Selamat Datang – Welcome to travel in Malaysia with us! Malaysia is a nation characterized by intriguing contrasts. It is a complex combination of various cultures, diverse landscapes, and architectural styles. Chinese joss houses, Hindu temples, and gold-domed mosques exist alongside state-of-the-art skyscrapers and contemporary business complexes. The land itself is divided into two parts by the South China Sea. Peninsula Malaysia (West Malaysia) boasts vast bustling cities, stately colonial architecture, misty tea plantations, and tranquil islands. Malaysian Borneo (East Malaysia) features lush jungles brimming with exotic animal and plant life, towering granite peaks, and even some remote indigenous tribes. Outdoor enthusiasts can indulge in a range of adventurous activities including hiking through some of the world’s oldest tropical rainforests, scuba diving in some of the world’s most renowned dive sites, or white water rafting in one of the nation’s numerous exquisite national parks. Alternatively spend your days exploring the supercharged capital, Kuala Lumpur, with its pockets of rainforest interspersed between towering high rise buildings or simply relax under palm tree-lined beaches. With pristine and unspoiled nature, paradise beaches and tropical waters year round combined with great shopping Malaysia is the perfect destination for holidays in Asia. The capital city of Sarawak state offers a pleasant stop for travellers looking for an urban fix between exploring the natural gems of Malaysian Borneo. Kuching is situated on the banks of the Sarawak River, which meanders through the town, lending itself a laid back atmosphere. A stroll along Kuching waterfront (nicknamed ‘The People Place’) offers visitors a diverse mix of cultural attractions and entertainment options, including views of the city’s most intricate architectural gem, Dewan Undangan Negeri – the Sarawak State Assembly complex. A contemporary highlight of the town is a series of offbeat and loveable orangutan wall murals by Lithuanian street artist Ernest Zacharevic, while those in need of R&R can indulge in a peaceful afternoon at the lovely Sarawak Orchid Garden. The annual Kuching Food Fair takes place every August, with over 200 different street stalls serving up a smorgasboard of local and international cuisine. Located in the Malaysian state of Sarawak, on the large rugged island of Borneo, the Batang Ai National Park features an impressive 24-square-kilometer expanse of lush tropical rainforest containing an extraordinary array of rare and protected wildlife. The park lies at the headwaters of the Batang Ai and the Lubang Baya river and is accessible only by chartering boats which travel up river, through thick jungle, and across the magnificent Batang Ai Lake. Visitors can look forward to exhilarating mountain treks; spotting orangutans, gibbons, hornbills and other exotic wildlife; and interacting with the local indigenous people, many of whom continue to live in traditional communal dwellings known as longhouses. This vibrant ethnic group is generally welcoming to outsiders and commonly invite visitors into their community to witness their fascination culture and traditional way of life. Sleek and affluent, Miri is a bustling city steeped in the fiscal honey of its priceless oil reserves. A combination of great cuisine, diverse cultural influences and a cosmopolitan atmosphere make it a pleasure to pass through – which is fortunate since it is a major transit hub, providing onward connections to Brunei, Sabah and Gunung Mulu and Lambir national parks. There are several pleasant beaches in close proximity to the town, and scuba diving courses are offered by several operators in town. For some local flavour – literally and figuratively – pay a visit to Tamu Muhibah, a vibrant market peddling an array of exotic fresh produce and local culinary specialties. A lush wilderness of equatorial rainforest and striking karst formations, Gunung Mulu National Park is a go-to destination for travellers who like to step off the beaten path. This world heritage site is situated on the northern tip of Malaysian Borneo and is renowned for its karst landscape, which is characterised by sinkholes, caves, and underground drainage systems. The Sarawak Chamber is the largest known cave chamber in the world. Travellers can dedicate their time to exploring the ancient inner caverns of Gunung Mulu’s caves, trekking to the park’s famous 45 metre-high limestone pinnacles or waiting for the bats to emerge in their hordes daily as dusk falls. Kota Kinabalu’s now-sleepy little sister, Sandakan was in fact the capital of British North Borneo until 1946. Today, the town functions as one of the main ports for oil, tobacco, coffee, sago and timber exports. Places of interest include