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Exercise normal safety precautions in Malaysia.

Higher levels apply in some areas.

Malaysia

Malaysia (PDF 367.29 KB)

Asia (PDF 2.21 MB)

Local emergency contacts

Fire and rescue services, medical emergencies.

Call 999 or contact the Royal Malaysia Police Operations Centre on 321 159 999 or 322 662 222.

Advice levels

Reconsider your need to travel to the coastal region of eastern Sabah, including the islands, dive sites and associated tourist facilities.

Reconsider your need to travel to the coastal region of eastern Sabah, including the islands, dive sites and associated tourist facilities, due to the high threat of kidnapping. The risk of kidnapping increases on the water and waterfront after nightfall and is highest in the area between the towns of Sandakan and Tawau.

See Safety .

  • There's an ongoing high risk of kidnapping in the coastal areas of eastern Sabah. There have been a number of attempted and successful kidnappings. This includes islands, dive sites and tourist facilities. If, despite our advice, you travel to these areas, get professional security advice. Obey all local governments' curfews.
  • Terrorism is a threat. Possible targets include businesses and public areas popular with foreigners. Take official warnings seriously.
  • Petty crime is common. Bag-snatching, including by thieves on motorbikes, happens often. When walking, hold your bag on the opposite side to the traffic. Safeguard your belongings, especially in shopping centres, at the airport and on trains. Credit card fraud is common. Always keep your credit card in sight when paying for purchases.
  • Drink spiking can occur, even at reputable places. Never accept food, drinks, cigarettes or gum from strangers. Don't leave your food or drinks unattended.
  • Piracy in South-East Asian waters is an ongoing problem. Avoid travelling by boat in the southern Sulu Sea. If you intend to travel in the region by boat, check the International Maritime Bureau's piracy reports . Arrange personal security measures.

Full travel advice: Safety

  • Strict rules control the importation of prescription and non-prescription medication. If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Malaysia.
  • Dengue fever is common, including in major urban areas. Zika virus is also a risk. Malaria is a risk in rural areas. Other insect-borne diseases include chikungunya, filariasis and Japanese encephalitis. 
  • Rabies is present in Malaysia. It's fatal without immediate treatment. Avoid dogs, monkeys and other mammals. Get medical help straight away if an animal bites or scratches you.
  • Waterborne, foodborne, parasitic and other infectious diseases are common. These include hepatitis, tuberculosis, typhoid and cholera. Drink only boiled or bottled water. Avoid raw or undercooked food.
  • Private hospitals in major cities are of an international standard. You'll need to pay up-front at all hospitals unless you have travel insurance, and your travel insurance policy covers your hospitalisation. Services are more limited in rural areas. Government hospitals require a deposit even if you have travel insurance.
  • Cases of pertussis (whooping cough) have increased in Sabah. Ensure you're immunised against pertussis and practice good personal hygiene.

Full travel advice: Health

  • If you're suspected of using drugs, you may be required to take a urine test on arrival in Malaysia. This includes if you're travelling from a country where possession and use of drugs such as cannabis is legal. Penalties for drug offences are severe. 
  • Don't use, carry or traffic illegal drugs. Punishments include the death penalty.
  • It's unclear if surrogacy is legal under Malaysian civil law and what conditions apply. Get legal advice before arranging a surrogacy.

Malaysian law requires that you carry identification, such as your passport or a Malaysian Immigration Issued Card (IKAD), with you at all times. If you are asked by police and are unable to provide it, you may be detained until you can present valid identification.

  • Malaysia is a multicultural but mostly Islamic country. Many areas have conservative standards of dress and behaviour. This includes at religious sites. Get advice on local customs.
  • Malaysia enforces some aspects of sharia law. Kelantan and Terengganu states are stricter than others. These laws apply to all Muslims, including visitors from Australia. Research laws that apply to you before you travel.
  • Malaysia doesn't recognise dual nationality. Always travel on your Australian passport. If Malaysian authorities find out you're a dual citizen, you may need to renounce one of your citizenships immediately, or you may not be permitted to depart Malaysia.

Full travel advice: Local laws

From 1 January 2024, you'll be required to complete and submit a Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) three days prior to arrival in Malaysia. The MDAC must be submitted through the  Malaysian Immigration website . See the  Malaysian Immigration website  for further information, including exemption details.

  • In most circumstances, you can get a 90-day tourism visa on arrival. Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the nearest Malaysian High Commission, Embassy or Consulate for the latest details.
  • Malaysia has an auto gate facility for visitors from several countries, including Australia. The option to use the manual counter for a visa is still available. To use the auto gate facilities, Australian travellers must have a passport valid for at least 6 months and must complete and submit their Malaysian Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) 3 days before arriving. The auto gate facility is unavailable for Australian passport holders with Malaysian permanent residency or a long-term pass. This auto gate facility is available at Kuala Lumpur International Airport 1 and 2. Further information can be found on the  Malaysia Digital Arrival Card  website.
  • Monitor the websites of the  Malaysian Department of Immigration,  My Safe Travel , the  Malaysian Ministry of Health , and social media for any changes to entry requirements. Before travel, confirm entry requirements with the  Malaysian High Commission or Consulate-General in Australia .

Full travel advice: Travel

Local contacts

  • The Consular Services Charter details what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.
  • For consular help, contact the Australian High Commission in Kuala Lumpur .
  • To stay up to date with local information, follow the High Commission's social media accounts.

Full travel advice: Local contacts

Full advice

Terrorist attacks could happen in Malaysia. Attacks could be random and may affect locations popular with Westerners or during major events or holidays that attract large crowds.

Malaysian authorities have arrested people for planning terror attacks. This includes attacks against entertainment venues in Kuala Lumpur.

Other possible targets include:

  • hotels, clubs and restaurants
  • places of worship  or religious holidays
  • outdoor recreation events
  • tourist areas

To stay safe:

  • be alert to possible threats, especially in public places
  • be cautious around places known to be possible terrorist targets
  • report any suspicious activity or items to police
  • check the media for any new or emerging threats
  • take official warnings seriously
  • follow the advice of local authorities

If there's an attack, leave the area as soon as it's safe. 

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

More information:

Terrorist threats

Overland travel through Thailand

Read our travel advice for Thailand if you're planning to go there overland.

Avoid travelling to or through the far southern provinces of Thailand.

There's an ongoing high threat of kidnapping in the coastal areas of eastern Sabah, including islands, dive sites and other tourist facilities.

Extremists based in the southern Philippines are active in the area between the towns of Sandakan and Tawau in eastern Sabah.

Foreigners have been kidnapped from the nearby islands of Sipadan and Mataking and surrounding waters.

Some attempted and successful kidnappings have happened in coastal areas of eastern Sabah in recent years.

  • In May 2021, Malaysian authorities arrested eight suspected Abu Sayyaf militants who they suspect may have been planning kidnappings in Malaysia.
  • In September 2019, 3 fishermen were abducted in the waters off Lahad Datu.
  • In June 2019, 10 fishermen were abducted in waters between Lahad Datu, Sabah and Sitangkai, Southern Philippines.
  • In December 2018, 3 fishermen were abducted from Pegasus Reef near Kinabatangan, Sabah.
  • In November 2016, militants based in the southern Philippines attacked a yacht in waters between eastern Sabah and the Sulu archipelago. One German national was killed and another kidnapped and later killed.  Further in 2016, some commercial seamen were kidnapped from cargo vessels in the area.
  • In May 2015, gunmen entered a local seaside restaurant in Sandakan and abducted the manager and one customer.

Malaysian authorities increased security in the region in response to kidnapping incidents. The Sabah Government has restricted the use of waterways.

Security measures

There's a 6pm to 6am curfew on water travel in 6 coastal districts of eastern Sabah state. This includes offshore areas up to 3 nautical miles (5.5km) from the coast.

All vessels travelling in the waters off Lahad Datu and Sandakan in daylight hours must get a permit or permission from police.

Vessels must travel only on designated routes.

There's a ban on resort-organised water activities at night. This includes diving and fishing.

Authorities established the Eastern Sabah Security Zone (ESSZone), which includes the regions of:

  • Kinabatangan
  • Kota Marudu

There's an increased presence of security forces in the ESSZone.

Authorities may extend the water travel curfew each fortnight. If you travel by water during curfew hours without permission, authorities could fine you or jail you for up to 6 months.

Australian Government policy

The Australian Government's longstanding policy is that it doesn't make payments or concessions to kidnappers.

If you decide to travel to eastern Sabah despite our advice:

  • get professional security advice
  • arrange personal security measures
  • check if your hotel has security measures in place
  • be extremely cautious

Civil unrest and political tension

You could encounter protests or demonstrations on the streets or at certain venues.

Protest activity could lead to violence and disrupt public services, including public transport, and cause traffic congestion. However, this is rare.

Police permission is needed for public gatherings and demonstrations. If you take part in a protest or demonstration, authorities could arrest and deport you.

Avoid protests and demonstrations.

During periods of unrest:

  • check the news and other sources for information on planned and possible unrest or strikes
  • plan your activities to avoid unrest on national or commemorative days
  • be ready to change your travel plans

If civil unrest disrupts your transport plans, contact your airline, travel agent or insurer for help.

Demonstrations and civil unrest

Petty crime

Petty crime is common.

Opportunistic pickpocketing and snatch-and-grab robberies happen often where thieves snatch handbags, shoulder bags, jewellery, mobile phones and other valuables from pedestrians.

Hotspots include busy pedestrian crossings near major shopping malls, including within the KLCC area.

Motorcyclists, and sometimes thieves in other moving vehicles, pull bags from victims. This often causes injuries.

Smash-and-grab attacks against slow-moving and parked vehicles also happen.

To avoid petty crime:

  • don't carry bags that are easy to snatch
  • walk on footpaths when you can and stay away from the curb
  • hold your bag on the opposite side to the traffic
  • when driving or parking your car, keep valuables out of sight
  • always keep vehicle windows up and doors locked, even when moving

Handbags, expensive watches, jewellery and cameras are tempting targets for thieves.

Many travellers have lost passports and other valuables to thieves on trains and at airports.

Carry only what you need and leave other valuables, in a secure location.

Thieves sometimes work in groups at busy shopping centres. One or more may approach you with stories of distress or warnings for your safety. When you're distracted, others steal your belongings.

Watch your personal belongings, especially:

  • in crowded areas and during holiday periods
  • when travelling on trains from the airport
  • at airports

Be wary of approaches from strangers, especially in shopping centres.

Credit card fraud

Credit card fraud is common.

Credit cards are often copied for illegal use. This can happen anywhere, from small shops to large department stores and hotels.

Always keep your credit card in sight.

Online scams

Online scams  have increased in recent years. Scammers often pretend to be people in need of financial help.

They prey on people looking for companions on online dating websites.

To protect yourself from being scammed:

  • be wary of people asking for money
  • don't send money or provide your bank details to anyone you don't know
  • be careful when sharing personal information with people you haven't met in person

Scams involving gambling are also common.

Violent crime

You could experience violent crime in Malaysia. Australians have been victims of violent crime in Kuala Lumpur, Penang and other areas of the country. You should exercise vigilance and take sensible precautions. If you're a victim of crime, inform the local police and get a police report.

Criminals have assaulted and robbed travellers after spiking their drinks. This can even happen at places with a good reputation.

To protect yourself from drink spiking:

  • never accept food or drinks from strangers or leave drinks unattended
  • if you aren't sure if a drink is safe, leave it
  • stay with people you trust at parties and in bars, nightclubs and taxis

To stay safe while using taxis:

  • don't hail taxis on the street, especially after dark
  • book taxis by phone at a shopping centre taxi desk
  • check there's a licence with photo on the dashboard or seat back before getting into a taxi
  • check the driver matches the photo.

If you're alone in a taxi, sit in the back seat. Keep your belongings with you in the taxi.

If your taxi stops to pick up other passengers, get out of the taxi when it's safe to do so. Taxi drivers aren't allowed to pick up extra passengers, but it sometimes happens.

E-hailing services are available. Use the same precautions as taxis.

Cyber security 

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you’re connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth. 

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions, or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media. 

More information:  

  • Cyber security when travelling overseas  

Climate and natural disasters

Malaysia experiences severe weather and natural disasters , including:

  • earthquakes
  • severe rainstorms

If there's a natural disaster:

  • secure your passport in a safe, waterproof location
  • keep in contact with your friends and family
  • monitor local media and weather reports
  • check with tour operators before travelling to affected areas

Register with the Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System to receive alerts on major disasters.

Earthquakes and tsunamis

Earthquakes can happen in Malaysia.

In 2018, a 5.2 magnitude earthquake hit Sabah. No deaths or injuries were reported. The earthquake's tremors were felt and climbing activities were suspended.

Coastal regions of the world can experience tsunamis. Malaysia and its neighbours are vulnerable to earthquakes, which make destructive tsunamis more likely.

US Tsunami Warning Centre

Severe weather

Flooding and landslides are common during the wet season which is usually from October to February.

Severe rainstorms can result in deaths and extensively damaged infrastructure.

Essential services can be interrupted.

Tours and adventure activities

The safety standards you might expect of transport and tour operators aren't always met. This includes for adventure activities, such as diving.

Operators may not provide enough safety equipment. They also may not pay attention to maintenance standards and safety precautions.

If you plan to do a tour or adventure activity:

  • check your travel insurance covers you for it
  • ask and insist on minimum safety requirements
  • use available safety equipment, such as life jackets or seatbelts

If appropriate safety equipment isn't available, use another provider.

Piracy in South-East Asian waters is an ongoing problem, especially in the:

  • Strait of Malacca
  • waters between Sabah and the southern Philippines

The International Maritime Bureau (IMB) issues weekly piracy reports.

Avoid travelling by boat in the southern Sulu Sea. This includes waters between Sabah, Malaysia and Palawan in the Philippines.

If you decide to travel by boat in these regions:

  • check IMB piracy reports
  • get local advice
  • arrange security measures

Travelling by boat

  • Going on a cruise

Travel Insurance

Get comprehensive  travel insurance  before you leave. 

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

You'll probably need a specialised insurance policy that covers travel to high-risk destinations if, despite our advice, you're travelling to the coastal region of eastern Sabah.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

  • what activities and care your policy covers
  • that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away

Physical and mental health

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition. 

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

  • have a basic health check-up   
  • ask if your travel plans may affect your health
  • plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your  nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate  to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

  • General health advice
  • Healthy holiday tips  (Healthdirect Australia)

Medications

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Malaysia. Take enough legal medicine for your trip.

Strict rules control the importation of prescription and non-prescription medication. Contact the  high commission or embassy of Malaysia  to check what documentation local authorities may need you to have. Further information can be found on the  Pharmaceuticals Services website.

Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating: 

  • what the medication is 
  • your required dosage 
  • that it's for personal use 

More information: 

Health risks

Smoke haze often happens from June to October, but it can happen at any time.

Check the haze situation and any health warnings the Malaysian Government issues.

When haze levels are high, authorities recommend limiting outdoor activity. Get your own medical advice.

Insect-borne diseases

Dengue  is common, including in major urban areas. Sometimes serious outbreaks happen.

There's no vaccination or treatment available for dengue fever.

Zika virus is a risk. There's no vaccination for it.

If you're pregnant, the Australian Department of Health recommends you:

  • discuss any travel plans with your doctor
  • consider deferring non-essential travel to affected areas

The Zika virus bulletin includes advice on how to minimise Zika virus risks.

Malaria is a risk in rural areas. It's less common in urban and coastal areas. Consider taking medicine to prevent malaria.

Outbreaks of other insect-borne diseases can happen. This includes chikungunya and filariasis .

Reported cases of Japanese encephalitis have increased in recent years. Get vaccinated against Japanese encephalitis before you travel

The risk of contracting insect-borne diseases increases during the wet season.

To protect yourself from disease:

  • ensure your accommodation is insect-proof
  • always use insect repellent
  • wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing

Ministry of Health

Rabies is a potentially fatal viral disease. It's found in dogs, monkeys, bats and other mammals.

The most recent cases were reported in Sarawak. It was transmitted through feral dog and cat bites.

Rabies can also be contracted when a rabid animal's saliva gets directly into your eyes, nose, mouth or broken skin.

Avoid direct contact with dogs and other mammals.

If a dog, monkey or other mammal bites or scratches you, use soap and water straight away to wash the wound thoroughly.

Get urgent medical attention.

Other health risks

Waterborne, foodborne, parasitic and other infectious diseases are common.

These include:

  • tuberculosis
  • hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD)

Serious outbreaks sometimes occur.

  • drink boiled water or bottled water with sealed lids
  • avoid ice cubes
  • avoid uncooked and undercooked food, such as salads
  • wash your hands often and thoroughly

Get medical attention if you suspect food poisoning, or if you have a fever or diarrhoea.

Cases of pertussis (whooping cough) have increased in Sabah since the beginning of 2023. If you're planning to travel to Sabah:

  • ensure you're immunised against pertussis
  • practice good personal hygiene including frequent hand washing, not sharing drinks or lip balm
  • keep your distance from people who appear sick
  • seek medical attention if you develop symptoms

Infectious diseases

Marine stings

Stings from jellyfish and other marine animals can be fatal.

Ask local authorities, your tour operator or hotel about:

  • swimming conditions
  • precautions to take
  • other dangers

Black henna tattoos

Avoid temporary black henna tattoos as they often contain a dye that can cause serious skin reactions.

Medical care

Medical facilities.

You can find private hospitals with international-standard facilities in major cities.

Public hospitals in major cities have a good range of medical services. However, access can be slow. Services are more limited in rural areas.

Most private hospitals need a cash deposit or a confirmation of insurance before they will admit you. They also expect immediate payment for services.

You need to pay up-front for treatment at government hospitals.

There are decompression chambers in:

Medical tourism

Medical tourism , including for cosmetic surgery, is common.

Standards at discount and uncertified medical facilities can be poor.

Serious and possibly life-threatening complications can result.

Before travelling for medical tourism:

  • research and choose medical service providers carefully
  • don't use discount or uncertified medical service providers
  • check your travel insurance covers you if things go wrong with your surgery, as most don't

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our Consular Services Charter . But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

If you're suspected of using drugs before you visit Malaysia, you may be required to take a urine test on arrival. This includes if you're travelling from a country where possession and use of drugs such as cannabis is legal. 

Penalties for drug offences are severe, including drug possession and the presence of drugs in your bloodstream. Malaysia still carries the death penalty for drug trafficking.

Carrying or using drugs

Surrogacy laws

Malaysian civil law applies to everyone in Malaysia. Under this law, it's unclear if surrogacy is legal and what conditions apply.

Under sharia law, surrogacy is illegal. However, sharia law only applies to Muslims.

Surrogacy isn't practised openly in Malaysia. If you want to pursue surrogacy, it's mostly a private arrangement between you and the surrogate.

Get independent legal advice before entering into a surrogacy arrangement.

  • Going overseas for international surrogacy
  • Going overseas to adopt

Malaysia enforces some aspects of sharia law. These laws apply to all Muslims, including those from Australia.

