Start your Malaysian adventure by visiting the stunning Batu Caves located just outside Kuala Lumpur. This historical site commands incredible views from the top of the limestone hill, but first, you'll need to climb the 272 steps to its peak. Inside the cave, you'll find beautiful Hindu shrines and artwork, along with millions of roosting bats. Take your time exploring this natural wonder and the surrounding area, which also includes a park with hiking trails.
If you're up for a real adventure, visit the Selangor Forest Eco Park next. This jungle park offers skywalks high above the jungle canopy, giving you a chance to see an incredible range of wildlife, including macaques, birds, and the elusive hornbill. The park has multiple trails of varying difficulty, so you can find one that suits your pace. Alternatively, you can opt for a guided tour with a ranger who can point out the flora and fauna of the jungle.
After a night's rest, start your second day with an early morning flight to Kota Kinabalu, the capital of Sabah. Upon arrival, head straight to the Mount Kinabalu National Park, where you'll witness some of the most breathtaking mountain scenery in Asia. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers guided hikes up to the peak of Mount Kinabalu, or you can admire the views from a distance on one of the many walking trails in the park.
For your final adventure, take a trip down the Kinabatangan River, one of the most diverse ecosystems in the world and home to a range of wildlife, including orangutans, proboscis monkeys, and pygmy elephants. You can take a guided river tour to ensure the best chance of spotting some of these incredible creatures. Alternatively, you can take a jungle trek to explore the diverse range of plants and animals that call this region their home.
If you have more time, consider spending an extra day in Kota Kinabalu to explore the local markets and sample some of the delicious food on offer. Alternatively, you can visit the nearby Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park for some snorkeling or scuba diving. If you have less time, consider skipping Selangor and the Kinabatangan River Tour to focus more on the caves and mountains. Keep in mind that the rainy season in Malaysia is generally from November to January, so plan your trip accordingly.