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Eastern Malaysia is an island of Borneo that spews an amalgamation of natural wonders, rich cultural heritage, and unparalleled adventure. Basically divided between the states of Sarawak and Sabah, it offers very contrasting landscape, culture, and experiences to Peninsular Malaysia.
If you've been looking for the best attractions in the 5-day travel itinerary, look no further. The following guidebook gives the day-to-day, step-by-step outline of what to do, where to go, and why Eastern Malaysia holds a special spot among the most marvelous travel destinations in Southeast Asia.
Less developed and more pristine than the western part of the country, Eastern Malaysia boasts dense rainforests, cave systems, towering mountains, and beautiful coastlines. Nature lovers and fans of great outdoors may find an endless amount of things to do.
Whether it's trekking in Kinabalu Park, spelunking in the caves of Mulu National Park, or island hopping in the marine parks off of Sabah's coast, every nook and cranny of Eastern Malaysia offers breathtaking sceneries and unforgettable experiences.
Kinabalu Park (Source: TravelUnpacked)
Both Sarawak and Sabah have high levels of cultural diversity, with dozens of indigenous tribes maintaining their customs, languages, and traditional ways of life. The longhouses of Sarawak and the vibrant cultural villages of Sabah draw travelers more into the lives of the people and their history, thus making the trip more rewarding.
Kuching is the capital of Sarawak and can be seen as the cultural and historical entrance to East Malaysia. Reputedly known as the "Cat City," Kuching offers both an urban atmosphere and river frontage that connects deeply with the history of the region of Borneo.
Kuching City (Source: OurTravelWanderlust)
The refreshing morning walk along the Kuching Waterfront can start your day. This is just a perfect promenade with views across the Sarawak River, both in the morning and at any time of day, including Astana Palace and the Sarawak State Legislative Assembly Building.
Take a relaxed walk down the vibrant lanes of Chinatown colored by the buildings, traditional shops, and the aroma of local dishes in the air. You would also love Carpenter Street for browsing around antique shops, handicraft, and local produce.
Kuching Waterfront (Source: Klook)
After that, get a glimpse into the various cultures of Sarawak at the Sarawak Cultural Village, some 45 minutes from Kuching. This "living museum" is an encapsulation of lifestyles of the indigenous tribes of Sarawak, including Iban, Bidayuh, and Orang Ulu. You'll get to walk through replicas of longhouses in which they live, participate in traditional dance performances, and be introduced to their crafts, music, and customs. It's quite an immersive experience, taking one deep into the lives of the local communities.
Sarawak Cultural Village (Source: SarawakTourismBoard)
Cap your day off with some local delights. Kuching is known for its Sarawak Laksa-scene of spicy, flavorful noodle soup with a rich broth based on prawns. Another highly recommended dish is that of Kolo Mee, which can be best described as a bowl of excellent noodles with minced meat, spring onions, and an option to add meat or seafood. To try some more local snacks, visit the Top Spot Food Court, where you will find a number of fresh seafood options.
Borneo is a state divided between Malaysia, Indonesia, and Brunei, with one of the world's oldest rainforests and extraordinary biodiversity. Day 2 focuses on the natural wonders and native ways of Borneo.
While Bako National Park sits an hour's drive from Kuching, it is Sarawak's oldest national park, with everything from coastal mangroves to rainforests. A short boat ride will bring you to the park, where several trails are available for you to hike. Truly unique wildlife greets you along the way, including the famous proboscis monkey, silvered langurs, and bearded pigs. If you are lucky, you may catch a glimpse of some intriguing plant species, like the pitcher plant or wild orchids.
Bako National Park (Source: SarawakTourismBoard)
Then you can head to Santubong Peninsula, a place of natural beauty and featuring idyllic beaches. While in the area, one can sit on the sand, splash into the sea, or take a river cruise to see Irrawaddy dolphins along with the growing mangrove forests. Those in need of some adventure may also take on the Mount Santubong Trail for a hike that ranges from moderate to difficult for dramatic panoramic views of the landscape from the summit.
