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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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Traditional boat on Sarawak River
Map of Discover Sarawak: Off the Beaten Path in Malaysian Borneo - 14 Days
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.

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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,...

Read more about planning your time in Malaysia

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...

See more Malaysia travel advice

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.

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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
View article
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
View article
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Meet our Local Travel Specialists

Experienced travel agents with a passion for Malaysia
Travel specialist Ana Bicanic
active 19 hours ago

Ana Bicanic

Hi there! My name is Ana, I am 26 years old and I come from Belgrade, Serbia. Growing up I would travel a lot with my parents who love to dive. I knew from very early on that I want to be in...

read more...
Travel specialist Nick Jansen
active 18 hours 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 Tom Zhou

Tom Zhou

My passion for travel has taken me to visit all 11 Southeastern Asia countries. 12 years of experience with Odynovo Travel has given me the opportunity to witness some of the world’s most cherished...

read more...
Travel specialist Faida Amin
active 1 hour ago

Faida Amin

Each person has their own unique travel preferences. As a tour designer, I aim to cater to a diverse range of interests by creating itineraries that incorporate elements of nature, cities, beach...

read more...
See all Malaysia travel agents

Related Destinations

Travelers who visit Malaysia also visit these destinations
Indonesia
Indonesia
Vietnam
Vietnam
Philippines
Philippines

Why travelers love kimkim

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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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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.

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A portion of every kimkim trip goes toward the removal of carbon from the atmosphere. Learn more
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Kimkim is accredited by the Better Business Bureau with an A+ rating.

Seller of Travel Registration number: CST #2136279-40.
Registration as a seller of travel does not constitute approval by the State of California.

Trip Reviews for Malaysia

The latest reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim

Our trip to Malaysia was coordinated by Nick,...
Malaysia | Mar 21 - Mar 31, 2024

Caroline
Caroline C.
Canada | Reviewed on Apr 04, 2024
Our trip to Malaysia was coordinated by Nick, of Kimkim Tours. This was our first trip to Malaysia, so we elected to hire a local company to arrange our transport and activities. Nick presented us with a well-organized tour, and he was quick to reply via WhatsApp to any our inquiries or concerns. The itinerary provided was appropriate for the amount of time that we had, and accommodated the sites and activities we wanted to do on our overview trip of Malaysia. The hotels booked for us were... Read more

Our trip to Malaysia was coordinated by Nick, of Kimkim Tours. This was our first trip to Malaysia, so we elected to hire a local company to arrange our transport and activities. Nick presented us with a well-organized tour, and he was quick to reply via WhatsApp to any our inquiries or concerns. The itinerary provided was appropriate for the amount of time that we had, and accommodated the sites and activities we wanted to do on our overview trip of Malaysia. The hotels booked for us were generally well-situated and good quality. Our local guides Zana (Langkawi) and Jason (Cameron Heights, Kuala Lumpur, Malaka) were also great.

Our only hiccups of the trip of the trip included a missed pickup by our driver after we disembarked our ferry at Kualeh Kedah, which was a mis-booking of the company. We ended up hiring a local taxi to get us from Kualeh Kedah to Penang. The company promptly reimbursed us for the 200 ringgit fare that we paid.

Also, we ended up cancelling a planned cycling tour of Penang, not realizing when we booked the tour the hot weather and lack of safe bike lanes would not be conducive to safely biking, nor making the best use of our time. We hired a local driver instead who showed us the city highlights, including Penang Hill, temple, and other sites.

We both thoroughly enjoyed our first trip to Malaysia, and hope to return in the near future. We would recommend using Kimkim tours to help plan your tour.
Henry and Caroline

Jason was our driver and tour guide from Cameron Hills to Kuala Lumpur, and then on to Melaka. It was a great pleasure having Jason as our guide, as we found him to be not only attentive and courteous, but also a wealth of knowledge with respect to the history of Malaysia. As we have travelled extensively, we fully appreciate having knowledgable guides leading a tour. There are many things we did not know about the history of Malaysia with respect to its involvement in previous wars, the dynamics of its diverse ethnicities, and political leaders.

Jason arrived well before our scheduled pick up times, and having stops with local vendors was a nice touch. The cendol dessert with Durian was a treat!
Jason is one of the best tour guides we’ve had, and his ability to connect with his guests is his greatest asset. We both highly recommend Jason as a guide.

Henry and Caroline

————-

Zana:
We had a lovely time with Zana who was our driver and tour guide during our stay in Langkawi. She was very caring and attentive to our needs. Zana taught us about Muslim traditions and Ramadan, and took us to a variety of temples, including some that were not on the schedule. As we are both into photography, she made sure we visited scenic sites such as the eagle monument and Tanjung Rhu beach. She also brought us to a popular street market where we enjoyed the food and drink. Zana made certain that we made it to the ferry to Kuala Kedah on time, and followed up with us after the ferry ride to make sure that we were OK. We were both very happy with Zana‘s professionalism and kindness, and would recommend her as a guide without hesitation.

