Malaysia Travel Insights

10 Days in Malaysia - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

In 10 days in Malaysia, you can see most of the highlights and four to five destinations in Peninsular Malaysia and East Malaysia. Choose an itinerary that samples both regions, relax at Langkawi Island on the Andaman Sea, go rainforest hiking and spot waterfalls at Lahad Datu in East Malaysia, or focus your trip on jungle trekking and tracking orangutans in Nanga Sumpa. Alternatively, split your time between city life in Kuala Lumpur and discovering caves and nature in Borneo's Gunung Mulu National Park.

1 Week in Malaysia - 6 Unique Itinerary Ideas

One week in Malaysia is enough time to visit four destinations, like the classic Melaka to Penang trip for first-timers keen on a quick pace and a variety of activities. Those that prefer a slower pace can take a Langkawi beach holiday, and food-focused travelers will enjoy feasting on dim sum in Ipoh and street food in Penang. The Borneo itineraries are best for outdoorsy types—Gunung Mulu is suited to cave enthusiasts and avid hikers, while the wildlife safaris on the Borneo Adventure are perfect for animal lovers.

East Malaysia Adventure: Jungles, Orangutans & Indigenous Culture - 10 Days

Escape into the wilds of East Malaysia on this adventurous 10-day itinerary. Start among the skyscrapers of Kuala Lumpur for a taste of city living, then fly on to Borneo and the Sarawak capital of Kuching. From here, you'll venture deep into Batang Ai National Park, home to the Indigenous Iban people and some of the world's last remaining orangutans. As you hop between jungle lodges and isolated camps, set out on jungle treks to spot the elusive primates alongside other remarkable wildlife.

Best of Malaysia: Melaka to Penang - 7 Days

Experience the highlights of Peninsular Malaysia on this fast-paced weeklong adventure. Begin in the charming city of Melaka, where you'll see a variety of UNESCO-listed historic buildings. Then transfer to Kuala Lumpur for some epic sightseeing with a local guide. From here, head north to enjoy cooler air—and fresh tea—in the verdant Cameron Highlands before finishing in Penang for distinct island culture and the country's best cuisine.

Discover Malaysia's Langkawi Islands - 7 Days

Get off the beaten path in Malaysia on this epic adventure to the islands of Langkawi in the Andaman Sea. Over seven event-filled days, you'll enjoy nature tours, Indigenous exchanges, and water-based activities that range from kayaking to island hopping. In between, ride a gondola, shop in duty-free stores, and immerse yourself in Malay culture as you learn the techniques for creating traditional batik art.

Best of Peninsular Malaysia: Kuala Lumpur, Penang & Langkawi - 10 Days

This exciting 10-day tour focuses on Peninsular Malaysia, between Thailand and Singapore, where you'll experience a diverse range of cultures and stunning scenery. Start the trip with a visit to the Petronas Towers and Batu Caves, then head north to the Cameron Highlands. Next is Penang Island, where you'll explore the culinary capital of Malaysia before finishing with some relaxing beach time—and a trip to an impressive SkyBridge—on Langkawi Island.

Malaysia's Cities & Nature Tour - 10 Days

Experience the highlights of Malaysia with 10 days of city tours, museum visits, beach getaways, rainforest hikes, and much more. The adventure begins in exotic Kuala Lumpur, where you'll tour the iconic sights in and around the city. Then jet off to East Malaysia—on the island of Borneo—to hike through Gunung Mulu National Park while exploring caves, Indigenous villages, and the Mulu Pinnacles.

Best of East Malaysia's Rainforests & Beaches – 10 Days

Discover Malaysian Borneo's northern highlights on this 10-day tour that'll take you to rainforests, highlands, and beaches. Touchdown in Sabah's capital, Kota Kinabalu, before escaping to a lodge in the Danum Valley, where you'll hike through one of the world's oldest rainforests, bathe in emerald pools, and spot eerie hanging coffins. Continue traveling through the cool-climate highlands to reach the northernmost tip of Borneo, where soft sands and aqua adventures await in Kudat.

