Peninsula Malaysia & Borneo
12 Days/ 11 Nights
Overview
Strategically located in the heart of the Asia Pacific region, Malaysia boasts a year-round tropical climate and a unique geographical advantage. Comprised of 13 states and three Federal Territories, the country is home to a vibrant population of over 28 million people. Malaysia seamlessly blends the best of Asia, offering a rich cultural mosaic shaped by three of the continent’s oldest civilizations—Malay, Chinese, and Indian—as well as the distinct ethnic communities of Sabah and Sarawak.
Renowned as one of the world’s top holiday destinations, Malaysia offers an extraordinary variety of attractions. Whether your ideal vacation includes serene beaches, breathtaking islands, rich cultural experiences, or thrilling shopping adventures, Malaysia has it all. From well-preserved heritage sites and world-class modern amenities to lush nature reserves, exotic flora and fauna, and an unforgettable array of mouth-watering cuisine, every visit is bound to leave you yearning for more.
Tour at a Glance
Day 1 – Arrival in Kuala Lumpur
Arrive and transfer to your hotel. Free time to relax or explore nearby.
Day 2 – Kuala Lumpur City & Batu Caves
Morning city tour (Chinatown, temples, Merdeka Square); afternoon visit to Batu Caves.
Day 3 – Day Trip to Malacca
Explore historic Malacca: Dutch Square, temples, river cruise, and Jonker Street.
Day 4 – Kuala Lumpur to Cameron Highlands
Scenic drive to the Highlands; enjoy cooler climate and local surroundings.
Day 5 – Mossy Forest & Tea Plantations
4WD tour to Mossy Forest, BOH Tea Plantation, Gunung Brinchang, and flower/fruit farms.
Day 6 – Cameron Highlands to Penang
Drive to Penang via scenic route and Penang Bridge; free time on arrival.
Day 7 – Penang Heritage Walk
Walking tour of Georgetown’s heritage zone: colonial buildings, street art, and local markets.
Day 8 – Penang to Kota Kinabalu
Flight to Sabah (via KL); free evening in Kota Kinabalu.
Day 9 – Mari-Mari Cultural Village
Interactive visit to traditional Sabah tribal village with cultural demos and activities.
Day 10 – Sandakan & Abai Jungle Lodge
Fly to Sandakan, visit Sepilok Orangutan and Sun Bear centres; boat to Abai for river cruise.
Day 11 – Kinabatangan River Wildlife Experience
Jungle boardwalk, tree planting, and wildlife river cruises.
Day 12 – Return to Sandakan / Departure
Morning river cruise and boat/land transfer to Sandakan airport for departure.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Kuala Lumpur (Arrival)
Arrive Kuala Lumpur International Airport. You will be met & greeted by your local representative and transfer to your hotel.
Relax a night at hotel.
Approximate distances: KLIA – Hotel Maya – Duration: 60 mins / 60 KM
Meals included: None
Accommodation: Hotel Maya Kuala Lumpur (4 Star) – Studio Room or similar
Day 2: Kuala Lumpur
After breakfast at hotel. Depart (0900 hours) for your half-day KL Cultural & Heritage Tour. This tour will take you through the Heritage Trails of the early cultures in Malaysia – an insight into Malaysia’s multi-cultural society:
- Chan See Shu Yuen Clan House (one of the most interesting Clan House in Malaysia)
- China town (pre-war building)
- Sri Maha Mariamman Temple (Hindu Temple)
- Central Market (built in 1930), Sze Yeh Temple (Built in 1880)
- Jamek Mosque (North India Islamic architecture)
- Sultan Abdul Samad Building (Merdeka Square)
After lunch, continue your journey to visit limestone hills of Batu Caves that comprises of three caverns and several smaller caves. It is the shrine of Lord Murugah, a Hindu deity – a flight of 272 steps lead up to the temple cave. Another cave, called museum cave, is filled with images of deities and murals depicting scenes from the Hindu scriptures.
