Explore Malaysia & Borneo in a nutshell

Transfer from Kuala Lumpur airport to the city centre - Transfer from Kuala Lumpur airport to the city centre - At leisure in Kuala Lumpur

Day 1: Kuala Lumpur

Transfer from Kuala Lumpur airport to the city centre
Other Transfer: Upon arrival at the Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) you will be met and transferred to your hotel to relax, unwind and rest. Estimated travel time: approximately 1 hour


At leisure in Kuala Lumpur
Excursion: Malaysia’s buzzing capital is regarded as the centre of the country, with its futuristic skyline of steel-clad skyscrapers and renowned Petronas Twin Towers this vibrant hub of culture and technology is where it all happens. Nonetheless, it is the people that give the city its flavour. Here, a mixture of Chinese, Malay and Indian communities live together harmoniously, making the city an exciting stopover or short-stay location. To get a true taste of the city you’ll find that, despite the heat, taking to the streets is your best option. You’ll get in amongst the action of everyday life, whilst avoiding the frustration of being caught in the daily traffic jams that trail in and out of the city. Live as the locals do by indulging in two of their favourite pastimes: eating and shopping. Take your pick of one of the many modern shopping malls in the city’s entertainment district, Bukit Bintang, for some retail therapy, or if you’re looking for a bargain you may want to check out Chinatown and join in the excitement of haggling. With the variety of cultural influences it’s no surprise that the city’s major attraction is mouth-watering food. Along Kimberly Road, street chefs set up their food carts and you can enjoy cooked-to-order bowls of Char koay teow (stir-fried rice noodles) or steaming hokkien mee (noodles stir-fried with egg, pork, prawn, and spicy sambal sauce). On Penang Road seek out the ‘Penang Road Famous Laksa’ to try the state’s most famous dish, Penang Asam Laksa, a spicy-sour tamarind fish soup filled with rice noodles, a dollop of prawn paste, garlic, ginger, and chilli paste.

Kuala Lumpur city tour

Day 2: Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur city tour
Excursion: Kuala Lumpur has been the location of numerous history-defining moments in Malaysia and this orientation tour of the city covers all of the major historical landmarks, as well as provides you with a taste of the tradition and cultural heritage of the major communities. Admire the impressive facade of the Astana Negara, the King’s Palace, built in 1928 by a Chinese millionaire, now the current residence of the monarch of Malaysia. Then, behold the animated figures of the National Monument which are sure to rouse emotion. Commemorating the lives lost in Malaysia’s struggle for freedom during the Japanese occupation and Malayan Emergency, the 15 metre statue holds the record for the world’s tallest free-standing bronze sculpture grouping. Each of the skillfully casted figures denotes one of seven qualities: courage, leadership, sacrifice, strength, suffering, unity and vigilance. The broad open space of Merdeka (Independence) Square evokes the freedom obtained by Malaysia on August 31st, 1957, when the Malayan flag was hoisted for the first time at midnight, declaring Malaysian independence. Located in the colonial core of Kuala Lumpur, where remnants of the British Empire are still evident, the square is overlooked by the Sultan Abdul Samad Building - one of the most significant landmarks built by the British. Finally, the beautiful architecture and solemn presence of the National Mosque gives you an insight into the culture and religion of the city. The awesome, azure domed roof is inspired by the structure of an open umbrella, while the surrounding minarets imitate the closed form. Its design is a contemporary expression of traditional Islamic art, thus encapsulating the true essence of the city, a centre where tradition meets innovation. For a panoramic view of the city in all of its splendour experience a 45 minute guided of tour of the majestic Petronas Twin Towers (closed on Mondays). A fusion of stainless steel and Moorish influences, the 88 storey buildings are renowned for being the tallest twin structures in the world and its striking double-decked skybridge offers magnificent views of the city. Hidden in the bowels is the Dewan Filharmonik Petronas (DFP), the home of the Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra and a cultural icon for all music lovers. Its superior acoustics and magnificent architecture is a treat for both the eyes and the ears, a less well known hidden gem marvelled at by travellers and Malaysians alike. For a truly breathtaking experience visit the the towers after sunset when their bright white light impresses their sheer size and imposing presence against the dark backdrop of the night sky.

Transfer from Kuala Lumpur to Cameron Highlands - Transfer from Kuala Lumpur to Cameron Highlands

Day 3: Cameron Highlands

Transfer from Kuala Lumpur to Cameron Highlands
Other Transfer: You will travel via the highway with a rest stop at Tapah, the gateway to Cameron Highlands. On the way up to the mountain resort you will visit an Aborigine village, followed by a short tea break in one of the local tea houses. You will then continue your journey, passing through Brinchang and finally the main town, Tanah Rata. Estimated travel time: 3 hours 15 minutes.

Cameron Highlands tour - Transfer from Cameron Highlands to Penang via Bukit Merah Orang Utan Island - Transfer from Cameron Highlands to Penang via Bukit Merah Orang Utan Island

Day 4: Cameron Highlands - Penang

Cameron Highlands tour
Excursion: Out of the humid heat of the lowlands, life thrives in the temperate climate of Malaysia’s largest hill station area, the Cameron Highlands. Here, you can breathe in the fresh fragrant air and enjoy the cool breeze as vibrant tea plantations roll into the distance, giving way to the beautifully unspoiled natural region. This area is a walker’s paradise, with numerous trails leading into lush green scenery, all brought to life by crashing waterfalls, flitting birds and wild orchids. Wind your way up into the cool air of the lofty mountains to visit the largest tea plantation in Southeast Asia, Boh tea plantation, founded in 1929 during the British Colonial era. You will be able to watch the careful process that takes the aromatic black tea leaves from bush to bag. Later, you'll relax with a tea break, offering you the chance to savour some of the other wonderful varieties of tea processed onsite (tea factory closed on Mondays). Next, make your way to one of the many garden markets where your senses can indulge in the vibrant colour and scent of local fruit and vegetables - ripe, red strawberries, fresh vegetables and vibrant flowers highlight the richness of the fertile land.


