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Introducing Malaysia

Diverse food, varied landscape along the South China Sea, and a refreshing lack of other tourists compared to other Southeast Asian countries make Malasia a very attractive destination.

When is the best time to visit?
Malaysia is hot and humid year-round. The dry season on the west coast lasts from November through February, although the east coast is wet and stormy that time of year.

Where to go in Malaysia?
From the urban hustle and bustle of Kuala Lumpur to the traditional way of life found still in the Sarawak longhouse villages, there are plenty of cultural opportunities to delight any traveler. Pair those with the tea plantations and islands of the peninsula and the wild jungle, granite peaks, and opportunities for recreation of Malaysian Borneo. The food is flavorful and enchanting and absolutely essential to the Malaysian experience.

How many days do I need?
Spend at least 5 days absorbing this country’s culture and landscape, and more ideally around 2 weeks.

Explore trips by duration: 5 days · 7 days · 10 days · 14 days

Malaysia Tours & Itineraries

Get inspired by trips other travelers have loved
One of Borneo's many colorful birds
Map of Borneo Adventure - 10 Days
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.

Spend time on the stunning island of Penang toward the end of your two week trip
Map of Highlights of Singapore & West Malaysia - 14 Days
Highlights of Singapore & West Malaysia - 14 Days

Experience the energy of Singapore before setting off along the western coast of Malaysia on this epic two-week trip. Cycle around the charming streets of Melaka, see the Petronas Twin Towers and Mahamariamman Temple in Kuala Lumpur, and take a twilight river cruise in coastal Kuala Selangor. Strike out into the ancient rainforests of Taman Negara for wildlife and canopy tours, visit the tea plantations and strawberry farms of Cameron Highlands, and learn to cook delicious Malay dishes in Penang.

Cruise along the Kinabatangan River in Malaysian Borneo
Map of Malaysian Borneo Adventure - 7 Days
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.

Experience Langkawi's verdant hillsides on an daytime boat cruise
Map of Discover Malaysia's Langkawi Islands - 7 Days
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.

Discover the rainforests of East Malaysia's Danum Valley
Map of Borneo Eastern Wildlife Adventure - 5 Days
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.

See orangutans in the wild in East Malaysia's Borneo
Map of Wildlife & Islands of Borneo - 5 Days
Wildlife & Islands of Borneo - 5 Days

In just five days, you can experience Malaysian Borneo's highlights on wildlife tours and island trips. Take a boat ride along the Kinabatangan River deep into the rainforest to witness orangutans, proboscis monkeys, and other wildlife in their natural habitat. After a few nature tours with naturalist guides, you'll transfer to Lankayan Island to enjoy white-sand beaches and snorkeling trips to coral reefs.

Make the Most of Your Time in Malaysia

Have a fixed number of days? Maximize the things to see and do during your visit
Discover Malaysian Borneo's Mount Kinabalu
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,...

Malaysia Travel Advice

Read our detailed insights to make sure you have the best trip
An aerial view of Segama River, Danum Valley 
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...

Dreamy sunset in Kota Belud
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...

Our Latest Malaysia Content

Observe native East Malaysian wildlife as you boat along the Kinabatangan River
Map of 5 Days in Malaysia - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
5 Days in Malaysia - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With only five days in Malaysia, focusing on one to two destinations is best. Travelers interested in urban adventures can sample street food in Kuala Lumpur and take a boat tour of UNESCO-listed Melaka. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot orangutans and more on Kinabatangan River safaris in Malaysian Borneo, while beach lovers can snorkel at Lankayan Island. Those looking for variety should head to Kuching, where they'll visit historical sites, learn about Bidayuh culture, and see endemic species at Bako National Park.

See orangutans in the wild in East Malaysia's Borneo
Map of Wildlife & Islands of Borneo - 5 Days
Wildlife & Islands of Borneo - 5 Days

In just five days, you can experience Malaysian Borneo's highlights on wildlife tours and island trips. Take a boat ride along the Kinabatangan River deep into the rainforest to witness orangutans, proboscis monkeys, and other wildlife in their natural habitat. After a few nature tours with naturalist guides, you'll transfer to Lankayan Island to enjoy white-sand beaches and snorkeling trips to coral reefs.

Observe orangutans in a rehabilitation center in West Malaysia's Sepilok
Map of 2 Weeks in Malaysia - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
2 Weeks in Malaysia - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With two weeks in Malaysia, you can visit five to eight destinations. Adventurous travelers should explore Langkawi island in West Malaysia while those wanting an off-the-beaten-path experience should consider Malaysian Borneo for cultural village visits and cave excursions at Gunung Mulu National Park. For natural highlights, snorkel at Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park and see orangutan sanctuaries, and add a fun day at Universal Studios Singapore for a multicountry trip.

