Tour Malaysia

Tour Malaysia: The Ultimate Guide

Kuala Lumpur Malaysia

A combination of different cultures, a multicultural cuisine, cities full of culture and natural areas to discover. That's Malaysia. During a Malaysia holiday you will discover for yourself the versatility of this country.

1. Characteristics Malaysia

Malaysia is less well known to many travellers than, for example, neighbouring Thailand. And that is not easy to understand, because Malaysia offers a complete offer for a round trip or holiday. We like to list everything you need to know for a Malaysia holiday.

Tour Malaysia

Tour Malaysia

 

Special features
Land Malaysia
Worldpart Asia
Climate Tropical
Number of inhabitants 32 million
Number of international tourists per year 6 million
Flight travel time (direct flight) 12 hours
Currency Yen
Language Malaysian Ringgit
Time difference with the Netherlands 6 hours later in summer / 7 hours later in winter
Price level Good buy
Best travel period Western Malaysia all year round

Eastern Malaysia: spring and summer

 

Activities Culture, nature, history, beach
Travel type Group travel,singles,Families,couples,

backpacking

Visa needed Yes
Inoculate DTP and Hepatitus A recommended

 

2. Tips for tour Malaysia

Malaysia is a different country with a different culture. A number of rules can therefore also be different than you are used to. To make sure you are well prepared for your holiday, we would like to list some useful facts.

  • Homosexuality is punishable in the country, also for foreigners.
  • For a stay up to 90 days you don't need a visa
  • On request you must be able to present a number of documents to the customs in Malaysia. These documents include a hotel reservation, a return or transit ticket, at least 500 USD for the stay and a yellow fever vaccination certificate if you are entering the country from a yellow fever area.
  • You will need a adapter or travel plug to use the sockets in Malaysia.
  • You better not drink the water from the tap. Make sure your food is always well cooked or fried and wash fruit before eating with some mineral water.

3. Vaccinations

Inoculations against DTP (diphtheria, tetanus and polio) and hepatitis A are recommended for a Malaysian holiday. Personalized vaccinations can also be recommended. During a visit to a vaccination office in your area this can all be discussed. Make an appointment 4 to 6 weeks before departure at a vaccination agency in your area to look at the vaccinations for Malaysia. An advisor will advise which vaccinations are needed based on your itinerary and your personal history. As the usual vaccinations are in stock, in most cases they can be fixed.

For a consultation you pay about €24. An inoculation against DTP costs an average of €29 and for Hepatitis A you lose about €55. The costs for the consultation and vaccinations vary per place. Your local vaccination agency can give you the exact costs. Also take a look at your insurance policy, because these costs are covered by many insurers.

4. Travel advice Malaysia

No specific safety risks are reported by the government for Malaysia. However, safety risks for the coastal strip near East Sabah are reported. Kidnappings have taken place here. Please take this into account and familiarize yourself with the local safety situation. It is important that you can always identify yourself. Furthermore, it is recommended to visit the islands off the eastern coast of Sabah and the islands to the east and south of the city of Semporna only when really necessary. For a safe holiday, we are happy to share some tips if you are going on a tour of Malaysia.

  • There is a risk of bag robbery where someone tries to grab your bag on the back of a moped and (violent) street robberies.
  • For your own safety, it is advisable to leave eye-catching jewelry at home.
  • At night, don't just take to the streets outside the well-lit main streets. Also avoid the beach.
  • If you're robbed or mugged, don't resist. This can lead to (more) violence.

5. Best travel period Malaysia

Malaysia has a tropical climate. Only, what is the best travel period for a Malaysia holiday? You can roughly divide the country into two parts: the west and the east. The western part of the mainland can actually be visited all year round. A real rainy season doesn't really exist here. Although most showers fall in the months of December, January and February. But these are not so heavy and often do not hinder you in your trip.

