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Malaysia is a beautiful country filled with diverse cultures and breathtaking landscapes. We love traveling to Malaysia and we think you will too, so we’ve curated this list of three must-see destinations that will take your breath away as well as the perfect accommodations in each!
Top 3 Destinations in Malaysia
1. Sepilok, Borneo
By far one of our favorite places on this planet, Sepilok is a small town in Sabah, Borneo which is known for its Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre. Here, you can witness these intelligent creatures up close and learn everything about the ongoing conservation efforts. Sepilok is also home to a hidden gem known as the Rainforest Discovery Centre. Here, you can explore the lush jungles and spot exotic untamed wildlife in their natural environment either from the forest floor or high in the trees on the canopy walk. Another highlight of Sepilok is the proximity to the Kinabatangan river. You can book tours directly out of Sepilok that will take you to the launching point for a wildlife discovery cruise on the Kinabatangan River at sunset, where you can witness the incredible natural beauty of the region. We even spotted some rare proboscis monkeys!
For accommodation, we highly recommend staying at the Sepilok B&B. This jungle lodge is nestled amongst the trees on the edge of the lush rainforest and is just a 5 minute walk away from the Rainforest Discovery Centre. The staff is lovely and the food is amazing.
Insider travel tip: You absolutely cannot miss out on a night walk at the Rainforest Discovery Centre. This guided tour is your chance to see rare nocturnal animals in action. The super affordable (approx. $5-6 p.p.) activity was the highlight of our Bornean adventure.
2. Kuala Lumpur
Kuala Lumpur is the capital city of Malaysia and a bustling metropolis filled with modern skyscrapers, historical landmarks and delicious food. One of the top attractions in Kuala Lumpur is the Batu Caves, a Hindu temple situated inside a natural limestone cave. For the best experience, visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and witness the sunrise from the top. The easiest way to reach the caves is with a round-trip train ticket. We picked up our tickets from the KL Sentral station.
Afterward, make your way to Ceylonz Suites, where you can relax in the rooftop infinity pool while enjoying incredible city views. The Ceylonz Suites are also a great place to stay when in Kuala Lumpur.
Insider travel tip: For the best street food experience, head to Jalan Alor at night and sample local delicacies.
3. Langkawi
Langkawi is an archipelago of 99 islands on the west coast of Malaysia, known for its white sandy beaches, crystal clear waters and lush rainforests. One of the highlights of Langkawi is Pantai Kok Beach, a secluded bay with turquoise waters and a stunning backdrop of limestone cliffs. Another must-visit destination is the Telaga Tujuh Waterfall, a seven-tiered waterfall with natural pools perfect for a refreshing swim.
For accommodation, we recommend staying at Pondok Keladi, where you can cuddle with four super cute cats. The incredibly friendly hosts and their cats made for a memorable stay.
Insider travel tip: Rent a scooter to explore the island at your own pace and discover hidden gems off the beaten path.
We love Malaysia. It’s a beautiful country filled with amazing people and incredible natural wonders. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, foodie or simply looking for a relaxing holiday, you can’t miss these three Malaysian destinations. They are must-sees for any traveler. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable journey!
Quick Tips
About the Authors
Ryne and Denise Cook: We have been to Malaysia twice now and loved every second of it. The landscapes, wildlife, food and people make for an unforgettable trip, regardless of your budget. This short article focuses on three of our favorite places in this country and we are always happy to answer any questions you may have.
