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Summary

Embark on an 18-day adventure through Malaysia, from the bustling streets of Kuala Lumpur to the serene Cameron Highlands, and onto the rich biodiversity of Borneo. Experience cultural immersion, challenging treks, wildlife encounters, and conservation efforts, all while staying in unique accommodations like eco lodges and local homestays. This journey offers a deep dive into Malaysia's natural beauty and cultural richness, making it a must for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

🌆 Day 1: Welcome to Kuala Lumpur

Begin your adventure in the vibrant capital of Malaysia, exploring local markets and iconic towers.

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🛍️ Petaling Street Market

A vibrant hub in Kuala Lumpur's Chinatown, perfect for experiencing local culture and cuisine. The market comes alive in the evening, offering a lively atmosphere and a variety of street food options.

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Tips

Visit in the evening for a lively atmosphere and a variety of street food options.

Travel Information
📞   Phone: +60 3-2032 5988
🌐   Website: https://bit.ly/petalingstreethotel
🕒   Hours: See hours
⏳   Typical duration: 25 min to 1.5 hr
📍   Address: Jalan Petaling, City Centre, 50000 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

🏙️ Kuala Lumpur Twin Towers

Marvel at the striking view of these iconic towers, especially beautiful at night from Saloma Bridge. The towers are best viewed after dark for the full effect of their illumination.

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Tips

Best viewed after dark for the full effect of their illumination.

Travel Information
📞   Phone: +60 3-2331 8080
🌐   Website: https://www.petronastwintowers.com.my/
🕒   Hours: See hours
⏳   Typical duration: 1.5 hours
📍   Address: Petronas Twin Tower, Lower Ground (Concourse) Level, Kuala Lumpur City Centre, 50088 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
🔗   Profiles: Instagram YouTube

Day 2: Cameron Highlands Exploration

Travel to the serene Cameron Highlands for a refreshing climate and lush landscapes.

Cameron Highlands

The Cameron Highlands, nestled in the heart of Malaysia, is renowned for its emerald tea plantations, picturesque strawberry fields, and invigorating cool climate, offering a delightful respite from the hustle and bustle of the city.

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<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "What Cameron Highlands Is Really Like In Malaysia (WATCH ...", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=itq3q-auk7s", "channel": { "name": "Travels on Toast"}, "published_date": "May 14, 2023", "length": "17:45" }</div>

<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Best Things To Do in Cameron Highlands | Malaysia Travel ...", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WB9I9El4MuQ", "channel": { "name": "Travel With Mansoureh"}, "published_date": "Feb 17, 2024", "length": "13:48" }</div>

<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "CAMERON HIGHLANDS 4K - Travel Guide Malaysia ...", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hnv5u7wjY1c", "channel": { "name": "Wout of the World"}, "published_date": "Dec 18, 2022", "length": "10:04" }</div>

Tips

The evening presents a perfect opportunity to meander through the local markets, where an array of fresh produce and vibrant flowers await, creating a sensory delight for visitors.

🌿 Day 3: Mossy Forest Adventure

Trek through the mystical Mossy Forest and visit a local Tea Plantation for an immersive nature experience.

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🌲 Mossy Forest

The Mossy Forest in Cameron Highlands is a magical, mist-shrouded wonderland, with unique flora and an otherworldly ambiance reminiscent of scenes from Avatar. The rich, green moss blankets the area, creating an enchanting atmosphere that feels like stepping into a fairytale. The forest is home to a diverse range of plant species, some of which are endemic to this unique environment. The towering trees and the mist that hangs in the air add to the ethereal beauty of this natural wonder.

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Tips

Wear comfortable hiking shoes to navigate the uneven terrain and be prepared for the humidity. Don't forget to bring a camera to capture the stunning views and the surreal beauty of the moss-covered landscape.

Travel Information
📞   Phone: +60 13-674 1406
🌐   Website: http://www.cameronhighland.net/mossy-forest.htm
🕒   Hours: See hours
⏳   Typical duration: 1 hour
📍   Address: Gunung Brinchang, Brinchang, 39000 Brinchang, Pahang, Malaysia
🔗   Profiles: Facebook Instagram

🍃 Tea Plantation

The tea plantations in Cameron Highlands offer a serene escape into the world of tea production. As you wander through the endless rows of vibrant green shrubs that seem to embrace the hillside, you'll be treated to panoramic views of the lush landscape. The cool, misty air and the gentle rustling of the leaves create a tranquil atmosphere, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Learn about the art of tea cultivation and processing, gaining insight into the journey from leaf to cup. The picturesque setting provides a perfect backdrop for savoring a cup of locally produced tea, allowing you to immerse yourself fully in the highland experience.