Return to your hotel in late afternoon. Evening free at leisure to simply catch up with some shopping.
Meals included: Breakfast & lunch only
Accommodation: Hotel Maya Kuala Lumpur (4 Star) – Studio Room or similar
Day 3: Kuala Lumpur – Malacca – Kuala Lumpur
Full-Day Historical Malacca Tour
After breakfast, embark on a full-day exploration of historical Malacca, a UNESCO World Heritage Site rich in culture and heritage.
Begin with a visit to St. Peter’s Church (1710), the oldest functioning Christian church in Malaysia. Continue with a scenic drive past Bukit China (Chinese Hill), home to the largest 17th-century Chinese cemetery outside of China. Pause at the foothill to view the Sultan’s Well, then pass through the Portuguese Settlement, a vibrant coastal community reflecting the legacy of Malacca’s colonial past.
Next, explore Porta de Santiago (A Famosa), the iconic gateway of the once-mighty Portuguese fortress, and the ruins of St. Paul’s Church, where 17th-century Dutch tombstones line the church grounds. Head to the famous Red Square, known for its salmon-pink Dutch colonial buildings, which now house the Malacca Museum and various government offices. Visit the historic Christ Church, a symbol of Dutch influence in the region.
After lunch, proceed to the Cheng Hoon Teng Temple, also known as the “Abode of Merciful Clouds.” This remarkable temple is the oldest functioning Chinese temple in Malaysia and uniquely integrates the three major doctrines of Chinese belief—Taoism, Buddhism, and Confucianism—under one roof.
Conclude your tour with a Malacca River Cruise—a must-do experience. Departing from the Malacca River Jetty near Dutch Square, this relaxing boat ride offers a unique view of Malacca’s historic and cultural landscape from the water. Be prepared for surprising sights and scents that capture the essence of this charming river city.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Hotel Maya Kuala Lumpur (4 Star) – Studio Room or similar
Day 4: Kuala Lumpur – Cameron Highlands
Journey to the Cameron Highlands
After breakfast check out and begin your scenic journey north to the enchanting hill resort of Cameron Highlands.
Discovered by British surveyor William Cameron in 1885 during a mapping expedition, the plateau remained unmarked until later explorations confirmed its location. In 1925, Sir George Maxwell recognized its potential and initiated its development as a hill station. Between 1925 and 1931, a dedicated development committee oversaw the construction of the winding road to the highlands—an impressive feat achieved entirely through manual labour.
Arrive in Ringlet by afternoon. Check in to your hotel and take the evening to unwind and embrace the refreshing cool mountain air.
A light sweater is recommended for the crisp evenings.
Approximate Distance: Kuala Lumpur to Cameron Highlands – 200KM (approx. 3 hours)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Accommodation: The Lakehouse Cameron Highlands (4-Star Boutique) – Deluxe Room
Day 5: Cameron Highlands
Full-Day Tour: Mossy Forest & Tea Experience in Cameron Highlands
Begin your day with a scenic ride in our Land Rover, cruising through the picturesque rolling hills of Cameron Highlands’ iconic tea plantations. Our destination: Gunung Brinchang, the highest mountain in Southeast Asia accessible by road, standing at 6,666 feet above sea level.
Along the way, enjoy fascinating “tea talks” by our knowledgeable guide while taking in the panoramic views of Malaysia’s most celebrated tea region. On clear days, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking vistas that stretch across the highlands.
Next, embark on an interpretive walk through the mystical Mossy Forest, led by our experienced nature guide. Discover some of the world’s most exotic flora, including pitcher plants, wild orchids, primitive ferns, and a variety of medicinal herbs and spices thriving in this unique ecosystem.