Research laws that apply to you before you travel.

Serious crime

Crimes that may attract corporal punishment include:

  • certain drug offences
  • commercial crime

Same-sex sexual relations are illegal.

Punishment can include whipping and up to 20 years in prison for same-sex acts involving either men or women.

LGBTI travellers

Drink driving

Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is a serious offence, which can result in fines and/or a jail sentence. Authorities strictly enforce these laws. 

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

Staying within the law and respecting customs

Local customs

Malaysia is a multicultural but mostly Islamic country.

Standards of dress and behaviour are conservative in many areas. This includes at religious sites.

Always respect local traditions, customs, laws and religions.

Learn about customs at your destination. If in doubt, get advice from locals. Take care not to offend cultural or religious beliefs.

The Islamic holiday month of Ramadan  is observed in Malaysia. Respect religious and cultural customs and laws at this time.

During Ramadan, eating, drinking and smoking may be illegal in public during the day. If you're not fasting, avoid these activities around people who are. Seek local advice to avoid offence.

Explore our Ramadan page to learn more, including dates for Ramadan.

Dual citizenship

Malaysia doesn't recognise dual nationality.

If you're a dual citizen, this limits the consular services we can give if you're arrested or detained.

Always travel on your Australian passport .

If Malaysian authorities find out you hold both Australian and Malaysian citizenship, you may need to renounce either your Australian or Malaysian citizenship straight away, or you may not be permitted to depart Malaysia.

Dual nationals

Visas and border measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 

I n most circumstances, Australian passport holders can get a 90-day tourism visa on arrival. 

Arrange a visa before you travel if you're visiting for:

  • volunteer work

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the nearest high commission, embassy or consulate  of Malaysia for details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules.

If you breach your visa conditions or overstay your visa, authorities may fine, detain or deport you.

Always check the correct dates are on the visa stamp placed in your passport.

Follow immigration rules, including your visa conditions.

Border measures

Malaysia has an auto gate facility for visitors from several countries, including Australia. The option to use the manual counter for a visa is still available. To use the auto gate facilities, Australian visitors must have a passport valid for at least 6 months and must complete and submit their Malaysian Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) 3 days before arriving.

The auto gate facility is unavailable for Australian passport holders with Malaysian permanent residency or a long-term pass. This auto gate facility is available at Kuala Lumpur International Airport 1 and 2. Further information can be found on the  Malaysia Digital Arrival Card  website.

Entry requirements may change at short notice. Monitor the websites of the  Malaysian Department of Immigration ,  My Safe Travel , the  Malaysian Ministry of Health , and social media for any changes. Before travel, confirm entry requirements with the  Malaysian High Commission or Consulate-General in Australia .

Staying in Malaysia

You should ensure you keep your visa up to date.

Other formalities

Foreigners need to provide biometric identification (fingerprints and/or face) on arrival.

Children aged younger than 12 years and visitors with finger disabilities don't have to do this.

Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting a new passport .

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

  • In Australia, contact the Australian Passport Information Service .
  • If you're overseas, contact the nearest Australian embassy or consulate .

Passport with ‘X’ gender identifier

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can’t guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest  embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination  before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers. 

  • LGBTI travellers  

The official currency is the Malaysian Ringgit (MYR).

When you depart, declare any MYR over MYR30,000, $US10,000 or equivalent. This covers all forms of currency, not only cash.

You can take larger amounts out of the country if you declare it when you arrive.

ATMs are widely available.

Local travel

If you travel between Peninsular Malaysia and East Malaysia, you need your passport. East Malaysia includes Sabah and Sarawak.

Check if your travel insurance policy covers you for any related damage and injuries if you plan to hire:

  • a motorcycle
  • any other vehicle

Driving permit

To drive in Malaysia, you need both:

  • a valid Australian driver's licence
  • an International Driving Permit (IDP)

Get your IDP before you leave Australia.

If you don't have both, you need to apply for a Malaysian licence.

Driving or riding

Road travel

Motorcyclists are a common traffic hazard. They often:

  • weave through traffic
  • drive through red lights and pedestrian crossings
  • travel on the wrong side of the road

Motorcyclists have been increasingly confronting drivers who shout, gesture or toot their horn at them. They sometimes assault drivers.

You're more likely to die in a car accident in Malaysia than in Australia.

To stay safe, drive carefully and avoid road rage.

On a motorcycle, always wear a helmet.

Some taxi drivers, especially in tourist spots or when roads are jammed, don't use their meter. This is illegal.

Malaysia's taxi regulator has an English-language hotline for reporting problems. To make a report, call 1 800 88 7723 and provide the:

  • vehicle number
  • taxi company name
  • time, date and location of the incident
  • name of the driver if known

Always ask if the driver will use the meter, or agree the fare, before you get in a taxi.

At the start of your trip, take note of the vehicle number, the taxi company name and the name of the driver.

Public transport

There have been fatal and other serious accidents involving long-distance tour buses. This often happens at night or in bad weather.

If you plan to travel by bus, choose a company with a good reputation and avoid overnight travel.

Transport and getting around safely

In recent years, several passenger boats have sunk due to overloading and poor maintenance.

Before booking tickets on a passenger ferry, speedboat or other vessel, check there is appropriate safety equipment available.

Don't travel on any vessel that looks overloaded or in poor condition.

When you board, confirm there are enough life jackets for all passengers. Know where they are.

In bad weather, wear a life jacket, even if others don't.

There is a curfew on travel by water from 6pm to 6am in the coastal districts of eastern Sabah. See Safety

Airline safety

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check Malaysia's air safety profile with the Aviation Safety Network.

National parks

National parks are protected areas, and some are home to ethnic minority groups.

Be respectful of the law and customs in these areas. If in doubt, seek local advice.

Don't remove any wildlife or plants from the park.

Before entering a park, register your plans with park officials and let someone you trust know where you're going.

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, contact your:

  • family and friends
  • travel agent
  • insurance provider

Call 999 or contact the Royal Malaysia Police Operations Centre on +60321 159 999 or Royal Malaysia Headquarters (Bukit Aman) +603 22662 222.

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Consular contacts

Read the Consular Services Charter for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

For consular assistance, contact the Australian High Commission in Kuala Lumpur.

Australian High Commission, Kuala Lumpur

6 Jalan Yap Kwan Seng 50450 Kuala Lumpur Malaysia Phone: (+60 3) 2146 5555/2146 5575 Fax: (+60 3) 2141 5773 Website: malaysia.highcommission.gov.au Email: [email protected] Facebook: Australia in Malaysia Twitter: @AusHCMalaysia

Check the High Commission website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

You can get limited consular help, including lodging Australian passport applications, at the following Australian consulates headed by honorary consuls:

Australian Consulate, Penang

Level 3 Jalan Macalister  10400 Penang Malaysia Phone: (+60 4) 226 8955 Fax: (+60 4) 228 3366 Email: [email protected]

Australian Consulate, Kota Kinabalu

Lot 01-05, 11th Floor Jubili Tower (Menara Jubili) 53, Jalan Gaya 88000 Kota Kinabalu Sabah Malaysia Phone: (+60 88) 267 151 Fax: (+60 88) 266 509 Email:  [email protected]

Australian Consulate, Sarawak

E39 Level 2 Taman Sri Sarawak Mall Jalan Tunku Abdul Rahman 93100 Kuching Sarawak Malaysia Phone: (+60 19) 898 9787 Email: [email protected]

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

  • +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
  • 1300 555 135 in Australia

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Dive Into Malaysia

Dive Into Malaysia

How To Plan A Trip To Malaysia: The Ultimate Malaysia Travel Guide!

Do you need to plan your trip to Malaysia? Great! You are in the right place!

In this article, I walk you through exactly how to plan a trip to Malaysia which is perfect for you. I talk about what steps you need to take, how far in advance you should take them as well as break down when the best time is to go to Malaysia, how to get to Malaysia, where to visit, where to stay, how to get around and everything else you could possibly need to know for the perfect break.

I also talk budget and what to pack. Everything you need to know!

If this is sounding overwhelming, don’t worry! I’ll help you plan your own travel Malaysia step-by-step. This handy travel booking list along with the timeframes below will keep you on track.

how to plan Singapore Malaysia trip

Because the good news is that it is quite easy to plan a trip to Malaysia by yourself with the information in this article, on this site and with some help of some online booking engines.

We travel to Malaysia multiple times a year and have also lived there. We always arrange everything ourselves – it’s easy, fun and the most cost-effective option. Although if you would rather do a tour to save any hassle then I also have suggestions for that below too!

Ready to get started? Let’s make that Malaysia tour plan!

Travelling to Malaysia? Click here to download your free Malaysia Trip Planning checklist . We’ll help you get ready for your trip!  

Planning a trip to Malaysia? Have any questions? Join our Malaysia Travel Planning Facebook group here now! It’s the perfect place to ask any questions and to be inspired!

If you aren’t just interested in Malaysia and wondering how to plan a Singapore/Malaysia trip, this is also covered. If you haven’t yet decided if Malaysia is the right place for you,  be inspired by this list of places to visit in Malaysia!

How To Plan A Trip To Malaysia: The Ultimate Malaysia Travel Guide!

How To Plan A Trip To Malaysia

The first step in how to plan Malaysia trip is to work out when exactly you will go. If you have set dates, you can skip the next section. Otherwise, I’ll help you decide when to go.

Then I will give you a list of what to book, when and you can read each further section below as you work through your planning list.

Looking for the ultimate Malaysia Itinerary Planner for your trip? Click here to get it now! It’ll help you plan an awesome trip.

I also talk about how to plan a trip to Malaysia in my podcast episode here.

Malaysia Map

But before we start going through everything, here is a Malaysia map. If you aren’t familiar with the geography of Malaysia, you can quickly and easily see where all the places are that we talk about below.

If this is you, I recommend you take a minute to take a good look at this map. You can open it by clicking on it. You can zoom using the controls to get an idea of where all the places mentioned below are. Keep it open while you read the rest of this article.

How To Plan A Trip To Malaysia travel guide map

Basically, there are two parts of Malaysia – peninsular Malaysia which is attached to Asia and is where you will find the capital, Kuala Lumpur, and popular destinations like Langkawi and Penang.

Then there is Borneo or East Malaysia which is a big island a couple of hours flight from Kuala Lumpur. This island is also shared with the countries of Brunei and Indonesia.

When To Go To Malaysia

The good news is that it’s never a bad time to go to Malaysia! It’s always a good time of year somewhere.

One of the major destinations in Malaysia, the capital Kuala Lumpur, does not vary much year round. Singapore is close to the equator and does not vary much either if you plan to add that to your Malaysia trip.

Most other areas have a more distinct monsoon/rainy season and a dry season. It is best to visit in the dry season which is November – March on the west coast of peninsular Malaysia (which includes Penang and Langkawi) and April – October on the east coast (which includes Perhentian Islands and Redang Island) and in Borneo.

On the west coast, it does not matter too much and rainy periods do not tend to last long or cause too many problems. On the east coast, however, it is a different story and many of the islands basically shut down in the monsoon period so it is best to avoid this area then.

travel guides australia malaysia

Other things to take into account are school holiday periods in Malaysia and Singapore. These fall from mid November to the start of January and there are shorter periods in March, May/June and July/August. See the latest ones here .

Finally, “the haze” is a problem that occurs annually around June – November thanks to pollution from fires in Indonesia. The affect of this is variable – sometimes it is minor and won’t affect your travel. Other times, the pollution can be quite bad especially in areas like Singapore and Malaysia.

Peak tourist times are December, January and Chinese New Years. Expect things to fill up quicker and be pricier at these times so it’s especially important to book ahead.

Here is a full article  with more specific details about the best times to visit Malaysia in different parts of the country.

Travel Booking List And Countdown

Malaysia does not tend to get booked out completely but there are definitely times when it pays to book in advance which is mainly in the peak tourist season in December and January. If you are visiting for an event or festival, like Chinese New Years, it is also important to book in advance.

However, you are generally best off booking flights and accommodation 6 – 12 months in advance for the best deals. There can be a big cost saving on flights particularly when they are booked far in advance especially if you want to go in the peak tourist time or school holidays.

best stay in Penang at Georgetown

6-12 months in advance:

  • Book international flights
  • Get travel insurance
  • Plan itinerary
  • Book any domestic flights
  • Consider booking accommodation and any tour packages

3 – 6 months in advance:

  • Book accommodation if not booked yet including overnight tours ( like these )
  • Work out how you will get around Malaysia, book car hire if necessary and any remaining domestic flights

1 month in advance:

  • Get visa if necessary
  • Work out how you will access money
  • Book attractions and tours
  • Book bus tickets
  • Book airport transfers or plan how you will get to your hotels
  • Work out sim card for phone
  • Make sure you print out or have easy access on your phone to all bookings

1-2 days in advance:

  • Fill in the online form for your digital arrival card. All foreign travellers must do this up to 3 days before arrival.

How To Travel To Malaysia

travel guides australia malaysia

Unless you are from or visiting a neighbouring country, you are most likely flying into Malaysia. Thankfully, this is usually quite easy with Kuala Lumpur being a major hub. There are also international airports in other parts of the country like Langkawi and Penang but options are usually limited and this tends to only work if you are flying from a neighbouring country.

Even if you are coming from nearby, like Thailand, flight deals can be very good so it can be worth flying over the extra hassle of overland transport.

Best Flight Deals To Malaysia

To find the best flight deals to Malaysia, I recommend using  Skyscanner  or  CheapOair  which will give you a good comparison of all available options.

Skyscanner is particularly good for searching for the cheapest days to fly and you can also set up price alerts so it will email you if the price changes.  Click here to give it a go.

CheapOair is a better choice if you are looking for business or first class flights. Click here to do a search.

There are two major airlines based in Malaysia: AirAsia (budget airline) and Malaysia Airlines  and these can be convenient options especially if you want to connect to a domestic Malaysia flight. However, many great airlines fly to Malaysia and it’s not necessary to travel one of the local airlines.

I highly recommend you listen to my podcast episode here where I walk you through how to get the best flight deals as well as many things to consider when flying to this part of the world.

best time to visit kl

It can often be cheaper to book flights to Kuala Lumpur separate to any domestic flights.

It’s also worth considering flying into Singapore instead especially if you want to visit Johor Bahru or Tioman Island. Flights to Singapore can be cheaper and there can be more options too.

If you want to visit Singapore on your trip as well as Malaysia , this is particularly a good option but there are also many flights from Singapore to different locations in Malaysia and it’s easy to go straight from the airport across to Johor Bahru in Malaysia as well.

In fact, you can book a taxi directly from Singapore airport to Malaysia here.

If you have plenty of time before you plan to travel, are flexible with dates and live in Asia or Australia, then signing up for the  AirAsia newsletter  is a great idea. There can be some great sale fares but you do need to be ready to book the second they come out as they usually sell out fast.

trains malaysia

If you are in a neighbouring country, it’s also easy to travel overland into Malaysia.

There are buses, trains and boats between Malaysia and Thailand. The most frequent and often easiest option is by bus.

Hat Yai, in southern Thailand, is a common point to get buses into Malaysia (and they leave frequently) although there are many places from which you can travel to Malaysia.

Click here to look for tickets now.

It’s also possible to get a train into Malaysia. You will first need to catch a train in Thailand to the border with Malaysia at Padang Besar. From here, you can catch a second train to Alor Setar (for Langkawi), Butterworth (for Penang) or all the way to Kuala Lumpur.

You can also take a ferry, There are regular fast ferries between Satun in Thailand and Langkawi ( find times and ticket prices here ). In high season, there can be boats operating to Koh Lipe in Thailand from Langkawi as well ( timetables here ).

It’s very easy to travel between Singapore and Johor Bahru in Malaysia with frequent buses to many places in the country.

It’s also possible and very easy to take taxis between the two countries which is what I do and recommend. You can book a taxi here and be picked up at your hotel or airport and taken anywhere in Malaysia.

There is also a train from the Woodlands Train Checkpoint across to Johor Bahru although a bus or taxi is more convenient.

Find more details on exactly how to do this here.

It’s possible to take ferries between Indonesia and Malaysia. If you are in Kalimantan (the Indonesia part of Borneo) then it’s also possible to bus to Malaysia from Pontianak ( timetable and prices here ).

Most ferries depart from Sumatra in Indonesia and arrive in Melaka and Penang. There are also ferries from the islands of Bintan and Batam to Johor Bahru or Tarakan in Kalimantan to Tawau in Sabah, Borneo.

Brunei is surrounded by Malaysia in Borneo and it’s easy to travel between the two. There are buses or you can take a ferry from Brunei to Pulau Labuan which is a Malaysian island just off the coast of Borneo.

Find ferry information here and bus information here.

Passports And Visas

If you are from Australia, New Zealand, Canada, USA or the EU you do not need a visa at time of publishing. Many other nationals do not need visas either for stays for up to 90 days. However, it is best to always check this for yourself.

Your passport does need 6 months validity at the time you enter so get a new passport before you go if this is an issue.

You also need to fill in an online form here up to 3 days before entering the country. You can’t do it any earlier and all foreign travellers need to do this.

This is a new requirement that came into effect on 1 December 2023. It will give you a Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC).

When entering, if you talk to an official and you plan to stay in the country for more than 30 days, ask for 90 days entry. Sometimes, they will give you less than the allowed 90 days if you do not ask.

When travelling to Sabah and Sarawak (which are Borneo), your passports will be inspected again.

Money In Malaysia

The Malaysian currency is called the ringgit (RM) and there are many ATMs around which is the best (and usually cheapest) way to get cash. You will need to carry around this currency as it’s rare for anything else to be accepted. You can use credit cards at many places as well.

Note that your card from home can have some killer fees when it comes to using it overseas.

I highly recommend you consider getting a Wise multi-currency account. It’s free and makes it super easy and cheap for you to exchange your currency for ringgit or other currencies when you travel. You can use the card at ATMs as well.

Click here for more information.

Where To Go And Malaysia Itineraries

travel guides australia malaysia

The hardest part of how to plan a trip to Singapore and Malaysia is likely to be working out where you can go. There are many great options!

The most popular places are:

  • Kuala Lumpur  – the capital and largest city with many attractions and things to do
  • Penang – an island with an interesting history, UNESCO listed old town, beaches and great food
  • Langkawi – a popular island for beaches and relaxing with the best resorts in the country and some good attractions
  • Johor Bahru – a popular starting point from Singapore especially for families as it’s home to Legoland Malaysia
  • Melaka – close to Kuala Lumpur, this is a great destination to learn more about the mixed history of Malaysia
  • Cameron Highlands – cool down in the highlands with beautiful views, tea plantations and many farms and low key attractions
  • Tioman Island – a popular beach and diving destination from Singapore
  • Perhentian Islands – some beautiful beaches and good diving off the east coast of Malaysia
  • Sabah – this fantastic state in Borneo is full of amazing wildlife and natural attractions
  • Kuching – the capital of Sarawak in Borneo, there are many amazing day trips to enjoy cultural, natural and wildlife attractions from this pretty, riverside city
  • Singapore  – yes this is its own country and not in Malaysia, but combining a trip to Malaysia with Singapore is a popular option and worth considering

There are also many other fabulous places to visit in Malaysia which I recommend you consider if you have more than two weeks. However, if it’s your first trip and you have up to two weeks, these places are your best bet.

