lifestyle

20 Super-Fun Outdoor Activities You Can Do All Around Malaysia

Admin's one wish is to climb Mt. Kinabalu!

Cover image via Travel 360 & Intrepid Travel | Edited by SAYS

Ah, the great outdoors!

We Malaysians are pretty lucky to be living in a country full of natural splendour and endless choices when it comes to outdoor activities

Image via GIPHY

In collaboration with Tourism Malaysia, here are 20 epic outdoor activities you can do, while also appreciating the best that Malaysia has to offer:

1. White water rafting in Kampar River, Gopeng

The cascading rapids are easy to navigate, but also require a lot of teamwork! It's so leisurely, even kids aged six years old and above are welcome to join. You'll also be able to gaze at the beautiful fruit orchards along the river as you make your way to the end. 

And of course, it makes for great bonding with friends and family, since y'all will have to work together hand-on-paddle (hehe).

Here are the details:
Date: Based on self-enquiry
Location: Kampar River, Gopeng, Perak
Inclusive of: English-speaking river guide, rafting equipment, and a simple lunch

Click here for more information.

2. Get some fresh air and go hot air ballooning in Putrajaya

Offering daily flights, this is probably the most unique way of 'flying' in Malaysia. The flight offers three different take off points - Ekuin Park UPM Serdang, Broga, and Precinct 2 in Putrajaya. Depending on which take-off point you choose, your landing point also differs! No matter which you choose, you're sure to get breathtaking views.

Here are the details:
Date: Based on self-enquiry
Location: Ekuin Park UPM Serdang, Broga, and Precinct 2 (Putrajaya)
Cost: Starting from RM1,000 (Adventure Package)
Inclusive of: Roundtrip transportation to and from hotel, pre-flight refreshments, post-flight breakfast

Click here for more information.

3. Fly board your way to happiness in Putrajaya

Ever wanted to fly above water? Fly boarding is a relatively new thing in Malaysia, with tonnes of fans slowly rising in number. Tailored for 1-3 people each session, you're going to have an awesome 45 minutes. The best part? If you don't have a waterproof camera to record the fun you're having, it can all be done FOR you with either a GoPro or a drone!

Here are the details:
Date: Everyday (9am to 7pm)
Location: Marina Putrajaya
Cost: RM690 for two people
Inclusive of: Professional instructor, helmet and life jacket (US Coast Guard Approved), and fly board equipment

Click here for more information.

4. Take a 2D1N journey to climb Mt. Kinabalu and brag to all your friends and family

Image via Intrepid Travel

Famous for being the tallest mountain in Malaysia and Borneo, Mt. Kinabalu is a superb 'extreme' destination for thrill seekers who want to do more than just sightseeing. Of course, you'll have to have a certain amount of fitness, but you don't have to be a real gym junkie to be able to climb it.

Here are the details:
Date: All year round
Location: Mt. Kinabalu, Sabah
Cost: RM1,330 for 4-6 people
Inclusive of: Packed lunch, buffet dinner, overnight stay at Panalaban Base Camp, early supper, late breakfast, certificate of achievement, buffet lunch, transfer to Kota Kinabalu city

Pro tip: The bigger your group, the cheaper it is!

Click here for more information.

5. Spend 3D2N exploring the caves of Merapoh, Pahang

Image via MyNewsHub.TV

Featuring three prehistoric caves - Gua Padang Kawad, Gua Cina Gunting, and Gua Jinjang Pelamin, you'll definitely have your fair share of caving done. You'll be able to spend a total of 3D2N (don't worry, you won't be sleeping in a cave) here, with a whole load of activities in store. You'll be able to go fish feeding, do a fair bit of hiking, as well as explore the untouched beauty of Pahang. 

Here are the details:
Date: All year round
Location: Merapoh, Pahang
Cost: RM550 per person
Inclusive of: Accommodation, roundtrip transfer between Merapoh and Sungai Relah, 4WD transfer activities, packed meals (2x breakfast, 2x lunch, and 2x dinner), a licensed nature guide, and an entry permit

Click here for more information.

6. Go on a day trip to the Bohey Dulang Islands in Sabah

Image via SDC Lodges

Part of an extinct volcano, the Bohey Dulang Islands are a beautiful destination for snorkeling, scuba diving, hiking, and even bird watching! Where the volcanic crater once was is now a beautiful blue lagoon that goes 25m deep. On these islands you'll also see long-tailed macaques, pied hornbills, fruit doves, and more!

