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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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Meet our Local Travel Specialists

Experienced travel agents with a passion for Malaysia
Travel specialist Nick Jansen
active 1 min ago

Nick Jansen

After I studied tourism in The Netherlands I moved to Malaysia to live in the tropics and organize memorable trips for travelers. I love exploring this beautiful country and I enjoy sharing my tips...

read more...
Travel specialist Yuqqa Macdalena
active 21 mins ago

Yuqqa Macdalena

Hi there! My name is Yuqqa, and I'm Indonesian. I grew up in a multicultural family with Christian Batak/North Sumatran and Muslim East Javanese heritage. From a young age, I was exposed to a wide...

read more...
Travel specialist Jeab Kwanchanok
active 1 day ago

Jeab Kwanchanok

Sawasdee ka! I’m Jeab, a proud Thai with a deep love for my country and a passion for travel. My journey in tourism spans over 20 years, beginning as a receptionist at a five-star hotel in Bangkok,...

read more...

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Trip Reviews for Malaysia

The latest reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim

Amazing Trip
Malaysia | Jun 14 - Jun 30, 2025

P
Peggy S.
Chicago, IL | Reviewed on Jul 08, 2025
The overall trip was wonderful, beautiful and amazing. The guides were good and connections and transfers went smoothly. Accommodations were great and food was super. Overall everything was well organized.
Here are a few thoughts, my personal opinion:
A better list of what to bring for the Rainforest Resort would have been helpful. We needed long socks, long sleeved shirts and long pants. It would be a good idea for the resort to provide boots. It was very muddy and slippery. ...
Read more

The overall trip was wonderful, beautiful and amazing. The guides were good and connections and transfers went smoothly. Accommodations were great and food was super. Overall everything was well organized.
Here are a few thoughts, my personal opinion:
A better list of what to bring for the Rainforest Resort would have been helpful. We needed long socks, long sleeved shirts and long pants. It would be a good idea for the resort to provide boots. It was very muddy and slippery. Utan Rainforest Lodge did provide boots.
The snorkel gear was not included in our stay as the information provided said.
Melaka was very interesting and I enjoyed the historical background, but it took a lot of time in transit.
I would leave out the day of the Heritage Walk and Trainride Adventure in Kota Kinabalu and substitute a day to walk around the waterfront, shops and markets.
The cooking class was great and the Kinabalu Park was great.

Local specialist: Nick Jansen
Nick
Nick Jansen
Local specialist in Malaysia | Replied on Jul 09, 2025

Hey Peggy,

Thanks for the review and feedback. I am happy you had a wonderful trip!
I appreciate the feedback on a What-To-Bring List and the boots that weren't provided at the Borneo Rainforest Lodge. I also appreciate the feedback on the trainride in Kota Kinabalu.

Again, it was a pleasure organising this trip for you and your fellow travellers.

Great trip
Malaysia | Jun 14 - Jun 30, 2025

S
Sam S.
Denver, CO | Reviewed on Jul 08, 2025
Great trip and I would highly recommend it to others.
The logistics seemed spot on, the guides were excellent, and the lodging was top notch.
As for activities, the day trip from KK to Papar was the least enjoyable activity. This felt like a missed opportunity to learn about the people/culture. Also, I wish I had known in advance that the Danum Valley Lodge did not provide boots and gators for hiking through the jungle. The cooking demonstration in KK and the excursions at the jungle...
Read more

Great trip and I would highly recommend it to others.
The logistics seemed spot on, the guides were excellent, and the lodging was top notch.
As for activities, the day trip from KK to Papar was the least enjoyable activity. This felt like a missed opportunity to learn about the people/culture. Also, I wish I had known in advance that the Danum Valley Lodge did not provide boots and gators for hiking through the jungle. The cooking demonstration in KK and the excursions at the jungle lodges and Lankayan Island Resort were truly awesome.

Activity Review
Heritage Walk & Trainride Adventure
Heritage Walk & Trainride Adventure
Kota Kinabalu

The train adventure involved getting on a regular train for a short trip to a town just outside of KK. The heritage walk amounted to walking to a church, mosque, and temple. The entire activity felt like a missed opportunity to learn about the culture and people. The time for this activity could be better used doing something else.