As a general rule, I recommend 3 days per place minimum. You can adjust this based on whether you are someone who likes to take it easy when you travel or like to go quick and see as much as possible.

Looking for the ultimate Malaysia Itinerary Planner for your trip? Click here to get it now!

You can also  find some itineraries combining Malaysia and Singapore here and more Malaysia itineraries here . You don’t have to reinvent the wheel, just use one of mine!

Penang top places to visit Street Art

If you are looking for some destinations to add to your travel planner Malaysia which are slightly less popular, consider making the journey to Borneo and exploring the states of Sabah and Sarawak and perhaps adding Brunei . I only recommend this if you have at least a week available and I would only visit one state with just a week.

Some other destinations in peninsular Malaysia worth considering are:

  • Ipoh – known for its street art and amazingly good food
  • Redang Island  – beautiful beaches and some solid resort options on the east coast if you would like something less popular than Tioman and the Perhentians
  • Port Dickson – if you don’t have long in Malaysia and want a beach destination convenient to Kuala Lumpur

Recommended Group Tours In Malaysia

If you would rather just enjoy your holiday while not worrying about the details, a group tour is an excellent option. Here are some recommend options…

travel guides australia malaysia

Trafalgar Tours

Trafalgar Tours is the best choice if you want everything taken care of on a bus tour.

They offer a great tour program in Malaysia and Singapore which you can see here.

Click here to find more information about Trafalgar Tours.

G Adventures

I have done a couple of G Adventures tours and love them because they are good at making things easy for you while still getting you to out of the way destinations and giving you local experiences as well as giving you some time by yourself if you want it.

The groups tend to be small with a maximum of 15 travellers making it easier to visit places and keep things local.

Click here to see G Adventures tours in Malaysia.

Intrepid Travel

I have done a few Intrepid Travel tours as well and I love how many of them use public transport and put an emphasis on local experiences while keeping everything hassle free with your own tour guide.

They have an average group size of 10 which works well compared to big bus tours.

Click here to find more Intrepid Travel tours.

Customised Tour Packages

A great alternative to group tours and booking accommodation and attractions separately is to purchase customised tour packages.

We have some great Malaysia tours and experiences that you can book through us. These enable you to save money and effort by combining accommodation, transport, meals, activities and more to make your trip super easy and comfortable.

In fact, some attractions in Malaysia you can only visit this way. Some attractions and activities also limit numbers (like Turtle Island in Sabah) so booking a tour this way is the only way to experience.

You can see all our special tours for Dive Into Malaysia readers here.

Accommodation In Malaysia

One of the reasons we love Malaysia is because of the huge range of accommodation available for all budgets and what great value it is. This is somewhere where you can find a 4-star over water chalet for under $100 a night!

Budget hotels abound and there are hostels for people on low budgets. Cheap hotels tend to still be clean and a reasonable standard, just basic.

lexis port dickson private pool

Midrange options are excellent and this is somewhere I recommend you aim to pay for at least this if you can. Often you can find solid midrange options for around $50.

Finally, on the upper end, there are some truly amazing resorts and hotels which can be incredibly good value. The best options are in the most visited places of Kuala Lumpur, Langkawi, Penang, Johor Bahru, Kota Kinabalu, Miri, Kuching and Port Dickson. If you go to less busy places, there can be a lack of really great accommodation so if 5 star resorts with great service are important to you then the places just mentioned are your best bet.

Note that Malaysia has a tourism tax for foreigners of RM10 per night. From the 1 January 2023, you may need to pay this when you check in to your hotel if you didn’t pay when booking.

Best Accommodation Booking Sites

I highly recommend  Agoda  for booking accommodation in Malaysia.

It usually has the best price and has a rewards scheme where you quickly gain credit to use towards your next booking. In fact, if you pay upfront, often you get the credit straight away so you can use it for your next hotel booking.

Agoda also has a great range of accommodation in Malaysia including private home and apartment rental.

Click here to start searching now.

Booking.com  also tends to have similar prices but without the rewards. It has less options in Malaysia as well. If you would like to check it out as well,  click here.

Airbnb is also possible here for people who like to stay in apartments and homes and we have stayed in some great deals in Kuala Lumpur and Penang.

I find  TripAdvisor  useful for looking at reviews for hotel options to double check they are good quality.

Note that there is a tourist tax of RM10 a night which is often not added to your hotel cost until you arrive at the hotel. This is not a scam and needs to be paid.

Club Med Cherating Beach suite balcony

We have many hotel guides to help you book your perfect stay. Here are some of them:

  • Best resorts in Malaysia
  • Best beach resorts
  • Best resorts for families
  • Resorts with private pools
  • Best resorts in Langkawi
  • Best hotels in Kuala Lumpur
  • Best hotels in Penang
  • Best hotels on Pangkor Island
  • Best hotels in Ipoh
  • Best hotels in Taiping
  • Best hotels in Cameron Highlands
  • Best hotels in Johor Bahru
  • Best hotels in Desaru
  • Best hotels in Melaka
  • Best hotels in Muar
  • Best resorts in Redang
  • Best resorts on Tioman Island
  • Best resorts on Perhentian Islands
  • Best hotels in Kota Bharu
  • Best hotels in Kuala Terengganu
  • Best hotels in Taman Negara
  • Best hotels in Kota Kinabalu
  • Best hotels in Sandakan/Sepilok
  • Best hotels in Semporna
  • Best hotels in Tawau
  • Best hotels in Labuan
  • Best hotels in Miri
  • Best hotels in Bintulu
  • Best hotels in Sibu
  • Best hotels in Kuching

You can also listen to my podcast here about booking accommodation, tours and attractions in Malaysia.

How To Get Around Malaysia

Bukit Bintang KL

There are a few options for getting around Malaysia. All are quite easy!

Buses in Malaysia go most places and can be great quality between cities and towns. They are usually quite quick and are easy to book online or on arrival. Booking before you go can help you save time when you are there and ensure you get a bus at the perfect time.

However note that if you don’t see any buses scheduled on your dates that you may be looking too early. They often only appear 1 – 3 months before the travel date. Looking at closer dates can help give you a good idea of when they may run on your travel dates.

Click here to see bus timetables, prices and to book your bus.

Train is also a good option although it is more limited than bus in both routes and frequency. Trains can be tough to work in to your schedule if you have limited time.

The main routes are from:

  • Johor Bahru to Kuala Lumpur (switching trains at Gemas)
  • Johor Bahru to Tumpat. This is also known as the jungle line and takes you through the middle and up the east coast of Malaysia
  • Kuala Lumpur to Butterworth (for Penang)

Click here to see train timetables, prices and to book.

Buses can be more comfortable and luxurious and I recommend them over the trains unless you are a train lover.

3. Shared Taxi

Shared taxis are also an option over longer distances. You pay for your seat and they leave when they are full. I prefer buses as they can be more comfortable but a shared taxi can be faster if you don’t wait too long for them to fill up.

4. Private Taxi

It’s possible to hire private taxis to take you anywhere in Malaysia. This is generally more expensive than the other options on this list but it depends how many people you have. This can be a great option for families.

The good news is that for foreigners, private taxis between towns and cities can be very affordable.

You can simply take a shared taxi and buy all seats or arrange one beforehand.

You can click here to book a taxi through this site . We work with local operators to give you a great price and reliable service.

5. Car hire

Car hire is a fun and easy way to explore the country. We find driving in Malaysia quite easy and it is our preferred option along with private taxi . It can be cost effective for families or bigger groups and it also gives you more freedom.

You can find more information on driving in Malaysia including road rules here.

Click here to check out car rental prices.

Malacca River Cruise

If you plan on visiting an island in Malaysia, you will probably need to take a ferry. These tend to run frequently to popular choices and be easy and good value.

You can find ferry timetables and book tickets for many popular routes here.

Finally, flying is a great option within Malaysia. Domestic flights can be as cheap as a few dollars during sales but even outside of sale periods, they tend to be a bargain.

Flights are especially a good idea for covering a larger distance and when you are short on time. So, for example, if you are visiting Langkawi and Kuala Lumpur, I would definitely fly. Or maybe, you are visiting Penang and Kuala Lumpur and a few places along the way. Going overland one way and then flying the other could make sense.

It’s also necessary to fly if you want to travel from peninsular Malaysia to Borneo. This is the only way to make this journey. Flights tend to be a great deal between these points as well and you can fly to Borneo from a few points in Malaysia like Johor Bahru, Penang and Langkawi so you don’t necessarily have to go via Kuala Lumpur.

Click here to check out flight prices.

You can also listen to my podcast here about the best ways to get around Malaysia.

Want the Easiest (and BEST) Way to travel around Malaysia?

We can book a taxi for you between anywhere in peninsular Malaysia. Travel straight from one hotel to your next without any fuss or sweat.

You can pick your own departure time, relax and know everything will go to plan.

Click here for prices and online booking.

Attractions And Tickets

While the only attraction you need to book in advance is the  Petronas Towers in Kuala Lumpur , many attractions in Malaysia have much cheaper prices if you book them in advance on  Klook .

Klook is a trustworthy site we use all the time for attractions, tours and activities as it has the best prices and is always very easy to use.

I highly recommend that once you have your itinerary, you go through Klook and book tickets for any attractions you want to visit, particularly big ones like  Legoland Malaysia  or  Sunway Lagoon .

Klook is also great for tours. A tour is invaluable for finding out more about the places you are visiting. Or, in the case of Malaysia, for getting you out and tasting the best food!

Legoland Malaysia

Some tours we particularly recommend:

  • Melaka Day Tour – If you don’t have time to stay in Melaka, visit with this easy day tour from Kuala Lumpur
  • Kuala Lumpur Food Tour – Visit local neighbourhoods in Kuala Lumpur while trying the best food on offer. Use code DIVE30 to save RM30
  • Batu Caves – Visit this top attraction near Kuala Lumpur easily on this tour
  • Simply Enak KL Food Tour – Amazing food to try on this tour of the best of Kuala Lumpur
  • Kuala Lumpur City Tour – Explore and learn more about the capital of Malaysia
  • Penang Heritage Tour – See and learn about UNESCO listed George Town
  • Penang Hill And Temple Sightseeing – Visit Penang Hill and Kek Lok Si Temple
  • Simply Enak Penang Food Tour – Amazing food to try on this tour of the best of Penang. Use code DIVE30 to save RM30
  • Langkawi Island Hopping Boat Tour – The scenery in Langkawi is stunning and this is the best way to relax and enjoy it
  • Langkawi Helicopter Tour – Don’t miss the chance to see Langkawi from the air!

Want Help Having An Awesome Food Experience in KL?

Join a Simply Enak (aka delicious) Food Tour!

There are three different options depending on whether you want to concentrate on street food, nightlife or off the beaten track places.

No matter what you pick, you’ll taste a range of fabulous local food and drinks while learning the history and culture of Kuala Lumpur.

There’s no better way to discover this great city.

Make sure you use the coupon code DIVE30 for RM30 off your tour.

Click here for all your option s .

Airport Transfers And Arrival

Arriving in Malaysia is straightforward but it can be daunting the first time, especially if you have a long flight.

You can read  our guide here  about getting from KL Airport to KL Sentral in the city centre.

On arrival at either terminal in Kuala Lumpur, you can follow signs to get to transportation hubs and buy a coupon for a taxi to your hotel. You can also use the Grab app to book yourself a taxi. It works the same as Uber.

However, if you would like to just arrive and not think at all, I recommend booking a transfer in advance, especially if you have a long journey to get to Malaysia. Here are some options:

  • Kuala Lumpur Airport
  • Penang Airport
  • Langkawi Airport

If you want to go straight to another city on arrival at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (like to Melaka, Cameron Highlands, anywhere 🙂 ), we can book a long distance taxi for you which will pick you up directly at the airport and drop you at your hotel.

Click here for the latest prices.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is invaluable. You just never know what will happen!

A few years ago, I broke my leg getting into the shower in Thailand. Doctor and hospital visits, tests then needing to cut our trip short and get a direct flight home added up and it was great to have travel insurance take care of it all – especially when they even paid for me to get home in business class and I was able to talk to an Australian doctor about what was going on.

In my opinion, if you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford to travel.

I recommend buying travel insurance as soon as you book your flights as they will start covering you for some problems from that point.

We have a few recommended options depending on your country of origin:

  • Cover-More for Australians here
  • Cover-More for New Zealanders here
  • VisitorsCoverage for US travellers here

If you are coming from Europe or elsewhere, World Nomads is our recommended option and  you can get a no-obligation quote here.

Malaysia Travel Costs

Petronas Towers KL

Malaysia can be as cheap or as expensive as you want. The best part is that Malaysia is very good value, so while it may not be as cheap as some nearby countries, you do tend to get more for your money.

Some sample budgets for two people:

Budget travellers: RM200 a day

Mid-range travellers: RM300-600

High-end travellers: RM700+

Of course, budgets will vary due to many factors like how often you move around, how many places you want to visit, how much you like to drink alcohol (relatively expensive) and much more. These are rough estimates only to help you plan.

It’s also worth noting that you can get incredible food for cheap so there really is no need to spend a lot on that as long as you are happy eating the local cuisines.

What To Pack

The good news is that Malaysia is basically always hot and humid – so you can leave all the heavy sweaters and coats at home!

However, this doesn’t mean you should just pack shorts and tank tops.

It’s important to always be respectful to local culture when it comes to how to dress and beach attire is definitely best suited to the beach or your resort. Malaysia is majority Muslim and local people tend to cover up.

You do not need to keep covered but it is a good idea to keep your shoulders covered and, in more conservative areas on the east coast, I recommend covering your knees too. Lightweight, light coloured clothing is the best.

how to go pulau perhentian from singapore

You can buy anything you need in Malaysia very easily and we often buy our toiletries when we get there because they are cheaper than at home! The one exception to this is sunscreen – it’s expensive. We even had my mum bring it over for us when we were living in Malaysia!

Other essential items:

  • Umbrella or rain coat – rain can be sudden and heavy
  • Good walking shoes that have good grip on wet surfaces. Preferably sandal style
  • Scarf or sarong to cover up when going in mosques and some temples
  • Plug Adapter – Malaysia uses a UK plug
  • Power cube – so you can charge all your electronics in one place

Internet And Phone Coverage

Many accommodation providers and some restaurants will have wifi for keeping in touch with home. However, we always buy a local sim card so we don’t have to worry and because they are so cheap and easy.

You can get one at the airport in minutes and  even buy one beforehand here.

You can read our  full article about getting a sim card in Malaysia here.

Other Things To Consider

travel guides australia malaysia

  • While the majority of Malaysia has a Monday to Friday working week, some states follow a Sunday to Thursday working week. This occurs in Johor, Kedah, Kelantan, and Terengganu. There are usually still shops open but if you want to visit attractions like museums on a Friday, check they are open before you go.
  • As mentioned above, there is a tourist tax on accommodation which is currently RM10 per night. This is paid at the hotel.
  • Alcohol can be relatively expensive in Malaysia. If you are coming from a western country, it is unlikely to be so bad but it will seem expensive if you are coming from a neighbouring country like Thailand. It is also not that readily available thanks to the Muslim culture. Langkawi and Tioman Island have duty free status and alcohol is much cheaper.
  • Ramadan is a period of fasting for Muslim people where they don’t eat during daylight hours. However, it is usually not hard for visitors to find somewhere to eat thanks to the sizeable Chinese and Indian communities who do not observe Ramadan. Those restaurants will generally still have normal opening hours.
  • Foreigners pay more for many attractions in Malaysia. You will notice a “MyKad” price and a regular price. MyKad is just for Malaysians. It’s just how it is.
  • Food in Malaysia is awesome!! Read our full food guide here and bookmark it for your trip.
  • Download the Grab app before you go. This is just like uber and is generally the cheapest and easiest way to get taxis within a city/town/area. You can’t fully set it up until you arrive in the country though.

Malaysia With Kids

Our final section in this guide to plan a trip to Malaysia & Singapore is about travelling in Malaysia with kids. If you don’t have any kids, you can skip this and you are done! Feel free to ask any questions in our Malaysia travel Facebook group.

However, if you have kids, I want to put your mind at ease. We travel to Malaysia frequently with our three kids and have travelled here with a newborn and toddlers. In fact, I spent the first half of my last pregnancy in Malaysia so my third child was somewhat made in Malaysia.

This is a great destination with kids. We just love it!

pantai cahaya negeri port dickson

Malaysians love kids. We always feel very welcome everywhere with our kids and they get lots of positive attention when they were little. This helps put all of us at ease which leads to much better behavior.

Many restaurants are outdoors which I find works great with kids and kids will love all the natural attractions as well as the big attractions like Legoland Malaysia , Sunway Lagoon , KidZania KL , Escape Penang and KL Bird Park  (and so will you!).

There are usually discounts on everything for kids with the youngest kids being free.

Many of the resorts in places like Langkawi and Penang offer kids club so you can get some quality adult time while your kids have a ball with new friends.

You can read our picks for the top family resorts in Malaysia here.

You can also listen to our best tips for families here and find out what my kids themselves think about travelling in Malaysia.

Some of our kids (and our) favourite places are:

  • Port Dickson – The kids love the opportunity for a private pool villa over the sea like here  and the top resorts here have a range of family activities and programs
  • Legoland Malaysia
  • Kuala Lumpur – There are some great attractions here from kids including KidZania , a giant park at KLCC and science museum and aquarium and the fabulous  KL Bird Park
  • Penang – We lived here with our kids and it is so great. There is the beach, natural attractions like Youth Park, the fabulous Escape Penang and many other things to do and eat
  • Langkawi – Great for relaxing and nature time
  • Ipoh –  The Lost World of Tambun is a big hit
  • Cameron Highlands – There are some great low-key attractions here which appeal to families like bee and strawberry farms
  • Kuching – This is a great place to hang out and do day trips to places like the Sarawak Cultural Village and to see orangutans
  • Sandakan – Another great place in Borneo to base yourself for fabulous kid-friendly wildlife experiences like Sepilok Rehabilitation Orangutan Centre , Labuk Bay , Kinabatangan River , Turtle Island and more.

Planning a trip to Malaysia? Have any questions?  Join our Malaysia Travel Planning Facebook group here now!  It’s the perfect place to ask any questions and to be inspired!

Remember we can also book a taxi for you to help you get around Malaysia quickly and easily. Click here for more details.

I hope this has helped you answer all your questions when you are working out “how to plan my trip to Malaysia”. Ask any questions in our Facebook group ! And find more useful Malaysia planning guides here. I also discuss how to plan a trip to Malaysia and walk you through it in my podcast episode here.

