Tailormade Holidays in Malaysia

Tour Code: TMLY

Separated by the South China Sea into two regions; Peninsular Malaysia and Malaysian Borneo, the rainforest reserves across The Federation of Malaysia are regarded as amongst the finest in the world.

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Sample Itineraries

Create your own Tailormade holiday to Malaysia with dates and an itinerary to suit you. Click one to scroll down and view more info.

When to Go

Good Time to Go

ALL YEAR ROUND

Best Time to Go

January to February, April to December

Speak to a travel expert

Georgie Dodds

Tailormade Manager

Email Call 1-844-433-9473

Where to Go

Fraser’s Hill
Kuala Selangor Nature Park
Taman Negara
Sepilok Orang-utan Sanctuary
+4 more

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Summary

Separated by the South China Sea into two regions; Peninsular Malaysia and Malaysian Borneo, the rainforest reserves across The Federation of Malaysia are regarded as amongst the finest in the world. Peninsular Malaysia boasts some of the planet’s oldest Dipterocarp forests, and these are home to many of south-east Asia’s endemic bird species, including five found nowhere else in the world. The superb Taman Negara National Park offers a verdant ocean of trees concealing a multitude of extraordinary birds, mammals and insects, but there are many other reserves besides, comprising montane forest, wetlands and coastal mangroves. The 800 plus bird species include seven species of pitta, ten hornbills, six trogons, 25 woodpeckers and an incredible 13 species of kingfisher. Wreathed and even Helmeted Hornbills are possible, alongside Malayan Rail Babbler, supplemented by a host of raptors, malkohas, owls, nightjars and a host of deep forest songbirds. Rare mammals - although elusive - can be sighted with some luck, including Clouded Leopard, Asian Elephant, Malayan Tapir, Gaur, Malayan Sun Bear and the critically endangered Malayan Tiger. To add to the treasure trove, the melanistic form of Leopard – or Black Panther – is, amazingly, the dominant form amongst the Peninsula forests. The country also offers some of the most accessible primate watching in south-east Asia. Clouds of colourful butterflies flit between the trees, whilst some of evolution’s most exciting denizens - flying reptiles - inhabit these towering rainforest giants. Marine Hawkbill and Green Turtles come ashore to lay their eggs on the mainland beaches south-west of Kuala Lumpur between April and September. The mention of ‘Malaysian Borneo’ alone is enough to summon a sense of adventure. The northern state of Sabah holds legendary status amongst naturalists; Danum Valley and the Tabin Forest Reserve offer extraordinary tracts of genuine primary rainforest, and the Kinabatangan River system presents excellent mammal-watching and birding opportunities. There’s fantastic birding, too, on the forested slopes of Mount Kinabalu, south-east Asia’s highest mountain. To add a cultural element to a Malaysian Borneo tour, head for Sarawak; the region’s capital, Kuching, is a beautiful ex-colonial city and, further afield, one can gain an insight into the historic headhunting practices of Iban tribes. Malaysian Borneo has plenty of reef-fringed coast should you wish to cool off after your jungle experience with a little diving, snorkelling or relaxation. Each and every day of a holiday to Malaysia, whether it be to Peninsular Malaysia, Malaysian Borneo - or both! - will be filled with many rewarding birdwatching and wildlife encounters!

Our Locations

The Danum Valley Conservation Area covers 438 square kilometres of predominantly lowland dipterocarp rainforest and is one of only two substantial areas of protected primary rainforest remaining in Sabah. The forest can be explored via a good network of trails, an incredible 300-metre long canopy walkway and, after dark, through spotlighting safaris in search of such nocturnal mammals as Red Giant Flying Squirrel, Sunda Colugo, Temminck’s Flying Squirrel and occasionally Bornean Slow Loris and Western Tarsier. Sunda Clouded Leopards are also occasionally seen on night-drives, although Leopard Cats are much more common. During the day there’s always a good chance of encountering a Bornean Orangutan or Northern Grey Gibbon, but the more elusive denizens of the forest such as Malayan Sun Bear are rarely seen. The Danum Valley is also outstanding for birds, being home to eight species of hornbill, of which the huge Rhinoceros Hornbill can be seen almost daily. Other specialities include the Great Argus and Crested Fireback Pheasants, Black-headed and Blue-headed Pittas, Bornean Bristlehead, Bornean and Black-throated Wren-babblers, Great-billed Heron, Wallace’s and Blyth’s Hawk-eagles, Rufous-bellied Eagle, Great Slaty and Olive-backed Woodpeckers, Whiskered Treeswift and Oriental Dwarf Kingfisher.