the elaborate Puu Jih Shih Buddhist Temple on the hill and, just out of town, the fishing village of Buli Sim Sim, where residents live on stilt houses perched above the water. Further afield is the Sandakan Memorial Park, which is situated on the original site of a notorious WWII prisoner-of-war camp. With its small museum and leafy surrounds, it is a must for history buff as well as nature lovers. An impressive landmark on the map of Malaysian Borneo, Kinabatanagan River meanders for 560 kilometres from its source in southwestern Sabah in the soaring Crocker Range to its vast river mouth at the Sulu Sea. It is the longest river in the incredibly scenic state of Sabah and provides a rich ecosystem for a host of wildlife. A boat cruise down the river is the best way to explore the region’s lush rainforests, sparkling lakes, and abundant wildlife, with both day trips and overnight water-based safaris offered to visitors. Regularly sighted wildlife includes proboscis monkeys, orangutans, crocodiles, macaques hornbills, Irrawaddy dolphins owls, civets and if you’re lucky – the endangered Borneo pygmy elephant. Dotting the Sulu Sea in Malaysia, the Turtle Islands National Park is also known as Pulau Penyu National Park. It encompasses the islands of Selingan, which is home to the park’s headquarters, Little Bakkungan and Gulisan, as well as the surrounding coral reefs scattered in the ocean. It’s no guess that the park is home to an array of turtles such as the endangered green turtle and hawksbill turtle that nest on the beaches of these unspoilt islands. Visitors can stay overnight on Selingan to be able to view the incredible spectacle of these marine creatures laying their eggs in the sand almost every night of the year, as well as viewing a turtle hatchling release, and during the day visitors can enjoy swimming, diving, snorkelling and sunbathing. Located in Malaysia, the state of Sabah makes up the northern portion of the island of Borneo. Sabah is known for its remarkable natural attractions featuring rich wildlife, biodiverse coral reef, and excellent beaches fringed by clear turquoise waters. The landscape of Sabah is characterised by lush paddy fields, dense rainforest, majestic mountains and wild mangrove coastal areas. Sabah is home to the country’s highest peak, the 4095 metre-high Mount Kinabalu, which is popular with hikers from all over the world. Visit the stunning beaches of northern Borneo, discover an underwater wonderland, get your adrenaline pumping on a whitewater rafting adventure, or take an evening firefly cruise. Other popular activities include: wildlife safaris, boat tours and scenic hikes. Kota Kinabalu is slow paced capital of Sabah situated on the coast. A short hop from the town is the Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park a remarkably well-preserved marine park just off the coast of Malaysian Borneo. The park comprises five islands: Gaya, Manukan, Sapi, Sulug and Mamutik, as well as 12,185 acres of crystal clear water brimming with colourful coral and an abundance of exotic marine life. While each of the islands has its own unique charm, all offer excellent diving and snorkeling possibilities as well as a number of trekking trails. All five islands are hilly and forested, with a mixture of rocky coastlines and exquisite white sand beaches. Gaya is by far the largest of the islands, with Manukan coming in at a distant second. The remaining three are very small. This exquisite archipelago has been voted among the world’s top diving spots time and again, yet amazingly still remains one of Malaysia’s better kept secrets. It is best known for the legendary Sipadan Island, made famous by marine biologist and underwater pioneer Jacques Cousteau, when he said of it: “Now we have found an untouched piece of art.” Sipadan and its surrounding islands offer unforgettable scuba diving and snorkelling experiences, with over 3000 marine species indigenous to the region. The Semporna islands are also home to the Bajau Laut sea gypsies, who exist entirely off the sea and whose traditional stilted villages are dotted along the ocean’s edge. Situated on the northeastern tip of Malaysian Borneo, Mount Kinabalu National Park is one of South East Asia’s biodiversity hotspots. A designated World Heritage Site, this park is home to half of all Borneo’s birds, mammals and amphibian species, and two-thirds of all Bornean reptiles. Some of the local plant species include the slightly sinister but brilliantly-evolved Rafflesia plant, which mimics decaying meat to attract and entrap pollinator flies. Towering over the 70 000 hectares of forested terrain is the 4096-metre Mount Kinabalu – the highest mountain between the Himalayas and New Guinea. Tabin Wildlife Reserve is an extraordinary wilderness area