After your forest adventure, take a short drive down to the Sungei Palas 'BOH' Tea Factory. Enjoy a guided factory tour to learn about the traditional processes involved in making Malaysian tea. Stroll through the tea bushes before heading to the Tea Shop, where you can sample a variety of teas while relaxing in the café, which offers stunning views of the plantation.
Following your tea break, continue your journey with a visit to the Rose Garden and vegetable farms (entrance fees included), showcasing the region’s vibrant horticultural heritage.
After the tour, return to your hotel where the rest of your evening is free to relax.
Note: The tea factory is closed on Mondays.
Estimated Duration of Visits & Transfers:
Gunung Brinchang to Sungei Palas BOH Tea Factory: 15–20 minutes
Mossy Forest boardwalk & guided commentary: ~1 hour
Tea bush walk & factory tour: ~1 hour
Rose Garden: ~40 minutes
Vegetable Farm: ~30 minutes
Return to hotel: 15–20 minutes
Meals Included: Breakfast and snacks
Accommodation: The Lakehouse Cameron Highlands (4-star boutique) – Deluxe Room
Day 6: Cameron Highlands – Penang
Breakfast at hotel. Depart from Cameron Highlands at noon. Check-out and depart Cameron Highlands and proceed your journey up to north to the island of Penang. Cross the Penang bridge which measures 13.5 kilometer, before arriving into the Penang island. Check in at hotel.
Approximate distances: Cameron Highlands to Penang – 246 km / 3-4 hrs
Meals included: Breakfast
Accommodation: The Royale Chulan Penang (3 Star boutique) – Deluxe or similar
Day 7: Penang
Morning Heritage Walking Tour – Georgetown
Breakfast & Market Visit
Start your day with a light breakfast. Put on comfortable walking shoes and a cap, and meet your guide at 8:00 am to begin your journey into the heart of Georgetown.
Your first stop is the oldest wet market in Georgetown, a lively, bustling place where locals have shopped long before the advent of modern, air-conditioned supermarkets. Take a stroll through the market, where you’ll find fresh produce, affordable clothing, and charming knick-knacks. The vibrant energy and cheerful chaos of the market is a unique experience in itself—feel free to try your hand at haggling, picking and prodding through the offerings, or simply observing the animated interactions.
As you walk past various food stalls offering traditional local breakfasts, let your driver-cum-guide know if you’d like to sample anything. Don’t miss the chance to try the all-time favourite – Roti Bakar & Kopi O.
Walking the Streets of Georgetown
After the market, continue on foot through Georgetown’s historic streets. Your walking route includes:
St. George’s Church – the oldest Anglican church in Southeast Asia.
Goddess of Mercy Temple – a place of spiritual significance and local devotion.
Flower Garland Stalls – pass through colourful vendors making floral garlands by hand.
King Street – learn from your guide about the temples lining this historical road.
Market Street – visit traditional spice shops and discover the many uses of local spices in cooking. You'll also pass by saree shops, joss sticks, accessories, and witness traditional spice grinding.
Food stalls – enjoy a guide’s explanation of various breakfast dishes, such as Roti Canai and Teh Tarik, with opportunities for sampling.
Queen Street – visit the Sri Mariamman Temple, an important Hindu temple.
Khoo Kongsi – end the tour at this majestic Chinese clanhouse, a cultural and architectural highlight.
Notes on Distance & Timing
Distances between stops vary. Some are just around the corner, while others may require a 15–20 minute walk. The overall pace will depend on the group’s comfort level, and guests are encouraged to walk slowly and enjoy the guide’s commentary. Along the way, there will be many interesting sights to observe and photograph.
Approximate visit duration per stop: 15–20 minutes
Tour type: Heritage Walking Tour – the entire Georgetown area is a UNESCO heritage site
Meals: Breakfast, snack tastings, and food samples during the tour
Accommodation: The Royale Chulan Penang (3-star boutique) – Deluxe Room or similar
Day 8: Penang–Kota Kinabalu
After a hearty breakfast, check out from the hotel and transfer to Penang International Airport. Please allow approximately 2½ to 3 hours before your flight departure, depending on traffic conditions.