The east coast of Malaysia does have a heavy rainy season. It is best to visit this part of the country between April and October. From November to April you will have to deal with heavy showers here. Heavy monsoon rain and thunderstorms then migrate along the east coast. Tropical cyclones can also occur. The islands are therefore no longer easily accessible. This is because most boats do not sail because of the rough sea. Also many resorts and hotels close their doors during this period.

The part of Malaysia that lies on Borneo is actually also good to visit all year round. In the region of Sabah you will have to deal with a shower between May and November. And in the Sarawak region most rain falls in the period from October to April. However, you will notice that some cooling during the tropical warm is nice. Also keep in mind that the air in Malaysia between June and September can be very full. This is due to the forest fires in Indonesia.

6. Transportation for a holiday to Malaysia

Malaysia itself is well developed when it comes to transport. The cheapest transport is the bus. The country offers an extensive bus network. Both the roads and the buses are in good condition, which makes travelling by bus comfortable. You can choose between regular line buses that run from place to place and long-distance buses. These 'express buses' are usually equipped with air conditioning.

6.1. By train

The train is a less organised means of transport in Malaysia. Travel times are long and often you cannot enjoy a nice view. To tourists, the bus is often recommended compared to the train as a means of transport.

6.2. Self drive

If you want to drive yourself in Malaysia you can rent a car or moped. Please note that you will need a driving license in Malaysia. Rental companies may ask for an international driver's license. You can request this prior to your holiday to Malaysia in the Netherlands. And make sure you drive on the left in Malaysia. And on most main roads you will have to pay tolls.

You can also choose to travel by taxi in Malaysia. You can often find one on every street corner. In the capital of Malaysia taxis work with meters. In Kuala Lumpur just check if it is switched on. In other cities the taxis often do not have meters. In that case you can agree on a price for the ride in advance.

7. Round trip Malaysia: backpacking

Due to the good infrastructure in the country and the many options for accommodations for every budget, Malaysia is a suitable country to continue backpacking. During a trip through Malaysia with your backpack you can put together your own route. If you come from Thailand you can, for example, travel through the country from north to south. Or if you fly to the capital of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, you can go in various directions from this starting point. You can plan your own route on the basis of our visiting tips.

8. Round trip Malaysia: places of interest

What are the highlights in this Asian country that you can't skip? We'd like to list 20 visiting tips for you. It's good to know that Malaysia is split into two parts. These parts are separated by the South China Sea. The peninsula that borders Thailand is the part of Malaysia that most people know. Here you will find among others the capital of Malaysia: Kuala Lumpur. Around this peninsula there are many smaller islands that belong to Malaysia. Another part of Malaysia lies on the island of Borneo. In our travel tips you will find attractions on both parts of Malaysia to visit.

8.1. Langkawi

On the west coast of Malaysia you will find several islands. The northernmost island is Langkawi. This tropical island offers beautiful beaches and a spectacular interior. You can still find many natural areas, authentic villages and places that are not very developed. This gives the island its charm.

8.2. Langkawi cable car and Sky Bridge

If you want to enjoy a 360 degree view of Langkawi, you should definitely take a ride on the SkyCab. This cable car consists of several parts. The first part is 1700 meters long and brings you up to 650 meters altitude. From here you can enjoy the viewpoints of beautiful views over the island and the surrounding islands. The highest point is at 708 meters altitude. And the two platforms on top of Machincang Mountain offer fantastic views that you won't easily find anywhere else. Natural monuments with deep gorges and overhanging cliffs in a unique combination on Langkawi. From this mountain you can also walk over the Sky Bridge. This is the longest free span and curved bridge in the world. While walking at about 100 meters above the ground, you will enjoy a unique experience with views over for example the jungle.

8.3. Perhentian islands

On the east side of Malaysia there are also several islands, including the Perhentian islands. The two most important islands of this group are Perhentian Besar and Perhentian Kecil. They are mainly known for their cheap accommodations, so you will encounter a lot of backpackers on these islands. And for the many facilities for snorkeling and diving. You will enjoy coral sand beaches, a turquoise blue sea and of course many palm trees. For snorkeling and diving you are in the right place. There are many dive sites around the island. And for snorkeling you do not have to go far away. You will notice that the water around the islands is full of fish and rays.