Henry and Caroline
—————-
Jason Ong
Driver from Melaka to Singapore was very efficient and talked to us about the Malaysian history in Hokkien/ English.
We enjoyed his company.

Hotel Reviews
Holiday Villa Beach Resort & Spa Langkawi

Our experience started off good, but we ended with a bad taste. Beware about the cash deposits this hotel takes when you check in. It is the first time we have been to Langkawi and we stayed at the Holiday Villa resort. The facility is close to restaurants outside, and the beach and sunset views were terrific. It is not a new hotel and I was fine with that. Some of the room renovations they did were not finished particularly well such as the flooring connecting to the bathroom which was not level. This was a tripping hazard, but we were willing to overlook that. Service was good from the beginning to the middle except at the very end when we checked out. When you first check into the hotel, they ask for a 200 ringgit cash deposit which I did and they gave me a receipt. I thought a cash deposit was odd, as hotels we’ve been to normally just do a pre-authorization on your credit card. Upon check out at the reception desk, a lady named Diana wanted me to present a receipt to prove to her that we had paid the 200 ringgit. I wasn’t aware that we had to present the receipt as I packed everything already in my bags. She insisted that I have to give her the receipt before I get my deposit, and I asked her “don’t you have a copy in your receipt book?” She said that she would have to go to the back office to get it. I told her I would have to unpack and repack my luggage to get the receipt. I asked her again for the deposit, and she still insisted that I needed to present my copy that I was paid. My husband arrived at the front desk, and said “what’s the problem, you should have a copy in your receipt book?” She immediately presented the receipt book with the page already open to the copy of the receipt with my signature on it. She said “it’s ok I have it” and showed my husband. She then gave me back the deposit and I signed the book to confirm I received it. The receipt book was never in the back office and was there on the desk all along. Obviously Diana lied that the receipt was at the back office that she had to get it. I later read in another review that the guest also had problems getting their room deposit back. The guest said that they had not received the deposit back after a month and a half. It is not clear if they received it in the end. Nevertheless, a guest should not have to go through with this charade at the end of their stay. I have a suggestion for this resort: Please do not insist on taking a cash deposit for a guest’s stay, and putting the onus on the guest to get the deposit back. Take a credit card pre-authorization only like other reputable hotels do. Cash is also more difficult to account for and can easily go missing. We were otherwise satisfied with the good service of the room cleaner, waiter, bell boy, and restaurant staff. Unfortunately, this game Diana played at the end of not initially returning the cash deposit ruined our stay. Beware of giving a cash deposit to this hotel!

Authenticity & Character
The feeling of being tropical.
Location
Beachfront and close to the restaurants outside. Bobbi’s restaurant was so good.
Staff
All were five stars but Diana was no stars and brought everyone who worked hard down. What a world of difference to Marina bay sands. in Singapore. No smiles. No passion in her job. No warm fuzzy feeling. The bell boy at night was always smiling greeted us when he sees us. That should be the case.
Cleanliness & Comfort
The water bottle supplied - the bottles were recycled and dirty looking. We were afraid to touch. No seal.
Hotel Royale Chulan KL
Kuala Lumpur

Fantastic location. Concierge Zuri had great suggestions which made our Penang trip memorable. He recommended where to eat and Balay taxi. Who took us all over for 8 hours. We had Morally who catered to our needs and brought us to many places and to this wonderful and reasonably priced chicken rice restaurant. We also went to coffee tree and got to sample many tea and coffee. He catered to our needs - to take pictures of the wall art. And took us to the biggest temple keh lok si and Penang hllls )(told us to take the funicular ) My highlights were the upside down museum and the temples. Morally took us to the best coconut stands - young tender coconut meat. Hotel has one of the best breakfast.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Close to little India , bank , hawker market?Chew Getty
Staff
Friendly but the front staff could be more friendlier and warmer. Smile more. Be more welcoming. Greet the guest with their names. Again my base line is Marina bay sands.
Cleanliness & Comfort
It is also not clear which button means do not disturb. Marina bay sands label them very specifically. So our rooms were never made up. B
Local specialist: Nick Jansen
Nick
Nick Jansen
Local specialist in Malaysia | Replied on Apr 09, 2024

Hey Caroline and Henry,

Thanks for your extensive review and feedback. I enjoyed organising the trip together with you and being able to support you during your travels through WhatsApp. I hope you had a wonderful time and created some lasting memories!

Nick

Read all Malaysia reviews

Wonderful trip, amazing unique experiences
Malaysia | Mar 12 - Mar 26, 2024

E
Emma G.
Italy | Reviewed on Apr 01, 2024
The Borneo 15 day plan was amazing.
We had some great guides and saw some wonderful places that we wouldn't have known about if it wasn't for our planner Nick. Kuching cycle tour is definitely worth a go, not too strenuous but a great overview and our guide Kelvin was brilliant. We were very happy to have done 2 nights at Bako national park as there was so much to see that would be missed in a one day visit. Beautiful fauna, lots of monkeys and other animals to see. A highlight was... Read more

The Borneo 15 day plan was amazing.
We had some great guides and saw some wonderful places that we wouldn't have known about if it wasn't for our planner Nick.