Suggested flight itinerary:
MH1143 | 10:40 – 11:40 | PEN–KUL | Duration: 1h 0m
(Layover: 1h 15m)
MH2614 | 12:55 – 15:25 | KUL–BKI | Duration: 2h 30m
Total travel time: 4h 45m
Upon arrival at Kota Kinabalu International Airport, transfer to your hotel. The rest of the day is free at leisure—explore the city’s nightlife or visit the Filipino Night Market located just opposite your hotel.
Approximate distance:
The Royale Chulan Penang to Penang International Airport – 18 km / approx. 25 minutes
Meals included: Breakfast
Accommodation: Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu (4-Star) – Urban Room or similar
Day 9: Kota Kinabalu
After a hearty breakfast, depart at 8:00 am for a half-day visit to the Mari-Mari Cultural Village, located just 25 minutes from Kota Kinabalu city. The scenic drive takes you along winding roads flanked by lush greenery and under open, wild blue skies.
Upon arrival at the village entrance, you’ll be warmly welcomed and briefed on the Village Rules—your essential preparation for a journey back in time to ancient Borneo. You’ll then cross a suspension bridge and be received by the Chief in a traditional Welcome Ceremony.
Mari-Mari showcases the cultural heritage of Sabah's major ethnic groups. Each traditional house is authentically built by descendants of the tribes they represent, offering a genuine glimpse into their way of life. As you explore, the village's immersive environment allows you to see, hear, taste, and feel the spirit of Sabah in an unforgettable way.
Village Itinerary Highlights:
Dusun House
Witness a demonstration of traditional tobacco-cutting. Exit through the rear to a hut where you’ll learn about bamboo cooking and the distillation of Montoku (rice wine).
Rungus Longhouse
Discover the traditional art of fire-starting without matches or lighters and observe the creation of ethnic rattan bangles.
Lundayeh House
Be amazed by age-old methods of crafting ropes, vests, flooring, and walls using tree bark.
Bajau House
Watch the preparation of Jala (a local cake) and Pandan juice. Inside, explore an array of antique heirlooms and step into a traditional bridal parlour for photos.
Murut Longhouse
Representing the headhunter tribe, this longhouse is your final stop—don’t worry, your head will remain firmly in place! Enjoy another Welcome Ceremony, witness blowpipe-making, and experience the Lansaran, a traditional trampoline-like floor used for celebratory jumps. You may try it yourself! See traditional tattooing methods in action and, if you wish, receive a temporary tattoo using the ancient technique.
Cultural Performance & Farewell
Conclude your visit at the performance stage with lively traditional dances by the village staff. Afterward, enjoy 15 minutes of free time to browse and shop at the souvenir store, featuring handmade crafts.
Lunch & Return Transfer
Savor a sumptuous buffet lunch before saying goodbye to the villagers and heading back to the 21st century with a return transfer to your hotel.
Approximate duration of the visits: The whole tour is in the cultural village for 4 hours
Approximate distances: From Kota Kinabalu city to Mari-Mari Cultural Village 25 minutes
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Le Meridien Kota Kinabalu (4 Star) – Urban or similar
Day 10: Kota Kinabalu – Sandakan – Abai
Sandakan Wildlife Adventure
Have an early breakfast. (You may check with the Front Office to arrange for breakfast to be sent to your room or a packed breakfast.)
05:30 hrs: Check out and depart for the airport for your flight to Sandakan.
Suggested flight:
MH2042 | 07:15 – 07:55 | BKI–SDK | Duration: 40 minutes
Upon arrival at Sandakan Airport:
Drive approximately 30 minutes to the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre.
Proceed to the free-roaming area and feeding platform.
10:00 hrs:
Witness the feeding of orangutans. At the centre, observe man's closest relative—the orangutan—as they are rehabilitated to return to the wild. Experience a walk through the Tropical Lowland Dipterocarp Forest of Borneo.