Malaysia Travel Maps

Get the lay of land, and understand distances between the places you want to visit
Map 1 Week in Malaysia - 6 Unique Itinerary Ideas
1 Week in Malaysia - 6 Unique Itinerary Ideas
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Map 10 Days in Malaysia - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
10 Days in Malaysia - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
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Map 5 Days in Malaysia - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
5 Days in Malaysia - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
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Trip Reviews for Malaysia

The latest reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim

An Amazing Experience in Borneo with Kim Kim
Malaysia | Sep 15 - Sep 23, 2025

D
Debbie M.
Seattle, WA | Reviewed on Sep 30, 2025
My experience with Kim Kim and their representatives in Borneo was outstanding. I randomly chose this agency after reading a few reviews and feel very fortunate for this decision. Working with Nick was easy. He is based in Sarawak, although Kim Kim head office is in Colorado, USA. Nick was quick to respond and made changes based on our needs. We booked a private tour with Kim Kim and we got great service, accommodations, food etc. Our itinerary took us to Brunei and then Miri, Mulu and... Read more

My experience with Kim Kim and their representatives in Borneo was outstanding. I randomly chose this agency after reading a few reviews and feel very fortunate for this decision. Working with Nick was easy. He is based in Sarawak, although Kim Kim head office is in Colorado, USA. Nick was quick to respond and made changes based on our needs. We booked a private tour with Kim Kim and we got great service, accommodations, food etc. Our itinerary took us to Brunei and then Miri, Mulu and Kuching in Sarawak. Our guides, Willy, Brenda and especially Isa in Kuching, were engaging and informative. We did a lot of hikes in extremely hot and humid conditions in the national parks, so be prepared for this. My husband and I are in our mid 60s and not in top physical form but we managed most of it, but slowly. The caves in Miri and Mulu were exceptional and well worth this effort. We based in Kuching for three nights but in hindsight, I wish I had one more day there, as I didn’t see as much of the city as I would have liked. From Kuching, we drove to Bako National Park and Semenggoh Wildlife Centre, where we saw orangutans, proboscis monkeys, macaques, silver-leaf monkeys, bearded pigs, pit vipers and more. It was incredible. On a river cruise at sunset, we saw a massive saltwater crocodile, monkeys, many birds like the sea eagle and then fireflies. The latter was absolutely magical. For those deciding Sarawak over Sabah, we chose Sarawak due to warnings issued by the Canadian government for Sabah. We met other travellers who had been to Sabah and said it was fine but I was concerned and therefore extra cautious. We missed out on the sun bears but otherwise felt that we got the better experience. It wasn’t crowded in September and for the most part, we didn’t get much rain. Overall, we had an incredible visit in Borneo and would highly recommend taking a tour with Kim Kim and seeing this stunning region.

Local specialist: Nick Jansen
Nick
Nick Jansen
Local specialist in Malaysia | Replied on Oct 02, 2025

Hey Debbie,

Thanks for the wonderful review of your trip to Brunei and Sarawak! I enjoyed working together with you to create a trip that suited your wishes. Thanks for allowing me to organise your Malaysia trip through KimKim!

PS: I will send your review to the local guides, I am sure they are happy to read your kind words!

Regards,
Nick

Outstanding Malaysia adventure -5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Malaysia | Sep 12 - Sep 21, 2025

Ginka
Ginka S.
the Netherlands | Reviewed on Sep 22, 2025
Our 13-day Peninsular Malaysia Explorer trip exceeded all expectations! From the moment we landed in Kuala Lumpur to our final departure from Langkawi, every detail was perfectly orchestrated.
Exceptional Service from Nick
Our local specialist Nick deserves special recognition. His expertise and attention to detail made this trip absolutely seamless. Having studied tourism in The Netherlands before moving to Malaysia, Nick brings a unique perspective that perfectly bridges Western...
Read more

