My Ultimate Malaysia Itinerary For 4 Weeks - From Penang to Borneo

Malaysia is one of my favourite Southeast Asian countries, and I have visited it twice. On my last trip, I spent four weeks travelling around Malaysia, so I'm well-equipped to help you plan a fantastic adventure of your own.

My itinerary for Malaysia is easy to follow and works perfectly. It uncovers the best places to visit, where to stay for all budgets, what attractions to see, which months have the best weather, and how to get around Malaysia as an independent traveller.

Malaysia is a diverse country with opportunities to visit cities, remote islands, mountain regions, and rainforests. Believe me when I say visiting Borneo and seeing the wildlife there is a bucket-list experience not to be missed, and one I will always treasure. The other activities in Malaysia I loved included walking in the Cameron Highlands, swimming and snorkelling in crystal-clear waters, and learning about Malaysia's melting pot of cultures and religions in Penang and Ipoh.

So, let's get started - here's my ultimate one-month Malaysia itinerary for first-time visitors.

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Malaysia Map

Detailed itinerary for a trip to Malaysia

Days 1 - 6: Exploring George Town and Batu Ferringhi

At the start of our Malaysia itinerary, we stayed six nights in Penang - four nights were in George Town, and two nights were at Batu Ferringhi Beach.

Getting To Penang

We flew from Singapore to Penang with AirAsia. The flight took 1 hour and 25 minutes. This was my second visit, so it was fun taking Andrew around Penang's tourist attractions and discovering new places together.

Getting Around Penang

George Town in Penang is one of Malaysia's most popular tourist destinations, and it's walkable. You won't need to worry about getting a taxi; however, hopping aboard a trishaw is fun. You can ask your trishaw driver to take you around George Town's attractions, allowing you to stop and explore places that interest you. Agree on a price for your requirements before you set off.

A free city shuttle (CAT) runs from the Weld Quay bus terminal through Penang's main streets. You can use the CAT like a hop-on, hop-off sightseeing bus, and it's free. The CAT stops near popular places such as Little India, St. George's Church, the Blue Mansion, and Fort Cornwallis.

Using Grab, you can easily travel around the rest of Penang. Visit places of interest, including Penang Hill, Tek Lok Temple, the Penang Botanical Gardens, and Batu Ferringhi Beach.

Best Things To Do In Penang

Penang is an island linked to Malaysia's west coast by a bridge. It is steeped in colonial history and a vibrant place to explore; however, it was not my first visit here.

I fell in love with this Unesco World Heritage Site in 2018 after spending three nights in George Town and vowed to return one day. This time, I had my husband with me and was ready to show him the sights and sounds of Penang that had captured my heart.

1. See the street art in George Town

One of my favourite things about Penang is the George Town street art. It was great to be back to see the murals again; however, I noticed a substantial deterioration of several pieces since my last visit. Nevertheless, it is still worth seeing and remains a magnet that attracts visitors to George Town.

Most Penang murals are by Lithuanian-born artist Ernest Zacharevic. Interactive installations, like a swing and a motorcycle, allow you to immerse yourself in the artwork. Using pastel colours, his lighthearted work lends a gentle, playful feel to the murals.

Wire art is another medium scattered around Georgetown, depicting traditional Malaysian trades with a whimsical twist.

One of the most famous wire art pieces features Jimmy Choo, the renowned shoe designer who worked as an apprentice in George Town.

2. Visit the clan houses and the clan jetties

Other must-see Penang attractions include the Clan Houses, elaborate and historic meeting places for Chinese immigrants, and the Clan Jetties, which feature shops and houses built on stilts above the water. You'll find a few touristy shops and several Chinese clan communities here.

3. Tour the heritage mansions in Penang

Let's not forget the heritage mansions in George Town, which allow visitors to glimpse what life was like for the wealthy in the 19th century.

The elaborate heritage buildings of the Pinang Peranakan Mansion and the Chong Fatt Tzu Mansion (Blue Mansion) are open for self-guided and organised tours. They are filled with exquisite furniture and ornaments and are worth seeing.

4. Wander through Penang's Botanic Gardens

To escape the hustle and bustle of George Town, the lush tropical Penang Botanical Gardens are a nice place to visit. There is also a troop of macaques living there, which are fascinating to watch.

If you're interested in gardens, you may want to read this post: 13 Most Beautiful Botanical Gardens in Asia for Nature Lovers, which features the Penang Botanical Garden.

5. Discover nature at The Habitat

The Habitat on Penang Hill is one of my must-visit places in Penang. It is set high in a 130-million-year-old rainforest. Have fun on the giant swings, take in the views along the canopy walk, and keep an eye out for the wildlife. If you are lucky, you might see monkeys or even a flying squirrel!

6. Marvel at Kek Lok Si Temple

Kek Lok Si, the Temple of Ten Thousand Buddhas, is one of Southeast Asia's largest temple complexes and a place you must add to your Malaysia itinerary. You can reach the temple by taking a 20-minute taxi ride from George Town to Air Itam or joining a Penang city tour.

It is vast and has a small funicular train to take you from one level to another. If you're interested in Chinese culture and Buddhism, this temple will hit all the right notes. It is filled with religious icons, altars, incense, and, of course, Buddhas. Don't miss it!

7. Hit the beautiful beach at Batu Ferringhi

Another great reason to visit Penang is to go to the beach. Located a 60-minute drive from Penang Airport or 30 minutes from George Town, the beach at Batu Ferringhi is a beautiful spot to relax before or after visiting George Town.

It's lovely and sandy, with clear water; the only drawback is that it can be affected by jellyfish at certain times of the year. I visited in January and July and couldn't go in the water either time because of them. Thank goodness my resort had a beautiful pool to make up for it!

8. Penang National Park - Taman Negara Pulau Pinang

Malaysia's smallest national park is a quick 15-minute drive from Batu Ferringhi. What it lacks in size, it makes up for with a beautiful beach and fabulous walking trails.

Where To Eat In Penang

Penang is also well known for its excellent food. Dishes from the Chinese, Malay, and Indian communities make it a culinary melting pot. Add to that the fabulous artisan coffee shops and bakeries scattered around George Town, and you won't want to leave!

Try Norm Micro Roastery for coffee made with more dedication than I've seen anywhere else I have travelled. For authentic custard tarts in Penang, there's no better place than Ming Xiang Tai Pastry Shop. Please arrive before lunch, or they will all be gone.

China House is George Town's most famous cafe due to its extraordinary selection of cakes. It's a hub of activity and a popular haunt for locals and tourists. Be sure to visit it during your trip; you won't be disappointed.

Another foodie activity to add to your Malaysia itinerary is a street food tour. Try dishes from the hawker stalls that only the locals know about.

Accommodation In Penang

Where we stayed in George Town: The Blue Mansion

I have stayed at Cheong Fatt Tzu (The Blue Mansion) twice now, and it was as beautiful on this visit as I remembered it had been before.

The Blue Mansion is Penang's oldest and most famous heritage hotel. It is painted in indigo blue and houses antiquities from the original owner, which date back over 200 years.

The property is within walking distance of George Town's main historic centre and offers a taste of Malay luxury at an affordable price. It has a small swimming pool, restaurant, and cute outdoor cafe, Mangga, which was added to the hotel's amenities since my last visit. It hosts live music in the evenings.

Please check here for pricing and availability of The Blue Mansion.

If you're on a budget, here are some affordable hotels in George Town.

If you are looking for a

Where we stayed in Batu Ferringhi: Shangri-La Rasa Sayang Resort

This was also my second time staying at the Shangri-La Rasa Sayang Resort and Spa, and I can confirm that it remains the premier beach resort to book in Batu Ferringhi.

With beautiful rooms, first-class facilities and stunning outdoor areas, including well-manicured gardens and a fabulous swimming pool, this is the place to stay before or after visiting George Town.

On both evenings during our stay, we arrived at the beach bar for sundowners to watch the sunset. I have to say they were two of the most beautiful sunsets I have ever seen - and I have seen the sun go down in many places around the world.

Please check here for pricing and availability for Shangri-La Rasa Sayang Resort and Spa.

3 nights in Pangkor

Getting To Pankor Laut Resort

To make things easy for ourselves, we booked a door-to-door road transfer from Batu Ferringhi to Lumut Harbour, the ferry or speedboat point for Pangkor.

I looked into taking a ferry from Penang to Butterworth on the mainland, then taking a coach to Lumut Town and then a taxi to Lumut Harbour. I decided it was time-consuming and inconvenient, so I used Daytrip.com instead.

We travelled from Penang to Lumut in a comfortable vehicle with a superb driver, Tiger, a university graduate who spoke perfect English. We arrived at the port and were met by Pangkor Laut Resort staff, who led us into a plush waiting room for refreshments before we boarded the resort's speedboat, which took us to our tropical island hideaway.

The 20-minute boat transfer from Lumut Harbour to Pangkor Laut Resort is included in the resort fee.

Accommodation In Pangkor

Where we stayed in Pangkor: Pangkor Laut Resort

After the hustle and bustle of Penang, we were looking forward to relaxing by the beach and recharging our batteries for our onward journey. Pangkor Laut Island Resort allowed us to do just that. After three days of snorkelling, having spa treatments, lounging in the sun and dining on delectable Malaysian cuisine, we agreed that staying on this beautiful tropical island had been the perfect decision.

Pangkor Laut Resort is part of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World group, offering overwater bungalows, hillside villas, first-class restaurants, a spa, and turquoise waters that surround the entire island.

Please check here for pricing and availability of Pangkor Laut Resort

If you are on a budget, you could stay on neighbouring Pangkor Island instead. Here, you'll find hostels and homestays to stay in, allowing you to explore the town, enjoy cultural sights such as Pangkor Mosque, and swim in the warm, clear tropical waters.

2 nights in Ipoh are next on this Malaysia Itinerary

Getting To Ipoh From Pangkor Laut Island

Ipoh is Malaysia's third-largest city, although it feels more like a large town than a city. It is located in the Perak region and is known as the "Gateway to the Cameron Highlands," where we headed after spending two nights in Ipoh.

You can get from Lumut Harbour, the embarkation point for Pangkor Laut Resort, to Ipoh by bus, but for us, the times were inconvenient, and the bus terminal was some way away from the harbour. For ease, we booked another private transfer with Daytrip.

The drive from Lumut Harbour to Ipoh took 90 minutes.

Getting Around Ipoh

Ipoh has two parts. Modern Ipoh has a few glitzy hotels and a vast shopping mall. If you're staying here, as we were, I'd advise you to call a Grab to take you to the old town. Walking through Ipoh is hot and dusty, and its wide roads are hard to cross.

The ancient old town has heritage museums, laneways, street art, and coffee shops serving the famous Ipoh white coffee. It is walkable, and most attractions can be seen in one or two days.

Be prepared to wear a mask inside some taxis. It is at the driver's discretion, but one refused to take us because we didn't have masks. Having come from the UK, where mask-wearing is now non-existent, we didn't realise people in other countries still wore masks.

Best Things To Do In Ipoh

When I researched Ipoh, I found it to be a frontrunner to Penang in terms of its street art. As a traveller who loves seeing street art in Asia, I had to see it for myself. Now that I've been to Ipoh, I can tell you it's very different from Penang. It's smaller, quieter, and has nowhere near the volume of the George Town murals. At first, I was disappointed and underwhelmed.

However, after spending two days wandering around this ancient town, I discovered many great reasons to visit Ipoh besides its street art. It might not be Penang, but I was glad I had added Ipoh to my itinerary for Malaysia. By the time I left, I had discovered it had a magical charm all its own.

1. See the street art

Wander around the old town and see Ipoh's street art. You will find it down laneways and on the sides of buildings. Many of the murals are by Ernest Zacharevic, the creative genius behind Penang's rise to fame. They are painted in a 3d style to allow visitors to interact with the art.

Mural Lane is another place in Ipoh where street art can be found, but I have to say it was not as good as I had hoped, having read rave reviews about it from other travellers.

Yes, it brightens an otherwise derelict back alleyway, but no, it is not as impressive as many visitors claim. Go and have a look, but don't expect anything as good as Zacharevic's murals.

2. Uncover history at the Ipoh Heritage Museums

I love learning about a destination's culture and heritage, and I found two great heritage museums in Ipoh to explore the town's history.

Kapitan Chung Thye Phin Museum (Arlene House) was once the headquarters of the last Kapitan China of Perak and Melaya. This was a significant government position held by a person of standing and means. Chung Thye Phin was a tin mining magnate, once Penang's wealthiest man, so this three-storey office suited him perfectly. It has been restored to its former glory and contains furniture, clothing, ornaments and photographs of the early 1900s.

22 Hale Street Gallery shows life in Ipoh and the Perak region in the 1900s through exhibitions, sounds and smells. Learn how tin miners lived, how prostitution was the norm on Hale Street and how the building next door was used as a hotel for illicit meetings!

This is a fabulous museum, and I learnt a lot about Ipoh from each room I walked through. This attraction is one of the reasons a visit to Ipoh should be a highlight of your Malaysia itinerary.

3. Wander along the historic laneways

The laneways are where you will find some of the best Ipoh street art and a few shops selling souvenirs and food. These alleyways have been renovated to serve as an Ipoh tourist attraction and attract visitors to the city.

The laneways date back to the 1800s and have descriptive names such as Concubine Lane, Tin Lane, and Market Lane, which suggest the services available along each lane.

4. Walk the Ipoh Heritage Trail

Often referred to as the Kuala Lumpur of yesteryear, Ipoh's heritage trail winds through the city, highlighting its most important buildings and landmarks. The trail has informative panels with a brief history of each landmark.

If you're interested in history and architecture, this one's for you. We didn't follow the official heritage trail but wandered around town and visited some important buildings, such as the Ipoh Railway Station and the Birch Memorial Clock Tower.

5. Visit the Ipoh Cave Temples

If you want to see the incredible cave temples in Ipoh, they are a 20 to 30-minute drive away from the city.

You can use GRAB to take you to each one. It's easy to call a car from each location, but be sure to have small notes on you, as not all drivers take credit cards, and they don't usually carry change for larger notes.

We visited four of Ipoh's cave temples: Sam Poh Tong, the most famous one; Nam Thean Tong; Lin Seng Tong; and Kek Look Tong. They were all different and all amazing to see.

You can read a full review of each temple in my blog post: 4 Best Ipoh Cave Temples.

You can book a guided cave temple tour if you prefer to join a group and learn the history of each temple from your guide.

Where To Eat In Ipoh

Ipoh is known in Malaysia for its great food, so specialities like egg tarts, dim sum and white coffee are a must.

We found three places to eat in Ipoh that I would happily recommend:

Aud's - The food is excellent, the staff are welcoming, and it’s where you can have an ice-cube coffee! It’s fun to try, as is the beer coffee!

Plan B - Ipoh may be the foodie capital of Malaysia, but having been in Asia for two weeks already, we just wanted some Western food, so burgers and chips at Plan B hit the spot!

Old Town Kopitiam - You must try Ipoh white coffee - it's a national favourite. Old Town Kopitiam is a coffeehouse chain, so you might also want to try a white coffee at one of the older independent establishments in Ipoh.

Accommodation In Ipoh

Where we stayed in Ipoh: The Weil Hotel

The Weil Hotel is located on the modern side of Ipoh. It is a large hotel with a rooftop swimming pool that offers fabulous views across Ipoh and the Keledang mountain range. Comfortable rooms and a ground-floor restaurant are all you need for a two-night stay.

One thing I didn't expect to find in Ipoh was a new mall attached to the Weil Hotel via a passageway. It was pretty handy to stock up on snacks and toiletries for the rest of our journey around Malaysia.

Please check here for pricing and availability of The Weil Hotel.

If you're on a budget, here are some affordable hotels in Ipoh.

Next on this Malaysia itinerary is 2 nights in the Cameron Highlands

Getting To The Cameron Highlands From Ipoh

The driving time from Ipoh to Tanah Rata (Cameron Highlands) is 2 hours, but we added two 60-minute sightseeing stops at Gua Tempurung Cave and Kellie’s Castle. We used Daytrip to get between the two destinations because we wanted the option to stop on the way.

We realised how high our elevation was getting as we approached the Cameron Highlands. The temperature dropped from the mid-30s to below 20s, and it rained. What a contrast to the heat we had experienced only a few hours before in Ipoh.

Getting around the Cameron Highlands

We made a full-day trip with a local taxi driver, one of the most interesting people we met during our month in Malaysia. Not only was his mother once a tea picker (when it was all done by hand), but he also told us a great deal about the history of the Cameron Highlands. He discussed religion, family life, and education in Malaysia. He even took us to his mushroom farm, which he was very proud of. It was far from dull, and we learnt quite a bit about how mushrooms grow!

As most guided group tours of the Cameron Highlands depart from Kuala Lumpur, if you are staying in the local area, your best option is to have your hotel arrange a local taxi/guide who will charge a flat rate for either a half-day or full-day tour.

Best Things To Do In The Cameron Highlands

Due to its climate, the Cameron Highlands have a history as the centre of tea picking and production in Malaysia. We went on a tour and were taken to the BOH tea plantation, where we could wander through the paths and, unsurprisingly, stop for a cup of tea.

There are other things to see in the Cameron Highlands that you may not expect, like strawberry and mushroom farms and, unfortunately, an overdeveloped main town (Tanah Rata) with numerous high-rise buildings. It's not what we expected to see so close to the green tea terraces, but it's the place to go if you enjoy local markets and are looking for bars, restaurants, and budget accommodation.

Another top tourist attraction is a walk through the Mossy Forest, Malaysia's oldest forest, which features a unique ecosystem of moss, ferns, and lichens. However, we did not have time to fit it into our schedule. Instead, we took a short walk along a tea trail from the Boh visitor centre.

The Cameron Highlands is a unique destination, and you should add it to your 4-week travel itinerary as its stark contrast with other places you'll visit in Malaysia.

Accommodation In The Cameron Highlands

Where we stayed in the Cameron Highlands: Cameron Highlands Resort

In true colonial style, the Cameron Highlands Resort offers a luxury stay for discerning guests away from the hustle and bustle of Tanah Rata, the main town centre. The resort's teak floors, plantation shutters, four-poster beds, Koi ponds, manicured gardens, and well-received air conditioning were a glorious respite from the humidity of the highlands.

The restaurant serves delicious local and international dishes. Quintessential afternoon tea can be taken in the lounge while the resident pianist tinkles on the ivories. A pristine course is just across the road if you want to play golf, and for those who want to relax after a day of exploring, the spa offers a range of luxury treatments.

It's worth adding a stay at this hotel to your Malaysia itinerary for its unique history and association with the explorer Jim Thompson.

Please check here for pricing and availability of Cameron Highlands Resort.

If you're on a budget, here are some affordable hotels in Tanah Rata.

2 nights in Kuala Lumpur feature highly in this Malaysia itinerary

Getting To Kuala Lumpur

Our last sightseeing road transfer was once again with Daytrip.com. The drive from the Cameron Highlands to Kuala Lumpur took 2 hours and 30 minutes, but we chose to stop for an additional 90 minutes at the Batu Caves en route to our KL hotel.

The Batu Caves are a great addition to your Malaysia itinerary, but they are slightly outside the city centre, so it made sense for us to see them as we passed through the area rather than returning to them once we arrived at our hotel.

Getting Around Kuala Lumpur

The best way to get around Kuala Lumpur is on foot because the traffic is horrendous.

On two occasions, I booked a Grab taxi, got stuck in a traffic jam, and didn't move an inch. It can be very frustrating, so it's a good idea to book accommodation within walking distance of the main sights in Kuala Lumpur.

When booking an airport transfer, allow extra time to get to the airport. Traffic delays are common, and you don't want to miss your flight!

The good news is that the KL City Bus is a free service that covers most tourist spots on your Kuala Lumpur itinerary, including Bukit Bintang, Chinatown, Perdana Botanical Gardens and KLCC. So, if you aren't pressed for time and don't mind sitting in traffic, it is an alternative to walking.

A unique way to explore the city is by Monorail, which runs from Titiwangsa to Bukit Bintang and passes some of Kuala Lumpur's most popular attractions.

Lastly, you can take the Kuala Lumpur hop-on hop-off bus, which lets you visit the city's top tourist spots at your own pace.

Best Things To Do In Kuala Lumpur

KL is one of Southeast Asia's most vibrant cities and is much more than a stopover destination. I have visited Kuala Lumpur twice and seen most of the city's main attractions; however, there is always something new to discover, like the Merdeka Tower.

From world-class architectural structures like the Petronas Tower and the KL Tower to ancient temples like Thean Hou and Sri Maha Mariamman, Kwai Chai Hong murals in Chinatown, and nature at KL Forest Eco Park, Kuala Lumpur has a lot to offer and must be included on your Malaysia itinerary.

If you want to get out of the city, you can also take a day trip to Malacca from Kuala Lumpur.

Accommodation In Kuala Lumpur

Where we stayed in Kuala Lumpur: Ascott Star KLCC

I have been to Kuala Lumpur twice and can recommend two excellent places to stay.

We stayed at the Ascott Star KLCC during our month in Malaysia, and I have stayed at the Face Suites on a previous visit to KL.

Ascott Star has a superb rooftop pool, restaurant, and bar with views of the Petronas Towers. Sitting in the bar enjoying a drink, I felt like I could almost touch Malaysia's most popular tourist attraction. The rooms are comfortable, and the one-bedroom premier suites have a washing machine.

The hotel also has a large outdoor pool and a gym.

Please check here for pricing and availability of Ascott Star KLCC.

Where I stayed in Kuala Lumpur: The Face Suites

On a previous trip to Kuala Lumpur, I stayed at The Face Suites in a spacious, self-contained, two-bedroom apartment. Like the Ascott Star, the Face Suites has a rooftop pool with views across KL and to the Petronas Towers and the KL Tower, so no matter which way you look, an iconic landmark is in sight.

Again, I chose to stay here because the apartment had a fully fitted kitchen with a washing machine. I would have happily stayed here again during my recent visit, but they were fully booked, so get in early if you want to stay at the Face Suites.

Please check here for pricing and availability of The Face Suites.

If you're on a budget, here are some budget-friendly hotels in Kuala Lumpur.

Included in my Malaysia travel itinerary are 10 days in Borneo

Borneo was an absolute highlight of our month in Malaysia because seeing orangutans in the wild has always been at the top of my bucket list. During our time in Sabah, Malaysian Borneo, I achieved this goal.

Getting To Borneo From Kuala Lumpur

Borneo is an island to the east of Malaysia. Visit it to experience wildlife in its natural habitat. From Kuala Lumpur, it is a three-hour flight to Sandakan in Sabah. We used Air Asia.

3 nights in Sandakan

Getting Around Sandakan

From Sandakan Airport, we caught a GRAB to Sepilok Nature Lodge (a 25-minute drive). Once there, we could walk to the Sepilok Orangutan Sanctuary and Sun Bear Centre.

Best Things To Do In Sandakan

1. Visit Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre

A must-do on your Malaysia itinerary is to see the orangutans in Borneo. Seeing these incredible creatures in an environment designed to protect and educate them to survive in the wild is a bucket-list experience. Most of the orangutans in Sabah are orphans from the deforestation of the Borneo rainforest or hunters who kill their parents for body parts to use in medicine or as trophies.

The work done at the sanctuary is incredible, and when I first saw an orangutan swinging through the trees and onto a feeding platform, I was overwhelmed. To add to my excitement, a mother with a newborn sauntered along the boardwalk as we held back and watched her from a distance.

The primary reason to visit Borneo is the wildlife; seeing orangutans is just one of the wonderful experiences you can have here. I have written about my experience at the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Sanctuary, which will answer all your questions about what to expect on a visit.

2. Visit the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre

Across from the orangutan sanctuary is the Sun Bear Conservation Centre, home to the world's smallest bears. The centre has rescued sun bears from the pet trade and from being orphaned.

It was set up to educate Malaysians and international guests that these beautiful creatures are wild and should not be domesticated as pets, which has sadly been the case for many. It was a worthwhile addition to my itinerary in Malaysia because I saw and learnt about a species I had not been aware of before.

You can find out more on the Bornean Sun Bear Centre website.

3. Jungle night walk at the Rainforest Discovery Centre

The night walk at the Rainforest Discovery Centre is an absolute must. After being driven from our accommodation at Sepilok Nature Lodge to the centre, we met the other eight people in our group and walked the jungle trail, crossed the canopy bridge, and entered the rainforest.

With a brief stop on the bridge, we fell silent and listened to the sounds of the forest. It was one of those 'pinch-me' moments, which continued into the walk as we spotted a flying lemur, tree frogs, snakes, a slow loris, birds, and various creepy crawlies!

If you're interested in wildlife, be sure to add a night walk to your Malaysia itinerary. It is a phenomenal experience.

4. Kinabatangan River Wildlife Cruise

Although I didn't take this cruise myself, it's a very popular activity, so I've included links below to river cruises you may be interested in.

Accommodation In Sandakan

Where we stayed in Sandakan: Sepilok Nature Lodge

Sepilok Nature Lodge is the perfect place to stay next to the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre. It is a tranquil hideaway in a jungle clearing, tastefully designed with bungalows set amid dense foliage, boardwalks, and lakes. It's a magical place you never want to leave.

What made it extra special was spotting two orangutans swinging through the trees on our way to breakfast. What a bucket-list moment.

Please read my review of Sepilok Nature Lodge to learn why this is the best place to stay in Sandakan.

Please check here for pricing and availability of Sepilok Nature Lodge.

2 nights in Kota Kinabalu

Getting To Kota Kinabalu

Fly from Sandakan to Kota Kinabalu in 50 minutes.

Getting Around Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu is a walkable city, but you can use GRAB for longer journeys to the ferry port or to visit the Mari Mari Cultural Village.

Best Things To Do In Kota Kinabalu

I won't sugarcoat the fact that I didn't feel much love for Kota Kinabalu. It felt too large and busy and lacked the authentic vibe of other places in Malaysia I had already visited and loved.

We walked around the streets at night and felt like we just wanted to eat and quickly head back to our room. After visiting George Town in Penang and Ipoh in Perak, I was underwhelmed by Kota Kinabalu. During the day, we wandered along the harbour and visited several markets, but nothing really excited us.

Interestingly, I recall speaking with people we met in Sandakan who had already been to Kota Kinabalu and were dismissive when we told them we would stay in KK for a few days. Having been there now, I understand their point of view.

Our visit to the Mari Mari Cultural Village

Despite my reservations, one of the highlights of our time in Kota Kinabalu was the Mari Mari Cultural Village, which I highly recommend adding to your itinerary for Malaysia.

We learnt about the five ethnic communities in Sabah by visiting authentic huts and houses, where we saw traditional activities demonstrated, from wood carving to fire-starting. We also sampled local foods from each tribe and learned about life from tribal elders. The parts about the Borneo headhunters were particularly eye-opening!

At the end of our tour of the village, we were entertained by a dance and music performance. It was a brilliant experience, with performers in traditional Sabah tribal costumes. You can book a trip to the Mari Mari Cultural Village with a pick-up from your Kota Kinabalu Hotel.

Other things to do in Kota Kinabalu:

• Visit Masjid Bandaraya - Blue Mosque.
• Hike Mount Kinabalu.
• Relax on Tanjung Aru Beach.
• Explore Sabah State Museum.
• Visit the Handicraft Market.

If you are interested in participating in some other tours available in Kota Kinabalu, I have listed them below:

Accommodation In Kota Kinabalu

Where we stayed in Kota Kinabalu: Jesselton Hotel

We chose to stay at the Jesselton Hotel because it had excellent TripAdvisor reviews and was close to the KK Heritage Walk and the night markets.

The hotel dates to 1954, so the foyer feels like walking into your grandmother's front room; however, our room was modern and comfortable. The view from our window wasn't great, but there were a few decent coffee shops across the road, which came in handy for breakfast.

Please check here for pricing and availability of The Jesselton Hotel.

If you're on a budget, here are some affordable hotels in Kota Kinabalu.

My Malaysia itinerary includes a relaxing 3 nights on Gaya Island

As we had done quite a bit of sightseeing over the last week or so in KL, Sandakan and KK, we were ready to enjoy a slice of paradise on a tropical island. Bungaraya Island Resort on Gaya Island was the perfect place to add at the end of our Malaysia itinerary.

Getting To Gaya Island

From our hotel, we took a 10-minute taxi ride to Jesselton Point Pier and were dropped off at the boardwalk, which led to the Bungaraya Island Resort offices. After checking in and being given refreshments, we were taken to the ferry, which we boarded for Gaya Island.

The journey to Bungaraya Island Resort from Jesselton Pier by ferry took 40 minutes. If you want to get there quickly, you can pay to upgrade to a speedboat, which will take 20-30 minutes.

Accommodation On Gaya Island

Where we stayed on Gaya Island: Bungaraya Island Resort

The exclusive Gaya Island is in the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, so it is a must on your Malaysia itinerary.

Bungaraya is one of only three resorts discreetly located on the island. It was a toss-up for me between staying here or at the Gaya Island Resort, but reviews, pricing, and availability made Bungaraya the winner.

Please check here for pricing and availability of Bungaraya Island Resort.

The resort features hillside villas with intertwining pathways, planted with vibrant flowers, that lead to restaurants, the pool area, and the crystal-clear ocean.

A buggy is on hand to take you around because the resort is pretty steep in places. The restaurants serve delicious cuisine, ranging from traditional Asian to international dishes.

My last stop in Malaysia was Kota Kinabalu

Getting To Kota Kinabalu

We took a morning boat transfer from Gaya Island back to Kota Kinabalu. And stayed one night in the Luma Hotel.

We didn't fly directly back from Kota Kinabalu on the same day we departed from Bungaraya Resort because, if the weather had delayed our boat departure from Gaya Island (which sometimes happens), we could have missed our return flight to Singapore. The sensible solution was to stay one night in KK and fly out the following day.

Please check here for pricing and availability of The Luma Hotel.

My Malaysia itinerary concludes with spending one night in Singapore

Getting to Singapore from Borneo

Our morning flight from Kota Kinabalu to Singapore was 2 hours and 30 minutes. We flew with Air Asia and were transferred from Changi Airport to our hotel by Welcome Pickups.

Where we stayed in Singapore: Dusit Thani Laguna

We chose the Dusit Thani Laguna Resort as our overnight hotel in Singapore before flying back to the UK. It's the second time I have stayed here, and I love it because it's just 10 minutes from Changi Airport, offers beautiful rooms, a fabulous pool, great restaurants, and, for golfers, a world-class course.

The hotel also provides a shuttle bus to the Marina Bay Sands area. It's where we spent our last evening in Asia, having a cold beer and watching the nightly light and laser show - the perfect ending to a perfect holiday.

Please check here for pricing and availability of Dusit Thani Laguna.

Frequently Asked Questions About Travelling To Malaysia

When is the best time to visit Malaysia?

The best time to visit Malaysia's west coast mainland is between December and March. This is when you should experience dry, less humid weather. The best time to visit Malaysian Borneo is between April and September. However, as we all know, weather patterns are changing with global warming, so you can never be guaranteed anything.

Malaysia's mainland and Borneo have different weather patterns. Where one place is hot and dry, another can be very wet. I have travelled to Malaysia twice - in January and June/July. On my first visit in January, I experienced dry, hot weather in Penang and Kuala Lumpur, as expected.

On my second visit, which is detailed in this one-month Malaysia itinerary, I experienced what I call upside-down weather. It was mostly dry on the West Coast, where it typically rains in June. I only experienced one morning of rain (see the photo below). We saw several full-on torrential downpours in Borneo, which should have been dry in June. Even the locals remarked that the weather was all mixed up and not how it used to be!

Malaysia sits close to the equator, and much of it is covered by jungle, so whenever you go, you can expect to be greeted with hot and humid conditions.

How many days do you need in Malaysia?

This depends on whether you prefer a fast-paced sightseeing tour of Malaysia or want to embrace slow travel, as I did, and give yourself time to recharge at Malaysia's beach resorts. Ideally, one month in Malaysia will allow you to experience all aspects of mainland Malaysia and spend time in Borneo.

However, if you can only spend two weeks in Malaysia, don't worry; there will still be enough time to see the country's highlights. Using my Malaysia itinerary, you can condense and prioritise your preferences to see the places that most appeal to you.

My suggestion for 2 weeks in Malaysia would be:

Penang and Batu Ferringhi - 4 nights

Ipoh - 2 nights

Cameron Highlands - 2 nights

Kuala Lumpur - 3 nights

Sandakan (Borneo) - 3 nights, because you must include seeing the orangutans in your Malaysia itinerary.

This condensed 14-day travel itinerary will still allow you to experience Malaysia's cities, mountains and rainforest.

Is Malaysia safe for tourists?

During my visits to Malaysia, I felt it was a safe country to explore. Like all big cities, Kuala Lumpur can feel rough around the edges in some areas, so be aware of your surroundings at night. Crime is low in Malaysia, but always take the same precautions you would elsewhere - it's better to be safe than sorry.

Always check your government's website for up-to-date advice on travelling to Malaysia.

Is Malaysia a better destination than Singapore?

Because the two countries border one another, travellers often ask this question. The answer is that they are very different and offer unique qualities; however, if you are after beaches and wildlife, Malaysia will win hands down.

For a more in-depth look at both these countries, read my blog post, Malaysia vs. Singapore: Which is best for you to visit?

My final thoughts about Malaysia

If you're thinking of visiting Malaysia, I'd say do it! We had the most fantastic time and would happily return. In Borneo, we learnt about a culture far removed from our own. We realised a lifelong dream of seeing orangutans. We loved the vibrancy of Kuala Lumpur and the authenticity of Penang and Ipoh. Visiting a tea plantation in the Cameron Highlands was also fabulous. And our beach resorts in Batu Ferringhi, Pangkor Laut Island, and Gaya Island allowed us to enjoy three incredible mini beach breaks. Although we love sightseeing, we knew we had to include some downtime in our Malaysia itinerary.

Our promise to ourselves

We know there are more exciting places in Malaysia to discover, so we plan to return to explore East Coast destinations like the Perhentian Islands and Tioman Island, as well as the more rural Sarawak in Borneo. When we do, you can be sure I will write an East Coast Malaysia itinerary that covers all these new locations and hopefully inspires your next trip to Malaysia.

Please PIN For Future Travel To Malaysia

HEADING TO MALAYSIA IN THE FUTURE?  CHECK OUT MY TRAVEL GUIDES ↓

Penang

Discover Penang in 3 Nights: The Best George Town Travel Itinerary

25 Best Tourist Attractions In Penang

Pinang Peranakan Mansion: A Tour of Penang’s Heritage Museum

Chew Jetty: What To See in Penang’s Historic Waterfront Village

Penang Street Art Then And Now: Is It Still Worth Seeing?

Visiting Kek Lok Si: The Amazing Buddhist Temple In Penang

Penang Botanic Garden: What To See On A Visit

Blue Mansion Penang Review: Cheong Fatt Tze

Shangri-La Rasa Sayang Resort Review: Beachfront Luxury in Penang

Kuala Lumpur

Kwai Chai Hong: Beautiful Art Murals in Chinatown Kuala Lumpur

Ipoh

Is Ipoh Worth Visiting? Here’s 13 Reasons Why You Should Visit Ipoh in Malaysia

Best Ipoh Itinerary For 2 Days + Cave Temples

4 Best Ipoh Cave Temples To Visit in Malaysia

Gua Tempurung: Explore the Limestone Cave in Perak, Malaysia

Is Kellie’s Castle In Ipoh Worth Visiting?

Borneo

Ultimate Guide for Visiting the Sepilok Orangutan Centre in Borneo

Sepilok Nature Lodge Review: A Beautiful Oasis in Sabah, Borneo

7 Best Places to See Orangutans in the Wild

Mari Mari Cultural Village: A Fantastic Experience in Kota Kinabalu

Malaysia Travel Planning

Malaysia vs Singapore: Which One is Better for Your Next Trip?

Getting Around Malaysia: The Best Sightseeing Road Transfers with Daytrip

Exploring Malaysia: 20 Best Places and Most Unique Experiences