10 Popular Outdoor Activities in Malaysia

Malaysia places

Malaysia’s natural attractions never cease to amaze. It is a land of breathtaking beauty and rich cultural diversity, making it a top destination for travelers from around the globe. Each year over 20 million tourists visit Malaysia to enjoy its scenic beauty adorned with lush rainforests, flawless beaches, and towering mountains, creating a paradise for nature enthusiasts. The dynamic cities pulsate with life, offering a blend of modernity and tradition.

Malaysia also offers a plethora of outdoor activities that cater to adventure seekers from all over the world. From adrenaline-pumping skydiving to serene snorkeling amidst coral reefs, Malaysia has something to offer for everyone craving an outdoor adventure.

Here are the ten best activities in Malaysia that make it a haven for thrill-seekers and nature enthusiasts alike.

1. Skydiving

Want to soar through the skies above Malaysia’s stunning scenery? Experience the ultimate thrill of free-falling from thousands of feet above the ground. Skydiving is undoubtedly one of the best activities in Malaysia for adventure seekers. Whether you’re a seasoned skydiver or a first-timer, Malaysia’s skydiving spots, such as Kuala Lumpur and Langkawi, promise an unforgettable experience that will leave you exhilarated and in awe of the stunning scenery below.

2. Scuba Diving & Snorkeling

Dive into the crystal-clear waters surrounding Malaysia’s tropical islands and discover a world of marine life and colorful coral reefs. Scuba diving and snorkeling rank high among the top outdoor activities in Malaysia, offering an opportunity to explore the underwater wonders of destinations like Sipadan, Tioman, and the Perhentian Islands.

The best time to make full out of your scuba diving and snorkeling activities is generally from April to December.

3. Paragliding

You don’t want to miss the thrill of floating like a bird high above Malaysia’s thick canopies with a paragliding adventure. Paragliding offers a unique perspective, allowing you to glide gracefully over dense rainforests and majestic mountains.

Destinations such as Selangor and Sabah provide ideal conditions for paragliding, giving you the opportunity to admire Malaysia’s natural beauty by spending one or two hours in the air covering hundreds of kilometers.

4. White Water Rafting

For those seeking an adrenaline rush amidst the untamed rivers, white water rafting is the perfect adventurous activity in Malaysia. Sungai Kampar, only a couple of hours away from Kuala Lumpur and Pangkor Island is the best option for beginners; whereas, Singoh River and Sungai Selangor offer a high difficulty rafting experience. These are just two of the many destinations that offer thrilling white water rafting experiences, making it an ideal activity for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike.

5. Bungee Jumping

Gather your courage and take a leap of faith with bungee jumping, an exhilarating outdoor activity that promises an adrenaline-fueled experience like no other. Jump from towering platforms at Sunway Lagoon or Extreme Park, bungee jumping in Malaysia offers a thrilling adventure that will push your limits and leave you with a sense of accomplishment.

From Sunway Lagoon, you can leap 22 meters up in the air, which might not seem super high, but it’ll still feel really exciting, especially if it’s your first time. The whole jump only lasts for about 5 to 6 seconds. And it’s safe for kids who are 10 years old and up, so you can bring your adventurous youngsters along for the fun too!

6. Underwater Scooter

Experience a one-of-a-kind adventure in Malaysia by riding an underwater scooter through the depths of its blue waters. Explore colorful coral gardens and fascinating marine life as you glide effortlessly beneath the waves. Destinations like Pulau Payar and Langkawi offer the perfect opportunity to experience the magic of underwater scootering, making it a must-try activity for underwater enthusiasts.

The best part is that you don’t need any prior experience or swimming skills to enjoy this water sport.

7. Microlight

Microlight is a powerful aircraft that can travel at the speed of 110 km per hour, it can carry up to 2 people and flies for at least an hour. Take to the skies and enjoy a bird’s-eye view of Malaysia’s breathtaking beauty with a microlight flight. Microlighting offers a unique way to experience Malaysia’s natural beauty from above. With microlighting you can see it all; Soar the lush rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and azure coastlines, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

8. Skybike

Explore Malaysia’s dense forests by riding a skybike for an exciting adventure surrounded by lots of green trees. Pedal your way along suspended trails high above the forest floor, surrounded by sprawling foliage and exotic wildlife. Penang and Sabah are just two of the destinations that offer skybike experiences, providing a unique opportunity to explore Malaysia’s natural wonders from a new perspective.

9. Abseiling

In the city’s periphery, Selangor has numerous rivers and waterfalls, offering ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. Adrenaline enthusiasts can climb the rocky cliffs amidst the refreshing spray of waterfalls, particularly in popular locations like Hulu Langat.

Moreover, for those seeking an authentic experience, Gopeng in Perak presents an ideal destination. Just a two-hour drive from Kuala Lumpur, it serves as an excellent choice for a road trip adventure with friends, offering a myriad of outdoor activities to enjoy.

10. Zipline

Ziplining might make you feel like you’re flying with wings. During this outdoor adventurous activity in Malaysia, you’ll be strapped into a harness and glide along a zipline.

With ziplining, you will experience the thrill of flying through the treetops in Malaysia. Langkawi and Sabah offer an array of zipline courses, catering to adventurers of all ages and skill levels, making it a must-do activity for those seeking an adrenaline rush.

Best Time to Visit Malaysia

While Malaysia’s tropical climate ensures that outdoor activities can be enjoyed year-round, the best time to visit depends on your preferred activities.

  • The dry season, which runs from March to October, is ideal for skydiving, scuba diving, and paragliding, as it offers clear skies and calm seas.
  • On the other hand, the wet season, from November to February, provides opportunities for white water rafting and waterfall adventures, as rivers swell with rainwater, creating thrilling rapids and cascades.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Malaysia is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a diverse range of adventurous activities that cater to every taste and preference. Whether you’re seeking an adrenaline rush, a serene underwater experience, or a thrilling journey through the skies, Malaysia has it all. So prepare for the adventure of a lifetime and plan your next visit with the best tour agency in Malaysia i.e., Travel Planner!