Our 13-day Peninsular Malaysia Explorer trip exceeded all expectations! From the moment we landed in Kuala Lumpur to our final departure from Langkawi, every detail was perfectly orchestrated.
Exceptional Service from Nick
Our local specialist Nick deserves special recognition. His expertise and attention to detail made this trip absolutely seamless. Having studied tourism in The Netherlands before moving to Malaysia, Nick brings a unique perspective that perfectly bridges Western expectations with authentic Malaysian experiences. His passion for sharing the beauty of his adopted country was evident in every aspect of our journey.
Incredible Itinerary Highlights
Taman Negara - The ancient rainforest experience was magical! The night walk revealed nocturnal wildlife we never would have seen otherwise, and the canopy walk offered breathtaking views. The Teresek Hill hike and Lata Berkoh boat trip were perfectly balanced between adventure and relaxation.
Cameron Highlands - The cool mountain air was a refreshing change. The Mossy Forest felt like stepping into another world, and the BOH Tea Plantation visit was both educational and delicious. Nick’s selection of activities here was spot-on.
Penang - Georgetown’s cycling tour was a brilliant way to explore the UNESCO heritage sites! Seeing the famous street art, experiencing traditional trades, and tasting authentic hawker food like Assam Laksa and Char Koay Teow made for an unforgettable cultural immersion.
Langkawi - The perfect finale to our trip! The mangrove kayak tour was serene and educational, and having a full free day allowed us to truly unwind on the beautiful beaches.
Flawless Logistics
Every transfer was punctual and comfortable. The local suppliers (Mr. Rizal, Mr. Jason, Mr. Ken, and Mr. Alex) were all professional and knowledgeable. The coordination between different regions was seamless - no stress, just pure enjoyment.
Why We Recommend KimKim & Nick
• Expertise: Nick’s deep knowledge of Malaysia shines through in every recommendation
• Organization: Every detail was handled professionally, from hotel transfers to activity timings
• Value: The perfect balance of must-see attractions and authentic local experiences
• Communication: Clear instructions and reliable local contacts throughout
• Flexibility: The itinerary offered both structured activities and free time to explore
This trip showcased Malaysia’s incredible diversity - from pristine rainforests to colonial heritage, from tea plantations to tropical islands. Nick and the KimKim team created memories that will last a lifetime.
Highly recommended for anyone wanting an authentic, well-organized Malaysian adventure!
Thank you, Nick and KimKim, for making our Malaysian dream trip a reality!

Activity Review
Night Walk at Taman Negara
Night Walk at Taman Negara
Taman Negara

Taman Negara - The ancient rainforest experience was magical! The night walk revealed nocturnal wildlife we never would have seen otherwise, thanks to our guide Abi, how showed us spiders, snake, scorpion, fliurescerend mushrooms and lold us funny stories.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Abi as taking care of all the group, waited the other guide to finish and continued with us
Transport
by boat to the jungle
Local specialist: Nick Jansen
Nick
Nick Jansen
Local specialist in Malaysia | Replied on Oct 01, 2025

Hey Ginka,

Thanks for the kind review! I enjoyed organising the trip together with you. I am happy to read all the activities and transfers went smooth and you had a truly good Malaysian experience.

It was a pleasure organising your holiday!

Nick

The Trip of a Lifetime
Malaysia | Jun 14 - Jun 30, 2025

Robert
Robert B.
San Leandro, CA | Reviewed on Jul 23, 2025
Our local specialist was Nick Jansen in Kuching, Sarawak. In a word, Nick is fantastic! He is with the tour operator, Borneo Transverse, and has extensive experience booking trips in all parts of Malaysia and was able to easily understand the trip we wanted to undertake, and provide a trip plan a couple days later. This was quite a challenge, because he had to accommodate the 14 people in our group into the rather small rainforest lodges we wanted to visit. His initial trip plan was very... Read more

Our local specialist was Nick Jansen in Kuching, Sarawak. In a word, Nick is fantastic! He is with the tour operator, Borneo Transverse, and has extensive experience booking trips in all parts of Malaysia and was able to easily understand the trip we wanted to undertake, and provide a trip plan a couple days later. This was quite a challenge, because he had to accommodate the 14 people in our group into the rather small rainforest lodges we wanted to visit. His initial trip plan was very close to what we ended up with. After some conversations and adjustments, we finalized the trip plan less than a week later. Nick quickly set up a system for each couple to make their own payments. A couple of months before the trip we had to make some adjustments in our traveling group members. Nick was able to sort this out in a very satisfactory way.

The main thing that I want to say, is Nick and Borneo Transverse came through 100%. Everything that was specified in the trip plan was provided exactly as specified. We were a large group, and had plenty of luggage, so it was so nice to be confident that at each location we would be met with friendly personnel, who were able to get us to our destination easily. The hotels and the rainforest lodges all provided excellent accommodation. Our time on Lankayan Island was amazing.

Unfortunately, one of our team members suffered a serious medical emergency during the trip. This was rather frightening since we were at a remote location far from medical infrastructure. However, Nick and his staff and Sarawak staff were able to make appropriate arrangements, as well as to provide on-the-ground personal assistance.