Related posts:

travel guides australia malaysia

By Sharon Gourlay

Sharon is a certified Malaysia travel expert and can't get enough of travelling and talking about Malaysia since she first visited 21 years ago. She travels around Malaysia multiple times a year both alone and with her kids. She used to call Penang home and especially loves this food paradise. Sharon also has a Bachelor of Arts in Asian Studies, a Certificate III in International Travel Sales and has been certified by Tourism Malaysia as a Malaysia Travel Expert. Through this site, she'll help you have the perfect trip to this amazing destination.

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Malaysia Travel Guide

Every time I come to Malaysia there’s one thing I gotta have… laksa. Anthony Bourdain

Skyscrapers, Street Art & Cendol

For Anthony Bourdain, it’s laksa. For me, it’s Cendol. Nothing says Malaysia like a freakish bowl of sweet coconut milk topped with green jelly and kidney beans. Give me a slice of thick-cut toast with Kaya butter, a tall glass of Ipoh white coffee, and a simple bowl of Char Kuey Teow fried noodles, all in quick succession. I’m no foodie, but Malaysia sure brings it out in me.

From the skyscrapers of Southeast Asia’s most iconic metropolis, Kuala Lumpur , to the 130-million-year-old rainforests in Taman Negara , Malaysia truly is a place where old and new, tradition and modernity, the crumbling and the glossy, meet in the middle. Many adventures begin at Kuala Lumpur international airport . Before you make a break for it, take a few days to soak up the place where it all comes to a head.

Take a quick trip to the Batu Caves and a drawn-out hike to Mount Kinabalu . Kick back on the Perhentian Islands , sip tea in the Cameron Highlands , and saunter down the river in Kota Kinabalu in search of wild orangutans. From Peninsular Malaysia to the island of Borneo, this is undoubtedly one of Southeast Asia’s most varied and underrated countries.

Malaysia is the original melting pot, a heady blend of Malay, Indian, Chinese, Hokkien and indigenous cultures. If you’re a handicraft lover like me, best leave some serious space in your suitcase for souvenir shopping . Iban baskets from Kuching and ikat and batik textiles are my picks.

Walk the streets of Ipoh , my favourite city in Malaysia, with its heritage architecture and hawker markets, and roam the five-foot ways for legendary street art in Penang . Maybe it’s the Milo or milky tea served with a cracker on the side, but Malaysia always makes me pine for a childhood I never had. Anywhere you land, the nostalgia is almost as thick as the cloying humidity.

Malaysia Travel Guide: Colourful Hindu temples in Kuala Lumpur.

Malaysia travel essentials

Please note: Some of these links are affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). Learn more .

December-February (winter) or October/November (shoulder season).

How long in Malaysia?

2 full days for KL; 10-14 days for the highlights; 3-4 weeks for a good overview.

Daily budget

40-50 USD per person per day (mid-range hotel; local meals; bus fares; museum tickets).

Getting there

Fly into KL or Penang; train or bus from Singapore or Thailand.

Malaysia visa

Visa-free for most passports (stay for 30/90 days).

Getting around

Domestic flights (AirAsia), high-speed train or bus.

Where to stay

Hostels, family-run guesthouses or hotels.

Tours & experiences

Street food tours, tea fields and culture walks.

Explore Malaysia

Discover all the best things to do (and eat!) in Malaysia with my latest travel guides.

Street art depicting cats in Penang.

Penang Culture Guide: 6 Unique Things to Do in Penang

The best things to do in Ipoh – my 3-day Ipoh itinerary is tailored for food, architecture & street art lovers. Includes transport & hotel info.

Things to Do in Ipoh: The Perfect Ipoh Itinerary for Food, Art & Culture

Where to go in Malaysia:

Where to Go in Malaysia: Top 30 Unmissable Destinations

travel guides australia malaysia

What to Buy in Malaysia: Best Local & Authentic Malaysia Souvenirs

Photo credit: elcarito/Unsplash

KL Layover Guide: Essential Info, Plus 9 Alternative Things to Do on a Layover in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Two women dressed in colourful costumes for Carnival in Rio.

60+ World Rituals, Festivals & Ceremonies Worth Travelling For (Part 3)

My malaysia favourites.

Cameron Highlands tea fields & jungle trek.

Must-eat meal

Laksa & Popiah (spring rolls) in Kuching.

local experience

Over-ordering at a hawker market.

best souvenirs

Rattan baskets & ikat or batik textiles.

Guan Di Temple (also known as Kuan Ti Temple) with incense sticks in Chinatown, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

©J. Lekavicius/Shutterstock

Dynamic cities, fabulous food, beautiful beaches, idyllic islands and national parks with wildlife-packed rainforests – all of this can be found in Malaysia.

Best Time to Visit

Best places to visit, your next trip starts here.

Go from dreaming to planning with trip planning options made to help you craft your ideal itinerary.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Mother orang-utan carrying baby and bamboo

Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre

Around 25km north of Sandakan, and covering 40 sq km of the Kabili-Sepilok Forest Reserve, this inspiring, world-famous centre welcomes orphaned and…

Door and blue wall, Penang, Malaysia

Blue Mansion

George Town

The most photographed building in George Town, this magnificent 38-room, 220-window mansion was built in the 1880s and rescued from ruin in the 1990s…

Rainforest canopy walkway

Penang National Park

At 23 sq km, this is Malaysia's smallest national park, but it's beach-fringed forests are home to silvered leaf monkeys, flying lemurs, leopard cats and…

View of waterfall at Tawau Hills Park, Sabah, Malaysia

Tawau Hills Park

This small reserve has forested hills rising dramatically from the surrounding plain. If getting into the Maliau Basin or Danum Valley feels like too much…

Kinabatangan Sabah Malaysia May 9, 2016 : Carved coffin made from belian tree believed to be about 500-690 years old at ancient burial cave Agop Batu Tulug in Kinabatangan Sabah.; Shutterstock ID 419637439; Your name (First / Last): Lauren Vastine; GL account no.: 65050; Netsuite department name: Online Editorial; Full Product or Project name including edition: BiA Imagery

Agop Batu Tulug

This hill, 2km north of the Batuh Putih bridge, features three caves housing the ancestors of local Orang Sungai (People of the River). Because the…

Medan Tuanku Station, Menara KL Tower.

Chinatown, Merdeka Square & Bukit Nanas

Although the Petronas Towers are taller, the 421m Menara KL, rising from the crest of Bukit Nanas, offers the best city views. The bulb at the top…

The Stadthuys and clocktower in Town Square.

Melaka City

This former town hall and governor's residence dates to the 1650s and is believed to be the oldest Dutch building in the East. It functioned as State…

[UNVERIFIED CONTENT] Masjid Jamek is the oldest mosque in Kuala Lumpur. It is located at the confluence of the Klang and Gombak river. It was built in 1907 and officially open by the then Sultan Selangor in 1909.

Masjid Jamek Sultan Abdul Samad

This graceful, onion-domed mosque, designed by British architect AB Hubback, borrows Mogul and Moorish styles with its brick-and-plaster banded minarets…

Top picks from our travel experts

15 of the best things to do in malaysia.

Boh Sungei Palas Tea Estate

Boh Sungei Palas Tea Estate

Cameron Highlands

If there's time for only one tea-themed experience in the highlands, make it this spectacularly situated plantation, with its own tea interpretation…

Boh Tea Garden

Boh Tea Garden

Velvety green views are glorious from this out-of-the-way tea plantation, though it's a long drive to get here (allow 40 minutes from Tanah Rata and use…

Panorama Langkawi

Panorama Langkawi

Pulau Langkawi

The highlight of this family-friendly amusement park is SkyCab, a cable car that whisks visitors to the top of Gunung Machinchang (713m). For an extra RM6…

Lorong Baru Hawker Stalls

Lorong Baru Hawker Stalls

Ask locals where their favourite hawker stalls are and most will pick this night-time street extravaganza. It's a great spot for ikan bakar (grilled…

Ramayana Cave

Ramayana Cave

No cave at Batu is more spectacularly embellished than Ramayana Cave, which boasts psychedelic dioramas of the Indian epic 'Ramayana'. Pass the green, 15m…

China House

China House

You can't really say you've been out in George Town until you've stepped inside China House. This block-wide amalgamation of shophouses is packed with hip…

Bako National Park

Bako National Park

Bako National Park is one of the best places in Sarawak to see rainforest animals in their native habitats. It's notable for its incredible biodiversity,…

Anjung Gurney Night Market

Anjung Gurney Night Market

Penang's most famous hawker complex sits just past the Gurney Plaza mall, cooled by breezes wafting in off the sea. It buzzes with stalls serving Muslim…

MALACCA, MALAYSIA - MAY 19: A view of Christ Church & Dutch Square on May 19, 2012 in Malacca, Malaysia. It was built in 1753 by Dutch & is the oldest 18th century Protestant church in Malaysia.; Shutterstock ID 111271517; Your name (First / Last): Lauren Gillmroe; GL account no.: 56530; Netsuite department name: Online-Design; Full Product or Project name including edition: 65050/ Online Design /LaurenGillmore/POI

Christ Church

Built in 1753 from laterite bricks brought from Zeeland in Holland, this eye-catching cherry-pink church is one of the most photographed and imposing…

Deer Cave & Lang Cave

Deer Cave & Lang Cave

Gunung Mulu National Park

A 3km walk through the rainforest takes you to these adjacent caverns. Deer Cave – over 2km long and 174m high – is the world’s largest cave passage open…

Royal Belum State Park view from Menara Tinjau Pulau Tali Kail.

Royal Belum State Park

This 1175-sq-km park within Belum-Temenggor Rainforest was gazetted in 2007 to protect a rich menagerie of tigers, tapirs, panthers and the Sumatran rhino…

Sultanate Palace

Sultanate Palace

This wooden replica of the palace of Sultan Mansur Shah, who ruled Melaka from 1456 to 1477, houses an open-air cultural museum and lovely gardens. The…

Borneo Sun Bear Conservation Centre

Borneo Sun Bear Conservation Centre

The wonderful BSBCC provides care to rescued sun bears (44 at the time of writing), the world's second-most endangered bear. It's possible to see the…

Kafe Heng Huat

Kafe Heng Huat

Outside Kafe Heng Huat you'll find Soon Chuan Choo who, in her trademark red chef's hat, has been turning out some of Penang's best char kway teow (rice…

Cameron Valley Tea House 1

Cameron Valley Tea House 1

Views over the plantation are breathtaking from this easy roadside pullover on the road between Ringlet and Tanah Rata. There are no guided tours, but you…

Male Proboscis monkey at Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary.

Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary

A local palm-plantation owner has created a private proboscis monkey sanctuary, attracting the floppy-conked locals with sugar-free pancakes at 9.30am and…

Dutch Square

Dutch Square

The focal point of the Unesco Heritage zone, this attractive and elegant square is surrounded by Dutch-era buildings that have been painted crimson, shady…

Masjid Ubudiah

Masjid Ubudiah

With bands of Italian marble and enormous gold domes, Masjid Ubudiah is a contender for the title of Malaysia's prettiest mosque. Commissioned by Perak’s…

Temple Cave

Temple Cave

Centrepiece of the Batu Caves complex and one of Malaysia's most photographed sights, Temple Cave sits atop 272 colourful steps populated by scampering…

Hameediyah

Hameediyah dates back to 1907 and is supposedly the oldest place serving nasi kandar (curries served over rice) in Penang, though the current restaurant…

Singapore, Singapore - January 17, 2016 : Maritime Museum in Malacca City, Malaysia; Shutterstock ID 498671809; Your name (First / Last): Lauren Gillmroe; GL account no.: 56530; Netsuite department name: Online-Design; Full Product or Project name including edition: 65050/ Online Design /LaurenGillmore/POI

Maritime Museum & Naval Museum

Embark on a voyage through Melaka's maritime history at these linked museums, all covered by the one ticket. The most enjoyable of the Maritime Museum's…

Planning Tools

Expert guidance to help you plan your trip.

Best Things to Do

Experience the very best of Malaysia's astonishing landscapes, cultures and cuisines with these top things to do.

Things to Know

From what to pack to social etiquette, here is everything you need to know before visiting Malaysia.

Transportation

Malaysia is divided between the Malay peninsula and tropical Sabah and Sarawak on Borneo, but getting around is easy with these simple tips.

Visa Requirements

A great place for impulsive travelers, many nationals can enter Malaysia visa-free for up to 90 days.

Money and Costs

Malaysia should really be better known as a budget travel destination. It's easy to travel around, stay and eat cheaply with these top budget tips.

Best Road Trips

You can explore Malaysia without stepping inside a car but exploring with your own wheels opens up a tropical world. Here are Malaysia's best road trips.

Latest stories from Malaysia

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Malaysia and beyond

Batu Caves, Malaysia - Nov 04, 2019: Access area and entrance to the stairs to the Batu Caves, guarded by the huge Sri Muruga statue, Gombak District, Selangor, Malaysia

Malaysia Travel Guide: Tips for the Ultimate Itinerary

Malaysia Travel Guide: Tips for the Ultimate Itinerary

Malaysia, a country of incredible landscapes, colonial towns, delicious food, tropical islands, and friendly people. Because of its rich cultural history, Malaysia is now famous for its cuisine, a mix of Chinese, Indian, and Indonesian traditions. As a holiday destination, Malaysia is still under the radar compared to its neighbors Singapore and Thailand. Its infrastructure is well-developed, which makes for an effortless travel experience. Here’s the complete 2-Week Malaysia Travel Guide.

A 2-week Malaysia itinerary

Two weeks is an ideal length for getting to know West Malaysia. Here’s a day-to-day Malaysia Route Guide.

Note: this travel guide only covers West Malaysia and not Borneo.

travel guides australia malaysia

Here’s our two-week route map of Malaysia. Discover the route’s highlights and what locations you will be visiting in the country if you follow this travel guide.

Malaysia route map travel guide

Day 1 – 2: Kuala Lumpur

Touchdown in the majestic, buzzing capital of Malaysia. Kuala Lumpur is a cultural mix of people of Chinese, Indian , and Malay descent. As a result, English is a commonly spoken language throughout the entire country.

Read: 15 Things To Do in Kuala Lumpur

malaysia travel guide kuala lumpur

Visit the Batu Caves and the stunning Chinese Thean Hou Temple during the first two days of your Malaysia travel itinerary. 

See availability and tickets for a tour of Batu Caves

Where to Stay in Kuala Lumpur

Bukit Bintang and Brickfields are the two main areas to find a hotel in Kuala Lumpur. They are close to the city center, connected to the metro, and some sights are doable on foot. 

Hotels in Kuala Lumpur 😴

Tian Jing Hotel

Ritz Carlton is right in the middle of the city, next to the shopping mall. It offers multiple pools, a spa, a gym, comfortable beds, and a delicious buffet.

malaysia travel route guide batu caves

Day 3 – 4: Malacca

The charming riverside city of Malacca is a mix of colorful buildings, street art, and architecture of historical significance. The very walkable city center of Malacca is an official UNESCO Heritage site, and although a bit off the usual Malaysia travel route, it is well worth the detour. 

Read: Two days in Malacca, things to do

things to do malacca murals kiehl melaka

Kuala Lumpur to Malacca Leave from Kuala Lumpur to Malacca on the morning of day 3. You will arrive before lunch which gives you 1.5 days to explore this small city.

Purchase your bus tickets here

Where to Stay in Malacca

It’s best to situate yourself centrally so as to be within walking distance from all the attractions. There is a nice atmosphere by the river, and plenty of hostels and guesthouses are situated here.

Hotels in Malacca 😴

1825 Gallery Hotel

Guesthouses in Melaka are very reasonably priced and of good quality. However, there are more upmarket hotel options that sit a little further out of the center.

malacca jonker street

Day 5 – 6: Cameron Highlands

Make your way up into the highlands of Malaysia. The cooler, wetter climate, and fertile ground make this an area ideal for tea plantations. The Cameron Highlands is, therefore, famous for its never-ending tea plantations and stunning hiking trails.

Here’s how to spend your days in the Cameron Highlands

cameron highlands Jungle Trail Jim Thompson

Malacca to Cameron Highlands From Malacca to Cameron Highlands is a long, but straightforward, 5-hour drive. To break up the long journey, stop at the Genting Highlands to see the Chin Swee Caves Temple. However, we would only recommend this if you travel by car. Rent a car here .

Or purchase your bus tickets

cameron highlands resort tea plantations picnic

The Genting Highlands

The Genting Highlands is popular on the weekends with Malaysians for the gigantic malls, casinos, and hotels. Avoid these parts and, instead, take the cable car up the mountain to the Chin Swee Temple. This colorful tiered pagoda stands tall at the summit, providing beautiful views of the thick, green forest beneath the Titiwangsa Mountains. 

We recommend to rent a car in Malaysia through Sunny Cars with free cancellation and insurance included. Book your rental car here .

Chin Swee Temple

How to get to Chin Swee Cave Temple 

The gondola leaves from the Awana car park , every day from 7 AM until midnight. Thrillseekers can choose to travel in the glass-bottomed gondola for the price of RM 50 per person. The normal gondola costs a much cheaper RM8 per person.

Where to Stay in the Cameron Highlands

The 3 main towns that make up the Cameron Highlands are Tanah Rata, Brinchang, and Ringlet. A variety of low-range- mid-range accommodation is available in each of the three.

Choose your location based on the sights you would most like to see. For example, Ringlet is closest to the BOH tea plantation, whereas most of the waterfalls are situated closer to Tanah Rata.

Hotels in Cameron Highlands 😴

Cameron Highlands Resort

The true Cameron Highlands experience can be found at the Cameron Highlands Resort , a colonial-style mansion with beautiful interiors in keeping with the history of the area.

genting highlands skyway

Day 7: Ipoh – An undiscovered Malaysia travel spot

Go off the beaten path and visit Georgetown’s little brother, Ipoh. Wander down the colonial streets of Ipoh old town, where art and street food dominate the scene. Follow this with a visit to one of the temples carved into the limestone. 

Read more: Ipoh – Things to do

ipoh malaysia umbrella street

Cameron Highlands to Ipoh From Cameron Highlands to Ipoh takes 2 hours. Take the bus or car to Ipoh in the afternoon of day 6 so you have the 7th day to explore the highlights of Ipoh.

Get your bus tickets in advance

Where to Stay in Ipoh

There is a diverse range of budget hostels to luxury resorts within Ipoh, set within the town’s bustling center or set amongst the serene nature.

Hotels in Ipoh 😴

M Boutique Ipoh

As a recommended stay in Ipoh is around 2 days, it’s best to situate yourself in one of the many good quality guest houses within the old town as a base to explore.

ipoh malaysia Sam Poh Tong Cave Temple

Day 8 – 10: Georgetown, Penang

Georgetown is a beautiful city located on Penang , an island just off the coast of Malaysia. World-famous for its street art trail, it has rightly become one of the must-visit places in Malaysia.

