Day 3
This morning, we’ll tour Malacca the Malaysian port city located on the eastern shore of the eponymous strait. Founded in 1400 by a Sumatran Prince and then later colonised by the Portuguese, Dutch and British, ahead of Japanese occupation during World War Two. With a unique blend of cultures, Malacca has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its well-preserved mix of architectural styles.
Our tour includes a visit to Dutch square, featuring what is believed to be the oldest-surviving Dutch building in East Asia. We’ll travel pass the vibrant red Tan Beng Swee Clock Tower and Queen Victoria Fountain, an architectural footprint of British rule in Malacca, then proceed to St Paul Hill Complex to visit the replica of the Palace of Malacca with an open-air cultural museum and gardens. Recommended is an included optional visit to the Baba Nyonya Heritage Museum displaying artefacts of the descendants of Chinese traders who migrated to the British Straits Settlement of Malacca and adopted some of the local cultures. The tour concludes in the area unofficially named the ‘street of harmony’ home to Cheng Hoon Teng Temple, Kampong Kling Mosque and Sri Vinayagar Temple.
After lunch at a local restaurant, meander elsewhere within this unique historic city at your leisure. Alternatively, take the fascinating included optional visit to the Magic Art 3D Museum viewing an array of diverse 3D drawings.
Day 4
This morning we travel by train to Kuala Lumpur before taking a drive to Batu Caves. This series of limestone caves combines a fascinating natural landscape with a popular place of worship. Climb the 272 vibrantly coloured steps to Temple Cave, the largest of the 5 caves, and visit various temples within this sacred Hindu shrine.Â
After a banana leaf lunch, we embark on a city orientation tour of Kuala Lumpur, starting at the Sultan Abdul Samad Building. Constructed using red brick it is home to a 41-metre clock tower affectionally nicknamed the Big Ben of Malaysia. We make our way to the historic Independence Square and St Mary's Cathedral before passing by the eclectic mix of arts and crafts at the Central Market. The country's diversity is highlighted at our next stops, Sin Sze Si Ya Temple - the oldest Chinese temple in the area and Sri Maha Mariamman, the oldest functional Hindu temple.
In the evening, take the opportunity to explore the surrounding area at your leisure. Our expert Tour Manager is on hand to offer recommendations.
Day 5
You’ll have the option to explore Kuala Lumpur at your leisure with a free day in the Malaysian Capital.
Alternatively, you could venture out of the city to learn Malaysia's traditional art and conservation work of Bee Keeping the stingless Kelulut Bee in Kuala Pilah or visit the Kulal Gandah Elephant sanctuary and find out more about this centre of conservation in Malaysia that rewilds and protects the native elephant.
There's also the opportunity to take a full day to discover more about rural life in Kuala Selangor; enjoy Kampung, dinner & evening firefly watching from a boat amongst mangroves.
Day 6
Our journey continues as we leave Kuala Lumpur behind and head north into central Malaysia to the rolling hills of the Cameron Highlands. This scenic region is named after British explorer and Geologist William Cameron, who was commissioned by the colonial government to map out the Pahang-Perak border around 1855. On the way, we’ll cross undulating hills carpeted with tea plantations before stopping at the cascading Lata Iskandar waterfalls and visiting a traditional Orang Ali village. Get an insight into the traditions of these native people, the oldest inhabitant settlers to the Malaysian peninsula.Â
Arriving early afternoon, lunch is at a local restaurant before checking into our hotel. Enjoy the rest of the afternoon at leisure, taking the opportunity to relax in the surroundings of a nostalgic yesteryear hotel.
Day 7
Today we take a drive in 4x4s through the tea-growing areas of the Hill Station towards Gunung Brinchang, the second-highest mountain within the Cameron Highlands. Learn about tea conservation whilst overlooking surrounding views of tea growing gardens. We’ll take a guided nature walk in the enchanting Mossy Forest, a cloud rainforest.  Take in the stunning views as our guide reveals unique floras of orchids, the pitcher plant, primitive ferns, spices and medicinal plants tucked in the highlands of Mount Brinchang, giving a mysterious, surreal ambiance.
Our journey down the hills brings us to Sungai Palas BOH tea Factory. Taste their most delectable blends in a tea-tasting after a factory tour.
After lunch, we proceed to Butterfly Farm, home to a variety of butterfly species, insects and animals created to restore the biodiversity of flora in Malaysia. Then step back in time at the mini museum, The Time Tunnel and gallery that showcases the history and cultural heritage of the Cameron Highlands. Before making our way back to the hotel we take a stop at the tranquil Sam Poh Buddhist Temple and an abundant Strawberry Farm.
Day 8
Today, we head north to Penang and in the early afternoon take the ferry to the island of Langkawi for a five-night coastal beach stay.
Day 9
We’ll transfer to the airport for our return flight home via Kuala Lumpur.
Day 11
Spend the next few days reflecting on your journey through Malaysia. Enjoy sunbathing on Langkawi's longest stretch of beach, Pantai Tengah, or simply enjoy the local hospitality and hotel facilities, including the suasana spa or follow the hotel’s jogging trail.
During your free time, there'll also be the opportunity to explore this beautiful island. You may choose to enjoy optional excursions such as a half day Langkawi discovery tour, indulge in a sunset dinner cruise or soak up the sunset exploring mangroves on a late afternoon cruise in the stillness of Langkawi’s mangrove forest.