Accommodation in Danum Valley Conservation Area

Borneo Rainforest Lodge

Details

Steamy tropical rainforest dripping with epiphytes and resounding to the sounds of insects and birds – this is the allure of the magnificent Taman Negara National Park in the north of Peninsula Malaysia. Embracing over 4,140 square kilometres of protected wildlife habitat, this is one of the oldest rainforests in the world and the largest tract of lowland forest in Asia. It is a mysterious world of hornbills, trogons, pittas and many other rare and elusive creatures. Over 400 bird species have been recorded in Taman Negara, a staggering list for a lowland forest. Evolution has been underway for so long here, that the majority of animals have specialised in a particular niche, creating a remarkable diversity of life. More than 3,000 species of plants have been recorded in the park alone, and though incredibly elusive and requiring excellent luck, near mythical cats including Malayan Tiger, Clouded Leopard and Indochinese Leopard have all been seen in recent years. Five species of monkey reside in the park, alongside two species of gibbon; the latter announcing daybreak each morning with their iconic calls. Staying a night in a specially constructed hide deep in the jungle also offers the world’s best chance of encountering a wild Malayan Tapir. This remote and fascinating reserve is bound to be a highlight on any trip to Malaysia.

Accommodation in Taman Negara National Park

Mutiara Taman Negara

Details

Set amid hills clad in pristine sub-montane forests at an altitude of 1,400 metres, the old colonial hill-station of Fraser's Hill (1220m) was much beloved by the British, the cool air being a welcome contrast to the heat of the lowlands. There are many reminders of the British connection in the place names and British-style architecture; the vegetation and birds, however, could hardly be less European! Forest residents include laughing-thrushes, woodpeckers, broadbills, flycatchers and sunbirds, joined by some exciting migrants through the seasons, such as the beautiful but shy Siberian Thrush, which overwinters here from its northern breeding grounds. The appearance of a mixed species feeding flock working its way through the trees is superbly exciting; if one strikes it lucky, the components of such flocks can include some of the most spectacular and beautiful of Malaysia's birds, such as the Long-tailed Broadbill, a jewel of a bird which all too quickly slips away from view into the canopy. Silver-breasted Broadbills, Helmeted, Rhinoceros & Wreathed Hornbills, Blyth’s Hawk-Eagle, Silver-eared Mesia, Green Magpie, Red-headed and Orange-breasted Trogons, Blue Nuthatch, Malayan Whistling Thrush, White-hooded Babbler and Red-bearded Bee-eater are, too, all possible. Other species include the diminutive Pygmy Wren-Babbler, Bay Woodpecker, Green-billed Malkoha, Fire-tufted Barbet, Sultan Tit, and a miscellany of babblers and laughing-thrushes.

Further contrast to the area’s British appearance is provided by a delightful selection of orchids, pitcher plants and other tropical flora, with colourful Asian butterflies flitting here and there between the trees. Forest mammals include Siamang (the largest species of gibbon), White-thighed Surili, Dusky Langur, Southern Pig-tailed Macaque, Himalayan Striped and Mountain Red-bellied Squirrels, Yellow-throated Marten and Wild Boar.

Accommodation in Fraser’s Hill

Wyndham Garden Shahzan Fraser's Hill

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Ye Old Smokehouse

Details

Mountain peacock-pheasant - Malaysia_shutterstock_438345781.jpg

Nestled amidst verdant countryside, Bukit Tinggi is a charming town suitably located along the scenic route between Kuala Selangor and Fraser's Hill. The town provides access to exceptional sub-montane wildlife habitat and the forest here is home to an array of avifaunal treasures, including Ferruginous Partridge, Silver-breasted and Long-tailed Broadbills, Fire-tufted and Black-browed Barbets, Orange-breasted and Red-headed Trogons, and the endemic Mountain Peacock-pheasant. It is also a superb location for primate-watching, with Dusky Langur, Southern Pig-tailed Macaque, White-thighed Surili and the charismatic Siamang, the largest of the gibbon species, all present. Unlike its relatives, the melodious Siamang are typically late risers, and their booming calls can be heard well into the late morning. The trees also come alive with the agile movements of Plantain, Slender, and Himalayan Striped Squirrels, alongside a wide variety of insects and herpetofauna.

