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Travel advice for Malaysia
From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Malaysia
Book your individual trip, stress-free with local travel experts
written by Marco Ferrarese
updated 5.02.2024
Despite having turquoise-ringed tropical islands, misty rainforests, cosmopolitan and arty cities, colourful festivals and one of the world's most interesting ethnic mixes, Malaysia remains Southeast Asia's most unsung destination.
In 2017, the country turns 60 years old. With a new hi-speed train system, comfortable buses and low-cost air connections to most of Asia and beyond, backpacking in Malaysia today is quicker and easier than ever. Here are our top tips to help you make a trip.
12 days / from2350 USD
Uniquely Rustic Malaysia
Malaysia has it all: great beaches, fascinating history, natural habitats and remarkable wildlife. Bustling KL offers the perfect city break; while further afield hiking trails, pristine jungles and fascinating ecosystems will keep the more adventurous visitors entertained.
view tour ⤍7 days / from1200 USD
Hidden UNESCO Sites of Malaysia
Steeped in historical significance and natural beauty, Malaysia is home to several emotionally moving UNESCO World Heritage Sites. It seems fitting, given the country's cultural touchstones and awe-inspiring parks—from solitude amidst the mangroves to history walks among colonial buildings.
view tour ⤍3 days / from450 USD
The Cameron Highlands in a Nutshell
Experience Malaysia's largest and most impressive hill station, the Cameron Highlands, in all their glory, with this compact trip. Let your picturesque surroundings soak in as you visit the famous Batu Caves, the Lata Iskandar Waterfalls and a local tea plantation.
view tour ⤍3 days / from593 USD
Malaysian Wildlife Explorer
Experience the stunning and varied wildlife of Malaysia with this exciting trip: meet the world's smallest bear, the Bornean sun bear; encounter injured orangutans preparing to rejoin the wild; then embark on a series of cruises on the Kinabatangan River to spot yet more Malaysian wildlife!
view tour ⤍13 days / from2450 USD
Traditional Malaysia & Wild Borneo
Combine the culture and traditions of Malaysia with jungle outposts and adventure in Borneo. From lively Kuala Lumpur to desert island beaches, highlands and dense rainforest, this is a wonderful introduction to Southeast Asia.
view tour ⤍4 days / from882 USD
Highlands and Islands of West Malaysia
Experience the rolling highlands and stunning islands of West Malaysia, with this exciting, compact trip that would make the perfect add-on to an existing trip to Malaysia.
view tour ⤍7 days / from980 USD
Dazzling Kuching: Malaysia's Hidden Gem
Sarawak's capital city is known for its old-world flare, bustling markets, and delightful locals. The eponymous winding river that makes up the celebrated Kuching Waterfront may be the town's claim to fame, but hiding just behind it are historical buildings begging to be discovered.
view tour ⤍15 days / from2235 USD
Malaysia Explored: Culture, Wildlife and History
Discover the magnificence of Malaysia with this comprehensive trip. Stroll around picturesque tea plantations, trek through dense rainforests, watch elephants in the wild, laze around on paradise beaches, explore immense religious monuments and much more, all with this fantastic trip!
view tour ⤍7 days / from896 USD
Experience Nature in the Wilds of Sabah
Tucked away on the island of Borneo is the state of Sabah, a true nature-lover's paradise. From whitewater rafting down wild rivers to scuba diving in crystal-clear waters among exotic marine life, Sabah has something for anyone looking to experience nature in its purest form.
view tour ⤍10 days / from1730 USD
Taking in the Splendour of Malaysia
Malaysia is a vast, sweeping jewel of Southeast Asia, with much to do and see. It's particularly known for its serene rainforests, captivating wildlife, and pristine coastlines. The country is also synonymous with bustling cities, cherished historical sites, and progressive points of view.
view tour ⤍14 days / from5876 USD
Malaysia, Brunei and Singapore adventure
A diverse and unforgettable exploration awaits! From the vibrant city of Kuala Lumpur to the cool retreat of Cameron Highlands. Immerse yourself in lush tea plantations before heading to Borneo for thrilling orangutan encounters and unforgettable river safaris. Brunei and Singapore conclude the trip
view tour ⤍13 days / from5920 USD
Indulgent Malaysia
Discover fascinating Malaysia, a multicultural hotspot with amazing food, stunning beaches and vibrant culture. Take in popular KL’s malls, architecture, landmarks and gardens, before hitting colonial towns and luxurious tropical beaches.
view tour ⤍7 days / from1750 USD
Malaysia Express from Singapore
A captivating 7-day tour that unveils the beauty of Malaysia, commencing from Singapore. Traverse the border into Malacca to uncover its rich heritage gems. Progress to Kuala Lumpur, where iconic landmarks await your exploration. Culminate your journey in George Town, Penang.
view tour ⤍5 days / from2580 USD
Rainforest Adventure in Borneo
Indecisive between Tabin and Danum Valley in Borneo? Opt for a unique two-in-one adventure, where you'll revel in a mesmerizing transformation from regenerating forests to pristine virgin rainforests. Embrace the allure of both destinations in a single, unforgettable journey.
view tour ⤍11 days / from1899 USD
Best of Peninsular Malaysia
A beautiful journey through Peninsular Malaysia. Start in dynamic Kuala Lumpur, explore Malacca's heritage, delve into Cameron Highlands' tea culture, discover Penang's vibrant art scene, and savor its renowned street food. Cap off your adventure with serene beach relaxation in Langkawi.
view tour ⤍6 days / from1685 USD
Wildlife Spotting in Borneo
Observe the human-like Orangutans and Bornean Sun Bear, enjoy relaxing cruises along the Kinabatangan River, and encounter fascinating species like proboscis monkeys, hornbills, crocodiles, and more. For those with an interest, partake in engaging wildlife discussions at the lodge.
view tour ⤍Most travellers visit Malaysia too quickly, making a beeline between Penang, the Cameron Highlands, Kuala Lumpur, Melaka and exiting to Singapore. But it's by getting out of the well-worn trail that you'll experience the best Malaysia has to offer.