occupying the majority of the the peninsula which forms the northern headland of Darvel Bay in the eastern section of the Malaysian Bornean state of Sabah. The reserve covers 112,000 hectares, including 9,000 hectares of primary unlogged forest which provides a haven for a remarkably diverse range of wildlife including, among others: orangutan, gibbon, Borneo Pygmy elephant, Sumatran rhinoceros, proboscis monkey, silver langurs, bearded pigs, monitors and all eight species of Borneo’s hornbills. Visitors can look forward to trekking to The Lipad Mud Volcano, visiting breathtaking waterfalls, and going on night drives in search of nocturnal wildlife. Accommodation is provided at the Tabin River Lodge in 20 simple but comfortable bungalows located either along the river or on the hillside overlooking the rainforest. This low-lying wilderness of virgin rainforest is recognised as one of the planet’s hubs of biodiversity – its vast canopies shelter some 300 bird species, over 100 mammals – including the clouded leopard, Malayan sun bear, Bornean orangutan and the rare Bornean pygmy elephant – and a profusion of vividly coloured butterflies. This exceptional ecosystem is a popular research destination among natural scientists and it is possible to attend talks by resident environmental experts at the Danum Valley Field Centre. A network of trails wind through the surrounding jungle, taking in viewing platforms tucked amidst the treetops, a suspension bridge over the Segama River, cascading waterfalls and even several ancient burial sites. Kuala Lumpur is fairly new as far as Malaysian cities go. Founded in 1857 as a tin mining outpost, the capital has flourished and established itself as a slick and bustling metropolis. Skyscrapers dominate the skyline and on the buzzing streets below you will find some of Malaysia’s tastiest street food. Expect a vibrant mix of Malay, Chinese and Indian cuisine, with stalls dishing out some of the city’s finest food around the clock. Hit Bukit Bintang, the city’s version of Times Square, for some retail therapy or head to the iconic Petronas Towers, the tallest twin towers in the world and attempt a stroll across the suspended sky bridge. Visit the historic monuments, stroll through the lush parks and enjoy KL’s vibrant nightlife. Strategically located adjacent to the Strait of Malacca, the aptly-dubbed ‘Historic State’ of Malacca (Melaka) has been at the heart of Malaysia’s trade and history for hundreds of years, attracting an array of Chinese, Portuguese, Dutch and British explorers and conquerors to its shores. Malacca’s age-old roots are still very much visible in the exquisite old architecture and gaudily decorated traditional trishaws for which its state capital, Malacca City has become famous – but today this urban hub is equally as contemporary and cosmopolitan as it is culturally rich, featuring a myriad of trendy restaurants; slick modern malls and lively bars. Idyllically located approximately 150km north of Kuala Lumpur, the Cameron Highlands is a retreat blessed with milder temperatures than the rest of Malaysia, making it a popular getaway for travellers seeking relief from the stifling heat and humidity often experienced in the lower lying areas of this tropical country. With its lovely tea houses, vast unspoiled forests and impressive temples, the retreat offers visitors a sense of peaceful tranquility away from the frenetic bustle of city life. This densely forested area boasts a wide variety of bird, animal and plant life, eight towering mountains, eight lovely rivers, as well as some magnificent hiking trails leading to some spectacularly scenic spots, majestic waterfalls and remote aboriginal villages. A visit to this remarkably extensive hillstation reveals another side of Malaysia; a side where you can walk for hours in the cool climate and experience some of Malaysia’s natural treasures at their best. Taman Negara sprawls across 4343 square kilometres and is Malaysia’s biggest national park and, even more impressive, home to the planet’s oldest rainforest. This primeval jungle has remained relatively undisturbed for upwards of 130 million years, and it provides a habitat for a myriad of wildlife, including wild boars, monkeys, tapirs and a profusion of bird species. Nature lovers and thrill seekers alike will be in their element here, with a wide array of adventure activities that include trekking, caving, fishing, swimming, rafting, rapid shooting and night jungle hikes. Officially known as ‘Langkawi, the Jewel of Kedah’, and for good reason, the 104 islands that make up the exquisite archipelago of Langkawi hide a treasure trove of exciting holiday opportunities. Located in the south of the Andaman Sea on the west coast of Peninsular Malaysia, this island paradise offers an