Explore East Malaysia's National Parks: Gunung Mulu & Niah - 7 Days

If you've ever dreamed of visiting Malaysian Borneo, you'll love this week-long adventure deep in the rainforest. After a night in Miri, fly to Gunung Mulu National Park to hike between caves, relax by waterfalls, and learn about the diverse plants and animals that live here. Then, return to Miri and visit Niah National Park during an exciting day trip. Here you'll discover the area's fascinating archaeology, visit an Indigenous Iban longhouse, and learn about the tradition of bird's nest harvesting.

Best of East & West Malaysia - 10 Days

Experience the best of Malaysia over 10 days that will take you across its two principal regions. On the main peninsula, you'll tour the capital of Kuala Lumpur, visit famous cave temples, and see the highlights of Penang Island. Then you're off to Borneo, in East Malaysia, where you'll relax on remote beaches, go snorkeling, and visit local farms in the stunning highlands.

Malaysia's Gunung Mulu Hiking Adventure - 7 Days

This weeklong outdoor adventure travels deep into Malaysian Borneo, where you can observe local wildlife and see spectacular rock formations and caves. First, fly into Miri and dip your toes in the South China Sea, then head to Gunung Mulu National Park. Here you'll explore the park's sprawling cave networks before hiking to a rustic wilderness camp—your base in the mountains. Complete the trip in Miri, where you'll have free time to visit cultural attractions and local markets. 

Malaysia Food Heaven Tour - 7 Days

This tasty seven-day itinerary hones in on Malaysia's colorful culture and distinct food scene. It begins in the capital of Kuala Lumpur, where you'll see famous skyscrapers and visit local markets to shop and eat like a local. Then head north to visit the cities of Ipoh in the Cameron Highlands and George Town on Penang Island. Eat (and sightsee) your way around these two foodie pilgrimage sites that serve up some of the best cuisines in Southeast Asia.

How Many Days To Spend in Malaysia

Two weeks is the perfect amount of time to spend in Malaysia, allowing you to explore the region's top wilderness venues and experience many of its cultural highlights. However, you can still enjoy Malaysia with far fewer days: five is long enough for a wildlife-rich rainforest experience, including time for relaxing on white sand beaches and snorkeling the Sulu Sea, while in a week to 10 days, you can dive deeper and experience multiple regions.

Best Time of Year to Visit Malaysia

In Malaysia, you can expect the same climate that defines most nations in Southeast Asia: hot, humid, and rainy throughout the year. Like those other countries, Malaysia has not four seasons, but two (wet and dry), and any travel plans you make should consider this reality. That said, no matter what time of year you visit, there are parts of the country to enjoy without fear of a rainout.

Malaysia in May: Travel Tips, Weather & More

May is an excellent month to head outdoors in eastern Malaysia, whether hiking through the jungles, climbing a mountain, or diving and snorkeling at pristine reefs. The weather is mostly dry in the east, making this a prime time to seek out orangutans in Borneo. Find out more below about traveling to Malaysia in May.

Malaysia in December: Travel Tips, Weather & More

Tourism picks up in certain parts of Malaysia from December; while the east is drenched in rain, the west is quite dry. This is an excellent time of year for a beach vacation or to explore the cultural and historical attractions of Penang, Melaka, and the capital, Kuala Lumpur. Read on for more tips on where and what to do in Malaysia in December.

Malaysia in November: Travel Tips, Weather & More

November is Malaysia's coldest month of the year, but as a tropical country, it's still warm, albeit wet. It's the low season for travel, and popular beach resorts and jungle areas are best avoided, but Malaysia's fantastic towns and cities offer plenty of cultural attractions. If you want to retreat to nature, head to the famous Cameron Highlands, which are lush at this time of year. Read on to find out more about where to go and what to do in Malaysia in November.

Malaysia in October: Travel Tips, Weather & More

October is a shoulder season month for travel to Malaysia, but with warm weather (albeit a bit damp) and a host of cultural and religious festivals, there's no need to stay away. Head to Kuala Lumpur or Penang to experience Hindu festivals at their best, tour tea fields in the Cameron Highlands, or chill out on a beach in sunny Langkawi. Read on for more inspiration on what to see and do in Malaysia in October.

Malaysia in September: Travel Tips, Weather & More

Rains increase in Malaysia in September, ending the long (relatively) dry season. It's the shoulder season for travel but still a great time to enjoy the country's cultural riches, particularly in the capital, Kuala Lumpur, and the northern island city, Penang. Cultural and religious festivals in September, including the Hindu Navarathri and the Chinese Moon Cake Festival, add extra interest. Find out more about visiting Malaysia in September.

