: S&S International Express
Coach: STD42
Ticket Price: RM3.90
Departure time: 8:00am, 11:45am, 2:30pm, 5:45pm
Top 6 Attractions in Kota Tinggi
1. Kota Tinggi Waterfall
What could be better if you could have a picnic at the waterfall? It helps to release stress and replenish your body, mind, and soul!
Also read: Top 31 Attraction & Things To Do In Johor Bahru (JB)
Being one of the main attractions in Kota Tinggi, Kota Tinggi Waterfall is the perfect place for family fun and friends outing. Besides, natural beauty is great for an Instagram post!
Some people love sitting under the cascading water of the waterfall for meditation. But for kids, the cascading water is quite powerful and dangerous. Therefore, children are recommended to play at the shallow pool which is much safer and children friendly.
If you want to stay here, there is a resort offering you dormitory and camping sites which are clean and equipped with basic facilities.
Opening Hours:
Monday to Sunday: 8:00am – 6:00pm
Entrance fee:
Foreigner:
Adult: RM10
Children: RM5
Malaysian:
Adult: RM7.50
Children: RM3.50
2. Kota Tinggi Firefly Park
Ride on a boat and discover the mesmerizing fireflies at Kota Tinggi Firefly Park!
At night, it is really an enchanting and thrilling experience to witness thousands of beautiful fireflies dancing under the dazzling star. Tourists can even get to know more about the history of the Johor River while riding the boat.
As the environment is well protected and preserved by the government, the area has successfully retained the pristine nature as a firefly habitat.
In addition, the park offers activities for students and families where they can take part in outdoor studying. Despite getting close to nature, they learn to appreciate and protect nature.
Your trip isn’t a complete one without flying the lanterns into the sky. Make a wish and let your dreams come true!
If you feel hungry after the tour, the on-site restaurant offers you a lot of scrumptious cuisines at affordable prices.
Contact: +6017-460 7775
Opening Hours:
Monday to Sunday: 6:00pm – 11:00pm
Entrance fee:
Adult: RM20
Children: RM12
3. Sungai Lebam Wetlands
Apart from Kota Tinggi Firefly Park, this is yet another stunning spot where you can enjoy the magical firefly watching experience. The place is not that well-known but still, it offers an amazing experience to you!
Sungai Lebam Wetlands is under the preservation of the government. Even though the place is opened for firefly watching, they hope to raise awareness for mangrove conservation to protect the habitats of fireflies too.
Firefly mostly congregates at the Berembang trees of mangrove swamp. It looks so likely a Christmas tree blinking in the dark. When hundreds of Christmas tree shine together, the view is way too mesmerizing! It is truly a sight to behold.
The best time for visit is 1-4 hours after the sunset. Avoid visit on the full moon and rainy nights.
Contact: +607-222 3590 / +607-222 3591
4. Canopy Tribes
Love outdoor activities and fancy sleeping under the stars? The Canopy Tribes in Kota Tinggi is ready to bring you a luxury glamping retreat.
Instead of getting stuck in a room of a resort, Canopy Tribes now offers 12 breathable bell tents fully-equipped with basic amenities like restrooms, hot showers, and refreshment. It takes you out to be in touch with the wonderful nature.
Also read: 7 Glamping Site in Malaysia
At night, the campfire experience with other glampers is definitely a memorable one. You can sing, dance and enjoy interesting conversations with new friends throughout the night.
Surrounded by diverse flora and fauna, there are so many things to enjoy here. Whether it is jungle trekking into the rainforest or to the scenic lake, swimming in the waterfall or night trekking to gaze at the stunning Milky Way, Canopy Tribes offer you all in one.
For sure, you will never ever get bored with all the activities offered!
Contact: +6018-786 5152
Package Rates:
1. 2D1N: RM180 per person
2. 3D2N: RM320 per person
*BBQ Dinner and breakfast are included.
5. Kota Tinggi Museum
Built in 1997, Kota Tinggi Museum stands as a 2-storey building exhibiting glory events of the Johor Sultanate and the rare display of the great evolution of Johor. Kota Tinggi was chosen as the site for this museum because it served as the major seat during the Johor Sultanate.
The museum is opened to the public in 2002 when the construction is completed. By displaying the architectures and dances, the museum also highlights the unique culture of Johor.
Huge canvas paintings, once-victorious weapons, ancient musical instruments, and century-old porcelain are displayed in the museum too.
There is always a curator who is willing to acknowledge you and answer all questions regarding the displays. Feel free to ask to gain more knowledge. Admission to the Kota Tinggi Museum is free.
Contact: +607-883 1498
Opening Hours:
Saturday to Thursday: 9:00am – 6:00pm
6. Mount Panti (Gunung Panti)
Let’s experience the excitement and fun of hiking at Gunung Panti!
The Gunung Panti looks like a pig from distant and local Chinese often call it “swine head”. With 513 meters height, it normally takes 2 hours to arrive at the peak.
Also read: 7 Captivating Hills in Johor
The jungle offers no proper trailbut the natural steps are visible enough to lead the way. To reach the top, you need to overcome a steep climb which is nearly 90 degrees. Ropes and scattered ladders are all around to keep you moving on.
Don’t forget to adore nature attractions along the way. There are over 400 species of birds for you to discover. And when you reach the top of the mountain, you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking view and fresh air!
