PIT STOPS CAN MAKE or break a road trip, especially when you have cranky toddlers, fussy tweens or bored teenagers in tow. On a recent Malaysia road trip with my eight- and two-plus-year-olds, I was reminded that it’s really about making the most of the journey, rather than arriving at your destination as fast as possible.
From north to south, here are some of our top stops. Guarantee they’ll add some colour and character to your Malaysia travels.
Langkawi Pre-Trip Activity: A JungleWalla Mangrove Tour
For a hefty dose of nature before you kick off your Malaysia road trip, start your journey in Langkawi. The island is known more for its duty-free status and beaches than its UNESCO Geopark, and that’s a pity, because it’s definitely worth your attention. Award-winning JungleWalla treads lightly on the land and truly educates, circumventing regular tourist routes. We particularly loved the mangrove tour and family-trekking combo, which includes an insightful private boat tour deep into the mangroves, and culminates with a short trek to a crystal steam in the jungle.
junglewalla.com; RM140 per adult, RM70 per child
East-West Highway: The Most Scenic Stretch of Your Malaysia Road Trip
One of my fondest memories is riding pillion through the mountains of the Main Range on my father’s superbike. In stark contrast to the North-South Highway, this journey offers glimpses of exotic wildlife, soaring hardwood trees and shacks where you can buy crafts and produce. It’s a lush, meandering journey through Malaysia’s interior, where the geology dates back to the Triassic era.
A Walk Through The Habitat in Penang
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Courtesy of The Habitat Penang Hill
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Courtesy of The Habitat Penang Hill
If you’re in the mood for an island diversion, head to the quaint hillside escape of Penang Hill, dating back to the British colonial era. Today it is also home to The Habitat, a stunning rainforest experience offering insight into the island’s biodiversity through its trail, canopy walk and Curtis Crest platform, the highest accessible viewing platform on the island.
thehabitat.my; from RM60 per person
Whitewater River Rafting in Gopeng
For a Malaysia road trip that plunges you into headlong into adventure, it’s hard to beat a pit stop like whitewater rafting. In order to enjoy this exhilarating Sungai Kampar rafting experience, kids need to be at least 12, with a ratio of one child to one adult. All in all, the experience takes just over three hours, and covers 22 moderate rapids that are just enough to get the heart racing. Bringing an extra change of clothes is recommended!
nomadadventure.com; RM159 per person
Watch Fireflies in Kuala Selangor
Seeing the fireflies light up the mangrove trees on the Selangor River like nature’s fairy lights is a “display” not to be missed. There are many different operators of tour boats in the area—we suggest going with one of the electric boats, for a silent and more sustainable experience. Explore the quaint little fishing villages along the way and stop for a seafood meal to taste the best of this coastal area.
visitselangor.com; boat tickets from RM20
Train Ride Into The Jungles of The East Coast
There’s no rule that a Malaysia road trip itinerary can’t incorporate a side-quest by rail. This scenic ride is dubbed “the Jungle Train” because it travels through the jungles of peninsular Malaysia, skirting national parks along the way. The experience is a rustic but authentic one, travelling through some of the world’s oldest rainforests, through tiger and elephant country. We suggest you pick a section between Gemas and Tumpat to explore—and pack a family picnic to enjoy along the way.
ktmb.com.my; fares from RM10
Chemerong Waterfalls, Terengganu
At Chemerong Forest Reserve, a medium-effort, under-two-hour guided hike will take you to Chemerong Waterfalls. Gushing from a height of 365 metres (1,200 feet), it is one of the region’s highest waterfalls. Bathe in the cool waters to wash off the city, then forest bathe as the sounds of nature serenade. A guide for this hike is mandatory and must be arranged in advance.
RM2 per person for park entry, guide RM200-500; call +60 9 622 2444 or +60 9 627 4123 for information and weather guidance
Farmer’s Lunch Club at A Little Farm on a Hill, Pahang
More than just an organic farm, A Little Farm on A Hill offers weekend lunches that are truly memorable affairs. Providing a wholesome feast with a warm ambience and great attention to detail, its owners have created an elegant day out that’s worth many visits.
alittlefarmonthehill.com; RM375 per adult, RM195 per child
Elephant Conservation Centre, Kuala Gandah
Whether you’re driving from the East Coast Region to the west or the other way around, the elephant sanctuary in Kuala Gandah is worth the stop. Stretch your legs meandering through the museum, see the elephants being bathed and fed. We like that it’s not hugely commercial and it’s free, though one can also make a donation in lieu of entrance fees.
Open daily from 10:30 a.m. – 4:15 p.m.
Malacca Historical Walk
Located away from the crowds of Malacca’s Jonker area, the Majestic Malacca hotel offers a more restrained approach to this UNESCO heritage city. We like the walking tour provided by the hotel, which takes you through the history of the mansion first, followed by a leisurely stroll into the city centre as the guide explains the heritage and history of the port city. A Kristang afternoon tea is also included.
majesticmalacca.com; RM150 per person
Pulau Hujung Beach Day Trip, Johor
If you’re wanting more laidback Malaysia activities for your road trip, consider some unstructured beach time. This uninhabited island offers soft white sand, pristine waters and lush greenery for a Robinson Crusoe-style day out. Pack a picnic and don’t forget your snorkels, fins and sunblock, then head to Mersing Jetty, where you can hire a boat to drop you off and pick you up for the return.
johor.attractionsinmalaysia.com/hujong-island.php; private boats from RM900
Feed Our Loved Ones (FOLO) in Johor
FOLO grows organic vegetables and fruits, powered by compost that they make from food waste collected from restaurants and hotels in Johor Bahru. The farm also offers subscriptions for those based in Johor and Singapore, and visitors may tour the farm to find out more about their growing and sustainability practices, as well as taste freshly harvested produce.
folofarms.my; private group tour RM400 (up to five people)
Lede and hero image by Edwin Tan/Getty Images
The information in this article is accurate as of the date of publication.
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