Malaysia in August: Travel Tips, Weather & More

Malaysia is hot and humid in August, and the rains gradually return to western areas. But this is a great month to chill out on a beach in eastern Malaysia, spot orangutans in Borneo, or go bird-watching at bird sanctuaries and wildlife reserves throughout the country. Find out more about where and what to do in Malaysia in August below.

Malaysia in July: Travel Tips, Weather & More

Malaysia is hot, hot, hot in July. But it's also generally dry, making this a great month for outdoor and wildlife-focused adventures. Whether you want to go diving among shipwrecks, spot birds in wildlife sanctuaries, enjoy cultural festivals in Malaysia's diverse towns and cities, or see orangutans in their natural habitat, you can do it in July. Read on to find out more about where to go and what to do in Malaysia in July.

Malaysia in June: Travel Tips, Weather & More

June is peak season for travel to Malaysia, with dry weather in most parts of the country and ideal conditions for diving, orangutan-spotting, other outdoor activities, and city-based sightseeing. Whether you want to visit Peninsular Malaysia, Malaysian Borneo, or islands off the coast of these two regions, there's plenty to see and do in Malaysia in June. Read on to find out more.

Malaysia in April: Travel Tips, Weather & More

Wildlife and nature lovers are in luck in Malaysia in April: the weather in Borneo is generally dry, making this an ideal time of year to go out in search of orangutans in the jungles of Sarawak and Sabah. Active travelers who want a challenge can try climbing the tallest mountain in Malaysia, Mount Kinabalu. Read on for more information about where to go and what to do in Malaysia in April.

Malaysia in March: Travel Tips, Weather & More

March is an ideal time to visit Malaysia if you want to focus on wildlife and nature. The start of the dry season in the east and Borneo means travelers will be spoiled for choice. Spot orangutans in Sarawak and Sabah, climb Mt. Kinabalu, hike in the jungles, and encounter a range of other wildlife throughout the country. Read on to find out more about travel to Malaysia in March.

Malaysia in February: Travel Tips, Weather & More

February is peak season for travel to Malaysia's west, particularly Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Melaka, and Langkawi. The weather is clear, and there's little rain, making it a great time to enjoy time on the beach, city sightseeing, and some lively cultural festivals. Find out more about where to go and what to do in Malaysia in February below.

Malaysia in January: Travel Tips, Weather & More

With generally good weather in some of the most popular beach destinations and a host of exciting festivals, January is a good month to visit Malaysia. It's peak season in Langkawi, and Lunar New Year (if it falls in January) brings festive crowds to the cities and areas with Chinese influence, but these all add to the fun of visiting Malaysia in January. Read on to find out more.

Discover Sarawak: Off the Beaten Path in Malaysian Borneo - 14 Days

From the Deer and Lang Caves to trekking the limestone formations of the Pinnacles Trail, there is so much to do and see in Sarawak in Malaysian Borneo. Taste unusual delicacies and delectably fresh fruits, tour cultural centers, and wander through rainforests with an eye keen to see wildlife. Learn more about Bako and Mulu National Parks, village life, and touring by longboat with detailed days below.

Discover Sabah: Off the Beaten Path in Malaysian Borneo - 14 Days

Sabah is an area rich with culture, astonishing wildlife, incredible natural landscapes, and wild adventure that, when combined, make this Malaysian state a true gem of Borneo. Some lesser-known experiences and off-the-beaten trails throughout Sabah are a must-see to truly embrace the beauty and diversity of this stunning tropical destination. With expert insight, you'll find the best spots, views, markets, and food to experience Sabah as the locals do.

Grand Malaysian Borneo Adventure: Sabah & Sarawak States - 22 Days

On this 22-day adventure, you will cross Malaysian Borneo. You'll start in the state of Sabah, where you'll do river safaris, visit the island's northernmost point, and hike the highest mountain in Malaysia. Then, you'll head to the state of Sarawak, where you'll explore bat caves, stay in the heart of the jungle, and spend time in the eclectic city of Kuching. Throughout your here, you'll see many unique species, including orangutans and the rafflesia flower, the largest flower in the world.