8.4. Penang

8.5. Gurney Drive

In Georgetown on Penang you should definitely put a walk along Gurney Drive on your to do list. This popular boulevard is known for the many food stalls you'll find there to enjoy the local cuisine. Especially in the evening this area comes alive. And enjoy a unique experience of eating by the sea. Gurney Drive is not only popular with tourists. It's also Georgetown's second Central Business District due to the large increase in skyscrapers and shopping malls.

8.6. Bukit Larut

Bukit Larut is often referred to by his former name, Maxwell Hill. About 10 kilometres from Taiping, in the northwest on the mainland, you will find this oldest mountain resort in Malaysia at an altitude of 1250 metres. To reach the top, you can go trekking or take a jeep which is located at the entrance to Maxwell Hill. This area is less touristy than other mountain areas such as Cameron Highlands. You'll enjoy a colonial atmosphere and English gardens. For example, the cottages that were built for the British plantation owners are still there. Keep in mind that this area has the most rainfall in the country.

8.7. Lost World of Tambun

Whether you travel with children or not, the (water) amusement park 'Lost World of Tambun' offers fun for everyone. You'll find this adventure park about an hour's drive south from Taiping. It offers roller coaster rides for the thrill seekers to activities suitable for children such as merry-go-rounds. What makes this park even more special is that you'll also find natural water sources to enjoy a relaxing moment during your holiday.

8.8. Cameron Highlands

With its highest point at about 2000 meters, the Cameron Highlands is a fertile area. During a Malaysian tour you should definitely not skip this area. The higher altitude provides a temperate climate with daytime temperatures of around 25°C, cooling to an average of 18°C in the evening. This makes the area very suitable for growing plants, fruit and vegetables.

The Cameron Highlands is mainly known for the many tea plantations that you find against the mountain walls. If you are going to visit this area, there are several activities in which you can participate. Like the locals, take a nice walk along the vast plantations. Of course you can also take a look at the strawberry plantations and vegetable gardens that you will find in this area. But most popular is a day tour along the tea plantations. Where you can of course taste tea, possibly together with a scone with locally made jam.

8.9. Taman Negara National Park

Discover the 130 million year old rainforest, the Taman Negara national park. Here you can see for yourself how beautiful nature can be. During a visit to the rainforest you can do all kinds of activities. For example, you can walk over the world's longest footbridge, visit an aboriginal village and of course see nature and animals.

8.10. Genting highlands

One hour drive above Kuala Lumpur is Genting Highlands. This is a leisure and entertainment resort on a mountain. A cable car takes you up. Once there you will find several hotels, amusement parks and all kinds of activities such as shopping malls, casino's, shows and eateries. You can spend a day here or stay overnight to make use of the wide range of facilities.

8.11. Batu Caves

Just above Kuala Lumpur is the popular attraction Batu caves. You won't want to miss this temple complex during your Malaysian holiday. On a limestone hill you will find a number of caves and cave temples. It is one of the most popular Hindu sanctuaries outside India. During the annual Hindu festival thousands of worshippers congregate here. A real eye-catcher is a large statue of a Hindu god at the entrance. Next to it is a staircase with 272 steps. When you have climbed these, you can enjoy a fantastic view over the skyline of the city.

8.12. Golden Triangle

There is plenty to do in Malaysia's vibrant capital, Kuala Lumpur. It is therefore definitely advisable to stay here for a few days to absorb everything. By the way, you'll find most of the sights in the Golden Triangle. This is the central area in Kuala Lumpur. The special thing is that most attractions in this area are within walking distance of each other.

