Call us 01892 515966 (Mon to Fri: 09:00 - 17:30)

Luxury Malaysia Holidays & Tours

EXPLORE
square arrow

Holidays to Malaysia

Unspoilt beaches, dense virgin rainforests, vibrant modern cities and a colonial past all combine to make Malaysia a delightful destination.

Blending soaring skyscrapers with colonial architecture, Malaysia’s cosmopolitan capital Kuala Lumpur is the gateway to the Malaysian Peninsula. To the south lies the historic trading port of Malacca. Home to a colourful mosaic of cultures and ...

Blending soaring skyscrapers with colonial architecture, Malaysia’s cosmopolitan capital Kuala Lumpur is the gateway to the Malaysian Peninsula. To the south lies the historic trading port of Malacca. Home to a colourful mosaic of cultures and traditions, the city’s historic core is a designated UNESCO site which boasts a melange of architectural styles including Portuguese, British, Dutch and Peranakan. Further north, relax in the tea hills of the Cameron Highlands, discover the magnificent cave temples surrounding Ipoh and stay in a jungle retreat within the spectacular Belum-Temengor Rainforest.

Located on the western peninsula, Penang is a must-see destination whilst in Malaysia, best known for its excellent Asian food offerings. Conjuring images of trishaws pedalling past Chinese temples and pastel-coloured shophouses, Penang truly is a kaleidoscope of cultures where old colonial charm marries the modern world. For escapists, the nearby island of Langkawi offers some the finest beaches in Asia.

The tropical island of Borneo, comprising of Sabah and Sarawak, is a region rich in flora and fauna and only a short flight from the mainland. Sabah is the home of the endangered orangutan, jungle lodges, Kota Kinabalu, one of the most biologically diverse areas of the world and Gaya Island which is known for its colourful underwater world. Whilst in Sarawak it is possible to travel through thick rainforest by longboat for visits to remote tribal villages and the opportunity to stay in a traditional longhouse.

Start planning your Malaysia trip with our Travel Consultants

  • Experts in tailor-made holidays
  • Honest pricing with no hidden extras
  • ABTA and ATOL protected
Feefo Mobile Logo

Places to visit in Malaysia

Comprising of two very distinct regions, Malaysia is split into the Malaysian peninsula which borders Thailand and Singapore, and the northern half of the island of Borneo. With its diverse offering of modern cities and historic temples, hybrid of cultures and towering mountains, rare wildlife, ancient tropical rainforest and a beautiful coastline, Malaysia is quintessential Asia. Spot historic architecture amongst the sea of modern buildings in Kuala Lumpur, soak up the rich culture and enjoy delicious food in Penang or escape to the sun-kissed beaches of Langkawi.

Sabah, located in the north of Borneo, is a paradise of primeval jungle, excellent snorkelling and endangered orangutan whilst Sarawak is the location of Batang Ai National Park which is home to indigenous tribal groups, wild orangutan, gibbon, clouded leopard and numerous bird species.

Booking with Pettitts Travel
1

Getting to know you
A crucial part of our process, discuss your plans with us either by phone, video or in person.

2

Helping you to design your trip
Entirely tailor-made, there is complete flexibility to incorporate all your requirements.

3

On-hand support, when you need it
Our team are on hand to answer any questions and ensure you are fully ready, and excited, for your trip.

4

Full confidence whilst you are away
Enjoy full support from our UK team and trusted local partners throughout your journey.

We’re pleased to confirm that Pettitts Travel will not apply any surcharges to our package holidays when we are operating as a tour operator, regardless of changes in global costs. The price you agree at the time of booking is the price you will pay, a commitment we have proudly upheld for the past 38 years.

Meet our Malaysia Travel Consultants

Paul
Senior Travel Consultant
Katie
Senior Travel Consultant
Helen
Senior Travel Consultant

Your holiday to Malaysia

All of our holidays to Malaysia are bespoke and tailored exactly to your requirements. From the destinations you visit and time of year you travel to the places you wish to see and the hotels you stay at, our Malaysia holidays are custom-made especially for you. Our trips to Malaysia are taken on a private basis and in most cases, you will have a private driver and/or guide at your disposal. Accommodation, transport, guides, sightseeing and entrance fees are always included in our tailor-made holidays unless otherwise stated. Many clients find inspiration from the itineraries on our website and tailor them to fit their wants and needs by changing the number of days, adding a beach extension and selecting different accommodation, experiences and sightseeing.

...

All of our holidays to Malaysia are bespoke and tailored exactly to your requirements. From the destinations you visit and time of year you travel to the places you wish to see and the hotels you stay at, our Malaysia holidays are custom-made especially for you. Our trips to Malaysia are taken on a private basis and in most cases, you will have a private driver and/or guide at your disposal. Accommodation, transport, guides, sightseeing and entrance fees are always included in our tailor-made holidays unless otherwise stated. Many clients find inspiration from the itineraries on our website and tailor them to fit their wants and needs by changing the number of days, adding a beach extension and selecting different accommodation, experiences and sightseeing.