Take to the streets for incredible murals, beautiful temples, and a mouth-watering street food scene! And when you’re done with the city, visit some of the small white-sand beaches or the national park. 

Everything about Georgetown, Penang

things to do penang georgetown street art

Ipoh to Georgetown To get from Ipoh to Georgetown, you can take a direct bus to the center of town. The island is connected to the mainland by a bridge, so there is no need to catch a boat.

Get your bus tickets

Alternatively, go for a more fun experience by taking a 2-hour train to Butterworth and catching the ferry to Penang from there.

Where to Stay in Georgetown

A hotel or guesthouse in Georgetown is best to find within the old town if you’d like to be close to all the top things to do.

Hotels in Georgetown 😴

Hotel Cheong Fatt Tze

Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion is a beautiful hotel to stay in and conveniently located within walking distance of the street art trail and other iconic sites.

things to do penang malaysia Kek Lok Si Temple

Day 11 – 14: Langkawi

The final part of your time in Malaysia is absolute paradise! Visit the 99 islands of the Langkawi archipelago. Discover stunning beaches, take boat trips amongst the limestone islands or through the mangrove, visit waterfalls, and take the world’s steepest cable car.

Find out about all the things to do in Langkawi

things to do langkawi sunset cruise

Georgetown to Langkawi Before, there used to be a super-fast ferry between Penang Island and Langkawi. However, nowadays, the only way to get there is to hop on a quick plane ride to the archipelago.

Where to Stay in Langkawi

Langkawi is a large island and offers many options for accommodation.

Hotels in Langkawi 😴

Cloud 9 Hotel

Stay close to Cenang Beach so you’re close to all the restaurants or at the north coast to have a more secluded experience away from the crowd.

langkawi seven wells pools

Alternative Malaysia route options

Is your time in Malaysia limited? Remove Ipoh and/or Malacca from the itinerary to cut down your trip to 10 days.

Costs of traveling in Malaysia

Traveling around Malaysia is, in general, very affordable. The price depends largely on your choice of accommodation, transport, and tours. Expect to travel on a budget of 15 – 30 USD per person and 35 – 75 USD for a bit more comfort.

Costs of Traveling in Malaysia

Travel on a budget in Malaysia, from $180 − $320 USD weekly per person, mid-range $530 − $1650 USD, and high-end from $1650 − $2550 USD. However, costs depend on factors like accommodation, transportation, and activities. We did not include flights. Check flight prices here

  • Hotels: $30 − $200 USD Check available hotels
  • Hostels: $7 − $20 USD Check available hostels
  • Transport: $5 − $15 USD Book public transport
  • Car Rental: $50 − $100 USD Book a rental car
  • Food: $5 − $20 USD
  • Activities: $5 − $35 USD See tickets & tours
  • Sim: $1 − $3 USD Get an eSIM or SIM here
  • Travel Insurance: $2 − $6 USD Get Travel Insurance

things to do malacca trishaw transport

How to get around in Malaysia

The infrastructure of Malaysia is well-developed and makes getting from A to B a piece of cake!

By public transport

There are train and public bus connections between all major tourist destinations. When you’re in need of help, it’s good to know that the majority of Malaysians speak a bit of English.

Book your buses and trains here

langkawi ferry malaysia

Getting around by car is also a great option since the roads are well-maintained. It also gives you greater flexibility and freedom to explore some lesser-known spots.

train kuala lumpur penang

Best time to visit Malaysia

Malaysia has a warm and humid climate of 25 – 32 degrees throughout the entire year. The best time to visit West Malaysia is between December and March.

You can escape the heat by going into the highlands, where temperatures range from 15 – 25 degrees. Try to avoid the wet season from April to October. * Please note that this does not apply to Borneo. 

things to do penang Kek Lok Si Temple buddha

Do I need a Visa to travel to Malaysia?

Most nationalities do not have to apply for a Malaysian Visa. There are a few countries that need to apply for an e-Visa, which is an easy process.

Check here if you need a visa for Malaysia

Safety in Malaysia

Malaysia is a safe country to travel to. Crime is low, as is the number of pickpockets, and you should feel safe to roam around and walk freely. The people are friendly and will help you as much as they can.

Here’s how to:   find the right travel insurance

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  • Find Hotels via Booking.com
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  • Book Tours & Attractions via Viator
  • Book a Bus/Train/Transfer via 12Go

15 Things To Do in Kuala Lumpur (3-Day Guide)

Best things to do in cameron highlands, malaysia, renting a car in malaysia in 2024: all you need to know.

Looking for more travel information? Plan a chat with us for personalised travel advice or get an answer from the Salt in our Hair Travel Community on Facebook.

Hello ☺️ how did you move around Malaysia? A mix of train, bus and rental car? I am a bit scared of driving there but also would love to visit so many places… Thanks!

Hey! Yes, a mix of all, however, I think you can get to all of the places in this guide with public transport!

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Jones Around The World

MALAYSIA Travel Guide: Trip Highlights, Itineraries, & Tips

travel guides australia malaysia

Welcome to Malaysia!

Malaysia is an amazing and diverse country that has something to offer everyone.  If you’re looking for amazing food, gorgeous islands, and beautiful landscapes — Malaysia is a destination you should highly consider for your next holiday.  I have traveled pretty extensively through Peninsular Malaysia, and it has grown to become one of my favorite countries in entire world!  I’ve compiled this Malaysia Travel Guide as a source for people planning trips to this amazing country.

This guide will go over trip highlights, how to get around Malaysia, Malaysia itineraries, and general travel advice!

Hope you enjoy reading my Malaysia Travel Guide and favorite photos from my travels!

Note:  This Malaysia Travel Guide will focus entirely on Peninsular Malaysia.  I have never traveled to Sabah or Sarawak, and am not too well informed about those areas of the country. 

Traveling to Malaysia soon…?  I’d definitely recommend purchasing the Malaysia Lonely Planet Travel Guide !  I pretty much always travel with a LP guidebook, and it can definitely a huge asset on the road!

Malaysia Travel Itinerary

Pulau Kapas, Malaysia

 Malaysia Trip Highlights

Kuala lumpur.

Malaysia itinerary

You’ll most likely be starting your Malaysian holidays in the amazing capital city — Kuala Lumpur.  This is truly a special place with friendly people, beautiful sights, and delicious food (just like the rest of Malaysia).  During my travels in South-East Asia , I was lucky enough to call this city home for awhile.  The first time I visited Kuala Lumpur I actually didn’t enjoy the city too much, but after spending more time there I discovered how special the city really is.

Check out the following blog posts I’ve written:

  • 10 Amazing Things to do in Kuala Lumpur
  • Heli Lounge, Kuala Lumpur; Drinks + Sunset on a Helipad
  • The Absolute Best Thing To Do in Kuala Lumpur

TOP KUALA LUMPUR TIP

Sign up for AirBNB , and stay at the REGALIA CONDOMINIUM .  I used to live there, and it’s by far the best place to stay in Kuala Lumpur.

It’s luxury complex that has all the amenities you’d want, perfectly located, and  has the most amazing infinity pool.   There is a mall right next door with a grocery store, movie theater, and tons of other shops.  Also, if you sign up for AirBNB with this link , you’ll get $38 off your first visit!   Which is easily a free-nights accommodation at The Regalia!   Trust me.  You want to stay here!

Best Hostel in Kuala Lumpur

Reggae Mansion

  Perfect location, amazing rooms, and wildly crazy rooftop parties every night!  If you’re backpacking around Malaysia, than you have to stay at Reggae Mansion!  This place does sell out, so check rates & availability !

Malaysia itinerary

Penang is the cultural hotspot in Malaysia!  You’ll fall in love with it’s busy streets, beautiful artwork, and enchanting history.  Oh, and the food is absolutely amazing.   Most people come to Penang only planning a few day stay, but end up staying much longer than they expected.  You can spend a day on Batu Ferringi beach, hike through the National Park, and take the journey up to Penang Hill for spectacular views of the entire city.        

Best things to do in Penang:

  • Beach day and sunset on Batu Ferringi Beach
  • Spend some time hiking through the National Park
  • Take a visit to Penang Hill for spectacular views of the city
  • Stroll through Georgetown and check out all the artwork
  • Eat at Penang’s famous hawker stalls

Best Hostel in Penang

Ryokan Muntri Boutique Hostel :   This is a recently opened hostel in Penang,and has excellent affordable rooms, very well-located in George town, and a really cool Japanese theme.  It’s got terrific reviews by everyone, and you’ll love your stay here!   Check rates & availability .

Malaysia Itinerary

Officially known as Langkawi the Jewel of Kedah, Langkawi is an archipelago of 104 islands in the Andaman Sea, around 30 km off the mainland coast of northwestern Malaysia.  It’s right at the border of Thailand, and is a popular place to visit for traveller’s going north/south between Malaysia and Thailand.  It is truly an amazing island with amazing things to do, cheap accommodations, tax-free booze, and beautiful landscape.

Check out some of my blog posts on Langkawi:

  • A Backpacker’s Guide to Langkawi, Malaysia
  • Top 5 Reasons to Backpack Langkawi
  • Berjaya Resort Crashing in Langkawi
  • Chasing Waterfalls in Langkawi

Best Hostel in Langkawi

Langkawi Dormitorio :  

Just footsteps away from the beach, this perfectly located hostel had comfortable rooms, great prices, and an excellent atmosphere!   Langkawi Dormitorio .

Cameron Highlands

Malaysia Itinerary

The Cameron Highlands is a stunning hill station in central peninsular Malaysia, and has become a popular destination for visitors in Malaysia. Roughly the size of Singapore, the Cameron Highlands covers a large stretch of land, and there’s tons to see, do, and explore.  You’ll fall in love with the beautiful green tea plantations, and will leave you speechless when you visit the highest peak in the Cameron Highlands

For more information on the Cameron Highlands, check out the guide below!

  • A Backpacker’s Guide to the Cameron Highlands

Best Hostel in The Cameron Highlands:

CH Traveler’s INN :  

A newly opened hostel in the center of Tanah Rata, and simply the best place to stay on a budget for traveler’s visiting the Cameron Highlands!   Check rates & availability .

Taman Negara

Teman Negara National Park is the perfect place for travelers who love wild life viewing, jungle trekking, hiking, rock climbing, fishing, camping and many more. It is well established as one of the most popular ecotourism in Malaysia.  Popular activities include the canopy walk, jungle trekking, rapid shooting, cave exploration, and boat cruises.

Recommend days spent here:  1-2 days max

Check out the Teman Negara National Park website for more information

The Perhentian Islands

Perhentian Islands, Malaysia

Welcome to paradise.  The Perhentian Islands consist of both Perhentian Kecil & Perhentian Besar.  They are both absolutely stunning, and the minute you step foot on of the two islands you’ll never want to leave.   I’ve visited Perhentian Kecil on two different occasions now, and I definitely would not mind going back for a third.  The beaches are gorgeous, the atmosphere is relaxing, and the nightlife can get pretty crazy.

Perhentian Kecil is more for a younger crowd.  It’s much more lively at night and has an incredible fireshow.  Perhentian Besar has a lot more resorts, and is a bit more family oriented.

If you’re going to Malaysia — you’d be mistaken to skip the Perhentian Islands!

Check out my blog posts on this paradise island!

  • A Backpacker’s Guide to the Perhentian Islands
  • The Perhentian Islands: Perfectly Picturesque (Photo Essay)

Pulau Kapas

Pulau Kapas, Malaysia

Pulau Kapas is an idyllic island escape for those looking for a bit more of a remote location.  You won’t find any big crazy resorts, fast wi-fi connection, or luxury restaurants.  What you will be rewarded with is amazingly beautiful water, suburb underwater life, and an extremely laidback atmosphere.  Pulau Kapas is truly a Malaysian gem, and I guarantee if you go for a couple days you won’t regret it!

For more information about traveling to Pulau Kapas:

  • The Ultimate Guide to Pulau Kapas, Malaysia
  • Longsha Beach Camping on Pulau Kapas, Malaysia
  • Pulau Kapas: The Most Beautiful Island in Malaysia (Photo Essay)

Tioman Island

Malaysia Travel

If you’ve looking for some more island action, than definitely make your way over to Tioman Island.  It isn’t as gorgeous as the Perhentians or Kapas, but it has some of the best scuba-diving sites in the whole country.  The island is pretty massive, and is a 2-hour ferry ride from the mainland.  It is a DUTY-FREE island, which makes drinking on this island pretty cheap!  It’s a popular destination for weekend trips from Singapore and Kuala Lumpur, so book in advance if you plan on being there on a Saturday & Sunday.  If you do plan on going, I’d definitely recommend staying on ABC Beach.

When I was there, I happened to catch really bad weather, and had some transportation issues.  I still had a great trip.  Read about it below:

  • A Weekend Trip to Tioman Island

Melaka is just a short bus ride away from Kuala Lumpur, and can be a great place to spend one night.  It’s small enough to walk around, explore, and try some delicious food.  There’s not a whole lot to see here, but it’s definitely worth the visit.

To plan your visit, check out this post titled:

  • Top 15 Places To See in Melaka

Getting Around Malaysia

The Malaysian transportation is some of the best I’ve found in all of South-East Asia.  Prices are relatively low, there’s tons of options, and they are all relatively comfortable.

Flights / Airfare

Malaysia is actually a really easy country to book extremely cheap domestic flights.

  • Malindo Air

If you know your exact dates, you can actually get great flight deals.  Malindo Air is really great and includes 1 20kh checked bag.  These are particularly useful for flights to/from Kuala Lumpur.

Perhentian Islands

Perhentian Islands

Traveling around Malaysia on the bus transport is actually really easy, budget friendly, and comfortable.  There are loads of different companies that offer a ton of different routes.  None of the journeys take that long, and the busses can actually be really nice.  For bus schedules, routes, and fares, check out the website below.  I’ve booked online tickets with them, and made the process extremely easy.  You can just show the email confirmation at the bus station, and receive your ticket.

  • EasyBook.com

Pulau Kapas

  • Hitchhiking in Malaysia

Just like in any destination, you should be careful when hitching a ride alone.  With that being said, Hitchhiking in Malaysia can be done, and it’s actually not too difficult.  I met these Spanish girls on Pulau Kapas who found a ride all the way from Teman Negara – Kuala Terranganu.  It’s not that it saves a ton of money, but it’s a great way to meet some local people, and have a unique travel experience.  For more information on Hitchhiking in Malaysia check the website below:

Kuala Lumpur

Jalan Alor in Kuala Lumpur

  • Trains in Malaysia

I’ve actually never taken a train in Malaysia, but I have heard that the system works out.  I almost boarded a train from Penang – Kuala Lumpur, but ended up extending my stay in Penang, and finding a flight that was cheaper than the train!  I honestly think that dealing with trains on other routes would just get complicated, so I’d just personally recommend Flights and Busses over taking trains in Malaysia.

Sunset on Tioman Island

Sunset on Tioman Island

Renting A Car

I’ve never rented a car and explored Malaysia on my own (mainly because I’m a solo budget traveler), but I have had some friends rent a van and go on weekend trips from Kuala Lumpur.  It’s definitely not the best option for everyone,

Jeep Excursions in the Cameron Highlands

Jeep Excursions in the Cameron Highlands

Malaysia Trip Itineraries

If you look at each of these locations on a map, you can see that it actually fits pretty well

One Week Malaysia Itinerary

If you are only in Malaysia for a brief visit, than you want to enjoy your holiday.  My advice would be to enjoy 2-3 days in Kuala Lumpur, and fly to either Penang for 3-4 days.  You don’t want to rush around each destination, because you will want enough time to enjoy each place and do all the activities.

Two Week Malaysia Itinerary

Days 1-3 — Kuala Lumpur

Take a morning bus to Teman Negara

Days 4-5 — Teman Negara

Book the early bus ticket to the Cameron Highlands

Days 6-7 —  Exploring the Cameron Highlands

Book the early departure bus to Penang

Days 8-10 — Penang

Catch the two hour ferry to Langkawi

Days 11-13 — Langkawi

Catch a domestic flight from Langkawi to Kuala Lumpur

Day 14 // End of Trip — Kuala Lumpur for your outgoing flight..

travel guides australia malaysia

Island Hopping Boats in Langkawi

Three Week Malaysia Itinerary

Book transportation to Marang Jetty for access to Pulau Kapas (Close to Kuala Terranganu)

Days 8-10 — Pulau Kapas & Gem Island

Book early morning boat back to mainland, and get to main bus station.  Book transport to Perhentian Islands

Days 11-15 — The Perhentians Islands

Book Domestic Flight from Kuala Terrananu Airport – Penang.  Cheap fares available if booked in advanced. 

Days 16-17 – Penang

Days 18-20 — Langkawi

Day 21 // End of Trip — Kuala Lumpur for your outgoing flight..

Water & Lights show at KLCC

Water & Lights show at KLCC

One Month in Malaysia Itinerary

If you have a full month in Malaysia, I honestly would just recommend to follow the 3-week itinerary, but travel slower.  This will also allow flexibility with the domestic flights, and also spending less time on travel.  I would also recommend staying in Kuala Lumpur for an extra couple days, and doing a one-day trip to Melaka.  If you want to see it all, you can switch up this itinerary to add Pulau Tioman, but I would honestly skip it.  I found it to be really touristy, difficult to get to, and there are much better islands and beaches in Malaysia.

If you have even more time in Malaysia, look out for cheap domestic flights over to Borneo.  You could scuba-dive off the coasts of the world famous Sipadan island, or hike the highest peak in Malaysia — Mt. Kinabalu!

General Malaysia Travel Advice

Eat as much as you possibly can!  The food in Malaysia is absolutely incredible.  When you get to Kuala Lumpur, check out a Nasi Kandar and try the various curries, Roti Canai, and Nasi Lemak!

Interact with the locals!  Malaysian people are extremely friendly, and generally speak really great English!  They are very open and welcome to tourism, and can be a great experience.

Understand you are in a Muslim country!  Be respectful with your clothing!

Get a local SIM card!  Malaysia has a wide variety of phone plans, and it will come in handy to have 3G / 4G internet when your traveling.  I’d recommend Tune Talk.  There are great prices and deals, and it’s good coverage.

Download my Free E-Book — 77 Amazing, Helpful, Money-Saving Tips for Backpacking South-East Asia .  This goes over a ton of valuable information for Malaysia!

If you haven’t figured it out by reading this post, I have traveled pretty extensively throughout Malaysia.   I think it’s an amazing country, and am always thinking about going soon and exploring different parts.  I’m actually dying to get over to Borneo, but I’m sure that time will come eventually.

If you’re ever planning a trip to Malaysia, feel free to Contact Me with any questions!

Thanks for reading!

Share the Malaysian Love!  

One Month in Malaysia

What a great resource! Malaysia is toward the top of my travel list…hopefully I’ll have the time to do the 3 or 4-week itinerary!

Thanks for the great info!

Glad you like it Sarah! :) When you do go to Malaysia, I guarantee you’ll love it! It’s such an amazing country, and so much fun to travel around! Enjoy!

