Hidden Gems | Read more
Malaysia
The Perhentian Islands
Where is it?
The Perhentian Islands are located in the South China Sea, off the northeastern coast of Malaysia, near the town of Kuala Besut in the state of Terengganu. The islands are about 21 kilometers (13 miles) from the mainland, and are easily accessible by boat from Kuala Besut. The two main islands in the Perhentian group are Perhentian Besar (the larger island) and Perhentian Kecil (the smaller island). These islands, along with their surrounding waters, are part of the Perhentian Islands National Marine Park, known for their pristine natural beauty and vibrant marine life.
What is it?
The Perhentian Islands are renowned for their white sandy beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and lush tropical jungles. The islands are a popular destination for travelers seeking a relaxing beach vacation, snorkeling, scuba diving, and exploring the rich natural environment. The islands are also home to a variety of wildlife, including sea turtles, black-tip reef sharks, and a variety of fish species, making them a paradise for nature enthusiasts and marine lovers.
Highlights of the Perhentian Islands
Beaches and Crystal-Clear Waters:The Perhentian Islands are famous for their stunning beaches with soft white sand and warm, clear waters. Some of the most popular beaches include Long Beach on Perhentian Kecil, which is a favorite spot for backpackers and party-goers, and Teluk Dalam on Perhentian Besar, which is quieter and ideal for those seeking relaxation.
The waters around the islands are known for their vibrant turquoise color, making them perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and leisurely walks along the shore.
Snorkeling and Scuba Diving:The Perhentian Islands are one of the best places in Malaysia for snorkeling and scuba diving, offering opportunities to explore some of the most beautiful underwater ecosystems in the region.
Shark Point, Turtle Reef, and Coral Garden are famous dive spots where divers and snorkelers can swim alongside sea turtles, black-tip reef sharks, and a variety of colorful coral reefs and fish species. The waters are teeming with life, making it an ideal location for both beginner and advanced divers.
The Perhentian Islands Marine Park also provides important protection to the islands’ coral reefs, and the marine life is carefully managed to sustain these vibrant ecosystems.
Wildlife and Nature:The islands are home to lush jungles, where travelers can hike along trails that lead to scenic viewpoints and quiet coves. Monkeys, lizards, and various species of birds can be found in the forested areas, and the islands’ ecosystems are relatively untouched, giving a glimpse into the natural beauty of the region.
The Perhentian Islands are also an important nesting site for green sea turtles and hawksbill turtles. Efforts are underway to protect the turtles from poaching and preserve their nesting sites on the beaches.
Island Hopping and Boat Tours:Visitors can take boat tours around the islands to explore the hidden coves, beaches, and neighboring islands. Island hopping is a popular activity, where travelers can visit uninhabited islands or smaller, more remote parts of the Perhentians.
Manta rays and whale sharks are sometimes spotted around the islands, adding a touch of adventure to the boat tours.
Local Villages and Traditional Culture:The Perhentian Islands are home to small fishing villages, where local communities engage in traditional fishing practices. Travelers can visit the villages, interact with the locals, and learn about their way of life, which is closely tied to the sea and nature.
Perhentian Besar has more developed infrastructure for tourists, with larger resorts and accommodations, while Perhentian Kecil offers a more laid-back, backpacker-friendly atmosphere with guesthouses and budget options.
Eco-Tourism and Conservation Efforts:The Perhentian Islands are part of a protected marine park designed to conserve the natural beauty of the area and its diverse marine life. The park’s regulations aim to preserve the coral reefs, reduce pollution, and ensure sustainable tourism practices.
Tour operators and dive shops on the islands are committed to eco-friendly practices, such as reducing plastic waste and promoting responsible wildlife interactions.
Dining and Nightlife:The islands offer a wide range of restaurants and beachfront bars where visitors can enjoy fresh seafood, traditional Malaysian dishes, and international cuisines. Dining on the beach at sunset is a highlight of the island experience.
While the Perhentians are relatively quiet compared to other Southeast Asian destinations, Perhentian Kecil (the smaller island) offers a more vibrant nightlife scene, with beach parties and bonfire events that attract backpackers and young travelers.
Hiking and Viewpoints:In addition to its beaches and underwater beauty, the islands are also home to dense tropical forests that offer opportunities for hiking and exploring. There are several trails that lead to scenic viewpoints offering panoramic views of the islands, the surrounding turquoise waters, and the neighboring coastline.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit the Perhentian Islands is during the dry season, which typically runs from March to October. During this time, the weather is sunny, and the sea is calm, making it ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and diving.
November to February is considered the monsoon season, and many resorts and businesses close during this time due to heavy rainfall and rough seas. Travelers should plan their trip outside of the monsoon season for optimal conditions.
Tips for the Trip
Pack Light and Bring Essentials: While the Perhentian Islands are beautiful, they are relatively remote. Be sure to pack light and bring essentials like sunscreen, insect repellent, and a reusable water bottle. Some parts of the island may not have stores, so it’s a good idea to bring necessary supplies.
Respect the Environment: As a marine park, the Perhentian Islands emphasize environmental conservation. Be mindful of your environmental impact by avoiding the use of single-use plastics and practicing responsible snorkeling and diving to protect the coral reefs and marine life.
Respect Local Customs: The local villages on the islands are inhabited by Malay and indigenous communities. It’s important to be respectful of their traditions, particularly in more secluded areas, and dress modestly when visiting villages or religious sites.
Book Accommodations in Advance: The Perhentian Islands are a popular tourist destination, especially during the peak season, so it’s a good idea to book accommodations in advance, particularly if you plan to stay in the more popular resorts or guesthouses.
Taman Negara National Park
Where is it?
