Celebrating Malaysia's rich biodiversity: 5 nature spots to check out


When in Melaka, it is a must to visit its crocodile park. — redBus

Besides having a rich culture and vibrant history, Malaysia also boasts amazing natural wonders. The country is one of the world’s 12 megadiverse destinations and is home to unique ecosystems and a wide range of wildlife.

Tourists can book trips to visit these natural sites including rainforests, rivers and islands from trusted travel agencies or via online travel platforms like redBus. This website allows you to easily book both ground transport and ferry services.

Here are five of nature spots around Malaysia to check out.

1. Langkawi Rainforest Walking (Kedah)

Aside from white sandy beaches and gorgeous islands, Langkawi’s ancient rainforest is also worth exploring.

But don’t just climb any mountain or hill on your own. For a more immersive experience, take a guided tour, where you can learn all about the benefits of the endemic plants and how to spot tropical birds.

If you’re driving to Langkawi, you can board the RoRo (Roll-on/Roll-off) ferry from Kuala Kedah or Kuala Perlis.

2. Gua Tempurung (Perak)

If you are up for more adventures, then head to Gua Tempurung, Peninsular Malaysia’s largest limestone cave, according to Tourism Perak.

For safety reasons, there are very limited sections that you can explore on your own, so join a guided tour instead.

As you stroll along the pathways, check out the beautiful limestone formations – stalactites and stalagmites – that adorn the cave’s interior.

Stretching 4.5km long, Gua Tempurung is also a treasure trove of mining artefacts left behind by tin miners from the past.

To get there, you need to make your way to Ipoh first, either via the Electric Train Service (ETS), bus or car. Gua Tempurung is 37km from the city.

3. Zoo Negara (Selangor)

For those seeking a fun escape, visit the Zoo Negara in Ampang, Selangor, where there are over 4,000 animals residing.

At the Ape Centre, learn some interesting facts about primates like the chimpanzees and our orang utans. The Bird Aviary, meanwhile, has a diverse collection of bird species, some of which are classified as endangered.

More than just entertaining, the Zoo Negara is an educational experience for both children and adults.

There are public buses from Kuala Lumpur that can take you to the zoo. Alternatively, you can also take the LRT, or take an e-hailing service.

4. Melaka Crocodile & Recreational Park (Melaka)

The historical state of Melaka is a popular weekend getaway destination. One of the many things you can do here is to visit the Crocodile and Recreational Park in Ayer Keroh.

The park, which has been around since the late 1980s, hosts over 100 species of these scaly reptiles, such as the African dwarf, Indian mugger and hunchback.

Besides crocodiles, there are also other attractions like a petting zoo and a water park. It’s also very near the Melaka Zoo.

There are many tour bus services that go to Melaka, but look for ones that specifically stop at Ayer Keroh instead.

Klias River in Beaufort, Sabah is a peaceful escape. — redBusKlias River in Beaufort, Sabah is a peaceful escape. — redBus

5. Klias River (Sabah)

If you’re in Sabah, go on a river cruise along the Klias River in Beaufort, 110km from the capital, Kota Kinabalu.

Along the way, you may just encounter the endemic proboscis monkey or the rare silver langur, among other animals.

After the sun sets, fireflies come out, leaving the place all lit up and twinkling.

To reach Beaufort, you can take the train (about two hours) or bus from Kota Kinabalu. You can book a guided tour from the town to explore the Klias wetlands. 

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