Glad I could help out man! It really is an amazing country! I can’t wait to get back and explore even more.

Thanks for the information. It is really helpful. I am planing to go to Malaysia next month but i only have a week. Perhentian islans sounds like an amaizing place. I am between going there or visit Bali. What do you reckon? Thanks

Regards Gara

Hmm. Bali or Perhentian? Tough Decision. TO be honest, I’d probably choose Bali because you can do a whole lot more in one week. Bali is kinda small, but packed with stuff to do. Perhentian is more of a chill-out, diving destination. Let me know if you have any other questions.

Hello, I am crazy about looking for amazing food, gorgeous islands, and beautiful landscapes ans Malaysia is my dream destination. your blog has very rich content which includes numerous photographs of spots, Island, culture..and many more. Nicely organized and detailed blog.

Thanks so much Jesse! Awesome to hear my site is helping you out! :-)

Hey thanks man for giving this list.I will go Malaysia with my friends in next years.But i don’t know which place to start travel.But after read this i got a brief idea.I will go for 15 days tour.Hope you list will fulfill my journey.Can you give me a list of affordable hotels of Malaysia?

Hey Tina, I normally stayed in hostels because I was a super budget traveler in Asia, lol. I’d just check booking.com and read reviews and everything. :-)

Hi if u wanna come to malaysia and need me to guide you just whatsapp me – +601129293631 or dm me on instagram @hakimzakaria98

What an awesome blog! I’m heading to KL tomorrow from Sebah, I only have a week and at abit of a loss with figuring out what i can squeeze in and what not to miss. This is really helpful, so much info all in one place.

Thankyou! :)

So happy to help! Enjoy Malaysia! :-)

Hi! I’m Thien from Vietnam. I was in Malaysia a couple of years ago. Your sharing strongly reminds me of my traveling experiences when in Malay. Thanks greatly for that!

Would you like to try out some wonderful places in Vietnam? Check out this Things to do in Vietnam for various useful suggestions.

Hope that you can visit and explore our country one day.

Wow! Nice post! I love KUALA LUMPUR in Malaysia. It is my favorite place! Me and my Keymalaysia team already visited there!

Been in love with Malaysia ever since our first visit. Their beaches and rich culture is outstanding! Definitely coming back soon. So many more islands and sites to explore. Such a detailed and informative post you have! Kudos!

Hey, this blog is so helpful!!

We’ve got 2 weeks in Malaysia, we’d like to go to Penang, Langkawi, Perhentian Kecil, Pulau Kapas and of course Kuala Lumpur which we fly in and out of. Could you give me any info on how to get from each place please?

Any advice would be great thankyou!

Do u have a travel agency ? or just a traveler ?

Nice Malaysia Travel post author. Thank you. Keep it up.

Nice post author.Thank you.

I adore Malaysia – the beaches, food, street art and culture is the best, not to mention the scuba diving! Your guide has inspired me to return when I can, thanks Jones!

Thanks so much for this! Very useful guide  

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Malaysia Travel Guide

Last Updated: September 2, 2023

Colorful historic temples in Malaysia on a sunny day with rolling green hills in the background

Malaysia is one of the most underrated destinations in Southeast Asia . While the country does see a fair share of backpackers, it sees only a fraction compared to popular neighbors Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam.

In my opinion, people are missing out.

From the dense urban jungle of Kuala Lumpur to the pristine beaches of the Perhentian Islands , from the jungles in the interior to the delicious food, Malaysia has a ton to offer travelers.

Explore tea plantations in the Cameron Highlands , trek through the vast national parks of Gunung Mulu and Taman Negara, and admire incredible wildlife, including tigers, elephants, sun bears, and more.

Or head to Borneo to look for wild orangutans, hike through the rainforest, and marvel at the knife-sharp peak of Mount Kinabalu.

All too often, travelers breeze through Malaysia on their way to places like Thailand or Singapore. I’d encourage you not to make that same mistake as there is a ton to see and do here — and it’s all super affordable.

This Malaysia travel guide will give you the best places to visit, help you save money, and ensure you make the most of your time in this incredible destination!

Table of Contents

  • Things to See and Do
  • Typical Costs
  • Suggested Budget
  • Money-Saving Tips
  • Where to Stay
  • How to Get Around
  • How to Stay Safe
  • Best Places to Book Your Trip
  • Related Blogs on Malaysia

Click Here for City Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in malaysia.

The stunning skyline of Kuala Lumpur lit up at night featuring the Petronas Towers

1. Visit Kuala Lumpur

Chances are you’ll be spending at least a few nights in Malaysia’s capital, Kuala Lumpur . Visit the iconic Petronas Twin Towers, see the famous Sri Mahamariamman Temple, explore the Batu Caves, and see the colorful butterfly garden. It’s a great foodie city too.

2. Dive in the Perhentian Islands

These islands are hugely popular with snorkelers and divers because of their reefs and crystalline waters filled with a wide variety of coral, turtles, sharks, and reef-fish. They are getting more popular every year but are a beautiful respite from the tourist-packed islands in Thailand.

3. Visit George Town

George Town is Malaysia’s most enchanting city, with Chinese temples next to mosques and colonial British Raj architecture amongst modern skyscrapers. George Town’s crisscrossing streets teem with bustling shops, historic buildings, and busy cafes.

4. Hike Mount Kinabalu National Park

Mount Kinabalu is Malaysia’s tallest mountain and a popular hiking trek in which you make your way through dense jungle to reach the summit. Admission is 15 MYR, a climbing permit is 200 MYR, and mandatory insurance is 7 MYR. There are only a set amount of permits allowed per day and you must make go with a guide so plan ahead!

5. Tour the tea plantations

Other things to see and do in malaysia, 1. go wildlife spotting.

Malaysia has a rich diversity of wildlife. Orangutans, Malaysian tigers, Monitor Lizards, and Sumatran Rhinos are all indigenous to the country (Borneo and Sumatra and the only places in the world with wild orangutans). Malaysia’s national parks and wildlife reserves are the best places to go to see wildlife, including Taman Negara and Bako National Park. For Orangutans, go to Borneo. Most day tours cost under 500 MYR, while multi-day tours start around 1,500-2,650 MYR.

2. Dive Sipadan Island

Sipadan Island is one of the world’s best dive sites. The famous French explorer Jacques Cousteau declared the island an “untouched piece of art” — and he wasn’t wrong! Barracudas, manta rays, hammerhead sharks, whale sharks, and greenback and hawksbill turtles fill these crystal waters. Only 176 permits to dive at the island are issued each day, costing 140 MYR per person. The resorts (located on neighboring islands) each get a specific number of permits per day and require divers to stay with them for a few days, diving the surrounding areas, before they can get a Sipadan permit. A 3-dive package at Uncle Chang’s, a budget-friendly dive lodge, costs 550 MYR.

3. Explore Taman Negara National Park

At an estimated 130 million years old, Taman Negara is the oldest rainforest in the world. You can embark on the world’s largest canopy walk, take a 4×4 safari to look for elephants and tigers, go spelunking, or visit some Orang Asli villages (belonging to the country’s Indigenous peoples). Admission is 1 MYR, and 5 MYR if you want to take photos within the park.

4. Relax at Pulau Langkawi

Featured in thousands of different magazines, websites, and articles, Pulau Langkawi is a picturesque retreat on an archipelago of more than 100 islands made up of white sandy beaches and endless sunshine. Pantai Cenang is the most popular beach area, especially for its strip of restaurants, bars, and shops. For something slower, visit some of the area’s traditional villages, go snorkeling at Payar Island, or check out the Telaga Tujuh Waterfalls on the northwest side of the island. This is one of the best places in the country to relax, soak up the sun, and enjoy a slower pace of life.

5. Go whitewater rafting

Outside of diving, Malaysia is also known for its challenging whitewater rafting conditions. You can find all grades of rafting on the rivers here, and prices start around 200 MYR for a half-day excursion. Kuala Kubu Bharu River and Ulu Slim River are two popular options.

6. Understand Malaysia’s colonial roots

Malaysia has a tumultuous colonial past. The country was annexed by the Portuguese, Dutch, and British before finally gaining independence. For a deeper understanding of this history, visit Malacca (Melaka). Located just two hours from Kuala Lumpur, the city center was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008 and the Baba & Nyonya Heritage Museum offers an in-depth overview of Malaysia’s colonial past. Admission to the museum is 16 MYR.

7. Tour Borneo

Just to the east of Malaysia is Borneo, the third-largest island in the world and home to some of the most diverse rainforests on the planet. Pair that with unlimited wildlife viewing opportunities (including endangered orangutans and proboscis monkeys), and rich Indigenous culture, and you’ve got the makings of a once-in-a-lifetime trip. If you’re an experienced climber, you can also climb Mount Kinabalu, the highest mountain in Malaysia at 4,095 meters (13,400 feet) high.

8. Visit the temples

Malaysia has countless beautiful Hindu and Buddhist temples scattered all around the country. Some of the most impressive temples include the Batu Caves (Kuala Lumpur), Sri Mahamariamman (Kuala Lumpur), Thean Hou (Kuala Lumpur), Arulmigu Balathandayuthapani (George Town), and Sam Poh Tong (Ipoh). As most temples are still practicing centers of worship, appropriate dress is required to enter. Admission is always free.

9. Dine on street food

Malaysia’s mix of cultures means that there’s an incredible variety of delicious and cheap street food to enjoy here. Markets and roadside stalls are great places to pick up hawker food and dine on a budget. Kuala Lumpur, Jalan Alor, Little India, and Chinatown all have tons of inexpensive food stalls with prices starting at 2-4 MYR. You can also take a street food tour to dive in-depth into food culture and history for around 260 MYR.

10. Celebrate Deepavali

Deepavali is the Hindu festival of lights and is one of the biggest Hindu celebrations in Malaysia. Also known as Diwali, Dipavali, Dewali, Deepawali, or the Festival of Lights, it’s celebrated in October or November for five days. Traditionally, people host open houses, light candles, have fireworks displays, and serve Indian delicacies. In Kuala Lumpur, the biggest celebrations are in Brickfields (Little India).

11. Go jungle trekking

Don’t miss out on exploring Malaysia’s lush landscapes and dense forests while you’re here. The Cameron Highlands are a great place to go trekking, with 14 trekking routes heading out from the main town of Tanah Rata. Most of the hikes lead to waterfalls and scenic views, but if you want a more challenging trek, you’re required to hire a guide and obtain a permit. Eco Cameron Tours offers 4-hour group tours for 80 MYR per person, including a visit to the famous Mossy Forest (a lush forest with ferns, moss, orchids, and a pedestrian boardwalk).

12. Shop at the markets

Indoor and outdoor markets, operating both morning and night, are everywhere in Malaysia. You can get everything at the markets, from prepared food and produce to clothing and souvenirs. They’re also a great way to experience local culture. Don’t be afraid to barter and haggle – it’s what the locals do! If you don’t want to shop, come here to people-watch and take in the local pace of life.

13. Visit Masjid Negara

Malaysia’s national mosque, this huge house of worship in Kuala Lumpur has the capacity to hold 15,000 people. Opened in 1965, its bright blue star-shaped dome represents the 13 states of Malaysia and the five pillars of Islam (over 60% of Malaysia is Muslim). Non-Muslims are welcome to visit the National Mosque outside of prayer time. Be sure to dress modestly, although there are robes available to put over your clothing as well. It’s free to enter.

14. Help the sea turtles

Malaysia’s islands are great places to see turtles, either by diving, snorkeling, or volunteering. In the Perhentian Islands, the Perhentian Turtle Project accepts volunteers for multi-week stays from April to September. A two-week volunteer program costs 3,621 MYR, with food and accommodation. All money raised goes toward helping the turtles, who face extinction due to climate change, habitat loss, and pollution.

  For more information on specific cities in Malaysia, check out these guides:

  • Cameron Highlands Travel Guide
  • Kuala Lumpur Travel Guide
  • Perhentian Islands Travel Guide

Malaysia Travel Costs

People walking down the beach with clear waters and lush palm trees in Perhentian Islands, Malaysia

Accommodation – A bed in a 4-6-bed hostel dorm costs 35-70 MYR per night. A bed in a room with 10 or more beds can cost as little as 20 MYR per night. Popular destinations like the Cameron Highlands and Perhentian Islands are on the higher end of the spectrum. A private hostel room costs around 105-130 MYR per night. Free Wi-Fi and free breakfast are common, though most hostels do not have kitchens if you want to cook your own food.

Camping is popular in places like Taman Negara and the Cameron Highlands as a way to save on accommodation costs. Expect to pay around 10-35 MYR per night for a basic plot without electricity.

Budget hotels with free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and free breakfast start around 75-90 MYR per night. For a three-star hotel with more amenities (such as a swimming pool), expect to pay closer to 200-300 MYR per night.

Airbnb is available throughout the country, mainly offering entire homes and apartments catering specifically to travelers. These start at 100-160 MYR per night.

Food – Malaysian cuisine, like the country itself, features a mix of cultures. China, India, Indonesia, Thailand, and Singapore have all influenced the country’s dishes. Rice or noodles are the basis of most dishes, and seafood and fish feature prominently, especially on the islands and coastal areas. As a Muslim-majority country, chicken and beef are common and are usually halal. Popular vegetables include cabbage, bean sprouts, lotus root, sweet potatoes, taro, and long beans.

The unofficial national dish is nasi lemak , fragrant rice cooked in coconut milk, flavored with pandan leaf, and accompanied by different sides, usually served for breakfast. Other popular Malaysian dishes include roti canai (a sweet or savory flatbread), ikan bakar laksa (spicy noodle soup), and many different regional fried noodle and fried rice dishes.

Steamboat (known in other countries as hot pot), a method of dining in which you cook meat and vegetables in a boiling pot, is popular as well.

Street food (like stuffed pancakes, skewers, and bowls of noodle soup) is the cheapest and most delicious way to eat in Malaysia. Each dish costs only 5 MYR-15 MYR. Snacks like skewers cost 2-6 MYR.

You can expect to pay 10-20 MYR for a meal in a Malaysian restaurant, including food like nasi lemak and rojak (chopped fruit and dough). Simple dishes like fried noodles or a bowl of soup are no more than 13-17 MYR each.

Fast food (think McDonald’s) costs around 14 MYR for a combo meal, but other western meals can be double or triple that. Pizza, burgers, or pasta can cost up to 50 MYR.

A beer costs 13-17 MYR and a glass of wine is 20-27 MYR. Cocktails are pretty expensive at 20-45 MYR so I’d skip them if you can. A cappuccino is 8-12 MYR.

A week’s worth of groceries costs between 90-150 MYR for basic staples like rice, noodles, seasonal produce, and some meat or fish. Stick to local food items, as western specialties like wine and cheese will destroy your grocery budget.

Backpacking Malaysia Suggested Budgets

If you’re backpacking Malaysia, my suggested budget is 115 MYR per day. This budget covers staying in a hostel dorm, eating street food, taking public transit to get around, skipping alcohol, and sticking to mostly free activities like walking tours, hiking, and relaxing on the beach.

A mid-range budget of 295 MYR per day covers a private Airbnb or private hostel room, drinking more, taking the occasional taxi to get around, eating street food and the occasional sit-down meal, and doing more paid activities like museum visits, food tours, and diving.

On a “luxury” budget of 520 MYR or more per day, you can stay in a hotel with a pool, eat at restaurants for all your meals, have more drinks, visit the islands, and do whatever tours and activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get an idea of how much you need to budget daily. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in MYR.

Malaysia Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

A little goes a long way in Malaysia, but it’s still easy to wreck your budget here if you splash out on fancy meals and tours. Here are some ways you can save money in Malaysia:

  • Barter with your taxi driver – Taxis aren’t usually metered in Malaysia (even though it’s required in bigger cities like Kuala Lumpur), so make sure to agree on the fare before you set off. Ask your hotel/hostel staff what you should pay so you don’t get ripped off.
  • Camp – It’s possible to camp in places like Taman Negara and the Cameron Highlands to save on accommodation. Expect to pay around 10-35 MYR per night for a basic plot.
  • Eat the street food – Street stalls are the place to go for delicious hawker food and meals that cost just a few bucks. The street food is the best food in the country — and the cheapest!
  • Don’t drink – As Malaysia is a Muslim country, drinking is frowned upon, but it does happen. However, to restrict it, the authorities have made drinking very, very expensive so skip the booze.
  • Take a free walking tour – A free walking tour is a great way to explore Kuala Lumpur on a budget. You’ll not only get to see the sights, but you’ll connect with a local guide who can share their insider tips and advice.
  • Travel in the off-season – Traveling during the monsoon season (late November to mid-February) is an easy way to save money on flights and accommodation. With significantly fewer visitors, everything is cheaper. To avoid the worst of the rains, skip the east coast.
  • Use Grab – Grab is like Uber and often cheaper than both taxis and tuk-tuks, especially if you’re getting a ride from the airport in Kuala Lumpur. Just download the app and go!
  • Escape the city – Much of the popular areas in Kuala Lumpur are designed for tourists and can be expensive. Skip the crowds and head to somewhere like Pataling Jaya, a smaller nearby city that has all the perks of KL with none of the downsides.
  • Pack a water bottle – The tap water here isn’t always safe so bring a water bottle with a filter with you to avoid buying single-use plastic. My preferred bottle is LifeStraw , which has built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Malaysia

Looking for budget-friendly places to stay? Here are my suggested places to stay in Malaysia:

  • Kitez Hotel & Bunks (Kuala lumpur)
  • Sunshine Bedz Kuala Lumpur (Kuala lumpur)
  • Birdnest Collective Cafe & Guesthouse (Kuala lumpur)
  • The Bed Klcc (Kuala lumpur)
  • Ryokan Muntri Boutique Hostel (Penang)
  • Traveller Bunker Hostel (Cameron Highlands)
  • Westwood Highland (Cameron Highlands)
  • De’Native Guest House (Cameron Highlands)
  • Hikers Sleep Port (Cameron Highlands)
  • Anis View Perhentian (Perhentian Islands)
  • Senja Bay Resort (Perhentian Islands)
  • Besut Guesthouse (Perhentian Islands)
  • Akinabalu Youth Hostel (Kota Kinabalu)

How to Get Around Malaysia

Stunning view of the Cameron Highlands, Malaysia and its lush, rolling green hills

Public transportation – Most cities in Malaysia have excellent public transport, especially Kuala Lumpur with its buses, light rail, commuter rail, and monorail that all connect every part of the city. A ride costs between 1-15 MYR. If you plan on mostly using public transit, pick up a Touch ‘n Go (TnG) card to use on all modes of public transportation, saving 20% per ride. You can also load unlimited transit passes onto this card.

In Kuala Lumpur, try to use the free GO KL City Bus. It’s a free service that covers most of the tourist hotspots, like Bukit Bintang and Chinatown.

