Malaysia's Ultimate Adventure

Intrepid Travel · 20 days

3.8

2 Reviews

View Map

Duration

20 days

Tour Type

Small Group

Accommodations

Moderate

Physical Rating

Demanding

Guide Language

English

Experience Overview

Explore a land of natural beauty and rare wildlife on this 20-day adventure in Malaysia. From bustling cityscapes to the blissful countryside to the lush tropical rainforest, unique animals and tribal villages, Malaysia has something for everyone.

Highlights

Stay in an eco-lodge on the edge of the jungle that’s fighting for the preservation of Ulu Muda Forest with research and awareness, low-footprint practices and ecotourism principles.
Take not one but two river cruises deep in the Ulu Muda Forest to double your chances of spotting roaming wildlife like elephants as your guide tells you about the native plants and wildlife that call this lush haven home.
Explore the rolling green Cameron Highlands, blanketed by tea plantations and strawberry fields, and then trek through the mossy forest to learn more about the unique plants living beneath this sea of moss.
Climb Mt Kinabalu – the literal pinnacle of all treks in South East Asia – with local guides whose families have trekked the mountain for generations, witnessing a stunning sunrise after a morning hike.
Join a local ranger and witness the special life cycle of sea turtles coming ashore on Turtle Island to lay their eggs on the beach, with the hatchlings making a dash down the beach to their new life.

Trip Details

Duration

20 days

Transportation

Private Vehicle,River Boat,Public Bus,Metro,Ferry; Plane

Tour Type

Small Group

Guide Language

English

Starts

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Finishes

Sandakan, Malaysia

Accommodations

Moderate

Travel Style

Explorer

Physical Rating

Demanding

Itinerary

Day 1: Kuala Lumpur

Selamat Datang! Welcome to Malaysia. Your adventure begins in the bustling capital of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur. Here, you can expect streets lined with colourful food stalls, friendly locals and fast-paced energy. You have a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight to meet your group leader and travel companions. If you arrive early, why not check out the Petaling Street Market – the vibrant hub of Kuala Lumpur’s Chinatown – or wander along the River of Life. After your meeting, maybe join your leader for an optional group dinner at Jalan Alor to experience the vibrant food scene in Kuala Lumpur and maybe explore the charming Bukit Bintang together before heading back to the hotel.

Optional Activities:

Kuala Lumpur - City tour (min. 2) (203 MYR)
Kuala Lumpur - KL Tower (Observation Deck) (80 MYR)
Kuala Lumpur - Batu Caves via train (20 MYR)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 2: George Town

This morning, you’ll take the local metro to the train station for your journey to Butterworth. From here, take a private transfer to George Town – the port city turned UNESCO World Heritage site and the multicultural capital of the island of Penang. When you arrive, head out with your leader for an orientation walk to get your bearings. Then, enjoy some free time to explore at your own pace. George Town has some great cuisine on offer, and your leader can always point you in the right direction for some great eats! You might also like to check out some of the hidden temples, Little India or go on a self-paced street art tour.

Optional Activities:

Kuala Lumpur - Batu Caves via train (20 MYR)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 3: George Town

Hit the streets with your leader for a walking tour of George Town. You’ll notice a certain charm about this city as you wander by the historical building and ancient shopfronts and admire the fascinating street art at every turn. You’ll also explore Pinang Peranakan Museum – home to over 1000 pieces of antiques and collectables. This afternoon is free for you to explore or relax – maybe visit the Kapitan Keling Mosque, Arulmigu Balathandayuthapani Temple, The Clan Community of Penang or the Wonderfood Museum.

Included Activities:

George Town - Heritage walking tour

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 4: Teluk Bahang

After a leisurely morning, take a private transfer to Teluk Bahang – a small fishing village in Penang. When you arrive, be welcomed into the homes of your homestay hosts, then tuck into some lunch. Visit a Batik factory where you’ll learn about the art of hand painting Batik patterns onto materials, before enjoying some fun with your group with a selection of traditional games. Then, take a late afternoon walk around the fishing village, learn how the locals make their nets and discover the life of a fisherman. Dinner tonight will be prepared especially for you by your hosts. Watch a cooking demonstration, then enjoy some local cuisine as a group, taking some time getting to know your hosts. Later, sit down for a special Silat (local martial art) performance where you can learn a few tricks from the local masters.