Accommodation in Bukit Tinggi

Colmar Tropicale

Details

The unique coastal mangroves of Kuala Selangor Nature Park are a world away from the urban sprawl of nearby Kuala Lumpur, and this peculiar saltwater habitat is home to an intriguing array of birds. Alongside the more common species of the Malaysian countryside, more specialist inhabitants include Mangrove Pitta, Mangrove Blue Flycatcher, Golden-bellied Gerygone, Laced Woodpecker and Mangrove Whistler, as well as Cinereous Tit. Thousands of Fiddler Crabs scuttle over the glistening mud beneath the trees and, like the bizarre semi-terrestrial mudskipper fish, run the gauntlet of kingfishers, herons and egrets wading through the shallows. If one is lucky, Smooth-coated Otters, Plantain Squirrels and huge Water Monitors may make an appearance, alongside three species of primate including the endemic Selangor Silvered Langur, as well as Long- and Southern Pig-tailed Macaques. Nearby mudflats provide a wonderful variety of waders and terns, while the paddy fields at Sekinchan often provide Black-backed Swamphen, Yellow and Cinnamon Bitterns, Long-toed Stint, Black-winged Kite, Lesser Coucal and Greater Spotted Eagle, among many other exciting possibilities.

Pink Mosque, Kuching City, Borneo shutterstock_330760493.jpg

The city of Kuching, located on the Sarawak River in the far west of Borneo, is a lovely mix of old colonial buildings, riverside promenades, Chinese temples, Islamic mosques and bustling local markets. Both the Fort Margherita and the stately Istana Palace are worth a visit, while the Sarawak Museum is the pick of the city’s sites. Bako National Park, a coastal forest reserve, is a full day’s excursion from Kuching, with good birding and excellent Proboscis Monkey sightings possible. Looking further afield from Kuching, the surrounding region of Sarawak is famed for its Iban tribal culture and particularly the headhunting traditions of a bygone era. It’s possible to spend a night in a traditional longhouse or, if you want more comfort, the Hilton has a lakeside ‘Longhouse Resort’ in Batang Ai where you take long-tail boat excursions across the lake to the nearby local villages. Here visitors can shoot a blowpipe and learn something of the residents’ ancient cultural heritage.

The Sepilok Orang-utan Sanctuary is home to the Orang-utan Rehabilitation Centre and is an integral stop on nearly all Borneo itineraries. A short drive from Sandakan, the centre arranges twice daily feeding sessions for semi-rehabilitated Bornean Orangutans living in the surrounding forests that make their way back to the centre for the free meals on offer. While there you will learn about the plight of the Orang-utan and the valuable conservation work carried out to rehabilitate these endearing great apes ready for life back in the wild. The surrounding forest also supports a number of interesting birds including the spectacular Black-and-red Broadbill, Scarlet-rumped Trogon, the endemic Bornean Bristlehead and various species of barbet, sunbird, flycatcher and spiderhunter.

Accommodation in Sepilok Orang-utan Sanctuary

The Sepilok Nature Resort

Details

Gaya Island, Borneo shutterstock_1365645431.jpg

There are a number of world-class snorkelling and diving locations dotted around the reef-fringed coast of Borneo. The coastal eco-resorts of Gayana and Bunga Raya on Gaya Island, near Kota Kinabalu, are peaceful places to relax, snorkel and enjoy a little birding in the surrounding forests. Since most international flights depart from Kota Kinabalu (15 minutes away), they are ideally situated for a final few days of down time.

