Malaysia
From skyscrapers to tea plantations: a route through Malaysia
Malaysia is a country where old and new live side by side. In September you travel from busy cities to green hills and quiet islands, without the rainy season getting in your way.
21 September 2026 · Wayloha editorial · 3 sources
Day 1: Kuala Lumpur, old and new side by side
Your journey begins in Kuala Lumpur. The Petronas Towers rise high above the city and are one of Malaysia's most famous landmarks. Older buildings from the colonial era stand around the towers too.
Walk through the streets during the day and look out for the street art between the buildings. In the evening, eat at a local eatery: a meal there usually costs only a few dollars.
- See the Petronas Towers, also beautiful when lit up in the evening
- Eat at a local food stall for a few dollars per meal
In Malaysia you can walk from skyscrapers to tea fields in a single day.Malaysia
Day 2: colonial traces in Malacca
From Kuala Lumpur, you travel on to Malacca. The city has buildings from the Dutch, British and Portuguese eras close together in the centre. Part of the city is on the UNESCO World Heritage list.
In September it is warm during the day, but walking through the old streets is pleasant in the early morning. Take your time to look at the different architectural styles, from Dutch facades to British colonial buildings.
- See the Dutch and Portuguese buildings in the centre
- Walk in the early morning, before it gets too warm
Day 3: from the coast to the tea fields of the Cameron Highlands
From Malacca you head inland, towards the Cameron Highlands. As you climb higher, you see the green tea plantations lying against the hillsides. It is noticeably cooler here than on the coast, a welcome change of pace in September.
The atmosphere is reminiscent of England, with old-fashioned tea houses and lodges in Victorian style. Spend the afternoon at a tea plantation, then drink a cup of tea while looking out over the fields.
- Visit a tea plantation and taste the tea on site
- Bring an extra jumper for the cooler evenings
Day 4: walking through the mossy forest
On this day you stay in the Cameron Highlands for the nature. You walk through the mossy forest, where trees and ground are covered in a thick layer of moss. Along the way there is a chance to spot animals in the rainforest.
Because you are in a remote area, it is best not to drink tap water without a filter. Bring a bottle with a filter, or refill your bottle at hotels and restaurants.
- Bring a water bottle with a filter for the walk
- Refill your bottle at hotels or restaurants along the way
Day 5: island time on the east coast
For the final part of the trip you head to the islands on the east coast, such as the Perhentian Islands, Tioman or Redang. The water around these islands is clear and good for diving and snorkelling. September falls outside the rainy season, which makes the crossing calmer.
On these islands you often have no wifi or phone signal, and that is exactly the charm. Spend your days in a hammock under the palm trees or underwater among the fish.
- Go snorkelling or diving in the clear water
- Feel free to leave your phone behind for a day