Included Activities:

Teluk Bahang - traditional games
Teluk Bahang - Home cooking demonstration & dinner
Teluk Bahang - Fishing village walking tour
Teluk Bahang - Silat (martial art) Performance
Teluk Bahang - Batik factory visit

Accommodation:

Homestay (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 5: Ulu Muda Forest

Visit a local market this morning for breakfast, then say goodbye to your homestay hosts. Take a private transfer to Ulu Muda Forest – your home away from home for the next two nights. You’ll arrive at the Lake Muda Jetty just in time for a bite to eat, freshly prepared by the locals. Then, you’ll board a boat to Earth Lodge in Kuala Labua – this socially conscious organisation fights for the preservation of the forest with research and awareness, low carbon footprint practices and ecotourism principles. Your accommodation tonight is surrounded by nature, tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the city. It’s the perfect launching pad to explore the nearby jungle trails, winding rivers and lush tropical rainforest. When you arrive, you’ll head out on a river cruise where you’ll have the chance to spot local wildlife (you might even see some elephants if you’re lucky!) before a free evening to settle in and make yourself at home.

Included Activities:

Ulu Muda - River Cruise
Teluk Bahang - Local market visit

Accommodation:

Jungle Eco Lodge (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 6: Ulu Muda Forest

After breakfast this morning, you’ll pull on your walking shoes for a trek into Bukit Labu where you’ll be accompanied by an expert guide. Listen carefully as your guide tells you all about the native plants and wildlife that call this lush rainforest home. Keep your eyes peeled for elephants! Enjoy a picnic lunch by the river before trekking back to your accommodation and visiting Salt-lick hot springs, where the local animals, including the elephants, go to get their minerals. In the late afternoon, maximise your chances of seeing wildlife with another river cruise.

Included Activities:

Ulu Muda - Bukit Labu hike & cave visit
Ulu Muda - Hot Spring Saltlick

Accommodation:

Jungle Eco Lodge (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 7: Cameron Highlands

Say goodbye to the forest this morning and head back to the jetty, where your private transfer will be waiting for your journey towards the Cameron Highlands. A serene spot, the rolling green highlands are blanketed by tea plantations and boast a refreshingly cool climate. You’ll arrive in the mid-afternoon and have some have free time to wander the local market stalls and tuck into some typical Malay cuisine.

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 8: Cameron Highlands

Have breakfast just like the locals and treat your tastebuds to some traditional eats straight from a local street stall. This is breakfast on the go – Malay style! After you’ve fuelled up, hit the road to a track of mossy forested area to stretch your legs on a trek through this mist-shrouded spot. Your guide will point out the unique plants living here, under the blanket of rich, green moss. After, you’ll step back into reality and explore one of the local tea plantations to learn more about tea production here and see the endless rows of green shrubs that seem to hug the hillside. This afternoon is free and you might like to visit the Cameron Floral Park or indulge in some high tea at the Jim Thompson Tea Room.

Included Activities:

Cameron Highlands - hike in mossy forest area
Cameron Highlands - Tea plantation visit

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 9: Kuala Lumpur

Today it’s back to Kuala Lumpur by a local express bus, then a metro back to your hotel. You’ll arrive in the mid-afternoon, then the rest of the day is free to explore this energetic city. Maybe head to the observation deck on the 451-m tall Petronas Twin Towers or see the Sultan Abdul Samad Building. Tonight, maybe head out to an optional farewell dinner to celebrate your adventure.

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 10: Kota Kinabalu

Today, you’ll have a private transfer taking you to KL airport for your flight to Kota Kinabalu. On arrival, your driver will pick you up and take you to your hotel. Enjoy some free time and tonight you’ll have a group meeting at 6pm to meet your new group member.

Optional Activities:

Kota Kinabalu - Tunku Abdul National Marine Park Snorkeling Trip (min. 2 - without transport) per person (345 MYR)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 11: Dusun Village

Travel by minivan to a Dusun village that sits in the shadow of Mt Kinabalu – the highest mountain between the Himalayas and New Guinea – and enjoy a welcome lunch in your homestay with your hosts before visiting a local vegetable farm. Learn about planting and harvesting seasonal produce and then take some of these fresh vegetables home for dinner – a proper farm-to-table experience. Tonight, enjoy a special village cultural performance.

Included Activities:

Dusun Village - Guided village walk
Dusun Village - Cultural performance
Dusun Village – Local Vegetable Farm Visit

Accommodation:

Homestay (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 12: Dusun Village

Start your day by walking to the local vegetable market in Kundasang with your leader. Located in the heart of the community, this market showcases an array of freshly harvested produce, from locally grown vegetables to unique regional seasonal fruits like tarap and rambutan. You'll also find local snacks, wild honey and traditional Borneo crafts. Take the opportunity to chat with vendors to learn about the local produce and how it’s used in traditional Sabah cuisine. The afternoon is yours to enjoy at your leisure – perhaps visit Poring Hot Springs to relax in the open-air baths before heading back to your homestay.

