Peninsula Malaysia & Borneo
14 Days/13 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 – Kota Kinabalu -Mari-Mari Cultural Village
Interactive visit to traditional Sabah tribal village with cultural demos and activities.

Day 10 – Sandakan
Fly to Sandakan .Free time at leisure. In the evening, watch flying squirrels or join an optional guided night walk.

Day 11 – Sepilok & Abai Jungle Lodge
Visit the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre and the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre. Witness orangutan feeding and enjoy a walk through the rainforest. Transfer by boat to Abai on the Kinabatangan River. Afternoon river cruise and night wildlife walk along the boardwalk.

Day 12 – Pitas Oxbow Lake & Abai Village
Early morning river trip to Pitas Oxbow Lake for wildlife spotting. Visit Abai Village for a cultural walk, then explore the nature boardwalk for chances to see wild orangutans, monkeys, and birds. Afternoon wildlife river cruise.

Day 13 – Sukau & Menanggul Cruise
Enjoy a relaxed morning at the lodge. Late morning river cruise to Sukau in search of orangutans, birds, and pygmy elephants. In the afternoon, take a wildlife cruise along the biodiverse Menanggul River.

Day 14 – Return to Sandakan / Departure
Transfer by boat back to Sandakan for your onward flight or extended travel plans.

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 – Duration: 60 mins / 60 KM

Meals included: None

Accommodation: Park Royal Collection Kuala Lumpur (4 Star) -Lifestyle Premier 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: Park Royal Collection Kuala Lumpur (4 Star) -Lifestyle Premier 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:Park Royal Collection Kuala Lumpur (4 Star) -Lifestyle Premier 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 & Afternoon Tea

Accommodation: The Lakehouse Cameron Highlands (4-Star Boutique) – Deluxe Room or similar

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 & Tea & Snacks during the tour

Accommodation: The Lakehouse Cameron Highlands (4-star boutique) – Deluxe Room or similar

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 George Penang (4 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.

End your tour with short ride by the city’s oldest mode of transportation – Trishaw, was a popular and the only mode of transportation in Penang in the olden days, back to your hotel.

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 George Penang (4-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: Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu (4 Star) – Standard Room Hill View 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: Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu (4 Star) – Standard Room Hill View or similar

Day 10: Kota Kinabalu – Sandakan

Sandakan Wildlife Adventure

Upon arrival at Sandakan Airport, you will be met and transferred to MY Nature Resort (please note that check-in is available only after 14:00).

The rest of the day is free at leisure. By 18:00, be ready at The Flying Squirrel platform to witness these fascinating creatures in action. Alternatively, you may join the optional Guided Night Walk, where you can experience the thrill of walking in the dark to spot nocturnal animals or insects. The walk lasts approximately one hour.

A complimentary shuttle van to the Rainforest Discovery Centre (approximately ½ km from the resort) is available at the following times. Please note that entrance fees are at your own expense:

To the Centre: 09:00 & 14:00

From the Centre: 11:00 & 16:00

Dinner and overnight at MY Nature Resort.

Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner
Accommodation: MY Nature Resort – Standard Chalet

Day 11: Sepilok-Sandakan-Abai

Breakfast at the hotel.
At 09:00, meet your guide and depart for the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre. Proceed to the free-roaming area and feeding platform.

10:00 – Orangutan Feeding Session
Observe one of mankind’s closest relatives, the Orangutan, as they are rehabilitated and gradually reintroduced into their natural habitat. Enjoy a walk through the tropical lowland dipterocarp forest of Borneo.

Afterwards, visit the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre, which works to improve the living conditions of rescued sun bears and encourages their natural behaviours within a 2.5-hectare enclosed forest.

11:15 – Depart Sepilok Centre
Transfer to the Sandakan jetty for your scheduled boat departure at 12:00 noon. Enjoy a one-hour boat cruise up the Lower Kinabatangan River Sanctuary, with lunch served at the Abai Jungle Restaurant. This scenic journey takes you from the Sulu Sea near Sandakan through beautiful mangrove forest landscapes.

Check-in at Abai Jungle Lodge.

In the late afternoon, embark on a river cruise in search of wildlife, soaking in the sights and sounds of the jungle as the sun sets — with a cup of coffee in hand. As night falls, continue your cruise to witness the magical sight of fireflies illuminating the trees like a Christmas display.

Return to the lodge for dinner.
After dinner, take a guided walk along the nature boardwalk to experience the jungle at night — and possibly spot birds, snakes, insects, and other nocturnal wildlife with your guide.

Meals included: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
Accommodation: Abai Jungle Lodge – Standard Chalet

Day 12: Pitas Oxbow Lake-Abai Village

Wake up to the sounds of nature.
Early this morning, embark on a river trip to the Pitas Oxbow Lake, a peaceful and scenic spot where you may observe a variety of wildlife and experience the unique ecosystem of this beautiful oxbow lake.

Return to the lodge for breakfast, followed by free time to explore the nature boardwalk behind the lodge at your own pace.

Later, enjoy a leisurely village walk through Abai Village, and savour a simple, authentic lunch specially prepared by the local villagers — a warm and memorable cultural experience. (Alternatively, lunch may be served at Abai Jungle Lodge.)

After lunch, you’re free to further explore the nature boardwalk. Don’t forget your binoculars — keep an eye on the treetops and listen for rustling branches... You might just spot a wild Orang Utan, silver leaf monkey, exotic birds, or other fascinating wildlife.

In the late afternoon, set off on another river cruise in search of different wildlife species.

Overnight at Abai Jungle Lodge.

Meals included: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
Accommodation: Abai Jungle Lodge – Standard Chalet

Day 13: Sukau-Menanggul Cruise

Wake up to the calls of nature, and enjoy some free time exploring the nature boardwalk at your leisure.

At 10:00, embark on a river cruise upstream to Sukau Village, in search of wildlife such as wild Orangutans, a variety of bird species, the elusive pygmy elephant, and other fascinating creatures that inhabit the riverbanks.

Upon arrival in Sukau, enjoy lunch and check in at the Kinabatangan Riverside Lodge.

In the late afternoon, set off on another river cruise — this time along the Menanggul River, a narrow tributary of the Kinabatangan River, well known for its rich biodiversity and excellent wildlife-spotting opportunities.

Return to the lodge for dinner and overnight stay at Kinabatangan Riverside Lodge.

Meals included: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
Accommodation: Kinabatangan Riverside Lodge – Standard Chalet

Day 14: Sandakan (Departure)

07:30 – After breakfast, transfer by boat to Sandakan. Upon arrival at the jetty, enjoy lunch, followed by a transfer to the airport for your departure flight (preferably flights departing after 13:00) or to your hotel.

Note:
– For departure flights before 13:00, lunch will not be provided.
– For evening departure flights, guests will need to wait at the airport for a few hours. A re-pickup at 15:30 can be arranged for your airport transfer, or you may choose to join an optional Sandakan City Tour (14:00–16:00) instead.

Meals included: Breakfast & lunch
Accommodation: –

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!

Peninsula Malaysia & Borneo14 Days/13 Nights