Culture & Nature in Malaysian Borneo: From Kuching to Sandakan - 14 Days

This 14-day journey takes you deep into Malaysian Borneo. You will learn about some of the indigenous cultures that have inhabited the island for centuries, immersing in their traditions with local homestays. Simultaneously, you'll have a chance to get close to nature with jungle camping, excursions into national parks, and wildlife safaris. In the end, you'll leave with an understanding of what makes Borneo—the third largest island in the world—so incredibly unique.

Borneo Eastern Wildlife Adventure - 5 Days

With flora and fauna unlike anywhere else in the world, the Borneo rainforest offers a thrilling experience to anyone willing to venture this far. During this 5-day journey, you will explore the jungle by both river and land in search of elusive wildlife, as well as encounter endangered species through the local conservation and rehabilitation centers.

Borneo Nature Lodge - 4 Days

This four-day tour will take you into the heart of the jungle to search for pygmy elephants, orangutans, proboscis monkeys, and Bornean gibbons. Spend your days scanning the shores as you cruise along the river and your nights wandering the jungle trails, always in search of the next wild, elusive jungle creature.

Wildlife in Sepilok & Kinabatangan Wetlands - 4 Days

Nature-lovers, grab your cameras! This four-day trip features wild rivers, mangroves, and a rich variety of wildlife as you make your way to Borneo's off-the-beaten-track gems for an immersive jungle experience.

Caves & Pinnacles in Borneo - 4 Days

Explore the beautiful Mulu Show Caves and the dramatic, razor-sharp limestone peaks known as the Pinnacles on this immersive Bornean itinerary, made with nature-lovers in mind. Come prepared for challenging hikes and stunning views at every turn.

Eastern Borneo Wildlife Tour - 6 Days

Get up close and personal with fascinating jungle wildlife on this six-day tour of Borneo’s rainforests. Staying on the Malaysian side of this multinational island, you’ll spot a mind-blowing array of tropical birds, species of monkey, and lush vegetation. You’ll encounter indigenous wildlife like orangutans and pygmy elephants, get a glimpse into the local culture, and enjoy some jungle eco-luxury along the way.

Wildlife & Sea in Malaysia - 5 Days

Animal lovers and ocean enthusiasts, get ready: this five-day trip is bursting with sea and wildlife. Make your way through the five distinct habitats of the Kinabatangan River to a chalet on the beach, keeping an eye out for proboscis monkeys, crocodiles, and Pygmy elephants along the way.

Malaysian Borneo Adventure - 7 Days

Head off to East Malaysia and the island of Borneo for a week of off-the-beaten-path adventures and wildlife excursions. On this unforgettable holiday, you'll trek through virgin rainforest, go on a riverboat safari, tour local villages, and go hiking in Kinabalu National Park.

Cycling the "Headhunter Heartland" - 7 Days

Following the trail of the White Rajahs in their late-1800s conquest to suppress the rebellious headhunters, cycle into the Iban heartland—a land of authentic longhouses, interior waterways, and rustic forts. This tour is perfect for those seeking a truly off-the-beaten-track experience of dining in longhouses with locals, listening to stories by village chiefs, and immersing themselves in the Bornean jungle.

Borneo Adventure - 10 Days

Love adventure, nature, and getting off the beaten track? If so, this Borneo tour is for you. Dive, walk, and bird-watch your way through 10 days of wildlife reserves and resorts, tucked away islands, and lush valleys.

Best Local Experiences in Sabah, Borneo

To experience Sabah as the locals do requires expert insight. Our Sabah specialist has put together a list of places where you can get off-the-beaten-path and discover the hidden gems of this region of Borneo. From great diving spots and sunset viewpoints to bustling markets and local cuisine, this list is your ultimate guide to the experiences that Sabah locals love best.

Unique Places to Visit in Sabah, Borneo

Sabah is a rich microcosm of authentic culture, incredible wildlife, awe-inspiring natural wonder, and endless adventure that together make this Malaysian state a true gem of Borneo. Some lesser-known experiences and off-the-beaten-trails throughout Sabah are a must-see to truly embrace the beauty and diversity of this idyllic tropical destination.

Climb Mount Trusmadi & Explore Sapulot - 8 Days

Climb the imposing Mount Trusmadi while still covering the natural and cultural highlights of the Sabah region. You'll encounter stunning wildlife, interact with the locals, and explore deep into the rainforests while trekking the second highest mountain in Malaysia.