Included Activities:

Kundasang - Market Visit
Poring Hot Spring (Slide Pool)

Optional Activities:

Kundasang - War Memorial (Entrance Fee) (15 MYR)
Poring Hot Springs - Hot Springs (Open Bath Tub) - (3 hours) (10 MYR)
Poring Hot Springs - Canopy Walk (10 MYR)
Poring Hotspring (Entrance Fee) (50 MYR)

Accommodation:

Homestay (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 13: Kinabalu National Park

Eat a good breakfast this morning and say goodbye to your friends in the village as it’s time to drive to Timpohon Gate to begin your trek up Mt Kinabalu. It’s no small feat – prepare for an uphill trail made of steep steps that vary considerably in size – but along the way you can take in the remarkable variety of plant life, including about 1000 species of orchid and the carnivorous pitcher plant (yes, really). After covering 6 km (approximately 4 to 6 hours), spend the night at a hostel near Laban Rata, located at 3,272m (10,735 ft) above sea level. Rest up for the final ascent (very!) early tomorrow morning.

Included Activities:

Mt Kinabalu National Park - Mt Kinabalu Climb

Accommodation:

Hostel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 14: Kinabalu National Park

Rise at around 2 am this morning to continue your trek – it’s tough, but the sunrise at the summit will be well worth it. At the top, take in the jungles of Borneo in one direction and the South China Sea in the other. After a well-deserved rest and plenty of pictures, return to Laban Rata for breakfast. Then, get started on the descent which can take between 3 - 6 hours. This evening, enjoy your overnight stay at a hostel within Kinabalu National Park.

Optional Activities:

Poring Hot Spring (Entrance) (50 MYR)
Walai Tokou Day Trip Package (Min 2 people) (260 MYR)

Accommodation:

Hostel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 15: Kinabatangan River

Journey by private bus into the steamy rainforest to Bilit – a small village on the banks of the Kinabatangan River – and then take a short boat ride to the comfortable jungle lodge where you’ll spend the night. Located on the riverbanks, the lodge is a brilliant place to spot wildlife. For even better spotting, head out on a sunset boat ride and look out for macaques, orangutan, proboscis monkeys and pygmy elephants. End your day by searching for nocturnal wildlife like civets, owls and the rare slow loris on a night walk.

Included Activities:

Kinabatangan River - Afternoon Wildlife Cruise
Kinabatangan River - Night jungle walk

Accommodation:

Jungle Lodge (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 16: Kinabatangan River

Embark on another boat safari early this morning – different species come out at different times, so keep your eyes peeled! After breakfast, join the in-house guide for an insightful journey into the historical Kinabatangan community, which thrived long before tourism developed in the area. Explore traditional practices and craftsmanship and actively engage in the crafting of traditional fish traps. This hands-on experience provides a profound understanding of the local culture and heritage, fostering a deeper appreciation for their sustainable way of life. Then, head back on the boat for another river excursion in the afternoon.

Included Activities:

Kinabatangan River - Afternoon Wildlife Cruise
Kinabatangan River - Fish Trap Making & Story Telling
Kinabatangan River - Dawn Wildlife Cruise

Accommodation:

Jungle Lodge (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 17: Sepilok

Say goodbye to your jungle lodge after breakfast and hit the road in a private minivan to a guesthouse located near the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre. Established to help reintroduce these wonderful creatures back into the wild after a life of domestication or being orphaned, this sanctuary offers a unique opportunity to witness conservation in action. From the viewing platform, watch and photograph the orangutans as they swing into view onto the feeding platform. Observe young orangutans as they learn how to climb a specially constructed jungle gym in a new nursery. To see more of Borneo’s creatures, there’s the option to visit the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Center. Here, rescued sun bears, many of whom have endured years of mistreatment, are given a second chance at life. Learn about the rehabilitation process and how they are reintroduced back into the wild. You can also opt to visit the Rainforest Discovery Centre, where you can roam the treetop walkways while you learn more about the flora and birdlife of Borneo.

Included Activities:

Sepilok - Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre

Optional Activities:

Sepilok - Rainforest Discovery Centre (30 MYR)
Sepilok - Sun Bear Conservation Centre (50 MYR)

Accommodation:

Jungle Resort (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 18: Turtle Island

This morning, transfer to Sandakan to leave your large bags at the hotel and walk with your overnight bag to a nearby jetty. Travel by speedboat, past small fishing villages and bamboo fish traps, to Turtle Island Marine Park. In the afternoon, there will be some time for swimming, snorkelling or lazing about on the beach. In the evening, you’ll join an expert local ranger and a select group of visitors to watch giant green turtles coming ashore to lay their eggs under the moonlight. Watch the rangers as they release protected hatchlings and guide them in their frantic dash to the ocean. This is a moving experience that will stay with you long after your trip is over!

