Places to discover

Best places to visit in Malaysia

Malaysia is still a relatively hidden gem when it comes to tourism. But its sports and cultural activities, as well as the feeling of relaxation it inspires, should convince even the most sceptical.

Its capital, Kuala Lumpur, is a perfect example of the mix of cultures in this country, where Malays, Chinese and many Westerners live together in harmony. Make the most of your time in the capital by going on trips to the surrounding area: plan a visit to Malacca, one of the most beautiful towns in the country.

The island of Penang, in the North, is a jewel that absolutely merits a visit. Also of note is Georgetown,, with its street art and lively atmosphere, a beautiful place to wander through and to discover its gastronomy, reputed to be one of the best in Asia.

Even further North, near the Thailand border, you'll find Pulau Langkawi, with its fine sandy beaches, its duty-free products and its child-friendly spaces – it's an excellent choice for a family holiday.

At Borneo, the jungle is the main attraction, but there are other treasures to discover. Kuching, the capital and the most developed city in this part of the island, offers fantastic cuisine and night life, all just an hour's drive away from orang-utans in semi-freedom and wild crocodiles in the China sea.

In the North East, you'll find turtle island, entirely dedicated to preserving these impressive land and water species. 

Give in to the temptation to also discover the Cameron Highlands, unique landscapes filled with strawberry fields and tea plantations. Situated in the Malaysian peninsula, this destination is popular among fans of hiking, with temperatures remaining comfortable all year round.

There's no doubt about it: Malaysia is home to many treasures, whether on land or in the water. And don't forget its incredible cuisine!

A national park with a great wealth of plant and animal life. Not to be missed by lovers of nature and wildlife who are searching for intense hiking-safaris in Borneo.
Sipadan Island is one of the world's most famous scuba diving sites. Lying out in the Celebes Sea, it is definitely something not to be missed under any circumstances when visiting Malaysia.
Labuk Bay, a big animal reserve on Borneo , is the only park where you can see the protected proboscis monkeys.
Turtle Islands National Park consists of ten islands located between Malaysia and the Philippines.
A small island off the west coast, at a stone's throw from the mainland, Pangkor is enchanting and calm. It's home to white, sandy beaches, bordered by a lush jungle.
A little island off the northeastern Malaysian peninsula, Penang will feast your eyes as well as your stomach.
Taman Negara National Park is a protected area located in the centre of the Malayan peninsula. It harbours an extremely rich primary tropical rainforest that is one of the oldest in the world.
Sabah is a natural treasure trove, full of diverse surprises. You must put this on your to-do list during your trip to Malaysia.
For me, George Town is the most fascinating town in Malaysia. A former trading post on the ancient Spice Route and a classified UNESCO World Heritage Site, it's famous for its perfectly preserved, colonial old town.
Trek and hiking fans will love Cameron Highlands' blend of sport and nature. The smell of tea impregnates the countryside and the forests are full of surprises.
With tuk-tuks that are equally extravagant and bear colours that evoke different periods and countries, Malacca is a little gem!
Kuching is the capital of Sarawak state. It's often the town where travellers arrive in Borneo. It has lot of things to see and is a good place to start.
If you like nature, Sandakan is an interesting place to walk round during your trip to Malaysia. It has turtles, orang-utan, proboscis and other endemic monkeys...
Families and animal lovers will adore this natural reserve, where you can see some of the world's last orangutans living in the wild. 
Kek Lok Si, or the Temple of Supreme Bliss, is one of the biggest Buddhist temples in south east Asia. It's on Penang Island, in the Malacca Strait.
The Belum forest reserve is a fabulous place in Malaysia.
4/5ths of Borneo island belong to Indonesia and the rest to Malaysia and Brunei.
The meeting place for many of the animal species of Borneo. It is a must for lovers of nature, adventure and wild animals.
The elephant sanctuary is an elephant orphanage in Kuala Gandah 2 hours away up north from Kuala Lumpur by car.
As well as being the capital of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur is one of Asia's hubs. It is a modern town surrounded by oil palms where you should spend several days.
12