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<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Cameron Valley Tea House 1 or 2 or Boh Tea Plantation ...", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Di-zvqbz3g0", "channel": { "name": "Wanderlust Storytellers"}, "published_date": "Feb 5, 2019", "length": "16:00" }</div>

<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Cameron Highlands Malaysia | Tea Plantations | Strawberry ...", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vvQOVrTkHko", "channel": { "name": "Seven In All Adventures"}, "published_date": "Jul 7, 2023", "length": "6:25" }</div>

<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Exploring Boh Tea in the Cameron Highlands (Malaysia) \ud83c\uddf2\ud83c\uddfe", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NVYQXOdA0TY", "channel": { "name": "On the move"}, "published_date": "Jun 20, 2022", "length": "13:39" }</div>

Tips

Try the locally produced tea for a taste of the highlands, and take a moment to soak in the breathtaking views of the tea plantations.

Day 4: Ulu Muda Eco Lodge Stay

Experience the tranquility of nature at an eco lodge in Ulu Muda, with river cruises and wildlife spotting.

Earth Lodge

Nestled in the heart of Ulu Muda Forest, Earth Lodge is a special eco lodge dedicated to the preservation of the surrounding natural habitat. Embrace the unique opportunity to stay in harmony with nature, surrounded by lush greenery and the soothing sounds of the jungle.

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Tips

Check the packing suggestions for your stay at Earth Lodge to ensure you are prepared for a basic yet memorable accommodation experience. Expect to be immersed in the beauty of the natural environment, with minimal modern amenities to truly connect with the surroundings.

Travel Information
📍   Address: Kuala Labua, Ulu Muda State Park, 08210 Gubir, Kedah, Malaysia
🔗   Profiles: Facebook X (Twitter)

🌿 Day 5: Jungle Treks and River Cruises

Delve deeper into the Ulu Muda Forest with guided treks, cave visits, and another enchanting river cruise.

🌳 Bukit Labu hike & cave visit

Embark on a captivating journey through the lush rainforest of Bukit Labu with an expert guide, who will unravel the secrets of the native flora and fauna that thrive in this pristine habitat. The trek culminates in the exploration of the Bukit Labu caves, offering a glimpse into the ancient geological formations and the possibility of encountering the diverse wildlife that calls this area home.

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Tips

Prepare for an immersive 6-hour hike along the original forest trails, ensuring you are equipped with comfortable walking shoes and insect repellent to fully savor this extraordinary experience.

Day 6: Cultural Immersion in Teluk Bahang

From traditional games to a Silat performance, immerse yourself in the local culture with a homestay experience.

Homestay in Teluk Bahang

Stay with local hosts, enjoying home-cooked meals and learning about their way of life.

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<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "HOMESTAY KAMPUNG NELAYAN TELUK BAHANG ...", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FxLYh3qj_kY", "channel": { "name": "RAF@takhirau&co."}, "published_date": "Dec 28, 2021", "length": "4:55" }</div>

Tips

Engage respectfully with your hosts and participate in the activities for a full cultural experience.

Day 7: Georgetown's Heritage

Discover the charm of Georgetown with a Heritage walking tour, exploring historical buildings and street art.

Heritage walking tour

Wander by ancient shopfronts and admire the fascinating street art in this culturally rich city.

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Tips

Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a camera to capture the vibrant street art.

Day 8: Journey to Borneo

Fly to Kota Kinabalu and explore the city's history and natural beauty before your Borneo adventure begins.

Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu, a city rich in history, is nestled between the lush Bornean jungle and the glistening South China Sea. Its vibrant culture and stunning landscapes make it a perfect starting point for your Borneo expedition.

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<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Amazing Borneo Malaysia! What to See in Kota Kinabalu", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zz85B5HrAM8", "channel": { "name": "Far Away Now"}, "published_date": "Oct 13, 2023", "length": "13:49" }</div>

<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Kota Kinabalu - The gateway to BORNEO! \ud83c\uddf2\ud83c\uddfe", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lz3lWPQ1BA8", "channel": { "name": "Joel Friend"}, "published_date": "Sep 17, 2023", "length": "9:08" }</div>

<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Entering Kota Kinabalu Sabah in 2024 \ud83c\uddf2\ud83c\uddfe This City Is ...", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x8-6LTDhLao", "channel": { "name": "Ola Lily"}, "published_date": "Dec 8, 2023", "length": "32:43" }</div>

<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Kota Kinabalu, Sabah - Gateway to Borneo", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lWtbXSjf_WA", "channel": { "name": "Nan with a Backpack"}, "published_date": "1 month ago", "length": "9:01" }</div>

Tips

Visit the islands off Kota Kinabalu for excellent swimming and snorkelling opportunities. The crystal-clear waters and diverse marine life make it a paradise for water enthusiasts.