Kuching cycle tour is definitely worth a go, not too strenuous but a great overview and our guide Kelvin was brilliant.

We were very happy to have done 2 nights at Bako national park as there was so much to see that would be missed in a one day visit. Beautiful fauna, lots of monkeys and other animals to see.

A highlight was the Saloma homestay. The place is beautiful, people were a joy and the experience as a whole is truly unique.

Local specialist: Nick Jansen
Nick
Nick Jansen
Local specialist in Malaysia | Replied on Apr 03, 2024

Hey Emma,

Thanks for your kind review. It has put a smile on my face. It's good to read you enjoyed two nights at Bako, which indeed has a lot to offer.

I will let Saloma know you loved the experience at her homestay!

Nick

Read all Malaysia reviews

Our amazing trip to Sarawak, Borneo
Malaysia | Mar 9 - Mar 17, 2024

katmarfal@yahoo.com
[email protected] F.
Australia | Reviewed on Mar 25, 2024
Our first guide Duke was fantastic, so knowledgeable and kind. He was wonderful. Always on time, showed us amazing animals, could not have been better. Then we went to Saloma's homestay. What a lovely person and house! Again she knew so much about jungle cuisine and took us to amazing places. We had a great tour of a longhouse by Jordon? And then William took us around a village and for a night tour. He was so interesting to listen to. The highlight of our trip was Saloma and her parents... Read more

Our first guide Duke was fantastic, so knowledgeable and kind. He was wonderful. Always on time, showed us amazing animals, could not have been better. Then we went to Saloma's homestay. What a lovely person and house! Again she knew so much about jungle cuisine and took us to amazing places. We had a great tour of a longhouse by Jordon? And then William took us around a village and for a night tour. He was so interesting to listen to. The highlight of our trip was Saloma and her parents taking us to their jungle farm for a wonderful lunch. The waterfalls were beautiful. After the homestay we went to Damai Resort. While it looked a little tired it was very comfortable, great staff and an outstanding pool. The nearby cultural village was wonderful. John and Hum took us for a great river tour where we saw dolphins, crocodiles, and monkeys, which was amazing. I forgot to mention that Duke took us to Bako National Park, excellent, the orangutan sanctuary (fantastic) and the amazing fairy cave. All throughout the people were lovely and the food was amazing

Hotel Reviews
Limetree Hotel

Comfortable bed, wonderful food and helpful staff

Authenticity & Character
Location
Very close to chinatown
Staff
Made us a take away breakfast
Cleanliness & Comfort
Saloma Homestay

This was an outstanding experience. Saloma and her family were so kind and welcoming. We had a magnificent jungle meal, swims in waterfalls, met the children in a local school, the house was so beautiful everywhere you looked, I just loved it!

Authenticity & Character
Alot of the house of made of bamboo and rattan which made it beautiful
Location
Near a waterfall, the jungle and a village
Staff
Saloma herself, I felt like I had known her for ever, she is lovely, funny and kind! Such a great example of a person! It's great how she involves the local people in her business
Cleanliness & Comfort
The bed and pillows were perfect!
Damai Beach Resort

Great pool and lovely staff

Authenticity & Character
Maybe it's due for a refurb
Location
Near wetlands and a cultural village
Staff
They answered every question and were helpful with luggage and a late check out
Cleanliness & Comfort
Nice big clean room and the pool was really clean
Activity Reviews
Arrival Transfer from Kuching Airport to Hotel
Arrival Transfer from Kuching Airport to Hotel
Kuching

Duke was right on time and lovely to us

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
So patient kind and knowledgeable
Transport
Comfortable van
Bako National Park Daytrip
Bako National Park Daytrip
Kuching

Saw so many things, beautiful jungle, probiscus monkeys, and two other kinds of monkey. Saw snakes, a perfect length walk

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Duke knew an incredible amount about everything!
Transport
Comfortable
Semenggoh Orangutan Centre Visit
Semenggoh Orangutan Centre Visit
Kuching

This was a real highlight. We were six metres away from a massive orangutan who stuck around for about an hour! Incredible to see him break open a coconut

Quality of Experience
Amazing to see such a large wild animal up close
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Duke knew so much
Transport
Mangrove & Dolphins Cruise
Mangrove & Dolphins Cruise
Santubong

Seeing dolphins, crocodiles and monkeys, so great! And beautiful mangroves with John and Him being able to see where animals were so well

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Nick Jansen
Photo taken by katmarfal@yahoo.com F
Photo taken by katmarfal@yahoo.com F
Nick
Nick Jansen
Local specialist in Malaysia | Replied on Mar 25, 2024

Hey!

We hope you had a wonderful time in Sarawak! Your review is wonderful to read, it puts a smile on my face. I will send all your feedback to the guides and drivers too.

It was a pleasure working together to get the best itinerary possible for you.

Nick

Read all Malaysia reviews
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