Included Activities:

Turtle Island - Turtle Island Marine Park
Turtle Island - Turtle Hatchery Visit

Accommodation:

Chalet (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 19: Sandakan

After breakfast, return to the mainland and walk back to your hotel. Today is free to explore Sandakan as you wish – perhaps you’ll call into Agnes Keith House, the restored home of an American writer best known for her accounts of life in Borneo during WW1. Or you could visit the Sandakan War Memorial, built on the site of a Japanese Prisoners of War camp. Learn about the tragic Sandakan Death Marches, when 2400 prisoners of war were forced to walk through the jungles of Borneo and only six survived. Another great option is St Michaels & All Angels Church, a rare stone building in Sabah that managed to avoid major damage in the war.

Optional Activities:

Sandakan - Agnes Keith House (15 MYR)
Sandakan - St Michaels and All Angels Church (10 MYR)
Sandakan - Puu Jih Shih Chinese Temple - Free
Sandakan - War Memorial - Free

Accommodation:

Hotel Sandakan (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 20: Sandakan

Your adventure ends today after breakfast. Additional accommodation can be pre-booked if you wish to spend more time exploring Borneo - just speak to your booking agent ahead of time.

Exclusions

Flights to and from origin and destinations
Airport transfers (arrival and departure)
Anything else not explicitly listed in tour inclusions
Recommended gratuities/tipping
Optional activities/tours
Personal expenses
Travel insurance
Visas, meals and beverages not stated in the list of inclusions.

Important Information

Meals

When meals are not included, your tour leader (where available) will be happy to help with restaurant recommendations, bookings, and directions. Please let us know if you have any dietary needs or preferences. We willdo our best to accommodate these, though we cannot guarantee that every request can be met.

Luggage

You are responsible for your personal belongings throughout the tour. You will need to carry your own bags between the vehicle and your hotel room. Drivers will assist with loading and unloading luggage from the vehicle.

Mobility

Travellers requiring wheelchair access should contact our sales and service team, who can make enquiries on your behalf.

Fitness Level

This tour requires an Average level of fitness. Activities are paced gently and include leisure time. You may be expected to join guided walks of up to one hour, navigate short stairways and mild inclines, and manage your own luggage. You should also be able to board and exit all transport without assistance.

Travellers are expected to be self-sufficient and capable of handling all aspects of their journey. Please discuss your circumstances and support needs with your booking agent to confirm this trip is suitable.

If you are unsure, we recommend consulting your doctor before booking or travelling. (Note: I assume each tour has a different description depending on level of fitness required).

Sightseeing

If a planned site visit is unavailable due to changes in operating hours or holiday closures, the itinerary may be altered, or a comparable activity will be substituted where possible and subject to availability.

Visas

Visa conditions can change. Once you receive your travel documents, check with the relevant embassy, consulate, or immigration office of your destination for the latest information.

It is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct and valid travel documents and to comply with all entry requirements.
Non-Australian citizens must also confirm visa and identification requirements with the appropriate consulate or visa agency.
Certain occupations (for example, journalists, government officials, or those working in charities) may face additional restrictions when applying for visas, which could affect the type of application required.

Departure Dates & Surcharges: See checkout for live dates and availability.

AUD $6,345

(Tour only)

Per Person Twin Share

Duration: 20 days

Trip Type: Small Group

Activity Level: Demanding

Check Availability Brochure

Price based on per person in Double Room for departure 15 Jan 2026

View Map

Customer Reviews

Overall Rating

Excellent

4.5

Guide

Excellent

4.5

Itinerary

Excellent

4.5

Accommodations

Excellent

4.5

Transportation

Excellent

4.5

Tour Operator

Excellent

4.5

Food

Excellent

4.5

Dillon

Traveled, August 2024

09/17/2024

This was an excellent tour touching on the culture and wildlife of Malaysian Borneo. It was made all the more special due to a very cool group of people and the efforts of our excellent tour guide Beverly. In addition to being an incredibly nice person, she is extremely knowledgeable as to the history and culture of Borneo as well as it's animals and birds. Bravo to Borneo, Intrepid, the group, and our fearless leader Beverly!

3.0

Rodney

Traveled, September 2024

10/19/2024

We didn’t receive much information or updates about our tour so we were a bit nervous when we went for the introduction night as we had received no confirmation that our trip was on and had heard it wasn’t full previously. We weren’t well informed about intrepid either plus when iteneraries

Tour Operator

Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.

In Business Since 1989

Book Now