Day 9: Mt Kinabalu Adventure Begins

Travel to a Dusun village and prepare for the challenging yet rewarding climb of Mt Kinabalu.

Dusun Village Homestay

Immerse yourself in the warmth of the Dusun people as you stay in a picturesque village nestled at the foot of the majestic Mt Kinabalu. Experience the genuine hospitality of the Dusun community and gain insights into their traditional way of life, surrounded by the natural beauty of fruit and rubber plantations.

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Tips

Don't miss the opportunity to participate in the captivating cultural performance and take a guided village walk to truly connect with the local culture and traditions.

Day 10: Climbing Mt Kinabalu

Begin the ascent of Mt Kinabalu, trekking through diverse ecosystems to reach Laban Rata for an overnight stay.

Laban Rata Resthouse

Stay near the summit of Mt Kinabalu, preparing for the early morning climb to the peak. The resthouses offer basic, mixed-gender, multishare bunk rooms, providing a rustic yet cozy atmosphere for trekkers. As you prepare for the final ascent, take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, and immerse yourself in the tranquility of this high-altitude haven.

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Tips

Pack warm layers to combat the cold temperatures at the top, and ensure you have a reliable head torch for the early morning climb. Additionally, consider hiring extra blankets from the park office if you anticipate feeling the chill during the night.

Travel Information
📞   Phone: +60138332723
📍   Address: Kundasang, 89300 Kota Belud, Sabah, Malaysia

Day 11: Summit Sunrise and Hot Springs

Witness the sunrise from the summit of Mt Kinabalu before descending and relaxing at Poring Hot Springs.

Poring Hot Springs

Recuperate in the therapeutic waters of the hot springs after the challenging climb.

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Tips

Try the canopy walk for magnificent views of the rainforest, and don't miss the butterfly farm.

Travel Information
📞   Phone: +60 14-695 8577
🕒   Hours: See hours
⏳   Typical duration: 3 hours
📍   Address: 89300 Ranau, Sabah, Malaysia

🌿 Day 12: Wildlife Encounters in Bilit

Explore the Kinabatangan River by boat, spotting wildlife, and take a night walk in the jungle.

🚤 Kinabatangan River Cruises

Immerse yourself in the rich biodiversity of Borneo with the Kinabatangan River cruises and a stay at the comfortable jungle lodge. The riverbanks are teeming with diverse wildlife, offering a captivating experience for nature enthusiasts.

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Tips

For the best wildlife sightings, consider joining the early morning and late afternoon cruises. The tranquil setting of the river during these times provides excellent opportunities to spot various species in their natural habitat.

Day 13: Sandakan and Turtle Island

Visit the Sandakan War Memorial before heading to Turtle Island to witness turtles laying eggs.

Turtle Island

A unique opportunity to see green turtles in their natural habitat and learn about conservation efforts.

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<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Helping BABY TURTLES on TURTLE ISLAND MALAYSIA ...", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7DzSL_WepBQ", "channel": { "name": "Tales of Odyssey"}, "published_date": "Aug 13, 2023", "length": "20:14" }</div>

<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Unreal TURTLE ISLAND Borneo | Releasing BABY TURTLES ...", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_ci06hOOHhQ", "channel": { "name": "Escape To Explore"}, "published_date": "Aug 20, 2023", "length": "20:03" }</div>

<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Turtle Island in Borneo | SmarterTravel", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QhXttSNEBF8", "channel": { "name": "SmarterTravel"}, "published_date": "Nov 29, 2018", "length": "1:17" }</div>

Tips

Use red-light headlamps to avoid disturbing the turtles during the night observation.

🌴 Day 14: Orangutan Rehabilitation

🐒 Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre

Observe orangutans as they are rehabilitated and prepared for release back into the wild. Get a chance to watch and photograph these charming creatures as they swing into view and enjoy their supplementary diet of fruits.

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Tips

Visit early in the morning during feeding times for the best chance to see the orangutans. It's essential to follow the park's instructions and keep human contact to a minimum to ensure the well-being of the orangutans.

Travel Information
📞   Phone: +60 89-633 587
🌐   Website: https://www.instagram.com/sepilokorangutan/
🕒   Hours: See hours
📍   Address: W.D.T. 200, Sabah Wildlife Department, Jalan Sepilok, Sepilok, 90000 Sandakan, Sabah, Malaysia
🔗   Profiles: Instagram