Top 25 Ecotourism Adventures in Malaysia

Malaysia features ancient rainforests, critically endangered primates, and innumerable endemic species.

Over 15,000 different types of plants, flowers, and trees thrive within the 130-million-year-old rainforests. Critically endangered species such as the Sumatran rhinoceros and the orangutan inhabit these protected jungles.

Vibrant coral fields flourish in marine parks where millions of tropical fish reside.

Green and Hawksbill turtles nest along parts of Malaysia’s vast coastline.

Diverse ecosystems extend from primary rainforests to mangrove swamps and mountaintop habitats.

Malaysia stands as a premier destination for ecotourism in Southeast Asia.

GoTravelDaily presents the 25 best ecotourism experiences in Malaysia, encompassing wildlife viewing, trekking, and diving opportunities.

1. Get hot and sweaty in search of wildlife on jungle trails

Primary rainforests span extensive areas across both Peninsular Malaysia and Malaysian Borneo.

Marked trails navigate sections of the jungle, affording trekkers the opportunity to encounter this biodiversity hotspot.

Some forest areas are accessible within minutes from the city center, such as Kuala Lumpur’s Eco-Forest Park, Penang National Park, and Kuching’s Bako National Park.

Conversely, other more remote locations, such as Danum Valley and Maliau Basin in Borneo, may require hours or even days to reach.

2. Spend a day off-the-grid in Malaysia’s national parks

Malaysia boasts over 25 national parks, forest reserves, and nature reserves.

These protected areas host millions of species of plants, animals, and marine life.

Disconnect from civilization for a few hours and relish in the absence of Wi-Fi and phone signals while seeking rare species such as orangutans and pygmy elephants in their natural habitats.

For visitors in Peninsular Malaysia, consider exploring Taman Negara, Matang, and Royal Belum State Park.

In Borneo, ensure to visit Kinabalu Park and Gunung Gading National Park.

3. Look for Malaysia’s most famous flower

Orchids represent Malaysia’s most iconic flowers.

The tropical blooms create a vibrant canvas against the lush backdrop of the jungle.

Keep an eye out for the 800 species of orchids thriving in the rainforests of Peninsular Malaysia, with an astonishing 2,500 species found in Borneo.

By following nearly any jungle trail, you are likely to encounter these colorful blooms, which guides will readily point out in various developmental stages.

Purple bamboo orchids also bloom along the streets in some of Malaysia’s urban areas.

4. Seize the chance to island-hop Malaysia’s 900 or so islands

More than 900 islands are scattered around the coasts of both Peninsular Malaysia and Malaysian Borneo.

Some islands cater more to tourism, such as Langkawi and Penang Island.

In contrast, others offer protected environments, like Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park and Sipadan Island in Sabah.

Travelers can opt for comfortable accommodations or choose to disconnect and experience island life on a remote isle.

Most of Malaysia’s islands host their own unique mini-ecosystems.

Sapi Island, located near Kota Kinabalu, is home to numerous large monitor lizards roaming its shores, whereas Pulau Tiga in Sabah serves as a nesting ground for thousands of sea snakes.

5. Embrace Malaysia’s mega-diverse status

The term mega-diverse applies to regions possessing a vast number of endemic species and substantial portions of the planet’s plant and animal species.

Malaysia is classified as one of these regions alongside 16 other countries.

The nation showcases varied landscapes, including primary jungles, marine environments, and freshwater ecosystems. Malaysia’s extensive coastline stretches for thousands of kilometers, while several mountains rise over 2,000 meters (6,562 feet).

Travelers can indulge in island hopping, jungle trekking, or caving experiences.

Alternatively, they may hike through the cooler climates found in the Cameron Highlands.

Biodiversity permeates every corner of the country.

It is essential to take full advantage of these opportunities.

6. Find Malaysia’s carnivorous flower that eats insects

Plants that consume insects and small animals may seem extraordinary, yet Malaysia’s pitcher plants exemplify these fascinating meat-eating specimens.