At 4,101 metres (13,455 feet) Mount Kinabalu is the highest mountain between the eastern Himalaya and New Guinea and its forested slopes hold a rich diversity of montane and submontane fauna and flora. It also attracts many visitors wishing to trek to the summit to witness the spectacular sunrise over the surrounding lush Bornean hills. Accommodation is available near the park’s headquarters from where an excellent network of trails radiates out into the cool and refreshing montane evergreen forest. The scenery is spectacular and you are sure to see a wealth of species amongst mixed feeding flocks that work the forests, and perhaps some of the specialities which include Crimson-headed Partridge, Temminck’s Babbler, Black-breasted Fruit-hunter, Eyebrowed Jungle Flycatcher, Bornean Stubtail and, of course, the legendary trio: Whitehead’s Trogon, Whitehead’s Broadbill and Whitehead’s Spiderhunter. Also found in the area is the Rafflesia plant, which boasts the largest flower in the world. After a long day on the trails, a stop at the nearby Poring Hot Springs is a great way to relax.

Clouded Leopard, Deramakot, Borneo shutterstock_655666393.jpg

The Deramakot Forest Reserve is fast becoming one of the most exciting destinations in which to see south-east Asia’s most sought-after mammals, including the Sunda Clouded Leopard. Until very recently, accommodation in the Deramakot Reserve has been extremely limited and so the area has remained well off the tourist trail. The fact that visitors are free to roam unrestricted (as there are so few of them!) is perhaps why the reserve offers such wonderful rare mammal sightings. Other exciting mammals to be found at Deramakot include Sun Bear, Binturong, Pygmy (Asian) Elephant, Marbled Cat, Otter Civet, Banteng and Sunda Skunk. Spotlighting and nocturnal drives offer the best chances for mammals at Deramakot, and visitors prepared to be out around the clock are likely to be rewarded the most highly.

The floodplain of the Kinabatangan River is a low-lying wilderness of muddy rivers, dense rainforest, serene ox-bow lakes and towering limestone outcrops. Wild Bornean Orangutans are often encountered during boat safaris as are Pygmy (Asian) Elephants and the bizarre Proboscis Monkey for which the area is renowned. The birdlife is outstanding and the river’s meandering course allows clean lines of sight with highlights including Storm’s Stork (this is one of the most reliable sites for this endangered species anywhere), Chestnut-necklaced Partridge, Bornean Ground Cuckoo, Hooded, Black-headed and Giant Pittas, Diard’s Trogon, Moustached Hawk-cuckoo, Wallace’s Hawk-eagle, White-bellied Sea Eagle, Lesser Fish Eagle, Bat Hawk, Buffy Fish Owl, Whiskered Treeswift, up to four species of malkoha, and eight species of hornbill. The nearby Gomantong Caves penetrate deep inside two huge limestone outcrops and an excursion here to search for the wildlife of the surrounding forest and then watch the exodus of millions of bats as they try to evade the waiting Bat Hawks and Peregrines is most certainly recommended. If your visit is so timed, there is also the chance to observe the remarkable sight of the local people ascending to the roofs of the caves on their precarious rope and bamboo ladders to collect swiftlet nests (sustainably) for ‘bird’s-nest soup’!

Accommodation in The Kinabatangan River

Sukau Rainforest Lodge

Details

Northern Grey Gibbon (George Vincent).JPG

Tabin Wildlife Reserve consists of mature secondary and primary lowland rainforest and is first and foremost a wonderful birding location. Forays into the forest are made on foot and it’s possible to see 70 or 80 species in a day, among them Brown Wood Owl, White-fronted Falconet, Blue-banded Kingfisher, Large Green, Thick-billed and Little Green Pigeons, Great Slaty, Crimson-winged and Olive-backed Woodpeckers, plus a range of leafbirds, hornbills, malkohas and trogons. Time spent at the local ‘mud volcano’ can reveal some of the forest’s larger inhabitants such as Pygmy (Asian) Elephant, Bornean Orangutan and Northern Grey Gibbon. Spotlighting at Tabin can also be very productive with Malay, Philippine Palm and Bornean Small-toothed Palm Civets frequently seen, along with Sunda Leopard Cat and Bornean Slow Loris.