Local specialist: Nick Jansen
Nick
Nick Jansen
Local specialist in Malaysia | Replied on Jul 09, 2025

Hi Sam,

Thank you for your lovely review and thoughtful feedback. I'm really glad to hear you had a wonderful trip!

I appreciate your comments regarding the train ride in Kota Kinabalu and the boots in Danum — all very helpful insights.

It was truly a pleasure organizing this journey for you and your group.

Regards,
Nick

The entire Kym Kim team did a great job. The ...
Malaysia | Jun 14 - Jun 30, 2025

B
Byron F.
Slidell, LA | Reviewed on Jul 03, 2025
The entire Kym Kim team did a great job. The things that really stood out for me personally are as follows: 1. Helen, who was one of the guides at the canopy tour did an excellent job of hanging back at the end of the line where I was struggling along because of my Parkinson’s disease. She was very encouraging and supportive, but did not attempt to push me ass doing something I didn’t want to do or wasn’t comfortable. As it turns out I did in fact cross all of the bridges on the canopy... Read more

The entire Kym Kim team did a great job. The things that really stood out for me personally are as follows:

1. Helen, who was one of the guides at the canopy tour did an excellent job of hanging back at the end of the line where I was struggling along because of my Parkinson’s disease. She was very encouraging and supportive, but did not attempt to push me ass doing something I didn’t want to do or wasn’t comfortable. As it turns out I did in fact cross all of the bridges on the canopy tour and it was amazing. On our way back we had a really good personal discussion about Parkinson’s disease, it turns out that Helen‘s mother has Parkinson’s disease as well. So we ended up talking about all of the work that the caregivers have to do to support a Parkinson’s patient in the family. It was a very real and touching discussion. I appreciated her honesty and her wellness to share.

2, on a lighter note, Layne provided a great experience of buying all the ingredients for lunch at the market and then taking him home for her and her mother with the help of several other people made us this fabulous lunch. But it was the richness of the discussion, especially with lanes, mother, who clearly is the matriarch of the family that made much so special.

3. By far, Sylvester was the biggest highlight of them all. When it was clear that I had a serious medical condition in my left eye that required immediate attention. He was on top of the situation from the beginning to the end and stayed with me and my wife, every step of the way. I especially appreciate his support from my wife. I’m not sure if she would’ve held it together if it hadn’t been for Sylvester. He made it quite clear that he was there to remove any barriers and help us get to Singapore to get medical help as soon as possible. He helped us understand, not only the policies and procedures but at times also the politics around how to get things done in the Malaysian system. He was excellent at offering a third alternatives that might help us achieve our goals quicker and better but he also let us make the final decisions. It was clear that he had management support this endeavor as no obstacle was too big for him to tackle. We will be indebted to him for the rest of our lives. As it turned out, I had a very successful surgery and the doctors expect I will recover to 90% of my vision in my left eye. Without his help, it could’ve easily been an entirely different outcome. And lastly, I want to thank Nick for developing such a caring culture in his organization and other senior leaders as well or their critical role in the behind the scenes Support of all the help that Sylvester provided to us. Of course the help was not limited to Sylvester, we got support from the office staff. The on-site staff, etc., if you ever need someone to talk about what a caring culture looks like in the action and how Kym Kym exemplified carrying culture, I would be happy to share my story and experiences with others. do some, it may not seem like that big of a deal. But letme insure you that when you lose virtually 100% of the vision in one eye and you’re not sure if it’s gonna be permanent or not. You are so preoccupied with worry and fear about the loss of your vision, that it is hard to focus on solving the immediate problems at hand to enable you to get the medical care you need. So the role that Sylvester played is not only essential because we were in a foreign land far away from home. But it was also essential because we were not in the best mental frame of mind to sort things out and make the best decisions on our own. I will be forever grateful to you and your team for the support we received which was certainly way beyond the minimum that could be expected. Please share as you see it. Thanks for everything, Byron.

Local specialist: Nick Jansen
Nick
Nick Jansen
Local specialist in Malaysia | Replied on Jul 04, 2025

Hey Byron,

Thanks for your review. I know part of your trip was very stressful and I can only imagine what you were feeling in terms of worry and stress. I am happy that I could support you and Debbie from a distance and that Sylvester (and the rest of the team in the background) was on the ground to take care of you both in Lahad Datu.

I will pass on your feedback to the team members, I am sure they will be happy to read your comments.

Once again, thanks for taking this trip with us!

Regards,
Nick

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