Malaysia Tour Packages

Trips usually begin in Kuala Lumpur, combining the food-and-heritage city of Penang, the cool Cameron Highlands, and either the peninsula's islands (Langkawi, the Perhentians) or a Borneo add-on for wildlife and rainforest.

A few practical notes make any Malaysia trip smoother. The currency is the Malaysian ringgit (MYR), and Malay is official, and English is very widely spoken. Cheap domestic flights connect the peninsula with Borneo and the islands, and the road and rail network on the peninsula is good. Pack for the season and carry a little local cash for markets, tips and small vendors.

Malaysia comes in two halves: Peninsular Malaysia, sharing a border with Thailand and pointing toward Singapore, and East Malaysia on the island of Borneo, home to rainforest, orangutans and Mount Kinabalu.

Malaysia is tropical, hot and humid year-round, with monsoons affecting different coasts at different times.

The best time to visit the west coast and Kuala Lumpur is roughly December to February and June to August. The east coast islands are best from March to October, closing to some resorts during the November-to-February monsoon. Borneo is a year-round destination with wetter months at year's end.

Malaysia is a genuine cultural melting pot of Malay, Chinese and Indian communities, reflected vividly in its temples, mosques, festivals and, above all, its food. This diversity is the country's defining charm.

Trips usually begin in Kuala Lumpur, combining the food-and-heritage city of Penang, the cool Cameron Highlands, and either the peninsula's islands (Langkawi, the Perhentians) or a Borneo add-on for wildlife and rainforest.

Whether you are after culture, scenery, food or simply time to relax, Malaysia rewards travellers who give it a little time. Our packages combine the signature sights with quieter corners most visitors miss.

Some of the best things to do in Malaysia:

• Ride to the top of the Petronas Towers
• Eat your way through George Town, Penang
• See orangutans in the Borneo rainforest
• Island-hop around Langkawi or the Perhentians
• Walk the tea trails of the Cameron Highlands
• Explore colonial Malacca

The best time to visit the west coast and Kuala Lumpur is roughly December to February and June to August. The east coast islands are best from March to October, closing to some resorts during the November-to-February monsoon. Borneo is a year-round destination with wetter months at year's end.

Because the seasons shape the experience so much, tell us when you can travel and we will tell you honestly what Malaysia will be like on those dates — and shape the route accordingly.

The places most worth your time in Malaysia:

• Kuala Lumpur — the Petronas Towers, markets and street food
• Penang (George Town) — UNESCO heritage streets and Malaysia's best food
• Langkawi — island beaches and rainforest cable car
• Cameron Highlands — cool tea plantations and mossy forest
• Borneo — orangutans, Mount Kinabalu and diving off Sipadan
• Malacca — colonial history and Peranakan culture

Malaysian food is one of the great reasons to visit — a delicious fusion of Malay, Chinese and Indian traditions, at its very best in the hawker stalls of Penang.

Dishes to seek out: nasi lemak, char kway teow, laksa, satay, roti canai, Hainanese chicken rice. On our tours we are happy to steer you toward the best local food and to cater for any dietary needs — just let us know in advance.

With three major cultures, Malaysia celebrates a full calendar — Hari Raya, Chinese New Year, Deepavali and the spectacular Thaipusam procession at Batu Caves all bring colour and feasting.

Many nationalities enjoy visa-free entry for short stays; others need an eVisa or entry authorisation arranged in advance. Visa rules vary by nationality and change from time to time, so always confirm the current requirement for your own passport before booking. If you travel with us, we will guide you through exactly what you need.

A little courtesy goes a long way in Malaysia. Dress modestly at mosques and temples (covering provided at major mosques), use your right hand for giving and eating, and remove shoes before entering homes and places of worship.

Do dress respectfully at religious and cultural sites, ask before photographing people, carry small change for tips and markets, and stay hydrated. Don't drink tap water unless it is confirmed safe, flash valuables in crowded areas, or rush — the best trips here are unhurried ones.