Selamat datang! Welcome to Malaysia. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm on Day 1. Please look for a note in the hotel lobby or ask reception where it will take place. If you can't arrange a flight that will arrive in time, you may wish to arrive a day early so you're able to attend. We'll be happy to book additional accommodation for you (subject to availability). If you're going to be late, please inform the hotel reception. We'll be collecting your insurance details and next of kin information at this meeting, so please ensure you have all these details to provide to your leader. If you arrive early, get out and get a taste for Kuala Lumpur, the cosmopolitan capital of Malaysia (affectionately known as 'KL'). Grab a map and talk to the hotel staff about things to do. The markets of Chinatown, exceptional ...

Transfer by local bus to the old port town of Melaka (approximately 2.5 hours). A former colonial outpost, this town retains a distinctive old-world charm that makes it a delight to visit. Travelling by trishaw in the local style, you will take a tour of the town, cruising through the narrow, winding streets to get a taste of old Melaka and learn about the ancient spice trade the town is known for. Along the way you will pay a visit to Harmony Street, an aptly named strip of mosques and temples that exudes a tranquil air. You will also check out a mosque, a variety of Chinese Buddhist temples and a traditional Muslim house-museum.

Embark on a full day's travel by bus. First you will take a minibus to Melaka Sentral, then a public bus to Temerloh (approximately 4 hours). From there, board another private minibus for the short journey (approximately 30–40 minutes) to the ancient rainforest of Taman Negara National Park. This vast natural beauty is believed to be the oldest rainforest in the world, dating back some 130 million years. It's home to an incredible variety of wildlife, from elephants and monkeys to exotic birds such as the elusive Malaysian rail-babbler and the easily recognisable hornbill. The park also boasts one of the highest diversities of trees on the planet.

Experience the jungle from a monkey's point of view on a canopy walk that will take you high up in the trees. Following the walk, those seeking additional challenges can take the time to explore Bukit Teresek. This trail is rigorous but rewarding, offering some world-class birdwatching and some amazing panoramic views from the top. Afterwards you will head upstream (approximately 1 hour) on a longtail boat to brave the low-level rapids. There will be plenty of time for a swim amid the lush jungle surrounds before returning to the acommodation for the evening.

Meet your local guide and head off into the jungle for a short trek (approximately 4 hours). This is the ultimate way to experience this pristine rainforest. As well as spotting wildlife, you'll be able to learn more about the plants and flowers and some of their traditional medicinal uses. While your journey only lasts a few hours, you'll be walking through primary and secondary jungle, so be prepared to sweat! The walk itself isn't overly challenging, but a good level of fitness is required, as the humidity can affect even the fittest trekker. At the end you will arrive at the crystal-clear waters of the Tahan River where there's time for a refreshing swim – very welcome after the hot and humid jungle. After lunch, the adventurous can continue walking 30 minutes to the cascades further upstream before it's time to head back...

Take a private bus to Kuala Besut (approximately 6–7 hours). Here you will take a fun boat ride over crystal-clear waters to the sun-kissed beaches of the Perhentian Islands (approximately 45 minutes). Located off the east coast of Malaysia, the Perhentians are some of the most beautiful islands in the world, with unspoilt reefs and pure white sand. This will be well worth the long drive today!

Enjoy a leisurely half-day snorkelling trip in these turquoise waters. You'll be among beautiful coral and an impressive array of tropical fish. See how many different varieties you can spot. It's worth keeping an eye open for the rarer beauties too – green turtles and, if you are lucky, maybe even a reef shark or two.

Indulge in this divine coastal spot in your free time today. You can do some more snorkelling, laze and swim in the water near the shore, trek into the inland jungle, explore the nearby islands or simply lie in a hammock with a good book. And don't miss one of the delicious feasts of barbequed seafood on offer. 

Take a speed boat to Kuala Besut and then a minibus to Kota Bharu. Epitomising traditional Malay culture at its best, Kota Bharu is home to several cultural and historical museums. Take the time to learn about the art of batik, shadow puppets, silversmithing and kite making while you are here. This is also a good chance to do some souvenir shopping. The night market of Kota Bharu is renowned across the country as an epicurean wonderland, so don't miss this chance to sample some delicious northern Malay delicacies you won't find anywhere else.

A long bus journey (approximately 8 hours) and a short minibus ride takes you to the west coast. Arrive at your home away from home – Kota Aur. In this small traditional Malay village set amongst the rice paddies, you'll stay with a local family. Enjoy a home-cooked dinner on arrival. Afterwards you will meet your hosts and be billeted out to one of the various home lodgings found throughout the village. Accommodation is twin-share and has fan cooling. Bathrooms are shared, and some homes will only have cold showers. Note: Out of respect to your hosts, it is important that you wear conservative clothing during your stay. Ensure that your shoulders and knees are covered. Your group leader will give you more information on cultural etiquette before you arrive, as well as help you learn some basic Bahasa Malay. Note that alcohol...

Awake to the sounds of village life, maybe even the resident crowing cockerels! This morning you will take a tour of the village and rice fields by bike and learn about how the local coconuts are harvested. You will also experience a cooking demonstration and enjoy a home-cooked meal together with the group and one of the hosts. Tonight there will be the opportunity to learn about the Malay game of congkak and enjoy a taste of family life in Malaysia. Relax and make yourself at home.

Continue to Penang (approximately 1 hour), Malaysia's prized island. Discover an exotic blend of cultures, and of course its signature foods which you can sample at one of the many street-side stalls. Try a sweet ice kacang (crushed ice, syrup and a mixture of jellies, nuts and sweet beans), or a hearty nasi kandar (steamed rice with curry, fried chicken, seafood or vegetables). Tour the historic Georgetown area in the afternoon with your guide, passing Clan Jetty, the Goddess of Mercy Chinese temple, Sri Mahamariamman Hindu temple and Kapitan Kling Mosque. Your accommodation (twin-share rooms with private facilities) is conveniently located in the heart of Georgetown. Though basic, it is a great base for exploring the temples, mosques and museums.

Enjoy a free day to explore the many different sides of Penang at your leisure. Georgetown is a particularly great area to delve deeper into. You will have discovered by now some of its impressive architecture, but this eclectic cultural arena seems to offer a new surprise at every turn. Those looking to relax and cool off, on the other hand, might like to venture further afield to one of the superb local beaches. In the evening, perhaps head to the street food hot spot that is Lg Baru. Here you can indulge in a Assam Laksa, char koay teow, or maybe some spicy fish curry for dinner.

Set off for Malaysia’s capital today. Take a ferry to Butterworth (20 minutes), and then take the train to Kuala Lumpur (approximately 4 hours). When you arrive, you'll spend an evening among the hustle and bustle of KL. You are free to spend the evening as you please. This is a city that's best explored on foot, so stretch your legs and get amongst it. While you're here, perhaps shop at the Bukit Bintang, see the sprawling city from the Menara Tower, head out of town to visit the famous Batu Caves, or explore the Lake Gardens. At the latter you will find some excellent places to visit – the Botanical Garden, Orchard Park, a bird sanctuary and the Islamic Arts Museum.

Your adventure comes to an end today and you are free to depart at any time.