Overall, I would have to say it was the trip of a lifetime. It was an expensive trip, but we felt we got full value for what we paid. If you ever go to Malaysia, especially, if you are traveling to Borneo, make sure Nick Jansen is making your trip arrangements. He is the best.

***NOTE***
This paragraph provides comments to the kimkim staff at kimkim headquarters. This was my fifth trip with kimkim and was surprised at how poorly our request was initially handled. Our trip request was misinterpreted to be a partial itinerary. My initial text/chat to clarify was ignored. After the five minute initial call with the kimkim team member, it took over a week to be assigned a local specialist. I got bounced around a with a couple of different people, and only got assigned to a local specialist after making a direct telephone call to kimkim headquarters.

Hotel Reviews
Danum Valley Rainforest Resort
Lahad Datu

This is the real thing. Not easy to get to, but extremely worthwhile. A rare opportunity to see unspoiled nature. The rooms are comfortable when the food is good. He had extremely qualified nature guides, Helen and Alex. We saw nature up close and personal. Lots of monkeys.

Authenticity & Character
This is the real thing. Architecturally fits in well with the rainforest.
Location
In the heart of primary rainforest. Untouched by loggers and far from palm oil plantations.
Staff
Full board, and the food was really good.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Grandis Kota Kinabalu
Kota Kinabalu

Nice hotel of fairly standard quality. Amazingly located and connected to a shopping mall. Everything could be found at this mall. We had fun checking out Malaysian KFC.

Authenticity & Character
“OK, but of fairly standard character. No special features with regard to authenticity.
Location
Perfect location adjacent to the historical quarter, shopping mall, seafood restaurants and night markets.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Casa Del Rio Hotel Melaka

Milaca is an interesting location, absolutely full of history. The Casa Del Rio Hotel has a perfect location to learn the history. The rooms are quite nice, but have some stairs leading into the bathrooms. Can be quite dangerous to navigate at night in the dark. Recommend some Night lights.

Authenticity & Character
An older property that fits in well with his location.
Location
Very central location to start from for historical walks.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Kinabalu Park & Poring Hot Springs
Kinabalu Park & Poring Hot Springs
Malaysia

A long day, but really amazing. I have to say the Botanical Park, had the most amazing and varied selection of plants in a small area, absolutely authentic and we got to see Rafflesia. The canopy walkway was arduous, but interesting.

Guides, Drivers and Staff
Our guide Zee was the best. She took so many pictures, and shared them with the group. Very knowledgeable!
Kuala Lumpur City Tour & Batu Caves
Kuala Lumpur City Tour & Batu Caves
Kuala Lumpur

A lot packed into a short amount of time, and an excellent introduction to KL.

Walking City Tour Melaka
Walking City Tour Melaka
Melaka

So interesting to learn about the complicated and varied history of Melaka.

Local specialist: Nick Jansen
Nick
Nick Jansen
Local specialist in Malaysia | Replied on Jul 24, 2025
Hey Robert, Thanks for leaving such an extremely kind review for me. It made me a little emotional even! I always try my best to provide the best service to everyone, and it's real nice to read that my effort and energy is appreciated. I really enjoyed our phone calls about the Trip Plan and working out the best journey for you and your fellow travellers. I am also happy that your fellow traveller and his wife managed to get to Singapore in time for the surgery - and I was happy to help... Read more

Hey Robert,

Thanks for leaving such an extremely kind review for me. It made me a little emotional even! I always try my best to provide the best service to everyone, and it's real nice to read that my effort and energy is appreciated.

I really enjoyed our phone calls about the Trip Plan and working out the best journey for you and your fellow travellers. I am also happy that your fellow traveller and his wife managed to get to Singapore in time for the surgery - and I was happy to help the best way I can during these difficult days.

I would like to say a big thanks to you too - you were always kind and clear with your wishes, which made the job of organising this trip fun for me too.

I hope you will come back some day, and visit Sarawak this time!

Regards,
Nick

Why travelers love kimkim

Custom trips for independent travelers who are too busy to plan
Customize your trip with the help of a local travel specialist

Kimkim has handpicked the world’s top local travel specialists so you will have peace of mind and an unforgettable trip that meets your exact requirements.

Authentic travel experiences

Kimkim’s local specialists ensure that you will have the best experience based on up-to-date local insights. On top of that, the vast majority of your money will go straight to support and grow local economies.

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Local support during your trip

You can always reach your local specialist with a quick message or call in case you hit a snag during your trip, or simply want some great local recommendations.