7 must-do Malaysian experiences for nature lovers

Malaysia may be known for its buzzing cityscapes, but it's also home to some of the most exotic beauty on the planet. In fact, this Southeast Asian gem is packed to the rim with too many natural wonders to count.

Here are seven suggestions for making the most out of a nature trip to Malaysia. To learn more, check out our full selection of Malaysian getaways here.

A visit to Kinabalu Park

For awe-inspiring vistas, make your way to the summit of one of the most popular natural attractions in Southeast Asia - Mount Kinabalu, which kisses the sky at over 4,000 metres tall. After the trek, unwind in the park's natural hot springs while taking in the splendour all around. Kinabalu Park boasts hundreds of species of orchid flora and ferns to enchant you.

BOOK IT: Experience Nature in the Wilds of Sabah

Underwater adventures off the coast of Sabah

Much of Malaysia's natural beauty is found below the surface. Rare marine life and vibrant underwater reef ecosystems are easily accessible, especially off the coast of Sabah. Here, Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park invites you to discover these jewels via diving, snorkeling, kayaking, sailing and more.

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Exploring prehistoric rainforests

Malaysia's natural history is illuminated in Taman Negara, Pahang, where remote, prehistoric rainforests come to life. More than 130 million years in the making, these unscathed forests continue to dazzle and delight visitors. Some of the best views can be caught atop a suspended rope bridge.

A jaunt to Gunung Mulu National Park

Sarawak regularly lures in nature lovers with Gunung Mulu National Park, which houses some of the world's most magnificent limestone cave systems. Sarawak Chamber is thought to be the biggest underground chamber on earth, characterized by cavernous domes that are all at once mesmerizing and surreal. Experts say the chamber is so large, it could easily accommodate eight jumbo jets.

BOOK IT: Dazzling Kuching: Malaysia's Hidden Gem

Enjoying Langkawi's stunning beaches

There's a reason Langkawi is such a popular destination—the archipelago is known for its breathtaking coastlines and tropical beauty. Beaches aside, Langkawi also attracts tourists with its remarkable natural geological formations, breathtaking waterfalls, and lush jungle.

Whitewater rafting on a wild river

Thrill-seekers won't be disappointed by one of Malaysia's exhilarating rapids. The Kampar River, located in Perak, offers ideal, low-intensity opportunities for first-timers wishing to take in the surrounding rainforest. Meanwhile, the rushing Padas River in Kota Kinabalu serves up a rockier, more in-your-face adventure on the water.

BOOK IT: Hidden UNESCO Sites of Malaysia

A stopover at Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre

It's difficult to sum up Malaysia's natural wonders without mentioning its wildlife. The country is home to monkeys, pygmy elephants, Malayan flying lemurs and more. To catch a glimpse of orangutans in their natural environment, sneak away to the rehabilitation sanctuary in Sepilok. Here, orangutans roam freely in the forest reserve while visitors observe some preparing to be released back into the wild.

Book it now: Experience nature in the wilds of Sabah
Experience it now: Eagle watching and mangrove tour
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