14 Days - Classic Malaysia

Arrive at Kuala Lumpur International Airport, where you will be met by your driver for a private overland transfer to Malacca. The drive takes approximately two hours and covers around 140 kilometres, gradually shifting from the wide expressways near the airport to smaller roads lined with palm plantations and local towns as you travel south.

Malacca is one of Malaysia’s most historically rich destinations, once a major trading port and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its legacy includes layers of Portuguese, Dutch, British, Chinese, and Peranakan influences, visible in its architecture, cuisine, and cultural traditions. The city’s past is tied to the rise and fall of empires, and its strategic position along the Straits of Malacca once made it one of the most important ports in South East Asia.

Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and take some time to settle in after your journey. The remainder of the day is at leisure. You may wish to take a short walk through the nearby streets to soak up the atmosphere or simply relax and enjoy your hotel’s surroundings.

As the day winds down, you might like to head out for a casual dinner at one of the many local eateries, where dishes such as nyonya laksa, satay, or ikan bakar are regional favourites. Malacca’s evening ambience is warm and lively, especially around the riverfront and heritage quarters, offering a gentle introduction to the culture and charm of the city.

Start your morning with a countryside cycling experience that reveals a quieter, more traditional side of Malacca. After breakfast, your guide and driver will meet you at your hotel and take you on a short drive of about 20 minutes to reach the outskirts of the city. Here, you will be fitted with your mountain bike and helmet, and receive a short safety briefing before beginning your ride.

Accompanied by a friendly and experienced local guide, you’ll cycle along peaceful village roads and through patches of farmland and fruit orchards. The journey winds through kampungs where life unfolds at a slower pace - locals work in rubber plantations, children play by the roadside, and smallholders tend to their crops. As you ride, your guide will offer insight into local traditions, farming techniques, and the everyday routines that define rural life in Malaysia.

This ride is designed for comfort and enjoyment, avoiding busy roads in favour of scenic and shaded backroutes. The pace is easy and there are plenty of opportunities to stop, take photos, and ask questions. From rustic wooden homes to roadside produce stalls, every turn offers a new glimpse into a way of life that remains closely tied to the land.

At the end of the cycling tour, you’ll return to your hotel by car. The remainder of the day is yours to relax or continue exploring at your own pace. For the ride, it’s recommended to wear breathable long clothing for sun and insect protection, closed footwear with socks, and a hat or cap. Don’t forget to apply sunblock and bring along a refillable bottle of water to stay hydrated throughout your ride.

After breakfast, check out from your hotel in Malacca and meet your driver for the drive north to Kuala Lumpur. The journey takes between two and three hours, covering approximately 150 to 170 kilometres. As you leave behind the slower pace of Malacca’s historic streets, the scenery transitions to expressways, growing townships, and eventually the urban edge of Malaysia’s bustling capital.

Kuala Lumpur is a dynamic city that blends the old and the new in fascinating ways. It is home to soaring skyscrapers like the Petronas Towers, vibrant neighbourhoods steeped in tradition, and a variety of architectural styles reflecting its multicultural roots. The city’s personality is shaped by its mix of Malay, Chinese, Indian, and Indigenous influences, which can be felt everywhere from the food and festivals to the languages spoken on the street. It is also a favourite destination for shoppers and food lovers, with a wide choice of markets, malls, and local eateries.

On arrival in Kuala Lumpur, check in to your hotel and take a moment to unwind. Later, you might like to head out and get a feel for your surroundings. The city centre is home to many well-known areas, including the entertainment district of Bukit Bintang, the historic enclaves of Chinatown, and the sleek towers and parklands around KLCC. Each offers something different, whether you are looking for food, fashion, or a relaxed stroll.

The rest of the day is free for you to explore at your own pace. You may wish to relax at your hotel, find a rooftop bar to enjoy views of the skyline, or take a short evening walk to discover the flavours and sounds of the city.

This morning, take a deeper look at the vibrant city of Kuala Lumpur with a guided walking tour that highlights its cultural layers and lesser known stories. Make your own way to the meeting point at the Be Mind Information and Service Centre in the Annex Gallery, located beside Central Market. This popular landmark is easy to find and marks the start of a journey through some of the city’s most atmospheric streets and neighbourhoods.

The walking tour runs for approximately four to six hours, depending on the group size and level of interest. Your local guide will take you through the old quarters of Kuala Lumpur, where temples, shrines, and mosques stand as living testaments to the country’s multicultural roots. Expect to visit a variety of places of worship representing Malaysia’s major faiths, each with its own customs and stories. The guide will also share anecdotes about the city’s early days as a tin mining settlement and how it evolved into one of the most modern cities in South East Asia.