Resembling an oversized, inverted bell, these pitchers dangle from trees and emit a sweet aroma.

This delightful scent lures insects. Once an insect enters, the pitcher plant’s adhesive interior traps and ultimately digests them.

Some of the larger species in Borneo are known to consume small mammals.

Borneo hosts over 50 species of pitcher plants.

These unique plants can be seen in locations such as Kinabalu National Park, Gunung Mulu, and Danum Valley.

7. Photograph a majestic hornbill

Hornbills are among the most distinctive tropical birds on the planet.

From afar, they evoke a cartoonish vibe with their large eyes and signature double-decker beak.

Out of the 54 hornbill species globally, ten inhabit Malaysia.

Eight of these reside in Sarawak, where the rhinoceros hornbill flourishes in the region’s jungles and features prominently on the state emblem.

Travelers can view these splendid birds soaring above the canopy or perching on branches throughout Malaysia.

For a more intimate encounter, GoTravelDaily suggests visiting Pangkor Island, where the owner of Sunset View Chalet feeds numerous Oriental Pied hornbills each evening at 6:00 PM.

8. Swim with endangered sea turtles

Both green and hawksbill turtles inhabit the warm tropical waters surrounding Malaysia.

While some turtles nest on specific beaches, others swim freely in coastal waters.

Malaysia presents ample opportunities to observe these endangered marine creatures.

There is nothing quite like witnessing these marine reptiles emerging from their shells and embarking on their perilous journey to the sea.

Consider visiting Turtle Island Park in Sabah, Tioman Island in Pahang, and Talang Satang National Park in Sarawak.

Nesting occurs during specific times of the year, and while you may not witness the hatchlings, you might still see the adults swimming nearby.

9. Watch the fireflies dance above the river

Malaysia offers a unique opportunity to witness fireflies illuminating the night sky.

Boats transport passengers to regions where these fascinating insects thrive.

Sit back and marvel at the spectacle as thousands of fireflies illuminate the dark skies.

Several locations in Malaysia provide this enchanting ecotourism experience.

GoTravelDaily recommends visiting Matang Mangroves near Taiping in Peninsular Malaysia or exploring Kota Belud in Sabah.

10. Speed along jungle rapids on the Kampar River

Experiencing rafting amidst Malaysia’s lush landscapes presents a unique adventure.

The Kampar River in Perak features a sequence of rapids for travelers to navigate.

Guides assist novices through level-one rapids, while experienced individuals can select from various level-two and level-three rapids.

Dense jungle borders both sides of the winding river.

Keep an eye out for monkeys perched in the trees and sambar deer rummaging in the underbrush.

Wildlife spotting is nearly guaranteed!

11. Navigate the maze-like mangroves at Matang

Mangroves rank as one of Earth’s most underappreciated ecosystems.

These expansive forests play a critical role in supporting local ecosystems.

Matang Forest Reserve in Perak exemplifies the significance of Malaysia’s mangroves.

This reserve represents the longest stretch of intact mangrove forest in Peninsular Malaysia, spanning nearly 400 square kilometers and hosting up to 80,000 migratory birds.

River cruises traverse the intricate channels of these enchanting mangrove forests, while guides illuminate the local fauna, habitats, and avian species.

12. Explore Redang Island’s underwater wonderland

Redang Island in Terengganu harmoniously combines pristine beaches with luxury accommodations and nearly ideal diving conditions.

Aspiring divers can gain PADI certification and learn essential diving skills amid Redang’s stunning setting, while experienced divers dive into a captivating underwater realm populated by diverse fish species.

Consider staying a few nights in beachside bungalows and joining tours visiting the surrounding dive sites.

Alternatively, don masks and snorkels to explore the coastal shallows near your lodge.

Travelers can fly to Kuala Terengganu, followed by a 90-minute ferry ride to Redang Island.

Please note that the islands close between October and March due to the monsoon season.

13. Explore West Malaysia’s highest mountain’s diverse habitats

Standing at 2,187 meters (7,175 feet), Mount Tahan in Pahang State presents a challenging hiking opportunity.