abundance of golden sand beaches lapped by crystal clear turquoise waters teeming with an array of exotic marine life. While the region’s world-class dive sites attract scuba divers and snorkelers keen to explore this underwater wonderland, the picturesque terraced paddy-fields, jungle-clad hills, majestic waterfalls, and gorgeous mangroves are ideal playgrounds in which to indulge in a host of adventurous outdoor activities. The islands may have their share of luxurious holiday resorts but the real drawcard is undoubtedly the area’s spectacular untouched natural beauty. Langkawi’s simple tourism slogan seems to sum it up perfectly – ‘Naturally Langkawi’. Leave your laptop, your phone and your worries behind and head to Pangkor Laut Island where exquisite, secluded golden sand beaches and lush tropical rainforests await. Spend your days: unwinding at the island’s impressive luxury resort with its beautifully landscaped gardens laden with coconut trees and tranquil spa treatment rooms; taking guided tours through the rainforest brimming with exotic bird, animal and plant life; swimming in the crystal clear azure waters, or taking part in the numerous activities on offer including yoga and tai chi classes, jet skiing, snorkeling and sailing. For a truly unique, exclusive and unforgettable tropical island experience, look no further than Pangkor Laut. Lying 32 kilometres of Malaysia’s east coast, Tioman island makes up part of the Mersing Marine Park and is one of Malaysia’s most beguiling travel destinations, famed for its idyllic white beaches and incredible snorkelling and diving. The island is covered with dense tropical jungle and encircled by crystal clear aquamarine waters that support a pristine marine ecosystem. Divers can expect to see a diverse array of underwater life that includes spectacular coral reefs, vividly coloured tropical fish, sea turtles, moray eels, blacktip reef sharks, hammerhead sharks, manta rays and many more species. One of nine islands making up the Redang Marine Park is the ‘grown-up’ complement to the more bohemian Perhentian Islands, featuring an array of swish, resort-style accommodation catering to exclusive tastes. Idyllic sandy beaches, crystal clear waters and a dazzling array of underwater life complete this very pretty picture, and ocean-based activities are the number one attraction here. Snorkellers and scuba divers can look forward to exquisite coral reefs and myriad marine species, with potential sightings including black tipped reef sharks and green turtles. The Perhentian Islands are a relatively small group of spectacular coral-edged islands, located off the northeastern coast of Malaysia. The two main islands, Pulau Perhentian Besar and Pulau Perhentian Kencil, possess an alluring untouched charm. These laidback islands feature white-sand beaches lapped by crystal clear turquoise waters fringed by rolling hills and dotted with fishing villages. This spectacular landscape creates a beautiful backdrop for this diving paradise. The highlight of these islands is undoubtedly the underwater wonderland teeming with marine life such as abundant tropical fish, reef sharks and sea turtles.Visitors can enjoy an array of outdoor adventure activities including: snorkelling, scuba diving, swimming, kayaking, hiking, wildlife watching and exciting island hopping. Set on the banks of the Terengganu River, along the northeastern coast of Malaysia, the city of Kuala Terengganu is the capital of the Terengganu state. It serves as the main gateway to many of the state’s popular tourist destinations as well as a jump off point for boats travelling to the surrounding islands. While the city has all the modern comforts, Kuala Terengganu still retains a strong traditional heritage. Don’t miss the Pasar Besar Kedai Payang, the city’s main market, Terengganu State Museum, one of the largest in Malaysia; Kampung Chinatown, a popular attraction and the magnificent Batu Buruk beach. Popular activities in the area include: scuba diving, snorkelling and lounging on white-sand beaches. WE LOVE TO HEAR FROM YOUBespoke travel and tours in Malaysia & Borneo
OUR FAVOURITES IN MALAYSIA
Destinations in Malaysian Borneo (Sabah & Sarawak)
KUCHING
BATANG AI NATIONAL PARK
MIRI
MULU NATIONAL PARK
SANDAKAN
KINABATANAGAN RIVER
TURTLE ISLANDS NATIONAL PARK
SABAH
KOTA KINABALU & TAR NP ISLANDS
SEMPORNA, SIPADAN & KAPALAI ISLANDS
MOUNT KINABALU NATIONAL PARK
TABIN WILDLIFE RESERVE
DANUM VALLEY CONSERVATION AREA
Peninsular Malaysia
KUALA LUMPUR
MALACCA
CAMERON HIGHLANDS
TAMAN NEGARA NATIONAL PARK
LANGKAWI ISLAND
PANGKOR LAUT
TIOMAN ISLAND
REDANG ISLAND
PERHENTIAN ISLANDS
KUALA TERENGGANU
Our handpicked hotels in Malaysia
What Our Clients Are Saying
Malaysia / Essential Information
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