Transfer from Cameron Highlands to Penang via Bukit Merah Orang Utan Island
Other Transfer: Along your journey to the city of Penang you will visit the Bukit Merah Orang Utan Island Foundation, where you will have the chance to see the primates and the in-house infant care unit where baby orangutans are cared for by the dedicated staff. Estimated travel time: 3 hours 25 minutes (plus time at the foundation)


Bukit Merah Orang Utan Island
Excursion: Take a boat ride to visit Orang Utan Island, nestled within the idyllic setting of the Bukit Merah Laketown Resort. The sanctuary, founded in 2000, has become a recognised ex-situ conservation facility and referral centre for the endangered Bornean orangutan, offering visitors first-hand education on these fascinating primates. You will soon see why the orangutan, 'man of the forest' in the local language, has become a well-known symbol of Malaysia - with their human-like mannerisms and inquisitive faces these creatures are truly endearing. A walk through the fenced tunnel enclosure is a humbling experience as you are placed in the wild abode of the orangutan, for a moment the tables are turned and the beautiful creatures become the observers as they roam free among the trees and the bushes, watching inquisitively. At the in-house infant care unit you get a rare viewing of baby orangutans cared for by the devoted staff, these little bundles of orange fur are just as playful and mischievous as any two year old. Visit to Orang Utan Island is subject to water level.

At leisure in Penang

Day 5: Penang

At leisure in Penang
Excursion: Continue your exploration of Penang, and anything you may have missed on Day 5: Penang's history as a meeting point between East and West has provided it with an incredibly varied architectural and cultural style, which culminates undoubtedly in George Town, the island’s main city. The eclectic mix of crumbling shophouses, ornate Chinese temples, decorated mosques and modern skyscrapers is an impressive reflection of the island’s cosmopolitan and diverse culture, making it a rewarding destination for any explorer. Immerse yourself in the rich history and take a stroll along the British Colonial avenues of Georgetown along the Heritage Trail, or for a novel experience of the capital city catch a ride in one of the brightly-coloured trishaws to the gates of Kek Lok Si Temple, one of the largest and finest temples in Southeast Asia. You might also visit the appropriately named Blue Mansion - a magnificent 38-room mansion that blends Eastern and Western design, highlighted by its distinctive indigo blue exterior. To see the island from a different perspective take the funicular railway from Air Itam to the top of Penang Hill and enjoy the expansive views overlooking lush jungle, colonial-style George Town and the distant mainland. If you’re feeling ambitious or wish to explore at a more leisurely pace there are a number of trails leading up to the summit, and in the tropical heat the promise of a traditional high tea with fresh scones at Dan Brown’s Restaurant and Tea Terrace is a delicious reward. Experience the island’s natural bounty by visiting the Tropical Fruit Farm located in the hilly terrain of Teluk Behang, where you’ll be taken on a tour of the luscious orchards and given the chance to taste the unique flavours of each exotic fruit. The orchard also prepares light snacks, juices and a generous BBQ buffet spread on the weekends and public holidays.

Transfer from Penang to the airport - Transfer from Penang to the airport - Domestic flight from Penang to Kuching

Day 6: Kuching

Transfer from Penang to the airport
Other Transfer: We will ensure that you are transferred to Penang International Airport (PEN) in time for your flight. Estimated travel time: 30 minutes


Domestic flight from Penang to Kuching
Scheduled flight Transfer: You will take an internal flight from Penang (PEN) to Kuching (KCH). Estimated travel time: 2 hours 5 minutes


Transfer from Kuching International Airport to Kuching city
Other Transfer: Upon arrival in Kuching you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Estimated travel time: approximately 30 minutes

At leisure in Kuching

Day 7: Kuching

At leisure in Kuching
Excursion: Enjoy the capital of the Sarawak region of Malaysia. You may wish to visit the Sarawak State Museum, regarded as one of the finest in Asia. It is also known for being Kuching's oldest and most historic building, and it exhibits collections of the indigenous races in Sarawak. For an alternative museum experience try out the Kuching Cat Museum, an odd collection of all things feline. For an arty photo opportunity, while you explore the city streets take a stroll to the orangutan mural next to Elektra House, near the Open Air Market. The quirky street art just off India Street is the creation of Lithuanian-born artist Ernest Zacharevic - look out for the nail in the wall that lets you hang anything you wish, and allows you to create your own unique piece of art. The Kuching waterfront offers a two kilometre stretch of food stalls, restaurants and benches, and provides scenic views of the Astana, Fort Margherita and the Malay kampungs across the river. For some of the cheapest and tastiest food around amble along to the Open Air Market, or visit Chong Choon Cafe for the best laksa in town, enjoyed by tourists and locals alike - you’ll want to arrive early to avoid queuing for a mouth-watering bowl of their famous Kuching laksa. For seafood lovers you’ll want to keep an eye out for the giant lobster and neon lights, indicating the entrance to Top Spot Food Court, located in a partially covered courtyard atop a multi-level car park. Choose your dinner from the vast array of fresh fish and seafood - grilled white pomfret is a popular delicacy. For a Sarawak speciality try midin stir-fried in oyster sauce and garlic - the green jungle fern grows wild in the swampy forests.

Transfer from Kuching to the airport - Transfer from Kuching to the airport

Day 8:

Transfer from Kuching to the airport
Other Transfer: You will be transported from Kuching city centre to Kuching International Airport (KCH) in time for your departure flight. Estimated travel time: 30 minutes