Here are the details:
Date: All year round
Location: Bohey Dulang Islands, Sabah
Cost: RM580 per person
Inclusive of: Pick-up from select hotels, guided diving excursion, diving equipment, packed lunch and light refreshments, and live commentary provided in English

Click here for more information.

7. Go on a day trip to Rainbow Falls in Kuantan

Image via Syno Trip

This day trip features three stops - Rainbow Falls, Taman Negara Canopy Walkway, and Taman Negara National Park. You'll be able to see the majestic rainbows that appear at, you guessed it, Rainbow Falls, and then make your way through the world's longest and tallest suspension bridge, before visiting an Orang Asli tribe in the Taman Negara National Park itself.

Here are the details: 
Date: Daily
Location: Taman Negara, Kuantan
Cost: RM439 for two people
Inclusive of: Lunch, English-speaking guide/driver, hotel pick-up/drop-off, nature guide at Taman Negara, and an admission ticket into the Taman Negara Canopy Walkway

Click here for more information.

8. Get close to nature in a houseboat on Kenyir Lake, Terengganu

Image via Go Asia Plus

Living on a houseboat may seem a little odd, but it's one of the best ways to really disconnect from the hustle and bustle of city life. Not only are you able to just enjoy the calming sounds of the water passing the boat, you're also able to spend more time with the people you cherish in a very intimate setting. 

Here are the details:
Date: All year round
Location: Kenyir Lake, Terengganu
Cost: Starting from RM319 per person (minimum 15 people)
Inclusive of: Lifejacket, basic facilities, breakfast/lunch/dinner, and an outboard (small boat)

Click here for more information.

9. Go tandem paragliding and get a bird's eye view of Terengganu

Image via Pakej MY

Flying off with the view of the ocean in front of you and the beautiful hills of Besut behind you is an experience like no other. Tandem paragliding is an activity that involves two people, a professional paraglider and you, of course! The best part is, you won't need to do any of the flying per se. All you need to do is enjoy the view, take lots of epic photos and videos, and just breathe in that fresh air!

Here are the details:
Date: All year round
Location: Bukit Bubus, Besut, Terengganu
Cost: RM100
Inclusive of: Transport to Bukit Bubus and GoPro rental

Click here for more information.

10. Go snorkelling and visit a turtle hatchery on Satang Island, Sarawak

Image via Sarawak Tourism

Consisting of two islands - Pulau Satang Besar and Pulau Satang Kecil, the Satang Islands are a great place to spend the day just laying out in the sun and going for a swim in its crystal clear waters. Visitors can also gain a stronger appreciation for wildlife in its turtle hatchery. That's why they're often called Sarawak's 'Turtle Islands'. 

Here are the details:
Date: All year round, excluding public holidays
Location: Pulau Satang Besar, Kuching, Sarawak
Cost: RM375 per person
Inclusive of: Hotel pick-up/drop-off, English-speaking guide

Click here to book your day trip.

11. Fly in a helicopter and see the best that Langkawi has to offer

Image via Adamani Travel

Get the best view of Langkawi island and discover the lush landscapes it has to offer. The helicopter tour will last roughly 30 minutes and covers a distance of 30km. You'll be able to get a bird's eye view of Tengah Beach, Singa Besar Island, Dayang Bunting Lake, Tuba Island, Cenang Beach, and more!

Here are the details:
Date: All year round
Location: Langkawi Heli Pad, Jalan Kuala Muda, Langkawi, Kedah
Cost: RM1,798 (minimum 2 people, maximum 3 people)
Inclusive of: Guided tour by helicopter pilot

Click here for more information.

12. Enjoy the beautiful tranquility of the Bornean rainforest in a kayaking tour of Semadang River

No rush, no noise - it's just you and nature. You'll also be able to visit a miniature waterfall, feed the fish, and even go for a swim! There will be plenty of photo opportunities as you make your way through the river, but here's the best part - photos will be taken for you, as a complimentary gift. 

Here are the details:
Date: All year round
Location: Semadang River, Kuching, Sarawak
Cost: RM198 (Adult) and RM100 (Child, 12 years and below)
Inclusive of: Bidayuh home-cooked lunch, river fish feeding, roundtrip transfer to hotel/pick-up point, waterproof bag, life jacket, and a professional river guide

Click here for more information.

13. Catch a good swell when you go surfing in Cherating

Image via Travel 360

Home to a bustling surf community, Cherating is the go-to spot if you want to catch that perfect swell. Cherating's waves are great for beginners as well, as they always come in consistent length and height.