Trails lead through varying landscapes and habitats, commencing in primary rainforest, where hikers frequently encounter primates, tropical flowers, and numerous large insects.

As one ascends, they traverse rivers and mountain ridges.

It is a transformative experience in terms of sights, sounds, and aromas.

At the summit, clouds roll below, resembling a gentle sea.

Mount Tahan is not for the faint-hearted; the fittest hikers require at least four days to undertake the journey.

14. Explore different habitats in Cameron Highlands

Although tourists often associate Malaysia with humid tropical jungles, the Cameron Highlands in Pahang present an entirely different forest experience.

This region features hiking trails in a considerably cooler climate.

With altitudes ranging from 800 meters (2,625 feet) to 1,600 meters (5,249 feet), the ecology and wildlife diverge from those found in the lowlands.

Peacock pheasants scavenge among the underbrush while white-throated fantails sing amidst the trees. Endangered Sumatran serows are occasionally spotted in the vicinity of the trails.

White and purple orchids provide vibrant colors against the mossy forest backdrop.

15. Swimming monkeys, eagles and mangroves in Langkawi

Langkawi attracts millions of visitors seeking beach holidays.

However, only a few take advantage of the opportunity to explore the expansive mangrove system in its northeastern region.

Kilim Karst Geoforest Park features a vast network of mangroves, hidden lagoons, and caves.

This region accounts for approximately 10% of Langkawi Island and is inhabited by swimming macaques, soaring eagles, and abundant fish.

Daily tours depart from Pantai Cenang (Cenang Beach), commencing with an ocean excursion before weaving through the mangrove maze and visiting caves, fisheries, and eagle-feeding sites.

16. Go diving at Borneo’s version of the Galapagos Islands

Sipadan Island consistently ranks among the world’s top diving destinations.

Engage with the crystal-clear waters and discover a rich marine world unrivaled in Southeast Asia.

Schools of tropical fish, including mantas, sharks, and barracudas that dwarf even the largest divers, swim in these waters.

Meanwhile, endangered green and hawksbill turtles can be seen drifting towards the horizon.

Sipadan Island restricts access with only 120 permits issued daily, ensuring the protection of its fragile ecosystem.

Reaching the islands requires time, yet the interaction with remarkably diverse marine life makes it worthwhile.

To visit, fly to Tawau in East Sabah and take a bus to Semporna before a short ferry ride to Mabul Island, where most divers reside.

A 20-minute ferry connects Mabul and Sipadan.

17. Climb Borneo’s sacred mountain

Mount Kinabalu is the highest peak between Papua New Guinea and the Himalayas.

At an elevation of 4,095 meters (13,435 feet), it serves as a mountaineering paradise.

Routes begin at Timpohon and ascend to Laban Rata, where hikers spend the night before continuing their trek at 2:00 AM to watch the sunrise from the summit.

Climbing Mount Kinabalu transcends mere physical exertion; it also offers a glimpse into Sabah’s ancient cultural heritage.

For centuries, indigenous peoples have regarded Kinabalu as the eternal resting place of their ancestors, and this reverence continues today.

Witness the shifting habitats as you ascend this granite giant.

18. Search for orchids, Rafflesia and primates in Kinabalu Park

Kinabalu Park encompasses Mount Kinabalu and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

This national park is renowned for showcasing Borneo’s exceptional biodiversity.

Within Kinabalu Park, you will find orchids and Rafflesia—the world’s largest and most fragrant flower.

In total, nearly 5,000 distinct species of birds, mammals, and reptiles thrive within this protected territory.

The park offers an atmosphere that feels primal and ancient.

Upon entering, visitors may feel a sense of isolation from the outside world.

For an enriched experience, seek a guide to highlight notable flora and fauna.

GoTravelDaily recommends pairing a visit to Kinabalu Park with the climb up Mount Kinabalu, with options to stay overnight in nearby Ranau.

19. Fly over the jungle and sea from one island to the next

The Coral Flyer Zipline combines an ecotourism appeal with exhilarating adventure.

Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, located near Kota Kinabalu, features Borneo’s longest zipline.

Launching from Gaya Island, the zipline spans over 250 meters (820 feet) to Sapi Island.

This represents the world’s longest island-to-island zipline.

Secure your harness and enjoy breathtaking views of the stunning archipelago below while the azure waters glisten beneath.

Prepare your camera or GoPro, as Sapi Island’s sandy shores are home to numerous gigantic monitor lizards.

20. Speed through Borneo’s jungle on a raft

Sabah possesses numerous rivers and streams, creating a jungle maze perfect for exploration.

Rafting presents the most enjoyable and effective means to access these more secluded regions.

Kiulu River near Tamparuli, close to Kota Kinabalu, features a series of easy to moderate rapids.

Beginners can partake in guided tours that meander 15 kilometers (9.3 miles) along the river, negotiating between level-one and level-two rapids.

Relax and appreciate the stunning jungle scenery as you drift by, while more experienced rafters can tackle the Padas River in Beaufort for intensified thrills.

21. Find rare mud volcanoes on a desert island

Mud volcanoes emit cold mud from beneath the earth’s surface.

These intriguing natural wonders are located in only a few areas, including Azerbaijan, Taiwan, and Malaysia.

Sabah’s Pulau Tiga emerged following a mud volcanic eruption, famously serving as the site of the inaugural Survivor series.

Venture into Tiga Island’s heart to observe the bubbling mud as it erupts into progressively taller formations.

Explore pristine beaches, stay overnight in luxurious bungalows, or visit Snake Island, known for its nesting snakes.

22. Look for new species in Sabah’s Lost World

Maliau Basin is one of the most remote locations on Earth.

This primary forest in central Sabah spans an area nearly equivalent to that of Singapore, yet only half of it has been explored.

More than 70 kilometers (43 miles) of trails wind through this basin.

Travelers can ascend Mount Lotung and spend a night in mountaintop accommodations, where you might encounter curious civets after dark.

Additionally, journeys down the trails lead to breathtaking waterfalls, natural pools, and rivers.

Scientists believe that Maliau Basin conceals numerous species of wildlife yet to be recorded.

Visitors may encounter strange-looking insects or uniquely fragrant flowers along the trails that remain officially unnamed.

23. Meet an Orangutan

Orangutan populations are swiftly declining across Borneo and Sumatra.

Today, only one-tenth of the original population remains in contrast to a century ago.

Borneo supports a significant number of orangutans, many of which are found in the wild or within semi-wild rehabilitation centers.

Encountering these orange-haired primates face-to-face is an unforgettable experience.

Visiting a rehabilitation center is the most straightforward way to meet an orangutan, with options like Sepilok in eastern Sabah or Semenggoh in Sarawak.

Danum Valley, known as one of Borneo’s most secluded reserves, has the highest density of wild orangutans in the world, offering opportunities to see these creatures from your breakfast spot.

24. Climb with the monkeys into secret bat-filled caves

Sarawak is dotted with numerous caves.

Most tourists opt for either Niah or Gunung Mulu National Park.

For a more adventurous experience, consider visiting Bau near Kuching.

Fairy Caves, located near Bau village, are among Malaysia’s premier rock climbing spots, allowing climbers to scale limestone formations and immerse themselves in the lush surroundings.

Explore the labyrinthine passageways and marvel at the geological marvels found within.

Millions of bats dwell in the dark, emitting a chorus of sounds, while rhinoceros hornbills glide overhead among the rocks and tree canopies.

25. Meet a proboscis monkey

Proboscis monkeys rank among the most endangered primates on the planet.

Estimates indicate a mere 7,000 individuals remain.

This species, endemic to Borneo, is characterized by its elongated nose and rounded abdomen, typically residing in small groups while lounging atop tree branches.

Take the opportunity to observe these rare creatures in their native habitat.

Visit Labuk National Park, the Kinabatangan River, or Beaufort in Sabah. Alternatively, explore the small community near Bako National Park’s headquarters in Sarawak.