Along the way, there will be opportunities to try a variety of local snacks. Street vendors and small eateries serve up popular dishes enjoyed daily by city residents. These tastings highlight the fusion of Malay, Chinese, and Indian culinary traditions that define Kuala Lumpur’s street food scene. Expect bold flavours, fragrant spices, and plenty of variety.

The tour moves at an easy pace, with stops to take photos, ask questions, and simply observe life in the backstreets. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, and you will need to remove them when entering temples and mosques, so footwear without socks is ideal. Bring sun protection and an umbrella or light rain jacket, as the weather can change quickly. Since food is included throughout the tour, consider having only a light breakfast. Women entering Hindu temples should wear long trousers and cover their shoulders, though cover-ups are often available at the entrance if needed.

At the conclusion of the walk, you are free to return to your hotel on your own or continue exploring nearby. This experience offers a well-rounded introduction to the spirit of Kuala Lumpur - its people, beliefs, flavours, and living history.

After breakfast, check out from your hotel in Kuala Lumpur and proceed to the designated meeting point for your shared overland transfer to Taman Negara, Malaysia’s most iconic national park. The journey begins with a drive of approximately two to three hours, heading northeast through the central region of Peninsular Malaysia. As the cityscape fades into rural landscapes, you’ll pass through small towns, agricultural areas, and forested countryside, offering a first glimpse into the more remote and untouched parts of the country.

Your destination is Labu Sentral Jetty, the river access point to Taman Negara. Here, you will board a traditional wooden longboat for a shared transfer up the Tembeling River. The cruise to Kuala Tahan takes around one and a half to two hours, winding through some of the oldest rainforest in the world. The boat journey itself is a highlight, offering an immersive entry into the park’s dense jungle environment. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife along the way - kingfishers darting over the water, monkeys leaping through the trees, or perhaps a water monitor basking on the riverbank. The slow pace and natural sounds of the forest make this a peaceful and memorable approach to Taman Negara.

Upon arrival at the jetty near Kuala Tahan, a short walk brings you to the Mutiara Taman Negara Resort, your base for exploring the park. Nestled at the edge of the forest and overlooking the river, the resort offers simple, comfortable chalets that blend into the natural surroundings. After check in, the afternoon is free to relax or explore the nearby trails and riverfront area. You may wish to enjoy a cold drink at the resort café, visit the park headquarters, or simply take in the sounds of the jungle from your verandah.

As night falls, the rainforest transforms. This evening, meet your nature guide at the resort’s lobby for a guided night walk into the jungle. With flashlights in hand, set off on a marked trail near the resort and experience the forest after dark. Your guide will help you spot nocturnal creatures such as stick insects, tree frogs, geckos, and perhaps even small mammals like civets or flying squirrels. The sounds of cicadas, crickets, and rustling leaves surround you as you explore the forest’s nocturnal side. This short walk offers a fascinating introduction to the biodiversity and mystery of Taman Negara.

Return to the resort after the walk and enjoy a well-earned rest. Overnight at Mutiara Taman Negara Resort, including breakfast and dinner.

Begin your full day of rainforest exploration in Taman Negara with a guided hike to Teresek Hill, one of the park’s most accessible and rewarding trekking routes. After breakfast, meet your guide at the resort lobby to begin your morning adventure. This experience takes you deep into the heart of one of the world’s oldest tropical rainforests, estimated to be over 130 million years old. Spanning more than 4300 square kilometres, Taman Negara is the largest protected area in Malaysia and home to an extraordinary variety of flora and fauna.

The hike covers approximately three and a half kilometres in total, starting with a gentle walk through dense forest at the foothills of Bukit Teresek. As you make your way uphill, your guide will point out native plant species, from medicinal herbs to ancient hardwood trees, as well as signs of wildlife such as insects, birds, or the occasional monkey. Reaching the summit of Teresek Hill, you will be rewarded with sweeping views over the treetops and, on clear days, glimpses of Mount Tahan, the tallest mountain in Peninsular Malaysia.

After a short rest at the top, begin your descent back through the forest. When open to visitors, this route typically includes the Canopy Walkway, a suspended bridge system high above the forest floor offering rare views over the rainforest. However, please note that the walkway is currently closed due to reconstruction. Your guide will offer an alternative activity suited to the group and conditions on the day.

Return to the resort for a break and lunch before your afternoon excursion to Lata Berkoh, one of the most scenic areas of the park. Departing from the jetty near your lodge, board a traditional wooden boat for a peaceful ride up the Tahan River. The journey follows narrow bends flanked by jungle on both sides, offering beautiful scenery and a chance to spot birds or other wildlife. During the dry season, the boat may need to be guided through shallow areas by hand.