Visit the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre, which works to improve the living conditions of rescued sun bears and allows them to exhibit natural behaviors in a 2.5-hectare enclosed forest.
11:15 hrs:
Depart from Sepilok and transfer to the Sandakan jetty for the scheduled boat departure at 12:00 noon.
Enjoy a one-hour boat cruise up the Lower Kinabatangan River Sanctuary, taking in the beautiful mangrove scenery starting from the Sulu Sea off Sandakan Town.
Arrive at Abai Jungle Restaurant for lunch, followed by check-in at Abai Jungle Lodge.
Late Afternoon:
Go on a wildlife-spotting river cruise. Enjoy coffee as the sun sets.
As night falls, continue with a night cruise to witness fireflies lighting up the mangroves like Christmas trees.
Return to the lodge for dinner.
Evening:
After dinner, take a guided night walk along the nature boardwalk to search for birds, snakes, insects, and other nocturnal wildlife with your nature guide.
Approximate Duration of Visits:
Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre: 1 hour
Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre: 45 minutes
Late afternoon river cruise: 1.5–2 hours (may be extended by 30 minutes if fireflies are sighted)
Night cruise (fireflies watching): 30 minutes to 1 hour
Guided night walk on nature boardwalk: 45 minutes to 1 hour
Approximate Distances:
Sandakan Airport/City to Sepilok: 17 km / 30 minutes
Sepilok to Sandakan Jetty: 27 km / 35 minutes
Sandakan Jetty to Abai Jungle Lodge: 1 hour by boat
Boat cruise up the Lower Kinabatangan River: 1 hour
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Abai Jungle Lodge – Standard Chalet
Day 11: Abai
Wake up to the calls of nature at 06:30 hours. Begin your day with a serene river trip to Pitas Oxbow Lake, where you'll have the opportunity to observe diverse wildlife and immerse yourself in the tranquil surroundings of this unique habitat. The journey on the river offers glimpses of local flora and fauna in their natural habitat, making it a perfect start to the day.
At 10:00 hours, a briefing will be provided about the tree planting project, a community initiative designed to support local sustainability efforts. You’ll also be invited to participate in the Most Beautiful House Competition and enjoy a traditional lunch hosted by the villagers at Abai Village, giving you a chance to connect with the local culture.
After lunch, take some time to explore the nature boardwalk behind the lodge. Bring along your binoculars for the chance to spot wild Orangutans, silver leaf monkeys, a variety of birds, and more hidden gems of the jungle. Be on the lookout – nature is full of surprises!
Later in the afternoon, embark on another river cruise, this time to search for different wildlife species, offering a new perspective and more opportunities for discovery.
Approximate Duration for Visits:
Morning Cruise to Pitas Oxbow Lake: 1.5 to 2 hours
Tree Planting Briefing & Most Beautiful House Competition / Village Walk & Lunch at Abai Village: 2.5 hours
Afternoon River Cruise: 1.5 to 2 hours
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Abai Jungle Lodge – Standard Chalet
Day 12: Abai-Sandakan (Departure)
In the morning, you are free to view more birds/wildlife and enjoy a cup of coffee at our nature board walk. After breakfast (0900 hours) take another hour boat back to Sandakan. Upon arrival at jetty, transfer to airport for your flight (preferably MH2047 ETD1400 or any flight after 1400 hours) for your onward destination.
Note: For departure flight before 1350 hours, lunch will not be provided.
Approximate distances
- Abai Jungle Lodge to Jetty: 1 hour
- Sandakan Jetty to Sandakan Airport: 14km / 20-30 minutes enroute stop for lunch
- On boat to Sandakan: 1 hour
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
PRICE: The price is subject to your travel dates and the number of people traveling. The itinerary can be customized according to your preferences. Contact us for detailed quotation!
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