Malaysia
Savvy travelers have known about Malaysia's many wondrous touring opportunities for years. It is an irresistible vacation spot for everyone - from nature lovers who long to explore the flora and fauna of pristine rainforests to sophisticated urbanites who crave great food and night life, fantastic shopping, and futuristic architecture. Malaysia has something to offer to any traveler, let a discount tour from Friendly Planet help take you there!
Highlights
- Kuala Lumpur
The capital city of Malaysia is a sight to behold, with the iconic Petronas Twin Towers rising over the city and piercing the sky. As the economic, financial, and cultural hub of Malaysia, the city center is modern and vibrant. Such diversity makes it a great place to visit, with museums, high-end shops, and peaceful parks. Whether you want to experience the glitz and glam of the shopping district, or pay your respects at mosques with marvelous minarets, Kuala Lumpur is sure to enthrall you!- National Parks
With more than 30 national parks, adventure abounds in Malaysia! From rainforests to caves to beaches, there’s no shortage of natural beauty that will surely leave you breathless. A trek through the rainforest will unveil a sprawling array of flora and fauna and magnificent waterfalls. Navigate through caves following the paths and wooden bridges and discover ancient artifacts and temples that are thousands of years old. Relax on pristinely-preserved beaches. The country’s bountiful national parks are some of the best places to experience the purest form of nature.- Petronas Twin Towers
Rising high into the sky of Kuala Lumpur, the Petronas Twin Towers are one of Malaysia’s defining landmarks. Attracting locals and tourists alike, the 86th floor of the Petronas Twin Towers offers incredible views of the cityscape. Take advantage of free binoculars for an up-close look at the outside surroundings. It’s easy to walk from one tower to the other – just cross the highest double-decker bridge in the world, located on floors 41 and 42. Explore the towers’ on your own, or join one of the daily tours. There are plenty of things to do both in and around the towers, from meandering through the gardens of Kuala Lumpur City Centre (KLCC) Park to grabbing lunch at a restaurant in the towers. If you happen to visit at night, watching the Symphony Lake Water Show is a must! The fountain water is lit up by multi-colored lights that create a serene scene as they change color in unison with symphony music.- Semenggoh Orangutan Rehabilitation Center
The center was established in the 1970s as a safe haven for injured or captive orangutans. Today, rehabilitated orangutans roam freely in the forest and return to the center at feeding time. Watch the orangutans feast on fruit, potatoes, and eggs, or try to capture them building a nest to sleep in (they can build up to 3 nests a day!) Stop in theSemenggoh Orangutan Gallery, and learn about this fascinating mammal and the center’s conservation efforts. Any animal lover will fall in love with these precious creatures, all while promoting a safe environment for this endangered species.- Batu Caves
Just a short drive from Kuala Lumpur, this cave system is nearly 400 million years-old. There are 3 main limestone caves, and a few smaller ones. Upon arrival you will be greeted by a gargantuan statue of Lord Murugan and a seemingly-endless staircase. In and around the caves you will find temples, religious statues, and paintings. It is a sacred site in Hindu culture, and attracts thousands of disciples who come bearing offerings and to fulfill their vows. Ascend the 272 steps to Temple Cave, the site of the lavish festival, Thaipusam. Thousands of people flock to the temple in honor of the Hindu god, Lord Murugan, in an hours-long nightly procession starting in Kuala Lumpur’s city center. Visiting the Batu Caves during this sacred festival is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience!
Fast Facts
Already booked on one of our packages to Malaysia? See everything you need to know before you go.
| Overview | Capital: Kuala Lumpur |
| Entry requirements | Please see our Entry Requirements page. |
| Staying Healthy | Malaria is present in Sabah and Sarawak. Check with your physician about malaria suppressants, and possible typhoid and hepatitis vaccinations. Remember to take along plenty of insect repellant. |
| Weather | Malaysia is hot and humid, with Borneo being a little hotter and more humid than the rest of the country. November thru February is the rainy season on the east coast, but is considered an ideal time for visiting the west coast, which remains dry during those months. If you plan to visit higher elevations, be sure to take a sweater. |
| Tipping | Tipping is not customary in Malaysia, though tips are always appreciated. A 10% service charge is often added to restaurant and hotel bills, so you do not need to tip above the service charge. Taxi and rickshaw drivers are very appreciative of a small tip. |
| Money & Credit Cards | Always notify your bank prior to departure to avoid any problems using your credit or debit card while traveling. |
| Shopping | Shop for batiks, silverwork, pewter, brass, gold and silver brocades, local handicrafts, kites and carvings. Be sure not to purchase anything made from pangolin, an endangered anteater. It will be confiscated by customs. |
| Electricity & Power Adapters | 240 volts. Plug G. You will need a voltage converter and plug adapter in order to use U.S. appliances. We recommend getting a universal adapter and converter kit. Learn more about electrical standards around the world. |
| Cell Phones & Internet | Want to take your cell phone, tablet or laptop, but not sure how to get cell service or wifi? Read up on using your cell phone abroad and the top 5 ways to get Internet abroad. |
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Tours & Packages
- Destinations: Malaysia
- including closed packages