Consider going to the east coast for island-hopping, stopping in Kota Bharu to experience a blend of Thai Buddhist and Malay Islamic culture. Or stop at Taman Negara, the world's oldest rainforest, visiting the quaint little towns that surround it. Cheap flights can get you over the South China Sea to Sarawak and Sabah, in Borneo, where you may see orangutans, meet former headhunting tribes, and experience a side of Malaysia that feels like another country.
Back in the 1970s, travellers on the Hippie Trail considered Malaysia the easiest country to hitchhike in Southeast Asia. Today, this adventurous way of travelling is less common, but it's still very rewarding. Malaysians are very fond of foreigners (Western tourists, especially), and hitchhiking can be a great way to reach off-the-grid places that are poorly served by public transport. And since English is widely spoken, you will also make interesting connections that may end up in invitations to visit local homes.
Bahasa Malaysia may be one of the easiest languages to crack in the world. But remember that in this multicultural nation, the predominantly Malay Muslim government is well known for giving preferential rights to the Malay group. As a consequence, ethnic tensions are everyday issues, and addressing non-Malays in Bahasa may trigger unpleasant reactions.
On top of that, to most Malaysian Chinese and Indians, Bahasa Malaysia is a second, or even third language. Stick to English: as a foreigner, everyone will expect you to do so. Practise your Bahasa only in Malay-dominated regions, such as the Peninsula's east coast, or in Malaysian Borneo, where it really helps befriend locals.
Georgetown's street art and café scene attract tons of backpackers. But Penang's most famous city is just a tiny corner of an island so rich in culture and nature it takes days to merely scratch its surface. Kek Lok Si temple, Balik Pulau's old town and beaches, and the national park at Teluk Bahang are just some of the highlights. If you aren't brave enough to rent a motorbike and explore, handy bus routes criss-cross the island. The bottom line is: there's no excuse for not getting out of Georgetown.
Kuala Lumpur offers a few days worth of city comforts, bar crawling and shopping galore. Fewer know that the capital city is also a good starting point to experience Malaysia's rainforest. Straight in the city centre, KL Eco Park's canopies teem with monkeys, while the nearby Lake Gardens offer attractive botanical gardens and the KL Bird Park, the city's top-notch tropical aviary.
In the northern fringes of Kuala Lumpur at Kepong, the Forest Research Institute of Malaysia (FRIM), established in 1929, is an accessible jungle research centre covering 600 hectares. At last, the Titiwangsa Lake Gardens are perfect for jogging, a quiet jungle stroll, and views of Kuala Lumpur's skyline.
For more information on how to spend your time in Malaysia's capital city, read our guide to the best things to do in Kuala Lumpur.
With the way Muslims are portrayed in the media these days, knowing that Malaysia is a predominantly Islamic nation may discourage many travellers from visiting. Truth be told, Malay Muslims are just a majority among a rich ethnic mix, and even so, they are very hospitable people.
Even without venturing into Malay hinterland – Kelantan, Terengganu, Johor states and the islands along the east coast – meeting liberal Malays in the cities will change ideas built on stereotypes.
Malaysia's rich colonial past always rewards travellers with unexpected adventures. Think of Kuala Kangsar in Perak: did you know that Anthony Burgess, author of seminal A Clockwork Orange, lived and taught English here in the mid 1950s? Go find his favourite pub.
More ancient mysteries await in the Lenggong valley: a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it's home to the Perak Man – Southeast Asia's oldest most complete human skeleton – and a three-million-year-old meteorite impact site. If that's not enough, British-built bona fide manor Kellie's Castle, near Batu Gajah, is said to have secret dungeons and a resident ghost.
From participating to turtle conservation programmes on the east coast, to volunteering at Langkawi's dog shelter, getting involved with conservation work on the Kinabatangan River, or helping the endangered Sun Bears in Sepilok, Malaysia has plenty on offer for conscious, nature-loving travellers. By taking part in any of these programmes, not only will you make a difference, but you'll bring home everlasting memories.
Buses and trains are fast and convenient, but they don't reach off-the-grid areas rich in cultural and natural delights. What's more, Malaysia's well-manned roads are ideal for self-driving, there's no traffic in the countryside, and you won't need an international driving licence to rent a car. Sharing rental costs works better than riding buses when travelling as a group, and propels unending chances for adventure.
Explore more of Malaysia with The Rough Guide to Malaysia. Compare flights, find tours, book hostels and hotels for your trip, and don’t forget to buy travel insurance before you go.
written by Marco Ferrarese
updated 5.02.2024
Marco Ferrarese has lived in Penang since 2009 and is an expert on South and Southeast Asia, with a deep personal connection to Malaysia and Borneo. He has reported from 70+ countries and authored books on Malaysia, Brunei, Thailand, India and China for the Rough Guides, and published several books and a novel, "Nazi Goreng" (2013). He has written about travel, culture and extreme music in Asia for a variety of top-tier international publications and is a long-term correspondent for Nikkei Asia. He shares his Penang intelligence on Penang Insider. Follow him on Twitter @monkeyrockworld.
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From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Malaysia