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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.

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.

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.

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.

An aerial view of an undisturbed beach in Kota Belud, just north of Kota Kinabalu
Map of Discover Sabah: Off the Beaten Path in Malaysian Borneo - 14 Days
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.

Sunrise over Mount Trusmadi in Sabah
Map of Climb Mount Trusmadi & Explore Sapulot  - 8 Days
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.

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
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
Malaysia map: 1 Week in Malaysia - 6 Unique Itinerary Ideas
1 Week in Malaysia - 6 Unique Itinerary Ideas
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Malaysia map: 10 Days in Malaysia - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
10 Days in Malaysia - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
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Malaysia map: 2 Weeks in Malaysia - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
2 Weeks in Malaysia - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
View article

Meet our Local Travel Specialists

Experienced travel agents with a passion for Malaysia
Travel specialist Nick Jansen
active 1 day 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
active 5 days ago

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 19 hours 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...
Travel specialist Terry Zhang

Terry Zhang

I was lucky enough to grow up around travel, and experience some amazing places, from China to Vietnam to Thailand. Travel is my passion and I’m always dreaming of my next trip. After traveling...

read more...

Related Destinations

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Why travelers love kimkim

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Trip Reviews for Malaysia

The latest reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim

Amazing time in Malaysia
Malaysia | Aug 23 - Sep 2, 2023

S
Sabiha K.
United Kingdom | Reviewed on Sep 10, 2023

We had an amazing time in Malaysia, it's a beautiful country, with friendly people and delicious food! Nick was great at organising the trip for us; he was friendly and responsive, and made adjustments to the itinerary as requested, as well as providing helpful suggestions. Upon arriving in Malaysia, everything ran to plan and was very smooth. No issues with any of the transfers and everyone was always on time; all very well organised. We were generally happy with the hotels, and breakfast at... read more

We had an amazing time in Malaysia, it's a beautiful country, with friendly people and delicious food! Nick was great at organising the trip for us; he was friendly and responsive, and made adjustments to the itinerary as requested, as well as providing helpful suggestions. Upon arriving in Malaysia, everything ran to plan and was very smooth. No issues with any of the transfers and everyone was always on time; all very well organised. We were generally happy with the hotels, and breakfast at each was fab. We really enjoyed all the activities that had been planned and absolutely loved Borneo and having the oppprtunity to see lots of wildlife. Seeing the orangutans was definitely a highlight of the trip! In hindsight, we should've spent longer here and less time travelling around, but we still enjoyed our time in the other places too. Our guides for Kuala Lumpur- Lawrence, and Kuching- Duke, were super friendly, patient and knowledgeable, and really enhanced our trip. Thank you all- would recommend to others planning a Malyasia trip too!

Hotel Reviews
Verdant Hill Hotel
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
The Waterfront Hotel
Kuching

Perfect!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Fantastic location by Kuching waterfront- we had a lovely view of the Parliament building from our room. The hotel sits on top of a shopping mall too, which was handy
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Royale Chulan Hotel
Authenticity & Character
Breakfast was great and nice to have been provided some history about Penang in the rooms and within the hotel
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
A few things in our room were rusty/ worn down due to wear and tear- could maybe do with a bit of a face-lift
Holiday Villa Beach Resort & Spa Langkawi
Authenticity & Character
Location
Lovely to be able to just stroll out to the beach at the back of the hotel
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Mosquitoes and ants in our room! But housekeeping were helpful to sort this out. Overall hotel was stunning, but maybe not reflected as much in our room
Activity Reviews
Kuala Lumpur City Tour & Batu Caves
Kuala Lumpur
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Bako National Park Daytrip
Kuching

Great place to see the native proboscis monkeys, we were lucky to see some in two different places by the entrance to the park. Also saw lots of other wildlife with the help of our guide and enjoyed the hikes around the park. Boat trip there and back was also fun

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Semenggoh Orangutan Centre Visit
Kuching

Highlight of the trip seeing these beautiful animals- amazing experience!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Mangrove & Fireflies Cruise
Kuching

Really lovely boat cruise and great opportunity to see more wildlife- we saw the irawaddy dolphins, a crocodile, proboscis monkeys, macques and the fireflies. Stunning sunset from the boat too. We were also provided snacks which was an unexpected but pleasant surprise

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Penang (Tropical Spice Garden Cooking Class)
Penang
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Langkawi Island (Free at Leisure)
Langkawi Island
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Nick Jansen
Nick
Nick Jansen
Local specialist in Malaysia | Replied on Sep 11, 2023

Hey Sabiha,

Thanks so much for your wonderful and extensive review. I am very happy to read you had a wonderful time in Malaysia. I truly enjoyed organising this journey through the country for you.

Regards,
Nick

Faida went above and beyond
Malaysia | Aug 13 - Aug 19, 2023

M
Megan D.
Angola | Reviewed on Aug 22, 2023

Faida was so helpful and went out of her way to make this trip exactly the experience I was hoping for and all on short notice! She was a miracle worker and it was a truly memorable experience.

Local specialist: Faida Amin
Faida
Faida Amin
Local specialist in Malaysia | Replied on Aug 23, 2023

Hi Megan,
Thank you for taking sometime to give your feedback. I am happy that you had the chance to experience some parts of Borneo's hidden gem. If there's anything I can do to improve our offering, please let me know!

Amazing trip in Sabah !
Malaysia | Aug 6 - Aug 12, 2023

C
Corentin M.
India | Reviewed on Aug 19, 2023

Amazing trip in Sabah planned by Nick, following our queries and matching our expectations. All locals guide we met during our trip were amazing. read more

Amazing trip in Sabah planned by Nick, following our queries and matching our expectations. All locals guide we met during our trip were amazing.

Hotel Review
Sukau Greenview Lodge
Kinabatangan River

Best lodge so far, directly next to the river, staff is so nice, food is so good, but monkey can be scary 😂

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Sepilok Orangutan Centre & Sunbear Centre
Sandakan

Nice to see Orang outan center and Sunbear center. Very interesting!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Afternoon Wildlife River Cruise
Kinabatangan

Amazing wildlife. Very interesting guide.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Kinabatangan River Exploration (River Cruises)
Kinabatangan

Amazing wildlife. Very interesting guide.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Nick Jansen
Nick
Nick Jansen
Local specialist in Malaysia | Replied on Aug 22, 2023

Hey Corentin,

Thanks for your review and feedback! I am happy to read you had a wonderful experience exploring Sabah!