Trips to Malaysia
I've long been drawn to Hinduism, the people of Asia and the mix of cultures across the continent, and for more than 12 years I've split my time between southern India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore and Myanmar. I started out as a guide in Pondicherry with Shanti Travel, before going on to lead our southern India and Malaysia destinations, and now Myanmar.
What I love here is how many cultures live side by side, each respected in its own right. Naturally, my favourite spot is Penang, Asia's street-food capital, with its endless range of flavours.
Having spent the last ten years in Asia, I have a genuine passion for the continent. Southern India and Indonesia hold no more surprises for me, and these days it's Malaysia I'm opening my heart to. This wonderful country, still largely untouched by tourism, offers a mix of experiences between modern life and untamed nature that will make your stay in Malaysia truly rewarding.
What makes Malaysia so appealing is its cultural diversity. I love watching different traditions mix, especially the religions that exist side by side, from the striking pink granite of the Putra Mosque to the Hindu temples built into the mystical caves of Batu Caves, which host the Tamil Thaipusam festival every year. During a trip to Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur will surprise you with how modern it feels, while still holding on to its own character and soul. The same goes for George Town, where old colonial buildings sit alongside contemporary street art, a real favourite of mine! But what truly draws me to Malaysia is its lush nature. I love heading out on treks in Borneo hoping to spot the famous orangutans, an endangered species found only on this island. What better way to spend your holiday in Malaysia than exploring its many beautiful beaches, like the small island of Tioman, where the clear water is perfect for a few days of relaxation. And for someone who loves Asia as much as I do, the food never stops surprising me, with specialities drawn from China, India and Thailand alike!
| Climate in Malaysia | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Average temperature in C° | 6 | 7 | 10 | 14 | 18 | 22 | 26 | 28 | 24 | 19 | 14 | 8 |
| Sunny days per month | 10 | 11 | 13 | 15 | 16 | 12 | 13 | 17 | 14 | 16 | 14 | 12 |
Trip to Malaysia: everything you need to plan your perfect trip
Dreaming of a trip to Malaysia but still have a hundred questions? When to go, what budget to set, how to get around, or why book through an agency? You're in the right place.
You can get around by train, bus, domestic flight or rental car. Malaysia has its own road rules, and an international licence isn't required for stays under 30 days. The train remains a practical, low-impact option on the peninsula. It takes some planning ahead to coordinate these different modes of transport.
Malaysia can be visited year-round, though conditions vary by coast due to the monsoons. Some regions, particularly the islands, are better suited to certain times of year. It's worth adjusting your route to match the seasons.
A trip to Malaysia typically runs 10 to 15 days on the ground to combine the peninsula with the islands. Since travel times can add up, it's best not to pack in too many stops. A well-paced trip lets you properly enjoy each different atmosphere.
The country's geography means travel times between jungle, cities and islands can sometimes be long. Some areas require connecting flights or specific transfers. Planning ahead helps make the most of your time on the move.
Grouping stops together and cutting down on unnecessary travel helps reduce your trip's impact. It's worth being mindful of natural environments and local cultures along the way. Good preparation makes it easier to travel at a more sustainable pace.
Trips to Malaysia generally start from around €1,500 to €3,000 depending on length (10 to 15 days) and the regions covered. Itineraries combining several areas, such as Borneo and the islands, come with higher transport costs. Adjusting the route and comfort level is a good way to manage your budget.
Planning a trip to Malaysia means coordinating several regions, transport options and stops, each with its own logistics. Areas such as Borneo and the islands can be particularly complex to organise. An agency can help structure the itinerary and make the most of your travel time.
It's entirely possible to extend your trip to the city-state of Singapore, or to the Indonesian island of Sumatra, a great alternative for spotting orangutans more easily than in Borneo. Combining these different ecosystems means planning ahead for sea and air connections. Careful preparation makes these cross-border transitions much smoother.
Trip to Malaysia: 7 good reasons to go
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One country, many trips
Discover the full richness of Malaysia's cultural diversity. This fascinating country is a genuine crossroads of cultures, where different religions and communities live side by side in harmony. A trip to Malaysia is an invitation to explore a mix you won't find anywhere else. -
Wildlife found nowhere else
Meet orangutans in the rainforests of Borneo, an unforgettable experience in the middle of lush, well-preserved nature. On your trip to Malaysia, let the call of the jungle and its wildlife lead the way. -
Beaches straight out of a postcard
Spend part of your stay in Malaysia on the stunning beaches of Tioman Island or the Langkawi archipelago. These stretches of white sand and clear water are perfect for slowing down and enjoying the moment. -
A fascinating city
Dive into the buzz of Kuala Lumpur, a city that blends modern life with tradition. Between the old royal palace and the famous Petronas Twin Towers, Malaysia's capital will surprise you with its energy and unique heritage, a must on any trip to Malaysia. -
Malaysia for families or couples
Build memories that last with a tailor-made trip through Malaysia. Combine adventure, discovery, charming hotels and time to relax for an experience that suits everyone, young and old. -
A cuisine shaped by many cultures
Enjoy food that's varied and full of flavour. Between local specialities and Chinese, Indian and Thai influences, every dish is worth discovering. No stay in Malaysia is complete without trying its culinary heritage. -
A real melting pot of encounters
Get a glimpse into the daily life of ancestral communities and meet the ethnic groups living in Malaysia's forests. These moments of connection and exchange will stay with you, making your trip to Malaysia all the more genuine.
Malaysia, travel with a local agency
Split between peninsula and archipelago, this country is often overlooked by travellers, yet it's full of natural and cultural treasures. As specialists in organised trips to Malaysia, our local agency builds tailor-made itineraries for you. Put our expertise to work and let us design the Malaysia trip you've been picturing.
Tailor-made trips and stays in Malaysia
Malaysia surprises travellers with just how much variety it has to offer. Your local agency guides you across the country, from the Malay Peninsula all the way into the heart of Borneo's jungle. Discover the history of the old colonial towns of Melaka and George Town, the Pearl of the Orient, or get swept up in the buzz of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia's ever-evolving capital. A stay in Malaysia mixes modern life with authenticity, from a visit to the Petronas Twin Towers to meeting Iban indigenous communities. Take in different cultures and religions, from the Batu Caves to the Putra Mosque, and enjoy local food shaped by influences from across Asia, including India and China.
Family trips and romantic getaways in Malaysia
For a holiday in Malaysia, the Langkawi archipelago or Tioman Island are hard to beat, perfect for relaxing on the beach beside crystal-clear water and white sand. Head out on an adventure at Belum National Park, or go trekking through Borneo's rainforest: waterfalls, suspension bridges, mangroves and orangutans await. Discover the country's remarkable wildlife and plants, along with the communities who call these extraordinary places home, all set within lush nature. Get in touch with your Malaysia travel expert and come and discover this vibrant country for yourself.