Eventually, you will arrive at a quiet sandbank where the boat will stop. From there, take a short walk along the river’s edge to reach a series of large boulders and natural pools. The cool water and forest surroundings make it a perfect place to pause and swim, relax on the rocks, or simply enjoy the sounds of nature.

After your time at Lata Berkoh, return to Kuala Tahan by boat and make your way back to the resort. The evening is at your leisure to unwind and reflect on your time in the forest.

After breakfast at the resort, check out and gather at the designated meeting point for your overland transfer to Cameron Highlands. Today’s journey will take you from the lowland rainforests of Taman Negara into one of Malaysia’s most picturesque and temperate regions. The drive covers a distance of approximately 260 to 350 kilometres and takes around four and a half to five and a half hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.

As you leave Kuala Tahan, the road passes through rural towns, small agricultural areas, and rolling hills. Eventually, you will begin the steady ascent into the highlands. The temperature drops noticeably as you gain elevation, and the scenery changes to misty forested slopes, vegetable farms, and tea plantations that stretch across the hillsides. The road becomes more winding as you approach the highlands, offering scenic views of lush rainforest valleys and distant mountain ridges along the way.

Cameron Highlands sits at an elevation of more than 1500 metres above sea level and is well known for its cool climate, colonial-era charm, and fertile landscape. It has long been a favourite retreat for locals and visitors alike seeking a break from the tropical heat. The region is especially famous for its tea estates, strawberry farms, flower gardens, and fresh produce markets.

Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and take some time to relax in the crisp mountain air. The remainder of the day is free at your leisure. You may wish to visit a local café and enjoy a traditional cream tea with scones and locally grown strawberries, or take a gentle walk through the town to get your bearings. The cooler weather also makes this a pleasant place to unwind outdoors or explore nearby gardens and markets. Overnight in Cameron Highlands at Strawberry Park Resort.

After breakfast, prepare for a half-day guided excursion into one of the most unique and atmospheric landscapes in Malaysia - the Mossy Forest of Cameron Highlands. You will be picked up from your hotel by your guide in a four-wheel drive vehicle, well suited for navigating the narrow, winding roads that lead high into the hills.

Your journey begins with a scenic drive through the rolling tea-covered slopes that define the highland region. As you ascend, your guide will share insight into the geography, history, and cultivation of tea in Malaysia during an informal but informative “tea talk.” The views along the way are spectacular, with sweeping panoramas of emerald plantations and mist-shrouded hillsides that stretch into the distance.

The Mossy Forest, located near the summit of Gunung Brinchang, is a montane cloud forest that thrives at elevations of over 2000 metres. Upon arrival, set off on an interpretive walk with your nature guide, who will introduce you to the forest’s cool, moist ecosystem. Covered in a dense layer of moss and dripping with moisture from the constant cloud cover, this is a world of twisted trees, gnarled roots, and hanging vines. Your guide will point out rare and fascinating plant life along the trail, including orchids, primitive ferns, wild ginger, medicinal herbs, and the famous carnivorous pitcher plant.

The walk itself is relatively easy and follows a wooden boardwalk built to protect the delicate ground cover beneath. The environment here feels almost otherworldly, and the filtered light, mist, and rich green textures make this a favourite stop for photographers and nature lovers alike.

After exploring the forest, your tour continues with a visit to the nearby Sungai Palas BOH Tea Estate, one of the most iconic tea plantations in the region. Depending on the day’s traffic and weather, the visit to the plantation may occur either before or after the forest walk. At the plantation, take time to view the tea processing facility, stroll through the manicured fields, and enjoy panoramic views from the estate’s modern café. While drinks are not included in the tour, you may wish to purchase a cup of freshly brewed tea and a light snack while enjoying the cool breeze and peaceful surroundings.

Following your visit, return to your hotel in Cameron Highlands. The rest of the day is at leisure to relax or continue exploring the area at your own pace. This experience offers a perfect balance of natural discovery and scenic beauty, providing deeper insight into what makes Cameron Highlands such a distinctive destination.

After breakfast, check out from your hotel and begin your overland journey to Penang, a destination often referred to as the Pearl of the Orient. Today’s drive will take you from the cool, misty hills of Cameron Highlands down to the coastal lowlands and onward to Penang Island, a place renowned for its rich cultural heritage, historic architecture, and world-famous street food.

The journey covers approximately 250 kilometres and takes between three and four hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. As you leave the highlands behind, the winding mountain roads gradually give way to wider highways and flat agricultural plains. You will pass through small towns and rural communities, with occasional glimpses of plantations, roadside stalls, and traditional Malay kampungs along the way.