Naturally you will also find plenty of opportunities for going out in the Golden Triangle. Whether you're looking for a restaurant to go out for a nice meal or a bar for a drink, you'll find it all here. And since Kuala Lumpur is full of skyscrapers, you'll often find nightlife venues on the high floors of these buildings. During dinner you can enjoy beautiful views.

8.13. Petronas Twin Towers

The Petronas Twin Towers owes its name to the identical appearance of the two towers. And to the most important tenant, the oil company Petronas. The building has a total of 88 floors. And between the 41st and 42nd floors, the towers are connected to each other by an air bridge. And you can stand on this airlift during a visit to the towers.

The 58 meter long airlift is actually meant to provide an escape route from one tower to the other in case of fire. It is now also a tourist attraction. An elevator takes you 170 meters up to the bridge. From where you can enjoy a spectacular view over the city. Daredevils can even be brought up to the 86th floor to look out over the city from the Observation Deck. It is advisable to buy tickets in advance to avoid long queues.

8.14. Chinatown

In the centre of Kuala Lumpur you will find an area that never sleeps and is colourful and lively. Chinatown is a popular tourist spot and that is not surprising. The core of this district is Petaling Street. Here you have to be for a large covered market where you can find not only clothes and accessories, but also agricultural products. The market is not only open during the day, but also at night. Bargain hunters are sure to find something to take home as a souvenir. Meanwhile, enjoy the noodles and curry dishes at the many stalls you'll find on the street. For a taste of oriental culture and history you should be here.

8.15. National Mosque of Malaysia

The National Mosque is also called the Masjid Negara. This mosque is the national symbol of Islam and accommodates no less than 15.00 people. It consists of a central prayer room with 48 smaller domes around it. The 73-meter high minaret and the main roof in the shape of a 16 pointed star are the main features of the mosque. The design with the abstract shapes and geometric grids in the roof and wrought ironwork is reminiscent of the Grand Mosque in Mecca. The walls of the Grand Hall are the showpiece of the Mosque where verses from the Koran decorate the walls. The mosque is situated in a garden where you will find several ponds and fountains scattered throughout the grounds.

8.16. Tioman Island

The island of Tioman is about 32 kilometres off the east coast of Malaysia. This island is covered with primeval forest and sparsely populated. The mountainous island is especially popular for diving, snorkelling and surfing. The island is surrounded by coral reefs and the sea offers a colourful picture full of sea creatures. The island can be reached by boat or small plane.

8.17. Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre

In the northern part of Borneo, you'll find Sabah. This province belongs to Malaysia. And here you will find the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre. The purpose of this centre is to put orphans, wounded or displaced oetans back into the wild. This is done in the Kabili-Sepilok Forest, where many orphans have already been returned. Here they can live independently again in the tropical rainforest and the mangrove swamp. You can take a walk along the various nature trails through the reserve and see the habitat of the animals.

8.18. Mount Kinabalu

In the province of Sabah you will also find Mount Kinabalu. It is located in the Kinabalu National Park which has been declared a World Heritage Site. The mountain is 4095 meters high and you will find several ecosystems. The first part you will encounter tropical rainforests, at higher altitudes there are evergreen shrubs. In the vicinity of the summit only little developed plants and shrubs grow. At the foot of Mount Kinabalu you will find alpine meadows and pastures. The mountain and its surroundings are the habitat of thousands of species of plants and hundreds of different birds. There are also more than 100 species of mammals.

8.19. Tunku Abdul Rahman Park

8.20. Gunung Mulu National Park

In the province of Sarawak, on the island of Borneo, the UNESCO world heritage site Gunung Mulu National Park. This national park is known for the many caves and rock formations you find in the rainforest. Whether you want to spend a few days trekking through the rainforest and caves or take a boat trip on the river, it's all possible here. Keep in mind the high humidity, so you can't plan a day too full of activities.

9. Book a round trip to Malaysia: compare suppliers and accommodation

Whether you go backpacking on a tour of Malaysia or opt for an organised tour, you will enjoy the hospitable locals, the delicious food and the versatile attractions this country has to offer.

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