Malaysia is a haven for adventure and nature lovers. Come and climb Mount Kinabalu, the tallest mountain in South East Asia. Jungle-trek in Taman Negara, the world's oldest rainforest and explore the Mulu Caves, the world's largest cave system, White-water rafting, rugged off-road driving, angling in rivers, lakes or sea, scuba-diving in pristine waters, or just sitting still listening to the sounds of nature. Malaysia has the best of the Asian wilderness waiting for the adventurer. Malaysia Truly Adventure!
JUNGLE TREKKING
A land of spectacular vistas, undulating terrain and ancient rain forests, Malaysia offers unlimited opportunities for a trekker. The wilds of the country's extensive national parks and wildlife reserves present an opportunity to rediscover the allure of nature. From the freshwater swamp forests of the Kinabatangan floodplain where Proboscis monkeys squat in treetops munching leaves, to the undisturbed dipterocarp rainforests of Taman Negara, one of Asia's finest conservation areas, trekking in Malaysia is a rich and rewarding experience.
BIRD WATCHING
From moss-covered mountain ranges to muddy mangroves, the Malaysian landscape teems with hundreds of birds, which thrive in the tropical environment. With over 600 species inhabiting the peninsular and some 580 species in Borneo, it is easy to understand why bird watchers are drawn to Malaysia. Due to the diversity of habitats, there are many places with abundant birdlife to choose from.
CAVE EXPLORING
Malaysia is endowed with vast numbers of limestone caves. Many are shrouded in folklore and mystery and are home to some of nature's most fantastic and beautiful sculptures. Archeological research has found evidence of early man in many of these cave sites. Although the Royal Geographical Society in London and the British Caving Research Association has carried out major expeditions, many caves are still not fully explored and remain an alluring, enticing adventure for the nature tourist.
WHITE WATER RAFTING
Rivers have long been the lifeblood of the indigenous people of Malaysia. They have served as a means of transport, a source of food and now, a resource for eco-tourism. The native groups of Sabah have been using rafts for centuries but white water rafting has only been a recreational activity since the 1980s. The two main rivers for rafting in Sabah are the Padas and Kiulu rivers, which are certified as Grade 3 and Grade 2 respectively in the international white water rafting grading system. Under normal weather conditions the two rivers are relatively constant in depth and speed. However, heavy rains can cause them to swell into Grade 4.
OFF ROAD DRIVING
Malaysia's rugged terrain, dense rain forests and numerous mountainous regions make it an irresistible destination for off road driving enthusiasts. Mud, heat, sloping hills and rainstorms add to the challenge in the grueling and exhilarating sport of off road driving. With 58 per cent of the country still under jungle cover, Malaysia's terrain brings out the best of man and machine in a test skill under ever changing conditions. The three international off road events held in Malaysia annually around October and November are the Trans Borneo International Rally, the National Challenge and the Rainforest International Challenge of Malaysia.
ANGLING
The variety of freshwater and marine environments in Malaysia offers a vast scope of angling opportunities. Whether for serious game fishing or fun, Malaysia boasts a plethora of angling destinations. However, proper planning is essential when considering serious angling in Malaysia. Target species must be identified; timing and seasons also need to be taken into account.
SCUBA DIVING
Located in the heart of the Indo-Pacific Basin in the center of the area famed for the greatest marine bio-diversity in the world, Malaysia's marine parks offer diving enthusiasts an unparallel opportunity to enjoy some of the most beautiful marine sights in the world. More professional and recreational divers are discovering the enchantment of its waters with sites catering to every level of expertise where Malaysia is a true diver's paradise.
MOUNTAIN CLIMBING
Mountain climbing is a wonderful way to discover the diversity and uniqueness of Malaysia's natural landscape ranging from the dense tropical rainforest in the lowlands to the montaine vegetation in the upper elevations. From walks in the cool comfort to the more challenging mountains will tempt every level of climber.
MOUNT KINABALU: LOFTY AND AWESOME, THE SUMMIT OF MOUNT KINABALU, which rises 4,095m (13,432 ft) above the rainforests of north Borneo, poses a challenge to the conquering spirit of man. Since British colonial officer Hugh Low began its climbing craze in 1851, the granite massif has seen countless attempts to scale this peak in Sabah, Malaysia. A UNESCO-listed world heritage site, its brooding landscape is both inviting and forbidding to extreme sports fans.
Summit Trail, this trail is often described as a trek but is more like a long, continuous climb up a flight of earth steps and ladders. It can be very strenuous for the unfit climber but rest huts can be found at regular intervals along the trail to provide a breather. Take time to look around and observe the change of vegetation and unique flora of the mountain as you gradually make your way up. It generally takes about 4 - 6 hours to reach the overnight huts at Laban Rata (3,272 metres). Most climbers would start the final accent to the summit early (about 2 - 3 am) to catch the sunrise from Low's Peak. Sunrise over the rocky peaks of Mount Kinabalu is one of the most spectacular experiences and so don't forget your camera!
The Mount Kinabalu International Climbathon takes place here every year. It has been called "the toughest race in the world" as it requires participants to run up to the summit and back down again. It makes the unusual 2-day trek look like a stroll because the record at the moment is below 3 hours. |