Approaching the west coast, the road leads you to one of Malaysia’s major engineering landmarks - either the Penang Bridge or the newer Sultan Abdul Halim Muadzam Shah Bridge - both offering expansive views across the Straits of Malacca. Crossing onto Penang Island, you’ll soon arrive in George Town, the state capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its colourful blend of cultures, colonial-era buildings, and vibrant streets.

Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and take time to settle in. The rest of the day is free at your leisure. You might choose to relax at the hotel or begin exploring George Town’s historic precinct, where Chinese clan houses, Indian temples, and British colonial buildings sit side by side with trendy cafés, markets, and murals. The atmosphere is lively, layered, and welcoming: a perfect change of pace from the quiet of the highlands.

This morning, take a deeper look at the living history of Penang with a guided George Town Heritage Walk. This experience offers more than just a tour of buildings. It provides a thoughtful introduction to one of South East Asia's most culturally rich cities. George Town, the capital of Penang Island, is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for its unique mix of architecture, food, faith, and traditions.

Walk through George Town’s maze of narrow lanes, sheltered arcades, and lively neighbourhoods. Your guide will lead you past buildings that reflect a wide range of cultural and historical influences. You will see British era mansions, Chinese courtyard houses, Indian temples, and Malay wooden homes. These are not preserved museum pieces. They are part of a working city still inhabited by the communities that have lived here for generations. With each stop, your guide will explain how migration, trade, and cultural exchange helped shape the George Town you see today.

One part of the walk focuses on Penang’s connection to the nutmeg trade. Though small in size, this spice had a major impact on the island's growth. Your guide will share how nutmeg and other goods helped build the economy of George Town and how this legacy still influences local commerce and identity.

As the walk continues, you will have the chance to taste a variety of local snacks that reflect Penang’s multicultural food traditions. These may include Chinese cakes, Indian street snacks, or sweets made with coconut and pandan. Each item reflects the history of the people who brought their flavours and customs to the island over time.

The pace of the tour is relaxed and well suited to those who enjoy culture, food, and stories. You will have time to pause, ask questions, and take photos as your guide helps you see how history, belief, and everyday life connect in this part of Malaysia.

To stay comfortable, wear walking shoes, bring a refillable bottle of water, and dress for the weather. A sunhat or cap, sunglasses, and light clothing are recommended. A small towel and an umbrella or lightweight rain jacket may also be helpful in case of sudden rain or heat.

This heritage walk offers a rich and meaningful way to experience George Town. It is a chance to step into local life and gain a better understanding of how Penang’s diverse communities continue to share space, traditions, and identity.

This morning, check out from your hotel in George Town and meet your driver for a private transfer to Kuala Kedah Jetty. The journey takes approximately one and a half to two hours, covering a distance of around 120 to 150 kilometres as you leave Penang Island and travel north through the state of Kedah. This is a direct transfer and does not include sightseeing or scheduled stops along the way.

On arrival at Kuala Kedah Jetty, you will prepare to board the ferry bound for Langkawi. The crossing takes between one and a half to two hours, depending on weather and sea conditions. The boat travels across the calm waters of the Malacca Strait and, on clear days, offers sweeping views of the mainland coast and the forested outline of Langkawi Island in the distance. The journey provides a welcome pause, giving you time to relax as you transition from the mainland to island life.

It is recommended that you arrive at the jetty at least thirty to forty five minutes before your scheduled departure. This gives you enough time to exchange your travel voucher for a boarding pass at the Ferry Line Venture counter and complete the check in process. Ferry seating is open, so early arrival will offer more choice and comfort during the journey.

Once you arrive at Kuah Jetty in Langkawi, your driver will be waiting to meet you for a private transfer to your resort. The drive from the jetty to Berjaya Langkawi Resort takes approximately ten to thirty minutes, depending on local traffic and weather. No stops are scheduled during this final leg of the journey, allowing for a smooth and direct arrival.

After check in, the remainder of the day is free for you to relax and enjoy the natural setting of your resort. Langkawi offers a complete change of pace from the urban and cultural sights of the mainland. Surrounded by forested hills, quiet beaches, and distant limestone islands, the island is an ideal place to slow down and settle into a tropical rhythm.

This morning, set out on a half-day exploration of one of Langkawi’s most important natural ecosystems with a scenic boat journey through the Kilim River mangrove forest. You will be collected from your resort and driven to the departure point where your boat and guide will be waiting. The experience offers a rare opportunity to witness the unique landscapes and wildlife that thrive along Langkawi’s northern coastal waterways.