Other cities, like George Town (Penang), are full of city buses that run all over the island. The KOMTAR complex and the Weld Quay jetty are the two primary bus stations. You’ll have to tell your driver where you’re headed, but a typical one-way fare is 2-7 MYR. There are also free buses that go to significant sites in the city, just look for buses labeled “Free CAT Bus.”

Bus – Buses are an easy and efficient way to get around Malaysia. Expect to pay around 5-15 MYR per hour for a bus trip. The main bus companies include:

  • Transnasional

Aeroline and Super Nice are high-end services that come with air-conditioning and sometimes even meal service, but they’re still affordable. The 5-hour bus from Penang to Kuala Lumpur costs around 35-45 MYR, while the 3-hour bus from Kuala Lumpur to the Cameron Highlands costs about 44 MYR.

Train – Mainland Malaysia has 1,849 kilometers (1,149 miles) of rail, with the main line connecting Singapore to Kuala Lumpur to Thailand.

There are two types of service: express trains, which are air-conditioned and have three different classes; and local trains, which usually only have economy class and are much slower than the express trains. All are operated by Keratapi Tanah Melayu (KTM), the national railway service.

You can use the KTMB.com.my website to look up schedules and to book tickets. Reservations open 30 days in advance.

A train from Kuala Lumpur to Butterworth (where you’d catch the ferry to Penang) costs 66 MYR, while the 2.5-hour journey from Ipoh to Kuala Lumpur is 30-45 MYR.

In East Malaysia, there is a round-trip sightseeing train that runs from Kota Kinabalu to Papar, with a stop in Kinarut. The North Borneo Railway runs the entire trip, and it takes four hours. The cost is 345 MYR, which includes breakfast and lunch.

Flying – The two leading domestic airlines in Malaysia are Malaysia Airlines and AirAsia. Kuala Lumpur’s airports receive the most flight traffic, followed by Kota Kinabalu and Penang. There are several smaller airports around the country as well.

A flight from Penang to Kuala Lumpur can be found for as little as 100 MYR, while a flight from Kuala Lumpur to Bangkok ranges between 220-600 MYR. Flights between Kuala Lumpur and Kota Kinabalu cost around 225-300 MYR.

Hitchhike – It is common for people to hitchhike in Malaysia, and the locals are eager to pick up travelers. HitchWiki has additional information on hitchhiking in Malaysia.

When to Go to Malaysia

Malaysia’s two peak seasons occur from the start of December to the end of January, and then from June to mid-September. The first tourist peak season occurs during Hari Raya Puasa (Eid al-Fitr), which celebrates the end of Ramadan. Check ahead to see when this occurs as the dates vary every year. Malaysia’s Muslim population celebrates by taking the week off so your travels could be disrupted if businesses are closed.

Late November to mid-February brings the arrival of the northeast monsoon, affecting much of the east coast with heavy rainfall. September and October are the wettest months on the west coast, with downpours sometimes going on for hours. This is also true in mountainous areas like the Cameron Highlands.

Overall, the best time to visit is from March to early November when it’s drier and less humid. Visiting just after the rainy season isn’t a bad idea either, as it’s still warm, the countryside is lush and full of waterfalls, and tourism is still not overly busy.

Temperatures do not fluctuate much across the country. The daily average is 22-32°C (73-90°F), while in the hills the temperature averages 21°C (67°F). Humidity is high year-round.

How to Stay Safe in Malaysia

Malaysia is safe place to backpack and travel — even for solo travelers and solo female travelers. Violent attacks against foreigners are rare.

Petty theft (including bag snatching) is the most common type of crime in Malaysia. When out and about, always keep your valuables secure and out of reach just to be safe. This is especially important in crowded tourist areas and on busy public transportation. Don’t leave anything valuable unattended at the beach either.

Solo female travelers should feel comfortable here, though walking alone a night should be avoided just to be safe.

There are some common scams here, especially in Kuala Lumpur, such as taxi drivers trying to rip off passengers. Make sure the meter is on or negotiate your fare before getting in a taxi (or take a Grab to avoid this altogether).

If you’re worried about getting ripped off, read about common travel scams to avoid here .

If you are eating out, keep your backpack on your lap or place your foot or a chair leg through your strap. That will prevent would-be thieves from snatching your bag quickly while you’re busy eating.

When out in nature, don’t feed the monkeys! They get aggressive and are not afraid of people. Do not approach monkeys quickly or give them treats, as they grab anything within reach.

If you experience an emergency, dial 999 for assistance.

Additionally, avoid tap water unless you have a water bottle with a filter. Travelers should also note that Malaysia is a modest country, so revealing outfits attract more attention. To be safe and blend in, dress conservatively.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Malaysia Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

  • Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
  • Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
  • Agoda – Other than Hostelworld, Agoda is the best hotel accommodation site for Asia.
  • Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
  • Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
  • SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
  • LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
  • Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.

Malaysia Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Asia travel and continue planning your trip:

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Travel Guide Malaysia

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Populated by a blend of Malays, Chinese, Indians and indigenous groups, Malaysia boasts a rich cultural heritage, from a huge variety of annual festivals and wonderful cuisines, to traditional architecture and rural crafts. There’s astonishing natural beauty to take in too, including gorgeous beaches and some of the world’s oldest tropical rainforest, much of which is surprisingly accessible. Malaysia’s national parks are superb for trekking and wildlife-watching, and sometimes for cave exploration and river rafting.

Facts about Malaysia

Where to go in malaysia, outdoor activities in malaysia, wildlife in malaysia.

Meet your Malaysia local travel expert

Sunny, Local Expert

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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

Malaysia Express from Singapore

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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.

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Best of Peninsular Malaysia

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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.

Wildlife Spotting in Borneo

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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.

As part of the Malay archipelago, which stretches from Indonesia to the Philippines , Malaysia became an important port of call on the trade route between India and China, the two great markets of the early world, and later became important entrepôts for the Portuguese, Dutch and British empires. Malaysia has only existed in its present form since 1963, when the federation of the eleven Peninsula states was joined by Singapore and the two Bornean territories of Sarawak and Sabah . Singapore left the union to become an independent country in 1965.

Today, the dominant cultural force in the country is undoubtedly Islam , adopted by the Malays in the fourteenth century. But it’s the religious plurality – there are also sizeable Christian and Hindu minorities – that is so attractive, often providing surprising juxtapositions of mosques, temples and churches. Add the colour and verve of Chinese temples and street fairs, Indian festival days and everyday life in Malay kampungs (villages), and the indigenous traditions of Borneo, and it’s easy to see why visitors are drawn into this celebration of ethnic diversity; indeed, despite some issues, Malaysia has something to teach the rest of the world when it comes to building successful multicultural societies.

  • With 28 million inhabitants, Malaysia is divided into two distinct regions. Peninsular Malaysia, where the capital, Kuala Lumpur, is situated, is separated by more than 600km of the South China Sea from East Malaysia, comprising the states of Sabah and Sarawak on the island of Borneo.
  • Malaysia is a British-style parliamentary democracy, with a ceremonial head of state known as the Yang di-Pertuan Agung (the post rotates among the sultans from each state of the federation).
  • The world’s largest flower, Rafflesia, is a Malaysian rainforest plant measuring a metre across and smelling of rotten meat. It’s named after the naturalist and founder of Singapore, Sir Stamford Raffles.
  • Malaysia’s economy, historically dominated by agriculture and mining, now features a healthy manufacturing sector.

Malaysia’s capital, Kuala Lumpur (usually referred to as KL), is the social and economic driving force of a nation eager to better itself, a fact reflected in the relentless proliferation of air-conditioned shopping malls, designer bars and restaurants in the city, and in the continuing sprawl of suburbia and industry around it. But KL is also firmly rooted in tradition, where the same Malay executives who wear suits to work dress in traditional clothes at festival times, and markets and food stalls are crowded in among high-rise hotels and bank towers, especially in older areas such as Chinatown and Little India.

The east coast

Just a couple of hours’ drive south of the capital lies the birthplace of Malay civilization, Melaka, its historical architecture and mellow atmosphere making it a must on anybody’s itinerary. Much further up the west coast, the island of Penang was the site of the first British settlement in Malaysia. Its capital, Georgetown, still features beautifully restored colonial buildings and a vibrant Chinatown district, and is, together with Melaka, recognized for its cultural and architectural diversity as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. For a taste of Old England , head for the hill stations of Fraser’s Hill and the Cameron Highlands, where cooler temperatures and lush countryside provide ample opportunities for walks, birdwatching, rounds of golf and cream teas. North of Penang, Malay, rather than Chinese, traditions hold sway at Alor Star, the last major town before the Thai border. This far north, the premier tourist destination is Pulau Langkawi, an island with international-style resorts and picture-postcard beaches.

The Peninsula’s east coast is much more rural and relaxing, peppered with rustic villages and stunning islands such as Pulau Perhentian and Pulau Tioman, busy with backpackers and package tourists alike. The state capitals of Kota Bharu, near the northeastern Thai border, and Kuala Terengganu, further south, showcase the best of Malay traditions, craft production and performing arts.

Crossing the Peninsula’s mountainous interior by road or rail allows you to venture into the majestic tropical rainforests of Taman Negara. The national park’s four thousand square kilometres hold enough to keep you occupied for days: trails, salt-lick hides for animal-watching, aerial forest-canopy walkways, limestone caves and waterfalls. Here you may well also come across the Orang Asli, the Peninsula’s indigenous peoples, a few of whom cling to a semi-nomadic lifestyle within the park.

Across the sea from the Peninsula lie the east Malaysian states of Sarawak and Sabah. For most travellers, their first taste of Sarawak comes at Kuching, the old colonial capital, and then the Iban longhouses of the Batang Ai river system. Sibu, much further north on the Rajang River, is the starting point for trips to less touristed Iban, Kayan and Kenyah longhouses. In the north, Gunung Mulu National Park is the principal destination; many come here to climb up to view its extraordinary razor-sharp limestone Pinnacles, though spectacular caves also burrow into the park’s mountains. More remote still are the Kelabit Highlands, further east, where the mountain air is refreshingly cool and there are ample opportunities for extended treks.

The main reason for a trip to Sabah is to conquer the 4095m granite peak of Mount Kinabalu, set in its own national park, though the lively modern capital Kota Kinabalu and its idyllic offshore islands, Gaya and Manukan, have their appeal, too. Beyond this, Sabah is worth a visit for its wildlife: turtles, orang-utans , proboscis monkeys and hornbills are just a few of the exotic residents of the jungle and plentiful islands. Marine attractions feature in the far east at Pulau Sipadan, pointing out towards the southern Philippines, which has a host of sharks, other fish and turtles, while neighbouring Pulau Mabul contains hip, but often pricey, diving resorts.

Discover more places in Malaysia

Perhentian Kecil Island, Terengganu, Malaysia © Ruzaini Haron/Shutterstock

  • The interior Travel Guide
  • Kuala Lumpur and around Travel Guide
  • Sarawak Travel Guide

With some of the world’s oldest tropical rainforest and countless beaches and islands, trekking, snorkelling and scuba diving are common pursuits in Malaysia. The more established resorts on the islands of Penang, Langkawi and Tioman also offer jet skiing and paragliding, while the exposed, windy bay at Cherating, the budget travellers’ centre on the east coast, is a hot spot for windsurfers.

Snorkelling, diving and windsurfing

The crystal-clear waters and abundant tropical fish and coral of Malaysia make snorkelling and diving a must for any underwater enthusiast. This is particularly true of Sabah’s Sipidan Island Marine Reserve and the Peninsula’s east coast, with islands like the Perhentians, Redang, Kapas and Tioman.

Dive shops, for example in Sabah’s Kota Kinabalu and Sarawak’s Miri, offer all-inclusive, internationally recognized certification courses, ranging from a beginner’s open-water course (around RM1300), right through to the dive-master certificate (RM2200). If you’re already qualified, expect to pay RM180 per day for dive trips including gear rental.

Most beachside guesthouses rent snorkelling equipment for around RM20 per day. Some popular snorkelling areas mark out lanes for motorboats with buoy lines – stay on the correct side of the line to avoid a nasty accident. If you’re not sure where it’s safe to swim or snorkel, always seek local advice. Never touch or walk on coral as this will cause irreparable damage – besides which, you risk treading on the armour-piercing spines of sea urchins, or a painful encounter with fire coral.

Windsurfing has yet to take off in all but the most expensive resorts in Malaysia, with the notable exception of Cherating. Its large, open bay and shallow waters provide near-perfect conditions during the northeast monsoon season.

Whitewater rafting

Whitewater rafting has become a popular activity on Sabah’s Sungai Padas, a grade 3 river which, at its northern end, runs through the spectacular Padas Gorge. Opportunities for rafting in Peninsular Malaysia tend to be in out-of-the-way spots in the interior; it’s best to go with an operator such as Nomad Adventure (wnomadadventure.com) or Khersonese Expedition (wthepaddlerz.com). Expect a day’s rafting to cost around RM250, including equipment.

The majority of treks in Malaysia require forethought and preparation. As well as the fierce sun, the tropical climate can unleash torrential rain without warning, which rapidly affects the condition of trails or the height of a river – what started out as a ten-hour trip can end up taking twice as long. That said, the time of year is not a hugely significant factor when planning a trek. Although in the rainy season (Nov–Feb) trails can be slow going (or even closed for safety reasons), conditions are less humid then, and the parks and adventure tours are not oversubscribed.

Treks in national parks almost always require that you go in a group with a guide; solo travellers can usually join a group once there. Costs and conditions vary between parks; each park account in the Guide contains details, while tour operators in Kuala Lumpur, Kuching, Miri and Kota Kinabalu (listed throughout) can also furnish information on conditions and options in the parks.

For inexperienced trekkers, Taman Negara is probably the best place to start, boasting the greatest range of walks, many of which can be done without a guide, while Bako National Park in southwest Sarawak offers fairly easy, day-long hikes. For the more experienced, other parks in Sarawak, especially Gunung Mulu, should offer sufficient challenges for most tastes, while Sabah’s Maliau Basin is at the very demanding end of the scale. The largely inaccessible Endau-Rompin Park in the south of Peninsular Malaysia is for serious expeditions only. Mount Kinabalu Park in Sabah is in a class of its own, the hike to the top of the mountain a demanding but highly rewarding combination of trekking and climbing.

Checklist of camping and trekking equipment

As camping and trekking are not especially popular with Malaysians, you need to bring your own gear if possible – especially core items like tents and sleeping bags – or buy the locally made version available at markets and general product stores. These might not look good or even last long, but at least won’t cost a fortune.

Hiking boots are especially hard to find, though one-piece rubber slip-on shoes (kasut gatah)costing just RM10 are sold everywhere (up to around size 40). Many national park guides use them as they dry out instantly and give good grip on forest floors, but they’re not suitable for multi-day trekking in difficult terrain.

There are small (and very expensive) “proper” outdoor gear stores in KL, Kota Bharu and elsewhere; you might also be able to rent some of what you’ll need on site, especially at Taman Negara, or have it supplied as part of a hiking package.

  • Sleeping bag
  • Tent (if sleeping out)
  • Mosquito net
  • Water bottle
  • Water purification tablets
  • Toiletries and toilet paper
  • Torch (and/or head torch)
  • Pocket knife
  • Sunglasses (UV protective)
  • Sun block and lip balm
  • Insect repellent
  • Breathable shirts/T-shirts
  • Lightweight, quick-drying trousers
  • Rainproof coat or poncho
  • Cotton hat with brim
  • Fleece jacket
  • Trekking boots
  • Sandals (for wading through streams)
  • Cotton and woollen socks
  • Basic first-aid kit

Other useful items

  • Heavy-duty refuse bag (to rainproof your pack)
  • Emergency snack food
  • Spare bootlaces
  • Small towel
  • Insulation mat
  • Leech socks

Peninsular Malaysia and Borneo are a paradise for wildlife-spotters, harbouring over 600 types of birds and 200 mammal species – including Asian elephants, sun bears, tigers, tapirs, barking deer, gibbons, hornbills and pythons. Borneo’s speciality is the proboscis monkey, so-called because of its bulbous, drooping nose. The island is also one of only two natural habitats (with Sumatra) for orang-utans – indeed, the name is Malay for “man of the forest”. Marine life is equally diverse: divers can swim with white-tip sharks, clown fish and barracuda, not to mention green and hawksbill turtles, which drag themselves ashore in season to lay their eggs by night.

Top image © jaiman taip/Shutterstock

• With 28 million inhabitants, Malaysia is divided into two distinct regions. Peninsular Malaysia , where the capital, Kuala Lumpur, is situated, is separated by more than 600km of the South China Sea from East Malaysia, comprising the states of Sabah and Sarawak on the island of Borneo.

• Malaysia is a British-style parliamentary democracy , with a ceremonial head of state known as the Yang di-Pertuan Agung (the post rotates among the sultans from each state of the federation).

• The world’s largest flower, Rafflesia , is a Malaysian rainforest plant measuring a metre across and smelling of rotten meat. It’s named after the naturalist and founder of Singapore, Sir Stamford Raffles.

• Malaysia’s economy , historically dominated by agriculture and mining, now features a healthy manufacturing sector.

A standard feature of local townscapes is rows of shophouses – two- or three-storey buildings traditionally containing a shop at street level, with residential quarters behind and above. For visitors, their most striking feature is that at ground level the front wall is usually set back from the street. This creates a so-called “ five-foot way ” overhung by the upper part of the house, which shelters pedestrians from the sun and pelting rain.

Shophouses were fusion architecture: facades have Western features such as shuttered windows and gables, while inside there might be an area open to the sky, in the manner of Chinese courtyard houses. Some, especially from the early part of the last century, are bedecked with columns, floral plaster motifs and beautiful tilework, while later properties feature simpler Art Deco touches. Sadly, shophouses ceased to be built after the 1960s and many have been demolished to make way for modern complexes, though some have won a new lease of life as swanky restaurants and boutiques.

Travel advice for Malaysia

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Malaysia

  • Sports and Outdoor activities in Malaysia
  • Culture and Etiquette in Malaysia
  • Eating and drinking in Malaysia
  • How to get to Malaysia
  • Getting around Malaysia: Transportation Tips
  • Travel Health Malaysia
  • Shopping tips for Malaysia
  • Travel Tips Malaysia for planning and on the go
  • Best time to visit Malaysia

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Malaysia Travel Guide

Malaysia is a diverse Southeast Asian country with one of the most developed economies in the region. The capital city, Kuala Lumpur, has a lot of cool urban sights like the Petronas Twin Towers, while the Malaysian state of Sabah in Borneo is known for rugged jungles and unique wildlife.

Read through this complete Malaysia travel guide for more info on what to expect!

Quick Facts

Malay; 'Thank you' is 'terima kasih'

Malaysian Ringgit (MYR)

Kuala Lumpur

Visa free access for 160+ nationalities

Tropical; hot & humid year round (rainy season varies depending on area)

Power Plugs

Malaysia has a major airport in Kuala Lumpur (code: KUL) with direct flights from many countries all over the world.

In fact, a good portion of the air traffic in Southeast Asia connects through this airport, so if you do any traveling in this part of the world then you'll most likely pass through Kuala Lumpur at some point in your journeys.

