Sandakan

Our tour to Malaysia starts in the nature and wildlife area of Sandakan, usually reached through the capital city of Kuala Lumpur. After settling into our lodge, we head out for some outdoor activities. Highlights this evening include a firefly mangrove cruise and an opportunity to see Proboscis monkeys (monkeys with weird noses).

Kinabatangan River

We are not relocating by flight to Kuala Lumpur just yet. We have wildlife to see beforehand. The Kinabatangan River Cruise is our first of today’s two attractions, famous for its viewing of orangutans (reddish-furred great apes) and elephants. The second is the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, another popular spot to see orangutans. After viewing the wildlife, we depart for Kuala Lumpur.

Kuala Lumpur

We explore Kuala Lumpur today. First, we visit the Batu Caves complex, including Cave Villa and Ramayana Cave, known for limestone formations, Hindu temples, playful monkeys, and the iconic 272-step climb with city views. Next is Heritage Row for dining, followed by the Petronas Twin Towers, where we enjoy views from the Skybridge (Level 41) and Observation Deck (Level 86), and a photo stop at KLCC Park. We continue to Central Market for Malaysian arts, crafts, and street food, then visit Jalan Tun H. S. Lee and Guan Di Temple. Walking onward, we explore Petaling Street in Chinatown, famous for its market and street food, and Sri Maha Mariamman Temple, known for colorful South Indian architecture. We visit REXKL, a former cinema turned creative hub with shops and food stalls, then Kwai Chai Hong for murals and heritage shophouses. The evening ends at a rooftop bar before returning to the hotel; alternatively, another rooftop bar visit is available upon request.

Kuala Lumpur

We explore Kuala Lumpur today. First, KL Forest Eco Park offers a rainforest in the city center with trails and a Canopy Walk with skyline views. Next, Chowkit Wet Market features fresh produce, spices, and tropical fruits. We visit Madrasah Gouthiyyah Surau, pass Tamil Methodist Church, then Sri Sivan Alayam Temple before exploring Little India Brickfields Harmony Street. After lunch, we see Merdeka Square and the Sultan Abdul Samad Building, then Jamek Mosque at the river confluence. Next, Jalan Bukit Bintang for shopping, Istana Negara Palace, Federal Territory Mosque (closed weekends), Perdana Botanical Gardens, and Thean Hou Temple. Evening highlights include Jalan Alor street food, Changkat Bukit Bintang nightlife, and Saloma Bridge for Petronas Tower views, then back to the hotel.

Langkawi Island

We are relocating by flight from Kuala Lumpur to Langkawi Island. Upon arrival, we go by car to Pantai Cenang (a.k.a. Cenang Beach). This is the best place for lively vibes, restaurants, shops and action. Next, we are taken to a pier called Teluk Baru Jetty. There we go on an island-hopping tour. The highlights are the freshwater lake at Pulau Dayang Bunting (a.k.a. Pregnant Maiden Lake), eagle watching and feeding at Pulau Singa Besar (a.k.a. Big Lions Island) and the white sandy beaches and swimming at Pulau Beras Basah (a.k.a. Wet Rice Island). After the boat tour, we are taken back to our hotel.

Tanjung Rhu Beach

We start our morning with an excursion. Specifically, we are taken by car to the Tanjung Rhu Mangrove Jetty pier. There we go on a mangrove boat tour. Wildlife spotting (such as eagles and monkeys) is a highlight at Kilim Karst Geoforest Park. After this half-day boat tour, we are taken by car to Tanjung Rhu Beach. It is known for its powdery white sand, crystal-clear turquoise waters and dramatic limestone karst formations. Next, we are taken to the Machinchang Cable Car Station, located in Oriental Village. There we take the cable car to the so-called ‘SkyBridge station’. This is the cable car’s top station area. Upon arrival, we are taken on foot to the Telaga Tujuh Waterfalls. There we go swimming. Before taking the cable car ride back to the Machinchang Cable Car Station, we are taken to the glassed walkway. From there we have great views of the surrounding nature. After the Machinchang Cable Car Station, we are taken back to our hotel.

George Town

We are relocating by flight from Langkawi Island to George Town. After settling in, we are taken by car to Kek Lok Si Temple. It’s the largest Buddhist temple in Malaysia, featuring intricate pagodas, towering statues, colorful halls and serene gardens. Next, we are taken to the base of Penang Hill. There we take a funicular to a viewpoint. From this viewpoint, we see both the lush rainforest and the city. Next, we are taken to The TOP (a.k.a. Komtar Tower). It offers an unmatched panoramic view of George Town from its glass walkway. Next, we are taken to Dhammikarama Burmese Temple. This is the oldest Burmese Buddhist temple in Malaysia. It features a golden tower, large artifacts, colorful wall paintings and numerous Buddha statues in various styles.

Malaysia

After visiting this temple, we are taken to an open-air food court called Gurney Drive Hawker Centre. It is popular for diverse Malaysian street food with a lively seafront setting. After our meal, we are provided with a guided tour of the area. Next, we are taken to a street art scene called ‘Kids on a Bike’. Here we see a real bicycle attached to a wall with children painted behind it. Near to ‘Kids on a Bike’ are more wall paintings, specifically ‘Old Motorcycle’ and ‘Boy on a Chair’. Next, we are taken on foot to Lebuh Chulia Street. It is famous for its vibrant night scene, not least its street food hawker stalls that light up. Expect bars and a lively backpacker atmosphere. We can then be taken back to our hotel or be left on this street to party.

George Town

We explore George Town starting with Fort Cornwallis, known for its intact walls, cannons, chapel, lighthouse, and sea views. On foot, we visit the Queen Victoria Memorial Clock Tower and nearby City Hall, Town Hall, Supreme Court, State Assembly, and Immigration Department buildings—colonial landmarks viewed from outside. A short walk brings us to The Residency, the Governor’s official residence. Next, we see Seh Tek Tong Cheah Kongsi Temple, blending Chinese, Malay, and European architecture with intricate carvings and a pagoda roof. Then, we explore the historic clan jetties, a UNESCO site with stilted homes, shrines, street art, and local food. The day ends with a traditional cooking class, including dinner, before returning to the hotel.

George Town

Transportation will be arranged for you to reach the airport in George Town.