Circle Malaysia - 14 days

Drifters Price: £437.00
RRP: £460.00

Trip Code: INTCM
Local Payment: USD$200.00

Day 1 Kuala Lumpur

Travellers will be arriving at different times during the day, from all corners of the world. Feel free to arrive at the joining point at any time before 6pm when we will have a group meeting then head out to dinner. There will be a message from your group leader at reception advising the location of the meeting. Please note that your leader will collect your local payment (USD200) today.

If you arrive early, grab a map and 'Things to do in KL' sheet from reception, the cosmopolitan capital of Malaysia, affectionately known as KL. Communities of Indian, Chinese and ethnic Malay people mingle peacefully, allowing the traveller to get the best of all 3 worlds. Combine the markets of Chinatown, Indian food and traditional Malay arts and you have the heart of Kuala Lumpur, where our accommodation is based. You might like to head out of town to visit the famous Batu Caves or the Orang Asli Museum. The evening is best spent at the night market sampling the different cuisine and bargain hunting among the many stalls. Please note all museums and the Petronas Towers are closed on Mondays (departure day).

We leave early on day 2 so if you would like some extra time to see the sights of KL we strongly recommend you arrive a couple of days early or extend your stay at the end of the trip.

Day 2 Melaka

A short bus journey (approximately 2 hours) takes us to the old port town of Melaka where we can wander the narrow streets and absorb the atmosphere. The heritage of this historically important town, as the original trading port for Malaysia, brings with it a long and multicultural past that is still present among the buildings and the population. The ancient Malay and Chinese traditional ways still abound and contrast with the European influence of a colonial past. While in Melaka we enjoy a trishaw tour of the historical parts of the town.

Day 3 Taman Negara

A full day's travel (including approximately 2 hours by car or taxi, 4 hours by train and 2.5 hours by boat) takes us to the ancient rainforest of Taman Negara national park, home to what is considered to be the oldest rainforest in the world. Our guesthouse is located in the village at Kuala Tahan overlooking the confluence of the Tahan and Tembeling Rivers and the park headquarters.

Days 4-5 Taman Negara

We start early on day 4 to experience the jungle from a monkey's view point on a canopy walk high up in the trees. Following the canopy walk, those seeking additional challenges can take the time to explore Bukit Teresek, or perhaps a restful relax by the river sounds more appealing. After lunch we head off upstream (1 hour) in longtail boats to brave the low level rapids and perhaps a refreshing swim before returning to our guesthouse for a simple home cooked Malay meal.

After breakfast on day 5 we board our boats once more and head off along the river and into the jungle for a short trek - surely the best way to experience this pristine primary rainforest. We explore caves and hope to see some of Malaysia's extraordinary wildlife including many exotic birds. The trek is about 2 hours through the thick jungle, so be prepared to sweat! You will need to carry a comfortable pack (see luggage requirements) as our main luggage stays back at headquarters. The walking isn't overly challenging, but a good level of fitness is required as the humidity can affect even the fittest trekker. Due to the wet, humid conditions of the forest there are often leeches so precautions need to be taken. Your leader will assist you.

Having completed our trek, we return to the crystal-clear waters of the Tahan river where it is time for a swim followed by a delicious lunch prepared by our hosts - most welcoming after the heat of the jungle. After lunch the adventurous can continue to walk for 30 minutes to the cascades further upstream before we all head back to our guesthouse down the Tahan River in very small dugout canoes. After the trek we return to the guesthouse for our final night in the national park. Please note that the trek is optional and it is possible to remain at headquarters and do day walks or simply relax in this exotic rainforest environment.

Day 6 Kuala Terengganu

Today can be quite a long travel day (approximately 9 hours). We say goodbye to the jungle and hello to the picturesque Malaysian east coast.

We arrive in Kuala Terengganu on the evening of day 6. Kuala Terengnanu is the state capitial and also home to the state's sultan.

Tonight we can visit a local market famous for its batik sarongs and traditional Malaysian handicrafts, and sample some great seafood.

Days 7-9 Perhentian Islands

This morning we head north to Kota Bahru (approximately 2 hours) where we travel by boat (approximately 1-2 hours) over crystal-clear water to the beaches of the Perhentian Islands.

Located off the east coast of Malaysia, these are some of the most beautiful islands in the world, with unspoiled reefs and pure white sand. Time can be spent snorkelling, swimming, walking into the inland jungle, exploring the nearby islands or just lying in a hammock - bliss! For those with experience there is also the option to scuba dive in this pristine area - allow approximately USD50.

Out of respect for the Muslim people of the area, topless bathing by females is not acceptable.

Day 10 Kota Bahru

Kota Bahru epitomises Malay culture at its best and our hotel is surrounded by cultural and historical museums. Take time to learn about the art of batik, shadow puppets, silver-smithing and kite-making. This is a good chance to do some souvenir shopping. The night market of Kota Bahru is renowned around the country as an epicurean wonderland - don't miss this chance to sample various northern Malay delicacies.

Days 11-12 Malay Hideaway

A long bus journey (approximately 6 hours) and a short boat trip takes us to the west coast and to our home away from home - a small homestay run by our long term friends Aziz and Asiah. We are located on a picturesque lake just out of Kuala Kangsar.

Here we can listen to the morning call of gibbons, and take a walk through a traditional kampung and rubber plantations. Our walk ends at a cascading waterfall where we can take a refreshing swim before returning to the lake to try out our kayaking skills or, if you prefer, just to relax. The walk takes a few hours and is not difficult but you will get wet! The regional cuisine is delicious here.

On the first night of our stay, we sit on the floor of a local home to eat a traditional banquet and learn about Malay culture. Wearing a sarong and eating with your right hand are all part of blending into our environment.

Please note that out of respect for our hosts, alcohol is not available during our stay.

Days 13-14 Kuala Lumpur

A bus ride (3-4 hours) back to Kuala Lumpur where you have a chance for some last minute shopping, sightseeing and a final night's dinner.

You are free to depart at any time on day 14, as no activities are planned.