Mount Santubong Trail (Source: Tatknows)
After that, an overnight stay in a typical Borneo longhouse will provide an excellent cultural experience. Among the popular options, one is Annah Rais Longhouse, which lies a short drive from Kuching. This communal home of the Bidayuh tribe allows visitors to enjoy typical village life, dinner in traditional style, and to learn about local traditions and customs in a friendly atmosphere.
Borneo longhouse (Source: BordersOfAdventure)
Mulu National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site with some of the most impressive cave systems in the world, and towering limestone cliffs, not forgetting rich biodiversity. This is a destination with natural wonders offering adventure and serenity.
Take a guided tour deep inside the cave systems of the park. First, there is the Deer Cave, which is home to more than 3 million bats in the world's largest cave passage. It offers an incredible daily Bat Exodus at dusk, where the bats emerge from the cave in amazing swirling formations. Next come the Clearwater Cave and Wind Cave with their underground rivers, stalactites, and some quite stunning rock formations.
Deer Cave (Source: Wikipedia)
This Pinnacles Trail is a disorienting adventure that can challenge anybody's interest. The hike goes steep uphill and rewards any tough encounter by perching on top atop the viewpoint of these sharp limestone formations in this place known as The Pinnacles. These are jutting out into the air in striking contrast with the deep jungle below. Be prepared for demanding hikes upwards, but the reward of the view makes every step worth it.
Pinnacles Trail (Source: WalkingLegends)
Look down at the rainforest from a bird's-eye perspective at Mulu Canopy Skywalk, the longest tree-based canopy walkway in the world. Take in panoramic views of dense rainforests, observe the local wildlife, and absorb the serenity of the jungle.
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Sabah is famous for its breathtaking islands, rich marine life, towering mountains, and indigenous cultures. A haven on the northern tip of Borneo, this is the best place for outdoor enthusiasts who want to mix relaxation with adventure.
Today begins with a visit to Kinabalu Park, Malaysia's first UNESCO World Heritage site, hosting Southeast Asia's highest peak: Mount Kinabalu. For its botanical diversity, the park has been termed a haven for both botanists and hikers alike. Take an easy stroll along the Botanical Garden Trails or for a two-day hike up to the Summit of Mt. Kinabalu.
Kinabalu Park (Source: BorneoClimb&Dive)
Then you can delve into a rich mine of Sabah cultural heritage at the Mari Mari Cultural Village. The traditions of the Kadazan-Dusun, Bajau, and Rungus indigenous tribes will be felt. Participate in traditional music and dances and learn unique customs such as bamboo cooking and the art of blowpipe shooting.
For beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts, Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park is the epitome of being at the best of it. The park is composed of five islands: Gaya, Sapi, Manukan, Mamutik, and Sulug. The immaculate beaches and crystal-clear waters are one of the greatest attractions within the city. Snorkeling and diving during the evening, or just sitting along the water's edge, marvel at the sights of the surrounding coral reefs and marine life.
Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park (Source: Borneo)
Spend your last day in Kota Kinabalu, the capital of Sabah. The Kota Kinabalu Waterfront is one lively spot where you'll get to see markets, seafood stalls, and souvenir shops. Then check out the Filipino Market for some local handicrafts and fresh seafood delicacies all cooked on the spot. Gaya Street Sunday Market has its highlight in a mix of local culture and commerce.
Kota Kinabalu Waterfront (Source: BlueKinabalu)
After that you can discover the history of Sabah by visiting the Sabah State Museum, which contains galleries related to the state's history, archaeology, and ethnography. Next to this museum is the Heritage Village, a collection of traditional houses and architecture of various indigenous groups that gives a rundown of the cultural diversity in this area.
Sabah State Museum (Source: SabahTourismBoard)
Conclude your Eastern Malaysian adventure in style with a dramatic sunset at Tanjung Aru Beach, which holds a prime position among the best sunset-watching spots in Kota Kinabalu. The large sandy beach is the perfect spot to relax and go for a swim as you watch the sun set over the horizon, casting lovely colors across the sky and the South China Sea.
Eastern Malaysia, a place to remember, is full of a perfect blend of adventure, nature, culture, and relaxation. This 5-day tour of the unique attractions in Kuching, Borneo rainforests, caves of Mulu National Park, the marine beauty of Sabah, and the vibrant atmosphere of Kota Kinabalu will truly give insight into what Borneo has to offer.
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