Taman Negara is located in peninsular Malaysia, covering parts of three states: Pahang, Terengganu, and Kelantan. It is situated about 240 kilometers (150 miles) north of Kuala Lumpur, the capital city of Malaysia. The park spans over 4,343 square kilometers (1,676 square miles), making it one of the largest national parks in the country and one of the world’s oldest tropical rainforests.
What is it?
Taman Negara National Park is a vast and protected rainforest that is rich in biodiversity and natural beauty. As one of the oldest rainforests in the world, it is home to a wide variety of plants, animals, and ecosystems that have remained relatively untouched for millions of years. The park’s name, Taman Negara, translates to “National Park” in Malay, reflecting its status as a protected area for conservation and tourism.
The park offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore one of the world’s oldest and most biologically diverse rainforests. Taman Negara features dense jungles, towering trees, crystal-clear rivers, caves, and wildlife-filled landscapes, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and eco-tourists.
Highlights of Taman Negara National Park
Rainforest Exploration:Taman Negara’s dense rainforest is the main attraction, and it’s a paradise for those who enjoy trekking and exploring nature. Visitors can hike through the thick jungle trails, discovering ancient trees, exotic plants, and various species of birds and animals.
The park offers various trails ranging from short walks to multi-day hikes, giving visitors a chance to fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the rainforest.
Wildlife and Biodiversity:Taman Negara is known for its incredible biodiversity. It is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including Malayan tigers, Asian elephants, leopards, wild boars, and a range of primates like long-tailed macaques and gibbons.
The park is also a haven for birdwatchers, with over 350 species of birds recorded, including the hornbill and the great argus pheasant. Its rich flora and fauna make it a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts.
Visitors may also encounter rare species of reptiles, amphibians, and insects, which contribute to the park’s remarkable ecological balance.
Canopy Walk:One of the most popular activities in Taman Negara is the Canopy Walk, a 450-meter (1,480-foot) long suspension bridge that allows visitors to walk high above the forest floor. The walk offers stunning views of the rainforest and provides a unique perspective of the park’s towering trees and diverse ecosystem.
The Canopy Walkway is one of the longest in Asia and provides an exciting experience as you walk above the treetops, often spotting wildlife like monkeys and birds in the canopy.
Boat Tours on the Tembeling River:The Tembeling River runs through the park and offers an exciting way to explore Taman Negara by boat. A boat ride along the river allows visitors to see the jungle from a different perspective and provides a chance to observe wildlife along the riverbanks.
The river also serves as an important transportation route, with traditional long-tail boats taking visitors to different parts of the park, including the nearby orang asli villages (indigenous people of the region).
Cave Exploration:Taman Negara is home to several fascinating caves, including Gua Telinga (Ear Cave) and Gua Tiga (Three Caves). These caves are ideal for those interested in spelunking and exploring the underground features of the park.
Some caves contain impressive rock formations, while others offer glimpses of ancient archaeological sites, adding an extra layer of mystery and intrigue to the park.
Jungle Trekking and Hiking:Taman Negara is a haven for trekkers, with a range of trekking options to suit different levels of difficulty. The Bukit Teresek trail, for instance, offers a 360-degree panoramic view of the surrounding forest and is relatively short and easy, making it perfect for beginners.
For more experienced trekkers, the Jungle Trekking Expeditions can take visitors on multi-day hikes to more remote parts of the park, where they can encounter unspoiled wilderness and observe wildlife up close.
Night Safari:Taman Negara offers a night safari experience, where visitors can explore the park after dark with a guide. This is a great way to discover the nocturnal animals that roam the forest, such as civets, wild boars, and various species of owls and bats.
The park’s night safari provides a completely different atmosphere and is a must for wildlife enthusiasts who want to witness the behavior of creatures in their natural nighttime habitat.
Orang Asli Villages:The indigenous Orang Asli people live within Taman Negara, and a visit to their villages offers a unique cultural experience. These indigenous communities have lived in the rainforest for centuries, relying on the forest for food, shelter, and medicine.
Visitors can learn about the traditional ways of life of the Orang Asli, who still practice ancient techniques of hunting, fishing, and gathering. Many tour operators offer trips to the Orang Asli villages, where you can interact with the locals, learn about their customs, and even try traditional handicrafts.
Fishing and Camping:The rivers of Taman Negara are home to many species of fish, including catfish and mahseer, making it an excellent location for fishing. Guided fishing trips are available for those who wish to try their luck in the park’s serene waters.
For those who want to experience the full wilderness of Taman Negara, camping is also an option. There are designated campsites throughout the park where visitors can stay overnight, under the stars, and surrounded by the sounds of the jungle.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Taman Negara is during the dry season, which typically lasts from March to October. This period offers pleasant weather, with lower chances of rain, making it ideal for outdoor activities like trekking, boating, and wildlife watching.
The rainy season (November to February) can bring heavy monsoon rains, which might make some activities difficult or inaccessible. However, the park is still open year-round, and some visitors enjoy the lush, green scenery that the rains bring.
Tips for the Trip
Bring Insect Repellent: The tropical rainforest environment can have plenty of mosquitoes, so it’s essential to bring insect repellent to avoid bites, especially when hiking and exploring.
Dress Appropriately: Lightweight, long-sleeved clothing and comfortable hiking shoes are ideal for exploring the rainforest. Don’t forget to bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunblock.
Stay Hydrated: The jungle can be hot and humid, so it’s important to carry plenty of water and stay hydrated during your activities.
Be Prepared for Basic Accommodations: While there are some lodges and resorts within the park, the accommodations can be basic in nature, so don’t expect luxury. However, the proximity to nature and the adventure experiences make it a worthwhile stay.