The suggested tours on our website have been designed to demonstrate different routes and provide inspiration for a tailor-made holiday to Malaysia, including both the Peninsula and Borneo. Highlights of Malaysia is ideal for first time visitors who want to explore the best of the mainland including visits to Kuala Lumpur, the Cameron Highlands, Penang and the rainforest. If you are looking to further explore the Peninsula and include Malacca, Taman Negara and Langkawi as well as a stopover in Singapore, take a look at Discover the Malay Peninsula. Those looking for something a little different, or repeat visitors, should consider Cuisine, Culture and Rainforests of Northern Malaysia, which concentrates more on the east coast and well as incorporating an authentic homestay. If you are wanting to visit Borneo, our Best of Borneo itinerary explores both Sarawak and Sabah, or The Wildlife of Sabah focuses on the region’s best wildlife experiences including searching for rare Pygmy elephants along the Kinabatangan River, birdwatching in Tabin and experiencing a night safari in the Danum Valley.

Blue Mansion in Penang with trishaw, Malaysia

Wildlife in Malaysia and Borneo

Mainland Malaysia and the island of Borneo offer some of the finest wildlife viewing and pristine habitats on the planet. Borneo in particular supports a vast and diverse ecosystem home to ancient rainforest and swathes of unexplored wilderness. Keep an eye out for hornbill and many other rare birds, watch turtles on Selingan Island, observe proboscis monkeys who are endemic to Borneo and search for the extremely rare pygmy elephant before coming face to face with orangutan – the mighty man of the forest. Our tailor-made holidays to Malaysian Borneo include sustainable and authentic wildlife viewing in destinations such as the Danum Valley, Sepilok, Kinabatangan River and Tabin Wildlife Reserve. Over on the mainland, a wildlife highlight is Taman Negara National Park where the range of flora is unrivalled and animals in the reserve include elephant, Malayan tiger, monkey and leopard. Royal Belum State Park is another great option on the Malay Peninsula where sightings include sun bear, tapir, elephant and tiger.

Proboscis Monkeys in Borneo

Islands of Malaysia

Home to an astonishing 878 islands where over 40 can be visited and explored, Malaysians refer to their islands as ‘Pulau’. Two of the country’s best-known islands include Langkawi and Penang which are both located on the Peninsula’s west coast. The first is a tropical paradise home to pristine beaches, lush rainforest and beautiful resorts whilst the latter, otherwise known as the ‘Pearl of Asia’, is renowned for its diverse culture and heritage. George Town in Penang is a particular highlight. This UNESCO-listed city boasts pastel-coloured shophouses, vibrant Chinese temples and one of the region’s best food scenes. Over on the east coast you will find Rendang, Tioman and the Perhentian Islands, all of which are famous for their crystal-clear waters, coral reefs and excellent snorkelling and diving opportunities. Off the coast of Borneo, Sipadan Island is world-renowned for its underwater world and is one of the best dive spots globally, whereas the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park comprises of five tropical islands.

Perhentian Islands, Malaysia
Kek Lok Si in Penang, Malaysia
Book your next trip

Speak to a Malaysia Travel Consultant

When is the best time to visit Malaysia?

The best time to travel to Malaysia depends on which part of the country you are planning to visit. The east coast experiences its rainy season from November to February whilst the west coast receives its monsoon between May and October so, in reality, Malaysia is a year-round destination. Aside from the rains, temperatures remain consistent throughout the year and it is always hot and humid.

Do I need a visa to travel to Malaysia from the UK?

British citizens do not require a visa to visit Malaysia for tourist purposes.

How long is the flight to Malaysia from the UK?

Direct flights between London and Kuala Lumpur with Malaysia Airlines take around 14 hours. Indirect flights are approximately 16 to 18 hours in duration.

Are vaccinations required for travel to Malaysia?

No vaccinations are required for visiting Malaysia, however, it is recommended that you speak to a medical professional for the latest health advice before embarking on your holiday. In certain specific instances anti-malarial tablets may also be needed.

What currency is used in Malaysia?

The currency of Malaysia is the Malaysian Ringgit. ATM machines can be found throughout the country with credit cards widely accepted in hotels, shops and restaurants. In remote areas it is recommended to bring cash as there are few ATMs and credit cards cannot be relied upon.

What languages are spoken to Malaysia?

Malay is the official language of Malaysia. English is Malaysia’s second language and widely spoken throughout the country.

What are the most popular festivals in Malaysia?

Malaysia is incredibly culturally diverse and this is reflected in the different festivals and celebrations that occur throughout the year. Popular festivals include Hari Raya Aidilfitri, a traditional Muslim holiday that takes place at the end of Ramadan, the colourful Chinese New Year festivities and Vesak, an important Buddhist celebration.

Book with confidence with Pettitts Travel

We are here to take the stress out of your holiday, to provide you with impartial well-informed advice and assist you in navigating regulations and guidelines to ensure your trip goes as planned.
ATOL ABTA AITO IATA British Airways Travel Aware Cyber Essentials Plus Investors In People