In Malaysian Borneo (Sabah), the main airport is Kota Kinabalu (BKI). You can shop for flights to Malaysia on Skyscanner.

Malaysia is a pretty safe travel destination, with a low violent crime rate from the UN of 2.1 per 100k inhabitants (66% lower than the global average).

I’ve traveled in many parts of Malaysia and didn't witness any crime. Terrorism is not an issue here and attitudes toward foreigners seem welcoming. Just practice normal precautions, especially at night. Mosquito spray can be a good idea too, especially during the rainy season.

The climate of Malaysia is tropical, so the weather is hot and humid year round. Malaysia's rainy season for the west coast runs from April to October, and the most sunny months for the west coast are from November to February.

For Kuala Lumpur, the opposite is true, so the most sunny months are May through September. It's still possible to visit Malaysia in the rainy season, but you might want to give yourself some extra days as a buffer in case of bad weather.

Malaysia can be a very budget friendly travel destination, with  hostels available from 25 Ringgits ($5 USD) and private hotels from 70 Ringgits . Meals are also cheap, costing about 15 to 30 Ringgits depending on location.

Transportation in Malaysia is generally by motorbike or car, and these can be rented, but hiring a driver is cheap and often preferable. The  Grab  transportation app is great for getting around cities like Kuala Lumpur.

The best Malaysia tours & activities

My latest blog posts about Malaysia

15 Best Things To Do In Kuala Lumpur Malaysia

There are lots of amazing things to do in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia’s capital city, and it seems like we’re discovering more every time we visit. Not only …

Thean Hou Temple: Chinese Temple In Kuala Lumpur Malaysia

Thean Hou Temple is a colorful Chinese temple in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, with some awesome architecture. It’s a contemporary building (1987), but it has all of the …

Batu Caves Malaysia: Temple In Kuala Lumpur

The Batu Caves are one of the best things to see near Kuala Lumpur city in Malaysia. These are big limestone hills with huge caves to explore …

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Langkawi tropical islands, Malaysia

Malaysia travel guides

A melting pot of cultures, traditions, religions and languages, Malaysia demonstrates diversity at every turn, from its glittering cities containing traditional markets, to its lush rainforests and sandy shores. This makes it an excellent destination for any traveler, and our travel guides provide you with tips from our specialists on how to make the most of your time.

A honeymoon here can equally suit couples looking to stay active and those preferring to simply relax on a beach, while the wildlife and breadth of excursions on offer will keep families entertained. We can also recommend the best routes to take if you are planning a self-drive vacation in Malaysia, while the many top-class resorts and hotels cater to those seeking luxury.

Audley Travel specialist Jack

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Ideas for how to explore Malaysia

Our travel guides share our specialists’ passion and knowledge for Malaysia. We travel here regularly to discover new experiences, explore untried areas and dig deeper into the better-known places and attractions. At the same time, we gather advice and up-to-date information on the best-quality guides, new hotels and restaurants, and the most memorable forms of transportation.

Twin Towers, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Asia's best city & beach combinations

Twin a beach stay with time in a city and you’ve got a trip of real contrasts. Asia’s mix of high-rise metropolises and swathes of beach lends itself to some particularly intriguing combinations. Our beach specialists have chosen their top coastal locations to pair with Singapore, Kuala Lumpur and Hong Kong.

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Cameron Highlands, Malaysia

A fusion of cultures: our highlights of Malaysia guide

A street-food tour in George Town, or a cooking lesson in Malacca? Specialist Shannon highlights her key experiences in Malaysia, from major sights like the capital Kuala Lumpur to remote private-island beaches.

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Southeast Asian cuisine

Trade routes, historic connections, colonialism and common sources of ingredients have left many strong links between the dishes found throughout Southeast Asia. We investigate the very distinct national variations that have evolved in this region.

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Guide: Quarantine-free travel to Australia from Malaysia starts today

Journey to the land down under.

By Natalie Khoo

Guide: Quarantine-free travel to Australia from Malaysia starts today

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In case you missed  the news ,  Australia officially opens its borders for fully vaccinated visa holders, tourists, business travellers, and other visitors around the world today (21 February, 2022).

The decision is part of the country’s international travel plans and builds on quarantine-free travel arrangements with  Singapore , which came into effect on 21 November 2021. According to Tourism Australia, Malaysia is Australia’s eighth largest source market for international visitation and tenth most valuable for spend. About 72 per cent of Malaysian leisure travellers are repeat visitors to Australia, 61 per cent of which have visited the country more than twice.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Australia (@australia)

Under the rule, travellers will be able to travel to Australia quarantine-free as long as they have received double doses of a TGA-approved vaccine and hold a valid visa. On the other hand, visa holders who are not fully vaccinated may still enter Australia with a valid travel exemption, but will be subject to state and territory quarantine requirements.

Read on for the full SOPs for Malaysians travelling to Australia.

Travelling to Australia:

  • Visa holders who are fully vaccinated with two doses of a  Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) approved Covid-19 vaccine can travel to Australia quarantine-free, without the need to apply for a travel exemption 
  • Travellers must hold a valid Australian visa , which you can apply for  online
  • Travellers must provide proof of vaccination status , which includes paper or digital certificates
  • Travellers must present a negative rapid antigen test (RAT) taken within 24 hours or Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) Covid-19 test taken within 72 hours of departure (unless a medical exemption applies)
  • Quarantine-free travel applies to all states and territories in Australia, except Western Australia
  • Travellers will need to comply with requirements in the state or territory of their arrival, and any other state or territories that they plan to travel to. Information on entry requirements is updated regularly so it is important to check the latest requirements before travelling via the  Australian Government Department of Home Affairs website
  • Travellers are also encouraged to check any requirements for stopover destinations that they are transitioning through

To celebrate the announcement, Tourism Australia will be kicking off a new tourism campaign to welcome Malaysian visitors back to Australia in the coming weeks. The campaign will involve partnerships with a range of key distribution and airline partners to maximise opportunities and drive bookings and recovery for Australia’s hard-hit tourism economy.

Among the partners include Apple Vacations, Corporate Information Travel, Forever Travel, Holiday Tours & Travel, and Sedunia Travel, who will provide tactical offers aimed at stimulating travel to Australia from Malaysia.

Tourism Australia will also partner with Malaysia Airlines to support the recovery of the airline industry and resume services into Australia in the coming months.  

travel guides australia malaysia

“We are really excited that Malaysians can once again discover the incredible tourism experiences that await them in Australia,” said Karen Saw, Tourism Australia’s Business Development Manager in Malaysia.

“Come and enjoy incredible experiences featuring Australia’s world-class natural beauty and wildlife, food and drink, and welcoming people—as well as some of the lesser-known parts of Australia that make us such a popular holiday destination.”

For more information on travelling to Australia, visit the official  website . For other information and tips on where to go and what to see, visit  Australia.com.

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Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Airports in Borneo

Best Hotels in Borneo

Staying at an Iban Longhouse

Driving in Borneo

One Week in Borneo

Top Destinations in Malaysian Borneo

Sarawak vs. Sabah

Guide to Kuching

Visiting Kalimantan

Guide to the Derawan Islands

Brunei Travel Guide

Top Things to Do in Malaysian Borneo

Museums to Visit

Best Beaches

Where to Go Scuba Diving

Best Hiking in Borneo

National Parks

Where to See Orangutans

Events & Festivals

Food to Try

Your Trip to Borneo: The Complete Guide

travel guides australia malaysia

Borneo, the third largest island in the world , is divided between three countries: Indonesia (73 percent), Malaysia (26 percent), and Brunei (one percent). Your trip to Borneo will probably be centered around taking advantage of the natural biodiversity. The reefs are home to some of the best diving in the world , and Borneo is one of only two places left where wild orangutans still roam the rainforest. Opportunities for adventure abound within Borneo’s rugged interior of almost 289,000 square miles!

You’re going to need time to explore all the big island has to offer. Use our guide for planning your trip to Borneo and enjoying one of the most adventurous places on earth.

Planning Your Trip

  • Best Time to Visit : Overall, Borneo is hot, humid, and receives plenty of rain throughout the year. Sarawak is generally driest from March to September  , while Sabah tends to be driest between January and May. East Kalimantan, Balikpapan, and the Derawan Islands receive less rain between July and October.
  • Language: Bahasa Malaysia is spoken in Malaysian Borneo . Bahasa Indonesia is the national language in Kalimantan, but an estimated 74 languages are spoken daily among different sub-ethnic groups! Bahasa Melayu is the official language in Brunei  ; though, Melayu Brunei—Brunei’s variant of the Malay language—is used daily.
  • Currency: Malaysian ringgit (MYR) in Malaysian Borneo; Indonesian rupiah (IDR) in Kalimantan; Brunei dollar (BND) in Brunei.
  • Getting Around: Borneo requires time to move around. Plan on using regional flights for crossing long distances. Traveling by boat is sometimes the best option for going overland. Taxis and ojek (motorcycle taxis) are common for getting around in cities. Grab is a popular rideshare service in Malaysian Borneo.
  • Travel Tip: Doing research before the trip is prudent, but you’ll find that many independent guesthouses and small airlines don’t have an online presence. You’ll have more options for making arrangements once on the ground. When possible, book local tours and guides to directly help communities.

Things to Do

Despite damage from heavy deforestation, Borneo is one of the most biodiverse places in the world—see as much of it as you can. With mountains, rivers, thriving reefs, and a rainforest canopy that’s home to endangered species, finding memorable adventure in Borneo is easy.

  • See Wildlife in East Sabah : Although you can see orangutans and proboscis monkeys in rehabilitation centers and national parks throughout Sarawak and Kalimantan, the Sandakan area in East Sabah is home to three destinations that really provide a sample of the rainforest: the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, Rainforest Discovery Centre, and Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary .
  • Learn About Dayak Culture : The best way to learn about the indigenous peoples’ way of life is to let them show you. Iban longhouse visits or overnight stays can be arranged in Sarawak, Sabah, and parts of Kalimantan. Contacting the Sarawak Tourism Board is the best way to find remote longhouse communities willing to host foreigners. If time is too short to reach the most authentic experiences, the Sarawak Cultural Village outside of Kuching is a “living” museum with model longhouses and cultural displays   spread over beautiful grounds.
  • Visit the Derawan Islands: Getting to the Derawan Islands in East Kalimantan isn’t easy, but once there you’ll enjoy a wonderland of marine life. The islands are a major nesting site for hawksbill turtles and green sea turtles  . The snorkeling and diving are superb, plus visitors can swim with millions of harmless jellyfish in lakes. Some of the smaller islands are such perfect examples of paradise that friends may not believe you took the photos!
  • Enjoy the National Parks : No matter which part of Borneo you choose to visit, you’ll have access to impressive national parks. Some are easier to access than others. Bako National Park is less than an hour from Kuching, but getting to Tanjung Puting in Central Kalimantan requires flying in and traveling by boat. You can see hornbills, giant butterflies, carnivorous pitcher plants, and plenty of monkeys even on relatively short hikes .

Explore more activities in Borneo with our full-length articles on attractions in Kota Kinabalu , things to do in Kuching , and climbing Mount Kinabalu .

Tyler Cave / Getty Images

What to Eat and Drink

With so many miles of coastline and rivers, Borneo is a great place to indulge in fresh, inexpensive seafood. Patrons cram into cavernous food courts and seafood restaurants built on the water. Be on the lookout for a live empurau , the fruit-eating fish from Sarawak that’s one of the most expensive edible fish in the world. Midin, a jungle fern that stays crunchy after cooked, is a healthy green not easily found outside of Borneo. Sarawak laksa is a filling, addictive variant of laksa , the noodle soup enjoyed throughout Malaysia, Indonesia, and Singapore.

Have fun trying the many unique fruits found in Borneo, especially the ones that won’t be easy to find fresh at home. Be on the lookout for mangosteens, rambutans, red dragon fruit, longans, salak (snake fruit), and langsat in markets. If you’re brave enough to sample durian —you should!—the season is roughly from June to August.

Learn more about delicious Malaysian street food, eating in Indonesia, and interesting fruit to try in Southeast Asia .

Where to Stay

Finding hotels in major cities such as Kuching, Kota Kinabalu, and Bandar Seri Begawan is easy enough. But you may need to be a little more creative in remote, smaller places. Homestays and eco-lodges are popular options in Sukau on the Kinabatangan River, in the Derawan Islands, and other settings where there are fewer choices for eateries. Dive operators usually have accommodation for guests in places such as Mabul Island. You can sometimes reserve simple huts and longhouses within the national parks.

Many options for bungalows and small guesthouses aren’t listed online—you’ll need to book them in person or through an agent.

Getting There

Flights from Kuala Lumpur to Malaysian Borneo are surprisingly inexpensive; choosing where to start your trip to Borneo is key. For the most accessible orangutan and rainforest experiences, consider flying into Sandakan in East Sabah. Jakarta is best for connecting to points throughout Kalimantan.

  • Kuching (KCH): The pleasant city of Kuching is the best starting place for exploring Sarawak, but you’ll want to fly into Miri (MYY) if Mulu National Park is your first objective.
  • Kota Kinabalu (BKI): Kota Kinabalu is often the busiest airport in Borneo and puts you in the heart of Sabah. It’s the best choice for getting to Mount Kinabalu or connecting to other points throughout Borneo.
  • Sandakan (SDK): Fly into Sandakan in East Sabah for quicker access to orangutans, rainforest, and the Kinabantan River.
  • Bandar Seri Begawan (BWN): Flying into Brunei’s capital is the obvious choice for exploring the sultanate and impressive Ulu Temburong National Park.
  • Balikpapan (BPN): Balikpapan is a vibrant city in Kalimantan and hub for taking smaller planes to remote places.
  • Tanjung Redeb (BEJ): Flying into Kalimarau Airport in Berau, East Kalimantan, is usually the best for accessing the Derawan Islands.

Get help choosing the best airport in Borneo for beginning your trip.

Culture and Customs

  • The collective term “Dayak” is used for the more than 200 groups of indigenous peoples who call Borneo home. When you know the specific name of an ethnic group (e.g., “Iban”), use that instead.
  • Visiting a longhouse is an interesting way to learn about indigenous culture, but avoid contact when not feeling well. Many communities live in close quarters far from medical help, and even a case of the sniffles could cause problems. If staying overnight, you’ll need to bring a gift for the chief and practical gifts that can be divided equally among the residents. Consumables are usually best; your guide can provide advice about what to bring.
  • The left hand is generally considered unclean in local culture. Opt to pay, accept items, and eat with your right hand only. Eating with the hands is common in longhouses and some homestays.
  • Shaking hands (with a looser grip than in the West) is common when meeting someone of the same sex. After the handshake, briefly touch your heart to show extra respect.
  • Brunei is considered the most devout of Islamic nations in Southeast Asia. Dress conservatively when exploring Bandar Seri Begawan.
  • Read about the concept of saving face to have a better understanding of culture in Borneo. Avoid public displays of anger or frustration. When possible, defer to elders and people of higher status. Pointing out that someone is wrong could cause them to lose face, so always correct people privately rather than in front of their peers. Public displays of affection with your significant other could cause strangers to feel embarrassment.

Money Saving Tips

  • Check the dates for national and regional holidays before booking your trip. Big events such as Chinese New Year, Independence Day for both Malaysia and Indonesia, Gawai Dayak , Hari Raya (the end of Ramadan), the Rainforest World Music Festival in Kuching, the Jazz Festival in Miri, and the Erau Festival in Kalimantan can drastically affect prices for flights and hotels.
  • For overnight stays in national parks in Sarawak, get in touch with the Sarawak Tourism Board in Kuching. The hostel-style accommodation is typically inexpensive and simple. Ask if there is a shared kitchen for cooking your own meals. Nighttime and early morning access to the park provides an extra memorable experience and costs little.
  • Like elsewhere in Asia, tipping isn’t the norm in Borneo. You can round up fares for drivers and leave a small tip for guides and porters to show your appreciation for a good experience.
  • Prices for many items are negotiable, especially in markets or when you’ll be purchasing a lot from one merchant. A little good-natured haggling is expected but never for common items with fixed prices (e.g., a bottle of water).

Read more about saving money on the duty-free island of Labuan in Sabah during your trip to Borneo.

Sarawak Tourism Board. " Travel Tips ." September 11, 2019.

CIA World Factbook. " Brunei ." November 4, 2020.

Sarawak Tourism Board. " Sarawak Cultural Village ." 2020.

Ministry of Tourism, Republic of Indonesia. " Derawan Islands ." 2020.

How to Find Cheap Flights to Borneo

9 Top Destinations in Malaysian Borneo

A Guide to Airports in Borneo

Where to Go in Malaysian Borneo: Sarawak or Sabah?

One Week in Borneo: The Ultimate Itinerary

The Top 8 Things to Do in Malaysian Borneo

Honeymoon Destinations in Asia

The 10 Best Places to Scuba Dive in Borneo

The 11 Best Hotels in Borneo

Guide to Kalimantan: Planning Your Trip

The Best Time to Visit Borneo

The 12 Best National Parks in Borneo

The Best Time to Visit Malaysia

5 Places to See Orangutans in Borneo

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    Get information on Malaysia Travel Guide - Expert Picks for your Vacation hotels, restaurants, entertainment, shopping, sightseeing, and activities. Read the Fodor's reviews, or post your own.

  20. Malaysia Travel Guide

    Read this guide. Speak to a certified Malaysia specialist to start planning your tailor-made vacation... Call one of our experts or arrange a video appointment for ideas and advice. 617-223-4135. Make an inquiry. Jack.

  21. Malaysia Travel Guides, Itineraries, and More

    Humidity is high all year round in Malaysia, and the temperature often hovers around 30°C in the lowlands and 20°C in the highlands. March to April is often considered to be the best time to visit since it is the shoulder season, which will give you the best of both worlds: relatively drier weather than January and February, but fewer tourists than from May to October.

  22. Kuala Lumpur travel guide

    Kuala Lumpur. A city where glitzy skyscrapers meet hawker-style street markets, Kuala Lumpur is so much more than just a layover. Wander through street stalls and sample neon coloured-dragon fruit, visit one of Malaysia's sparkly, mega malls or spend the afternoon drinking cocktails on top of a helipad. KL is definitely one for the bucket list.

  23. Guide: Quarantine-free travel to Australia from Malaysia starts today

    The decision is part of the country's international travel plans and builds on quarantine-free travel arrangements with Singapore, which came into effect on 21 November 2021. According to Tourism Australia, Malaysia is Australia's eighth largest source market for international visitation and tenth most valuable for spend.

  24. Your Trip to Borneo: The Complete Guide

    Borneo, the third largest island in the world, is divided between three countries: Indonesia (73 percent), Malaysia (26 percent), and Brunei (one percent).Your trip to Borneo will probably be centered around taking advantage of the natural biodiversity. The reefs are home to some of the best diving in the world, and Borneo is one of only two places left where wild orangutans still roam the ...