Holidays to Malaysia
Split between the Peninsula Malaysia and Malaysian Borneo, separated by the South China Sea, the diverse landscape of Malaysia is a combination of extreme contrasts. While you may instantly think of Kuala Lumpur and orangutans, there’s so much more to discover, from remote hilltop villages and leafy jungles, to tranquil beaches and amazing diving spots. However the biggest draw is the culture - this is truly the melting pot for Asian influences and they combine in mouth-watering cuisine and wide-ranging architecture. Think Buddhist temples sat alongside mosques, and fragrant curries alongside spicy noodles.
Malaysia’s dazzling capital city, Kuala Lumpur, is sure to be top of your hit list. Its modern skyscrapers tower over Hindu and Buddhist temples and mosques below. For a more laidback urban escape, the colonial town of Georgetown in Penang, and the quaint city of Malacca won’t disappoint. Here you’ll experience traditional food, renowned as the best street food in Asia, lovely galleries and boutiques, and European-inspired architecture.
4,600km of coastline means plenty of idyllic beaches to choose from. The west coast has a few lovely beaches, but the east coast is the real stand-out, with one continual stretch of white sand. For something really special, hop over to the islands that lie off the coast. Langkawi’s sweeping sandy bays are akin to a Thai island – but without the crowds, while Tioman Island off the east coast is sure to please. No matter where you decide upon, you’ll find world-class diving and plenty of room to stretch out on.
Highlights
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Quiet islands
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Cosmopolitan cities & sleepy towns
Key info
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Capital city: Kuala Lumpur
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Language: Malay & English
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Currency: Malaysian Ringgit
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Time difference: GMT + 8 hours
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Flight time: 12.5 hours to Kuala Lumpur
Malaysia Trip ideas
Here are some trip ideas in Malaysia. All of our trip ideas shown below are examples, and we’ll amend, adapt or start from scratch, until we’ve created the perfect trip for you. See one you like, or have a trip in mind? Call us now to book: 01483 319 333
14 days from £2195pp
Take it Easy Thailand & Malaysia
A laidback trip through Thailand and Malaysia for nature lovers and foodies.
13 days from £2595pp
Family Adventure Malaysia
Experience Malaysia with the whole family & enjoy the city, beach & national parks.
14 days from £2995pp
VIVID Malaysia
See the best of Malaysia from colonial towns, lush countryside and paradise beaches.
13 days from £3095pp
Take it Easy Malaysia
Get to know the island in your own time with this chilled out trip around Borneo.
17 days from £3200pp
Spirit of Thailand & Malaysia
A meaningful trip to Thailand and Malaysia full of insights into the local religion and culture.
14 days from £3400pp
Natural Malaysia
An exciting fun filled adventure through Malaysia for nature lovers and foodies alike.
16 days from £3995pp
Honeymoon Malaysia
Spend a romantic honeymoon on Malaysia’s most beautiful islands.
20 days from £4295pp
Mission Malaysia
Marvel at Malaysia’s most beautiful scenery, zip line between islands and embark on an epic climb.
Places to go in Malaysia
Here are some of the best places to go in Malaysia. Got a few ideas about where you’d like to go or need some help? Call our Travel Designers now: 01483 319 333
Malaysia's buzzing capital where old meets new with a fusion of Asian style.
Visit the colonial capital, George Town, explore the jungle and beaches, and tuck into delicious cuisine.
Enjoy a taste of England in the highlands with a cooler climate, fabulous views and plenty of tea.
A paradise group of islands where you can be as active or lazy as you like.
A charming hill station in the Pahang mountains with a Scottish history and cooler climate.
A charming fishing village that's a gateway to Malaysia's exotic islands.
A UNESCO world heritage city with a blend of history, architecture and cuisine.
Once an important colonial stop, this exclusive island is what beach dreams are made of.
Things to do in Malaysia
Here are some of the things you can do in Malaysia. When you've chosen your favourite experiences, just give our Travel Designers a call and they'll put a trip together for you. If you need help choosing an experience, or if you want to learn more about it, our Travel Designers will be more than happy to talk to you. Just call them on: 01483 319 333
Full-day experience
An introduction to Malaysia’s religious diversity and culture in its capital, Kuala Lumpur.
Full-day experience
Soak up the atmosphere of Kuala Lumpur, sample the local Indian food and explore the holy Batu Caves.
Morning experience
Indulge in a tour sampling local dim sum and street art around the multi-cultural city of Penang.
Gallery
Map of Malaysia
When to go to Malaysia
The weather in Malaysia is hot and humid year round. The west and east coasts have opposite climates, so the dry season on the west between November and February is rainy on the east coast. The wettest months on the west coast are between April to October, while these are considerable drier on the east coast. The Highlands can be visited year round, with increased rain throughout the summer months offering cooler temperatures than the rest of the mainland.
January
This is a good time of year to visit the West Coast. You should avoid the Highlands during Chinese New Year as it can get very busy, and the East Coast as it's rainy season.
February
The rainy period continues on the east coast with many beach resorts closed.
March
The rains ease off on the east coast and it's a lovely time to visit the Highlands.
April
It's the start of the rainy season in inland Malaysia, although the rain can be a welcome break from the humidity. Head to the coasts for sunny temperatures.
May
The highlands and lowlands continue to see rain, while it's a good time to visit the coastal resorts.
June
The highlands and lowlands continue to see rain, and it's a great time to visit the east coast resorts.
July
The west coast should be avoided as it's rainy season. Head to the opposite coastline for sunny skies.
August
The good weather continues on the east coast, with occasional downpours and thunderstorms on the west coast.
September
Occasional downpours in the highlands, lowlands and west coast are common but it's still a great time to explore.
October
Rainfall increases in the highlands, and with heavier currents, it's not a great time for diving on the west coast due to poor visibility.
November
Monsoon seasons strikes the east coast in November so the islands are best avoided, with heavy rainfall and the closure of some beach resorts.
December
Rainfall continues on the east coast and in the highlands, so head to the west coast for better weather.