7 Best Kota Tinggi Food
1. Kiang Kee Bak Kut Teh(强记肉骨茶)
Set under the “attap roofs”, Kiang Kee Bak Kut Teh looks like those houses in 60s and it offers a rustic village ambiance. All Bak Kut Teh is cooked in the open kitchen under charcoal fire.
Also read: 7 Best Bak Kut Teh In Johor Bahru
Served in claypot, the hot piping Bak Kut Teh gives off strong herbal aroma and the thick soup looks extremely dark in colour. Together with other herbs, the broth which offers a unique dang gui flavour is very comforting.
There are generous pork ribs inside the broth. With tender and slightly firm meat, it tastes naturally sweet and one can easily pull off the meat from the bone.
To enhance the taste, you may request to have their special Bak Kut Teh which adds rice wine inside. The rice wine is only added to the appropriate amount, not cover up the heavenly taste of the herbal broth.
Contact: +607-882 1290 / +6019-747 9416
Opening Hours:
Tuesday to Sunday: 7:30am – 12:00pm
2. Restoran Pangsit Mee(大家乐擂茶手工面小食店)
Restoran Pangsit Mee is an old Chinese coffee shop that sells home cook dishes and handmade noodles. With up-to-trend and creative menu, surely you’ll find something that caught your fancy!
Nowadays, plenty of Western restaurants and café landed in town. But the owner of this coffee shop has successfully retained the traditional taste using the new ingredients. Definitely worth a try!
The homemade noodles come with 3 different flavours, the original flavour, spinach flavour and pumpkin flavour. All are in different colour which is white, green and yellow. The noodles are so springy in the mouth! If you prefer spicy food, get yourself a bowl of spicy noodles specially made by the owner.
Barley drink is the most-ordered drink here. Fresh cooked every day, sometimes it was sold out before noon.
Contact: +607-883 5372
Opening Hours:
Tuesday to Sunday: 6:00am – 4:30pm
3. Restoran Loong Foong(龙凤餐馆)
Are you a dim sum lover? If yes, Restoran Loong Foong is truly a heaven for you.
Previously located at Jalan Tun Sri Lanang, Restoran Loong Foong has moved to this new shop lot. Every morning, the restaurant is crowded with people coming here for breakfast. Same as in old days.
The restaurant serves lots of Cantonese classics! Custard bun with generous egg yolk filling is their main highlight. The steamed custard buns are very soft and once you tear it off, the wonderful aroma hits you immediately.
Dumplings are highly recommended too. There are many flavours of dumplings for you to choose for. Most importantly, their dumplings are very big in size and it really worth the money.
Contact: +6016-740 0909
4. Kedai Kopi Wah Tong(华东茶室)
Opened for more than 60 years, Kedai Kopi Wah Tong is a humble coffee shop that serves you a simple yet homely breakfast to kick starts your day.
Even though this coffee shop is operated by Chinese, locals of all ethnic love having their breakfast here because it makes them feel the sense of old times.
Toast and coffee is the typical combination of breakfast here. The most special thing about their toast is that they are baked on charcoal, which is hardly found in coffee shop nowadays. You can opt for either butter or kaya flavour toast.
To complement the breakfast, you can even order the half-boiled eggs which taste so wonderful! All the food mentioned above is offered at cheap prices.
5. Yap Fong Noodle House(叶芳面家)
Located in the centre of Kota Tinggi, Yap Fong Noodle House is always crowded with locals and tourists who come here for a decent wan tan mee meal.
The chewy and springy noodle taste so heavenly with the soy sauce. Though the dry wan tan mee is their highlight, you can also enjoy the wan tan mee soup at a similar price.
What’s so special about their wan tan mee is that they fry the unwanted part of fish – fishbones and serve it in soup. Normally, people serve wan tan mee with dumplings but at Yap Fong, they serve fishball and meatball, offering an unique taste in mouth.
Opening Hours:
Monday to Saturday: 11:30am – 5:00pm
Closed on: Sunday
6. Restaurant Ali Baba Alarabi
Being the only Arabian Restaurant in Kota Tinggi, Restaurant Ali Baba Alarabi serves authentic and quality Arabic cuisines in very large portion. Surely it leaves you a full stomach before leaving.
Most of the dishes here are well-seasoned with different spices. If you fond of spicy food, this is truly a place for you!
Besides, the dishes offered are always served with various sauces. Recommended by customers, their lamb meals offer tender meat and together with the sauce, it tastes heavenly!
Contact: +6010-666 5626
Opening Hours:
Tuesday to Sunday: 11:00am – 10:00pm
Closed on: Monday
7. Sengat Seafood Restaurant
Let’s savour one of the best Chinese seafood dishes in town!
Located near to the Teluk Sengat Crocodile Farm, Sengat Seafood Restaurant is famed for selling the freshest ocean catch as well as traditional delights.
Fried oyster with omelette, chili crab, steamed fish Nyonya, fried prawn with butter and cold cutter fish are just some of the recommended dishes here. All are cooked to perfection where you can enjoy the nature sweetness of the seafood.
Apart from seafood, the restaurant also offers fried chicken and vegetables to complement the seafood feast. The flavour are much localised and cooked in a traditional way to blend well with the Muslim community in town.
Contact: +607-895 5116
Opening Hours:
Monday to Sunday: 10:00am – 9:00pm