Your tailor-made holiday will be as unique as you are. These itineraries are just a starting point, a bit of inspiration to show what’s possible. Your own trip all starts with a conversation with one of our Malaysia experts, who’ll take the time to understand what matters most to you and design the perfect holiday to match.
This holiday idea is the perfect combination of national parks, remote rainforest and city stops, even combining a stop on the paradise islands of the Perhentian for some downtime (or a dive or two!). It's designed with a real focus on Malaysia's wildlife, visiting all of the country's lesser-visited natural highlights along the way.
Start by discovering the UNESCO heritage sites in Penang before heading deep into the remote forest reserve of Ulu Muda. Rarely visited by tourists, this is the perfect chance to spot the Asian Elephant, help the team with the camera traps and discover life well off the tourist trail. Bird spotting will be a prime feature throughout your adventure with hot spots including Banding Island in the heart of Belum for the majestic hornbill and Taman Negara National Park for the prowling Buffy Fish Owl. You might also be lucky enough to spot larger mammals such as sun bears, tapir, guar and wild cats. By night, trek the jungle trails of Ulu Muda, Taman Negara or Belum in search of the critters and slithering reptiles that call the jungle home.
Dotted throughout your Malaysian adventure are moments to discover local life, visit sleepy fishing villages, try your hand at traditional crafting and meet the Orang Asli villagers to learn about the culture of Malaysia. End your wildlife encounters getting back into the swing of city life with a stop in Kuala Lumpur - dine in the revolving restaurant, stroll the streets of Chinatown and tour the historical Batu Caves.
Here's a summary of what you might get up to day-to-day on this Malaysia holiday. As always, this is just an idea. Every single day of your holiday will be tailored to suit you.
Your wild Malaysia adventure begins as you hop on an international flight from the UK. Flights can also be arranged from other destinations, or we can quote for the land arrangements only if you prefer to organise your own. Just chat to us and we'll help figure out the best option for you.
After touching down in Penang, you'll be met by your brilliant private driver and whisked off to your hotel in the city. Spend the afternoon relaxing after your flight or take a wander through Georgetown’s heritage quarter – colourful shophouses, lively markets, and some brilliant food await.
Join your local guide for a tour of Penang’s highlights. Visit the ornate Khoo Kongsi clan house, the Baba & Nonya Mansion, and the Thai and Burmese temples. Stroll through Little India and sample some local snacks in the street markets. It's a morning of markets, mansions and temples. The rest of the day is yours to explore or relax.
It's time for your first real taste of the Malaysian wild today as you'll travel to Ulu Muda Jetty and hop aboard a long-tailed boat to Earth Lodge, your base in the remote rainforest. The wildlife here is nothing short of incredible – elephants, tapir, deer, and even the occasional leopard. This afternoon, head out on a river cruise to start your search.
You'll have quite the wake up today as the call of gibbons replace your usual alarm – it's time to head off on a jungle trek. You’ll explore forest trails, visit hidden caves and enjoy a picnic lunch by a picturesque stream. This afternoon, head to a nearby salt lick. This is a real hotspot for animal sightings, particularly around dusk.
Say goodbye to Ulu Muda today and continue on to Belum Rainforest. You'll stop for a local lunch along the way for a real, authentic taste of the region, before arriving at your lodge. This evening, head out on a guided night walk to experience the jungle coming to life after dark (and all of the creepy crawlies that come with it!)
Today is all about adventure. Cruise across the lake, spot hornbills in the treetops, visit Malaysia’s indigenous Orang Asli people, and keep your eyes peeled for the elusive Rafflesia flower – often heralded as the biggest in the world! There’s time to swim beneath jungle waterfalls before returning to your lodge. This is a day that gets you off the beaten track and really under the skin of Malaysia and what the country is all about.
Today, you'll travel to the east coast and catch the boat to the Perhentian Islands, ready to spend the next few days in paradise. Think white sands, turquoise waters, and laid-back island vibes. Settle in and start soaking up the sunshine. Spend your days snorkelling with turtles, heading off on jungle walks, or simply relaxing with your toes in the sand and a fresh coconut in hand.
It's time to wave goodbye to the turquoise waters and travel back to the mainland today. You'll be based in Terengganu on Malaysia's beautiful east coast, the perfect spot from which to explore the picturesque countryside and local traditions.
Today, you'll return to the mainland and continue to Kuala Terengganu, a beautiful spot on the coast. Head out to explore the nearby villages and learn about local traditions. There's plenty to experience here, from coconut sugar making to pandanus weaving and even trying your hand at a spot of batik painting, it’s a chance to get a real feel for rural life on Malaysia's east coast.
Today, it's time to journey into the wilds of Taman Negara, Malaysia’s oldest national park and one of the most ancient rainforests on Earth. Home to elephants, sun bears and tigers, it’s a real wildlife haven. Join a night walk later and see what comes out after dark.
Head off on a trek through the jungle this morning, where you'll take on the canopy walkway, 40 metres above the forest floor. This afternoon, leave dry land behind and jump in a boat along the river to the Lata Berkoh waterfalls – the perfect place for a swim and a spot of birdwatching.
Today, you'll leave the rainforest behind and travel to Kuala Lumpur for a well-earned rest in the comfort of the city. This evening, head up to the revolving restaurant for a delicious dinner with sweeping views over the skyline.
You’ll visit the colourful Batu Caves on a private tour today, then learn a little pewter crafting – you’ll even get to engrave your own dish to take home as the perfect souvenir. We’ve left this afternoon free for you to explore or relax in the city – time to soak it all up before heading home.
It's time to transfer to the airport for your flight home today – or if you’re not ready to leave just yet, ask us about adding on Borneo, Langkawi or a Singapore stopover to your adventure, there's plenty more wildlife to see!
We offer tailor-made holidays to suit a wide range of tastes. Our experts Erin and Ian are dedicated to all things Malaysia and are here to help you plan your perfect trip.
Erin’s Malaysia adventures have taken her from sizzling hawker stalls in KL to thick rainforest trails. With a passion for local culture and Southeast Asian travel, she’s got plenty of insider insights to help you explore it your way.
Ian’s favourite kind of trip blends local culture, natural beauty and plenty of great food, so Malaysia is right up his street. He’s got the tips to help you explore it all, in a way that’s perfect for you.
Speak to one of our travel specialists today.
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