Malaysia Highlights

10 Days | From the highlands to the deep jungle, this is the best of Malaysia

4.6 out of 5 based on 10 reviews submitted.
Explorer
From
AUD $2,435
View dates and book

From bustling cityscapes to the blissful countryside to the lush tropical rainforest, this trip showcases the diverse beauty of Malaysia. Across ten days, you’ll learn the local way of life as you journey from a local homestay in Penang to the Ulu Muda Forest and into the Cameron Highlands. You’ll play traditional games with the locals, tuck into a home-cooked dinner and mingle among the street stalls. Trek through the jungle to spot elephants, take a cruise through the wilderness and learn about local fishing traditions – this trip offers culture, nature and wildlife delights all in one!

Trip overview

Map of Malaysia Highlights including Malaysia
Start
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Finish
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Theme
Explorer
Destinations
Malaysia
Physical rating
Indicates how physically exerting a trip is, and how fit you will need to be to enjoy it. More info on physical ratings
Style
Original
Ages
Min 15
Group size
Min 1 - Max 12
Trip code
TMSA
This trip generates 74 kg of CO2-e per person per day.
We offset these emissions on your behalf. But we know that is not enough, so we also have a carbon reduction target.

Why you'll love this trip
  • Stay in an eco-lodge on the edge of the jungle that’s fighting for the preservation of Ulu Muda Forest with research and awareness, low-footprint practices and ecotourism principles.
  • Take not one but two river cruises deep in the Ulu Muda Forest to double your chances of spotting roaming wildlife like elephants as your guide tells you about the native plants and wildlife that call this lush haven home.
  • Slip into the local way of life, staying with a family on a homestay that gives real insight into village culture – play traditional games, learn fishing techniques and tuck into a home-cooked dinner.
  • Explore the rolling green Cameron Highlands, blanketed by tea plantations and strawberry fields, and then trek through the mossy forest to learn more about the unique plants living beneath this sea of moss.
  • Wander the historic mural-lined streets of Georgetown, the vibrant cultural hub of Penang and see the array of contemporary art galleries, boutiques, traditional temples and churches.

Is this trip right for you?
  • You will need to be able to carry your own luggage throughout the trip, including some short walks between transport and accommodation, navigating through transport hubs, as well as on and off public transport including buses, trains and ferries. Packing light will improve your experience, especially on hot, humid days.
  • There are some long days of travel by public transport, but don't worry, public buses in Malaysia are spacious and comfortable. Stock up on snacks and drinks for the journeys and sit back and watch the scenery stream by.
  • The accommodation at your homestay is simple, but our overnight stay with village families is a highlight of the trip for most travellers. Bathroom facilities are shared with other travellers and host family, and some may only have cold water showers. Most houses have fan cooling systems rather than air conditioning.
  • The climate in Malaysia is generally hot and humid, so be prepared for some steamy days no matter what time of year you visit. It tends to be wetter and more humid from May to October, but the temperature remains fairly constant throughout the year.
  • This trip is a great way to see a lot in a short period of time but it can be part of a longer itinerary. If you have more time to explore, you might like to check out Best of Malaysia.

Itinerary

This itinerary is valid for departures from 01 January 2025 to 31 December 2025.

View the itinerary for departures between 01 January 2024 - 31 December 2024

Map of Malaysia Highlights including Malaysia

Inclusions

Meals

9 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners

Transport

Private Vehicle, Public Bus, Metro, Ferry, Boat, Train

Accommodation

Hotel (6 nights), Jungle Eco Lodge ( 2 nights), Home Stay (1 night)

Activities
  • George Town - Heritage walking tour
  • Teluk Bahang - traditional games
  • Teluk Bahang - Home cooking demonstration & dinner
  • Teluk Bahang - Fishing village walking tour
  • Teluk Bahang - Silat (martial art) Performance
  • Teluk Bahang - Batik factory visit
  • Ulu Muda - River Cruise
  • Teluk Bahang - Local market visit
  • Ulu Muda - Bukit Labu hike & cave visit
  • Ulu Muda - Hot Spring Saltlick
  • Cameron Highlands - hike in mossy forest area
  • Cameron Highlands - Tea plantation visit
Add on activities
  • Kuala Lumpur - City tour - MYR203
  • Kuala Lumpur - KL Tower - MYR49
  • Kuala Lumpur - Batu Caves via train - MYR10

Dates and availability

Loading trip dates and availabilities...

Important notes

1. A Single Supplement to have your own room is available on this trip and excludes Day 5&6 where you will be in shared accommodation.
2. A special permit is needed for entry into Ulu Muda Forest. Please send a clear coloured copy of your passport info page to your booking agent at least 3 weeks before your trip to us to apply for the permit.
3. There's not much time in Kuala Lumpur on this trip. We highly recommend spend extra time here for more exploration. Please consult your booking agent if you are interested in booking extra accommodation here.

Essential Trip Information

Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.

Read Essential Trip Information

Reviews

4.6 out of 5 based on 10 reviews submitted.
Reviews are from travellers who have completed their trip and want to share their experience. We show all reviews, but may remove any that include profanity or inappropriate content, are unrelated to the trip or reveal personal details.

Filter by rating

Patricia · Traveled August 2024
I really enjoyed my trip to Malaysia. The itinerary was just what I wanted. Jason Loh the guide was excellent, one of the best. Itinerary was varied, 2 night stay at Earth Lodge exceeded my expectations. Loved the homestay. Would definitely recommend this trip.
Review submitted 12 Aug 2024

Thomas · Traveled July 2024
A really great trip to some main highlight spots in Malaysia mainland and the Penang Island. Consider to be fit for about 10km hike in the jungle in hot condition on uneven path.
Review submitted 20 Jul 2024

Linda · Traveled June 2024
This trip was a step into Malaysians present reality within several pivotal sites. Such a pleasure to have been able to experience them within the safe and experienced oversight of our tour leader and organisation.
Review submitted 14 Jun 2024

Sandra · Traveled April 2024
Love Intrepid for the freedom and the experience of a visiting a new country.
Review submitted 20 Apr 2024

Sandy · Traveled April 2024
Great trip that feels like an authentic experience! Jason was a fantastic guide and everything was really well organised.
Review submitted 23 Apr 2024
Malaysia Highlights
From
AUD $2,435