Where to go in Malaysia

Tropical beaches, wildlife-rich rainforests, lush highlands and a diverse heritage and culture make Malaysia an amazingly enriching destination. Read our guide to find out where to go – whether you are looking for rest and relaxation, an exotic adventure, or a mix of both.

Highlights of Malaysia

Exotic, rich and diverse, Malaysia offers something to delight everyone – from its powdery tropical beaches and misty colonial hill stations to its jungle-dwelling orangutans and glittering modern capital. The country is split between the Malay Peninsula and Malaysia Borneo, with countless tropical islands fringing the coasts of both.

The gateway to the country and the main jumping-off point for most visitors is the cosmopolitan capital Kuala Lumpur – a modern metropolis of high rises with a few pockets of British colonial architecture, Chinese shop houses and quaint Malay neighbourhoods remaining. From here many choose to travel to the ancient rainforests of Taman Negara or cool hill stations of the Cameron Highlands, or to the enchanting former colonial enclaves of Malacca and Penang. The idyllic islands of the Peninsula's east and west coasts – the best-known being Redang, Tioman and Langkawi – provide beautiful beaches to cap off any tour of the peninsula.

Across the South China Sea in Borneo, the Malay states of Sabah and Sarawak provide the backdrop for astounding wildlife experiences and jungle adventures. You can head into the rainforest to see iconic longhouse villages and learn about tribal customs; you can hike up sacred Mount Kinabalu and explore the surrounding waterfalls, caves and lush landscapes of the national park; or you can go in search of special creatures such as orang-utans and proboscis monkeys, and see them up close in a sanctuary. With marine and turtle reserves, beautiful islands and world-class diving just off the coast, all-in-all Malaysian Borneo is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers.