Grand Tour of Malaysia With Borneo

Itinerary

• Day 1: Arrival, Kuala Lumpur

  Upon landing in Malaysia's vibrant capital of Kuala Lumpur, you will be picked up at the airport and transferred swiftly to your hotel for check-in. Depending on your flight time, you have the remainder of the day to relax or explore on your own.

  • Kuala Lumpur

• Day 2: Kuala Lumpur Sightseeing City Tour

  Spend a half day exploring the city's major historical landmarks tucked away in modern skyscrapers. Begins at Masjid Negara, one of the nation's largest and most iconic mosques known for its stunning architecture. A brief stop at the Petronas Twin Towers allows for unforgettable photo opportunities against this architectural marvel.

  As you explore, you'll pass by notable landmarks such as the Moorish-style Federal Court, the old Railway Station - a striking example of Mohammedan architecture, the Tudor-style Cricket Club, and the majestic King's Palace.

  The tour continues to Thean Hou Temple. Nestled in Robson Heights, this breathtaking six-tiered temple is one of the largest Chinese temples in Southeast Asia. The rest of today is free for further sightseeing and exploration on your own.

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  • Kuala Lumpur

• Day 3: Historical Malacca Tour

  Depart from your hotel in the morning and feel the excitement as you arrive in the historic Malacca.

  Start by visiting a traditional Malacca house, raised on 12 to 16 striking two-meter pillars. Next, pause at a traditional mosque before exploring the historic St. Francis Xavier Church and the iconic Stadthuys, known for its striking red facade.

  Ascend St. Paul's Hill to see the ruins of St. Paul's Church, the temporary resting place of the famed missionary St. Francis Xavier. As you descend, admire the Melaka Sultanate Palace, a beautiful wooden replica of a 15th-century Malay palace, and the historic Porta de Santiago, a remnant of the Portuguese presence.

  For a local experience, hop on a trishaw and ride past the Hindu temple Sri Poyyatha Vinayagar Moorthi, Kampong Kling Mosque, and the enchanting Cheng Hoon Teng Chinese temple.

  After lunch at a Peranakan restaurant, explore the Baba and Nyonya Museum. Conclude your day with a stroll along vibrant Jonker Street, a treasure trove of antiques and handicrafts, before returning to Kuala Lumpur.

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  • Kuala Lumpur

• Day 4: Kuala Lumpur - Cameron Highlands

  Leave the hustle and bustle of the capital city behind and embark on a scenic drive to the serene Cameron Highlands, perched at elevations between 800 and 1,603 meters above sea level. As you journey through Malaysia's largest tea-growing region, breathe in the crisp mountain air and take in the breathtaking views of rolling tea plantations and misty hilltops. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and savor the rest of the day at your leisure, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere of this enchanting retreat.

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  • Cameron Highlands

• Day 5: Cameron Highlands

  Today, jump into a Land Rover and journey through the stunning tea gardens toward Gunung Brinchang, soaring 2,000 meters above sea level. As you ascend, listen to the guide's introduction while soaking in the spectacular views. Experience an interpretive walk through the mossy forest with your nature guide, discovering exotic flora like pitcher plants, orchids, and medicinal plants.

  After a short drive down, visit a tea plantation to appreciate the diverse teas. Your day continues with a tour of the Cameron Highlands, including the Butterfly Farm, a local market filled with fresh produce, the Time Tunnel mini museum, the Sam Poh Buddhist Temple, and a delightful Strawberry Farm.

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  • Cameron Highlands

• Day 6: Cameron Highlands - Penang

  After breakfast, continue your journey to Penang and check into your local hotel. In the afternoon, settle out on a tour of this historic island.

  Admire the diverse architecture, including Dharmikarama Burmese Temple and Wat Chayamangklaram, home to the Golden Reclining Buddha statue. Step back in time at the Colonial Penang Museum, and glimpse the lives of the island's British administrators and affluent merchants.

  Enjoy a bit of retail therapy at Cocoa Boutique, then explore the heritage zone filled with colonial buildings, including the historic Fort Cornwallis, built by the British East India Company. Pass by the Queen Victoria Memorial Clock Tower and stroll along the Clan Jetty, lined with stilted houses.

  The tour continues with a leisurely drive through the "Street of Harmony," featuring a church, Chinese temple, mosque, and Hindu temple all within walking distance.

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  • Penang

• Day 7: Penang

  At the foodie hub of Penang, focus this morning on a hands-on culinary experience to unlock the secrets of Malaysian cuisine. Set off on a short drive into a lush valley to the Tropical Spice Garden, home to over 500 varieties of herbs, spices, and tropical plants. Spend some time strolling around the garden for an introduction to locally-grown produce and ingredients to be used for cooking, and you will then learn how to prepare authentic local dishes and beverages from professional chefs. Following this, relish in your own creations for lunch.

  This afternoon is for you to further explore Penang at your own pace, or relax at your hotel. You might like to conclude this evening at Gurney Drive or Queen Street to feast on delicious hawker food.

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  • Penang

• Day 8: Penang - Kuching

  The next leg of your journey sees you flying into the Malaysian state of Sarawak on the northwestern part of Borneo Island. As you touch down the state capital of Kuching, take a private transfer to your hotel and enjoy the remainder of today at leisure.

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  • Kuching

• Day 9: Kuching City Tour

  Experience the essence of Sarawak's historic capital on this captivating half-day tour. Start in Kuching's vibrant Chinatown, featuring the iconic Cat Statue. Marvel at the Tua Pek Kong Temple, explore the intriguing Chinese History Museum, and discover the wonders of the Sarawak Museum.

  On your return, admire the golden-domed City Mosque and stroll through Old Kuching, bustling with spice dealers and textile shops. Pass by the heritage buildings of the White Rajah area, including the Pavilion, Square Tower, Court House, Charles Brooke Monument, and Post Office. Conclude with a stunning view of the Astana, the former residence of the White Rajahs, from the scenic Kuching Waterfront.

  This afternoon, enjoy time at leisure to explore at your own pace or relax at your hotel.

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  • Kuching

• Day 10: Kuching - Batang Ai, Ukom Longhouse of Iban Tribe

  Depart today on a scenic drive through charming villages, green rice fields, and lush palm plantations towards Batang Ai Hydro Lake, stopping at Serian Town and Lachau Town for a break and lunch. A boat ride across the lake into the Engkari River takes you to the Iban longhouse of Ukom. Traditionally, 30 to 40 "bilek", each representing a unique family, live in a row of raised dwellings under a single roof. Your guide will help you check into a longhouse with basic facilities to experience communal dormitory-style living. After dinner, mingle with the fun-loving longhouse residents, try a glass or two of 'tuak' (homemade rice wine), and enjoy a short but delightful cultural performance.

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  • Batang Ai

• Day 11: Batang Ai - Kuching

  Wake up to the soothing sounds of the remote countryside. Following breakfast, witness a blowpipe demonstration and test your skills in shooting one. Afterward, enjoy a brief walk around the longhouse to explore the traditional uses of rainforest plants in Iban culture. After your visit, transfer back to Kuching via the same route, stopping for lunch.

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  • Kuching

• Day 12: Kuching - Kota Kinabalu

  Travel onward by flight to Kota Kinabalu, the capital city of Malaysian Borneo's Sabah state.

  Upon landing, you will be collected from the airport and transferred in a private vehicle to your hotel for check-in. The rest of today is at your leisure, either relaxing at your comfortable hotel, exploring the city's major sights like the "floating" Masjid Bandaraya, or admiring the magical sunset at Tanjung Aru Beach.

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  • Kota Kinabalu

• Day 13: Kota Kinabalu, Kinabalu Park With Poring Hot Spring

  The UNESCO-recognized Kinabalu Park invites you to explore its geological wonders on a full-day excursion. After breakfast, set off on a scenic drive along mountain roads passing quaint villages and paddy paddies, with an en-route visit to the lively Nabalu Market. Once you reach the park, start your adventure with a stroll along the Botanical Garden's nature trails to take in the cooler climate and enjoy an abundance of flora and fauna sightings. On a clear day, you may even spot a majestic view of Mount Kinabalu, Malaysia's highest mountain, rising to 4,095 meters.

  In the afternoon, continue the tour to Poring Hot Spring, another highlight of the park, where you can relax in the mineral-rich water. Next, try a canopy walk, about 40 meters above the ground and 157 meters in length, through the lush treetops to take in the sights and sounds of the tropical jungle. Finally, return to your hotel in Kota Kinabalu.

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  • Kota Kinabalu

• Day 14: Kota Kinabalu - Sandakan

  Today, travel onward by flight to your next destination, Sandakan.

  On arrival, a private transfer will whisk you to your accommodation, with the remainder of the day at leisure.

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  • Sandakan

• Day 15: Sandakan - Sukau Village, Boat Cruise along Kinabatangan River

  Kickstart with a morning visit to the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, observing semi-wild orangutans at the free-roaming area and feeding platform. The nearby Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre promises the chance to meet endangered sun bears, native to Malaysia's rainforest.

  Next, head to the jetty for a 2.5-hour boat cruise along the Kinabatangan River to your lodge in Sukau Village. Check in, rest, and refresh before venturing on a river safari to spot wildlife in their natural habitat. Once back to the lodge, enjoy dinner by the river, partake in a slide presentation by your naturalist guide, and stay overnight in the peaceful surroundings.

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  • Sukau Village

• Day 16: Kinabatangan River (Sukau Village)

  Rise early for a morning cruise up the Kinabatangan River to witness Kelenanap Oxbow Lake coming to life when local wildlife and water birds emerge from their nighttime hideaways. After breakfast, your in-house naturalist will lead you on an interpretive walk along the lodge's Hornbill Boardwalk.

  This afternoon goes with an informative Orang Utan Talk to learn more about Borneo's famous primates and take another river cruise to search for more wildlife while admiring the stunning river landscape as the sun sets.

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  • Sukau Village

• Day 17: Sukau Village - Lahad Datu - Danum Valley

  This morning, hit the road to Lahad Datu town for registration at the Borneo Nature Tours office, followed by another overland journey on the gravel road to Danum Valley. Upon checking into your lodge, receive a special "welcome drink" and a briefing about the facilities.

  After lunch, immerse yourself in the wonders of Danum Valley through a captivating slideshow in the Conference Room. Led by your knowledgeable guide, venture on a jungle trek along the "Nature Trails" and traverse the treetop "Canopy Walkway" to discover the rich flora and fauna.

  Return to the lodge for dinner. Round off the day with an open-top vehicle safari to observe the nocturnal creatures.

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  • Danum Valley

• Day 18: Danum Valley

  Another exciting day unfolds as you trek the historic Kadazandusun burial site known as "Coffin Cliff," an ancient Southeast Asian funeral tradition. Then at the "View Point", you have the reward of enjoying a panoramic vista of the surroundings.

  This afternoon, extend your jungle exploration or take a leisurely "tubing" down the Danum River, depending on the weather and water level conditions.

  Closing out the day, head out on a night walk to spot nocturnal animals.

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  • Danum Valley

• Day 19: Danum Valley - Lahad Datu - Kota Kinabalu

  Savor a leisurely morning, relaxing in your hotel or exploring the lush surroundings independently. At the appointed time, depart for a 2.5-hour drive to Lahad Datu Airport for your flight back to Kota Kinabalu.

  Upon landing, you'll be met and taken to your hotel, with the rest of the day at leisure.

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  • Kota Kinabalu

• Day 20: Kota Kinabalu, Departure

  Your adventure comes to an end after breakfast this morning. Time will be free until your private car arrives to take you to the airport for your homebound flight.

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