George Town, the vibrant capital city of Penang, is a captivating blend of history, culture, and culinary delight. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a true melting pot of cultures and boasts a rich tapestry of architectural wonders and street art. With strong British, Chinese, and Malay influences, the city showcases its diversity through its attractive colonial-era buildings and alluring cuisine. Iconic landmarks include Fort Cornwallis and Kek Lok Si, south-east Asia's largest Buddhist temple, while the bustling markets of Little India and Chowrasta offer a sensory experience like no other. Beyond its historical and cultural appeal, George Town embraces modernity and features trendy cafes, boutique shops and contemporary art galleries, adding a touch of cosmopolitan charm to the city.

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Sample Itineraries

A 14-day birdwatching and natural history tour visiting the highlands and forests of peninsular Malaysia, including a 4-night stay in Taman Negara National Park, one of the finest lowland forest reserves in Asia.

Day

Flu from London to Kuala Lumpur

Days

2 - 3

Kuala Selangor

Days

4 - 6

Fraser's Hill

Days

7 - 10

Taman Negara

Day

Return Kuala Lumpur

Day

Ulu Gombak and Genting Highlands

Day

Fly from Kuala Lumpur to London

Day

Arrive London

14 Days (Flight Inclusive)

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This exciting birding itinerary visits the lowland and montane forests of the Malaysian province of Sabah in northern Borneo.

Day

Depart London

Days

2 - 5

Mount Kinabalu

Days

6 - 7

Sepilok

Days

8 - 10

Kinabatangan River

Days

11 - 14

Tabin Wildlife Reserve

Day

Depart Kota Kinabalu

Day

Arrive London

16 Days (Flight Inclusive)

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Optionally Extend Your Holiday:

Choose from one of the many lodges and coastal eco-resorts for snorkelling, diving or relaxation on the beach.

This itinerary is designed to offer the best possible chance of viewing Borneo's most iconic wildlife, including wild Orang-utans.

Day

Depart London

Days

2 - 3

Sepilok

Days

4 - 6

Kinabatangan River

Days

7 - 9

Danum Valley

Day

Depart Kota Kinabalu

Day

Arrive London

11 Days (Flight Inclusive)

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Optionally Extend Your Holiday:

Add some time in the Deramakot Forest Reserve to search for Sunda Clouded Leopard

Days

7 - 10

Deramakot Forest Reserve

Days

11 - 13

Danum Valley

Day

Depart Kota Kinabalu

Day

Arrive London

The Essentials

Wildlife Guides

Good local English-speaking naturalists are available as well as specialist birding guides.

When to Visit

Malaysia has a tropical monsoon climate year-round, with hot and humid weather interspersed with tropical rain showers. Weather conditions are localised and complicated throughout Malaysia, with one region receiving its highest rainfall while another is dry, so the best time to travel depends on what you would like to see and where you would like to visit on your trip. In Peninsular Malaysia, the east coast experiences a rainy season between approximately November & February, whilst the west coast experiences sunny and relatively dry conditions. The rainiest months on the west coast fall between April to October, which are conversely the driest months on the east coast. The peak tourist season in Malaysian Borneo (when rainfall is, on average, lowest) is from May to September. However, visits during the northern autumn and winter are fine if your focus is on the rainforests of Sabah, which are at their best when rainfall is higher; this is also the time when guest numbers are lower. However, the seas around Malaysian Borneo can be choppy between November and March, making beach stays a less ideal option during this time.

Getting Around

Travel within Malaysia is best achieved through a combination of short domestic flights and private car or minibus; it is also possible to join shared transfers, when travelling to the Danum Valley, for example.

Why Naturetrek Tailormade?

A Naturetrek Tailormade holiday allows you, with the benefit of our wildlife travel expertise and destination experience, to enjoy the perfect private wildlife holiday – one that truly matches your requirements, expectations and ambitions. We will ensure the most competitive prices, superb naturalist guides and seamless ground services.

Some of the benefits of Naturetrek Tailormade travel include:
• A bespoke itinerary which is crafted by experts and designed specifically for you
• Private guiding by the very best local naturalists
• Travel with people you know, at your own pace
• Incorporate as much culture, history or relaxation time as you wish
• Choose dates to suit you
• Select your preferred style of accommodation
• Travel with families and children of any age

Furthermore, our Tailormade team are always on hand to help and guide you along the way, with friendly advice, first-hand knowledge and inside information specific to your destination of choice. So if you have any queries about your holiday, we will be delighted to answer them. Please just give us a call!