Don't know how to surf? No worries, Cherating is home to a number of surf schools, so you're spoiled for choice when it comes to learning how to surf!

Here are the details:
Date: All year round
Location: Cherating, Kuantan
Cost of surf lessons (if needed): RM220 per person (beginners)

Click here for more information.

14. Cycle your way through Sungai Janggut with a group of nature lovers

Image via Go Pack Up

The cycling tour starts at the wee hours of the morning and ends in the afternoon. Along the way, you'll be visiting a local orchard owned by a Sungai Janggut local, feasting on local delicacies, and visiting traditional Malay village houses. Keep note, you'll be cycling, rain or shine! However, if the rain does get too heavy, you'll be able to stop until it subsides. :)

Here are the details:
Date: All year round
Location: Sungai Janggut, Kapar, Selangor
Cost: RM334 (price listed as 80 USD) per person
Inclusive of: Pick-up/drop-off from hotel or LRT station within 5km of KL City Gallery, breakfast and lunch, light refreshments, insurance coverage, as well as a bicycle and helmet

Click here for more information.

15. Face your fear of falling by bungee jumping at Sunway Lagoon Extreme Park

Image via Xtreme Spots

For those looking for a real adrenaline rush, the 22m-high bungee jump at Sunway Lagoon's Extreme Park is the place to be. That's roughly the same height as a nine-storey building! From the top, you'll even be able to see people zooming by on the flying fox line.

Here are the details:
Date: All year round
Location: Sunway Lagoon, Selangor
Cost: RM85 per person

Click here for more information.

16. Ride an ATV to a majestic waterfall in KL

Time to get down and dirty with an exciting ATV ride in the middle of the jungle. Final destination - a stunning waterfall, almost untouched by man. You can go solo, or in a group, it's up to you! Once you reach the waterfall, you'll be able to go for a swim too!

Here are the details:
Date: All year round
Location: ATV Adventure Park KL, Kg. Kemensah, Hulu Kelang, Kuala Lumpur
Cost: Starting from RM100 per person

Click here for more information.

17. Fly over the Seven Wells Waterfall in Langkawi via zipline

Featuring 12 zip lines and 3 bridges, go on an epic adventure through the treetops of Langkawi. Imagine flying through the jungle AND over a waterfall! To end the adventure, you'll also be doing a little bit of abseiling.

Here are the details:
Date: All year round
Location: Umgawa Legendary Adventures, Seven Wells Waterfall, Jalan Telaga Tujuh, Langkawi
Cost: Starting from RM219 per person
Inclusive of: Harnesses and other safety equipment, licensed guide, transport to Umgawa Legendary Adventures

Click here for more information.

18. Parasail up to 500 feet in the air in Langkawi

Image via NAAM

Get a breathtaking view of the Langkawi Archipelago without having to ride in a helicopter with this exhilarating parasailing activity. Featuring a high-tech, custom-built parasailing boat, you can enjoy the pristine waters of Langkawi with peace of mind, 'cause safety is the number one priority. If you don't want to parasail alone, you can do it with up to two other people at the same time!

Here are the details:
Date: All year round
Location: Paradise 101, Langkawi, Kedah
Cost: Starting from RM257 (single flyer)
Inclusive of: Free return shuttle from Cenang Mall, free access to Paradise 101 facilities, full safety briefing, lifejackets

Click here for more information.

19. Literally walk under the sea in Sapi Island, Sabah

Image via Owlting

That's right, you can literally walk under the sea using specially-designed helmets tethered to an oxygen supply above the water's surface. These helmets will also give you great visibility so you can truly enjoy your 'walk'. ;)

Here are the details:
Date: All year round
Location: Sapi Island, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
Cost: RM239 (for a group of four adults)
Inclusive of: Roundtrip boat transfer, sea walking equipment, digital underwater photo, photo CD, and a sea walking certificate

Click here to book your sea walk.

20. Sleep under a blanket of stars in Lasau Podi, Sabah

Image via My Sabah

Living in big cities, we don't often get to see the stars at night, if any. However, there are still some hidden gems in Sabah where stargazing is an absolute must! One of which is in Lasau Podi, at the tip of Borneo. Situated just 20km from the town of Kota Belud, Lasau Podi is the perfect place to go stargazing. If that's not enough to convince you, the photo above was taken there. :O

Here are the details:
Date: All year round
Location: Lasau Podi, Sabah
Cost: Free

So, which outdoor activity are you putting on your bucket list? :)

For more information, head over to Tourism Malaysia's official website. Alternatively, you can check out their Facebook & Instagram for more travel inspiration.

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