Getting around Malaysia
General information
Travelling through Malaysia is fairly simple. With a great infrastructure network you can look forward to a hassle free trip. We have put together all the necessary transport information to help you plan your Malaysia adventure and explore this diverse country.
Car Hire
A self-drive holiday in Malaysia may not be the first thing that springs to mind! However, renting a car is an excellent way of exploring the country, giving you complete freedom and the chance to travel at your own pace. The roads are well-developed, signage is in English and they drive on the left-hand side of the road.
The rental company we work with in Malaysia is a reliable provider with good-quality vehicles and a wide network of rental locations. And our local partners are on hand 24/7 should you need assistance. As standard, your rental car and the fees for pick-up and drop-off are included in the trip price, along with unlimited mileage, 24-hour roadside assistance and general insurance coverage (CDW, SCDW, VCPP, PAI). We would be happy to plan your individual Malaysia trip with you and advise you on the right choice of rental car to suit the size of your travel party.
Boats
In Malaysia, boat transfers are the only way to reach many of the country’s tropical islands. If you’re visiting the islands off the east coast such as the Perhentian Islands, or the popular west-coast island of Langkawi, your journey will include a short ferry or speedboat ride. These transfers are well-organised, with fixed schedules. Depending on the location, boats range from simple wooden ferries to modern speedboats.
Buses
Travelling by bus in Malaysia is a comfortable and cost-effective way to get around. The country has a well-developed network of air-conditioned coaches that run on reliable schedules, with reclining seats and plenty of space for luggage. We’ll book the bus in advance and include clear instructions and ticket details in your travel documents, making it a hassle free process. You can sit back, relax, and enjoy the views along the way.
Domestic Flights
If you are short on time or would prefer to cover longer distances quickly, then domestic flights are the best option. For some routes flying is the preferred option, for example between Penang and the east coast. Air Asia is the most commonly used airline, along with Silk Air and Batik Air.
Travelling with Meaning
We always encourage people to travel by local transport in the towns and cities for a more authentic experience. It also gives you the chance to interact with the local people and explore at your own pace. Of course by far the most sustainable way to travel in each place is on foot as you’ll see so much more and can soak up the atmosphere along the way. For part of your trip some transfers are not included, the only possible way may be to take a Tuk-Tuk, moped or taxi. Book them through the hotel or head out on to the street and haggle haggle haggle.
Travelling through Malaysia we recommend buses as much as possible, where you can take in sights and scenery along the way. The train from Singapore to Kuala Lumpur is a good alternative option, not only is it easy on the wallet, but a great way to reduce your carbon footprint. Hiring bicycles in the smaller cities is the best way to get around, you can visit anywhere that you please, and you never know what experiences you may run into! Hire Trishaws in Penang – they’re very environmentally friendly as they are pushed by bicycle, and you will also be supporting the local community.