As your boat begins its journey along the Kilim River, you will find yourself surrounded by dense mangrove forests on one side and towering limestone formations on the other. These dramatic cliffs, some formed over 500 million years ago, rise steeply from the riverbanks and are a defining feature of the region. Their age and composition make them not only visually striking but also geologically significant.

The mangroves play a vital ecological role in protecting the island’s coastline from erosion and storm surges. Your guide will explain how the dense roots of the trees filter sediments, stabilise the shoreline, and support a complex web of plant and animal life. As you move quietly through the waterways, keep your eyes open for some of the inhabitants of this fragile habitat. Monkeys forage among the branches, snakes rest along the limbs of trees, and mudskippers dart along the muddy banks. You may also spot kingfishers, egrets, sea eagles, and monitor lizards going about their daily routines.

Midway through your excursion, the boat will make a stop at a floating restaurant located along the river. Here, you will have a chance to enjoy a light local meal or refreshments while taking in views of the water and surrounding forest. The platform is also home to a small fish nursery, and your guide may introduce you to a few native species while explaining the traditional aquaculture practices used by local communities.

After lunch, the boat continues its journey through the winding river channels before returning to the jetty. You will then be transferred back to your resort to enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.

For comfort and convenience, it is recommended to wear light clothing, a hat or cap, and sandals or waterproof footwear. Bring sun protection and a refillable bottle of water. A towel and small daypack may also be useful. This is a relaxed, scenic experience suitable for travellers of most fitness levels and a memorable way to discover the quieter, wilder side of Langkawi.

Today is yours to enjoy Langkawi however you choose, with no scheduled activities. The island is known for its balance of quiet natural charm and accessible attractions, making it a great place to unwind or explore at your own pace. Whether you spend the day by the sea or head out for a day of discovery, Langkawi offers something to suit every mood and interest.

Langkawi’s beaches are a natural starting point for a relaxed day. Pantai Cenang is the most well known and offers a lively stretch of sand lined with cafés, small shops, and local restaurants. Further north, Tanjung Rhu is quieter and more scenic, with soft white sand and calm waters ideal for swimming or simply relaxing in the shade. Many beachside spots serve fresh seafood and tropical fruit juices, giving you a chance to enjoy lunch with your feet in the sand.

If you feel like taking in more of the island’s landscape, the Langkawi Cable Car offers one of the best panoramic views in the region. The ride climbs to the peak of Gunung Mat Cincang, where you can step onto the Sky Bridge and enjoy wide views of the jungle canopy, nearby islands, and on a clear day, even southern Thailand. This is one of Langkawi’s most popular attractions and is often best visited in the morning before it gets busy.

Nature lovers might consider visiting Telaga Tujuh, also known as the Seven Wells Waterfall. A short forest trail leads to natural pools and rock formations, perfect for a refreshing dip. Along the path you may encounter butterflies, birds, and the occasional macaque. Another option is the Langkawi Wildlife Park, which allows for close encounters with a variety of native and exotic species in a well maintained setting.

For a quieter day, you may prefer to stay close to your resort. Take time to enjoy the facilities, such as the pool or spa, or perhaps enjoy a meal overlooking the sea. Langkawi’s interior also offers a peaceful escape, with narrow roads winding past rice fields and small villages where traditional island life continues with little interruption. These areas are easy to explore with a short taxi ride or hired car.

As a duty free island, Langkawi also has several shopping centres and local markets where you can pick up souvenirs, snacks, or personal items at discounted prices. Whether you choose rest or exploration, today is about enjoying the island in your own time and style.

Enjoy breakfast at your resort as you take in your final morning on Langkawi. After days of discovery, relaxation, and cultural encounters, today marks the conclusion of your journey through Malaysia. Depending on your flight time, you may have a short while to soak in the views, take a quiet walk along the beach, or enjoy one last swim before preparing to depart.

At the scheduled time, your driver will meet you in the hotel lobby for a private transfer to Langkawi International Airport. The drive typically takes between ten and twenty minutes and covers a distance of around ten to fifteen kilometres, depending on traffic and the location of your resort. This transfer is direct, with no stops along the way, ensuring a smooth and timely arrival for your check in.

At the airport, you will check in for your short flight to Kuala Lumpur, where you will connect to your international flight home. Please make sure to have your travel documents ready, including your passport, flight confirmation, and any required check in details. Hotel reception staff or your guide can assist with any last minute questions about departure procedures.

As you leave Langkawi’s coastline behind, we hope you carry with you vivid memories of Malaysia’s rich history, warm hospitality, and beautiful landscapes. Wishing you a safe and comfortable journey onward, and we look forward to welcoming you back in the future.