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Adventure Tours in Malaysia

Somewhere between jungle temples and remote beaches, your first encounter of the day is with “the man of the forest.” Adventures continue with rafts floating into rose-colored sunsets, and then peak with a dinner of nasi lemak. From the world’s largest cave chamber to the street shows of teh tarik, there’s no specific way to experience adventure travel in Malaysia. It just requires you, the desire for adventure, and ten seconds of insane courage to take the plunge!
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8 Adventure Programs in Malaysia

International Volunteer HQ [IVHQ]

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Worlds #1 Volunteer Programs. 40+ Countries from $20/day!

At International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ), we unite people from over 96 countries who want to make a meaningful difference while exploring the world. With 300+ projects in 40+ destinations, IVHQ offers the widest selection of volunteer programs globally—from Teaching and Childcare to Wildlife Conservation, Medical Outreach, and Environmental Sustainability. Since 2007, IVHQ has supported over 147,000 volunteers on life-changing journeys. We specialize in fully-hosted volunteer trips that are safe, affordable, and accessible—starting from just $20 per day. Your experience includes airport pick-up, accommodation, meals, and round-the-clock support from our local teams. With flexible booking options and no change fees, planning your volunteer adventure has never been easier. Our programs run year-round and are available for 1 to 24 weeks across Africa, Asia, Europe, the Pacific, South and Central America, North America, the Caribbean, and the Middle East. Volunteering with IVHQ is about more than giving back—it’s about growing, learning, and building genuine global connections.

Raleigh International

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Volunteer in Borneo - Adventure with Purpose

Take urgent action and immerse yourself in one of the world's most ecologically and culturally diverse places by joining a Raleigh Expedition to Borneo. If you're passionate about ecology and wildlife, eager for an unforgettable adventure, and interested in truly immersive travel, then Raleigh Borneo is a must-visit for you. This island harbors 6% of the planet’s biodiversity and is one of the last natural habitats of the orangutan. However, this ecological treasure is increasingly under threat. As a Raleigh Venturer, you'll work toward sustainable solutions to some of the most pressing issues facing Borneo's ecosystems and communities. Whether you’re actively participating in habitat renewal projects in one of the most logged areas in Asia or collaborating with local communities and NGOs to improve access to clean water, hygiene, and sanitation, your efforts will contribute to a brighter future for Borneo. Through impactful community and environmental projects, combined with an exhilarating adventure phase, a Raleigh Borneo Expedition offers an experience that will leave a lasting impact on both you and the island.

Seamester Study Abroad at Sea

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Seamester Study Abroad and Gap Year Voyages

Seamester is the educational adventure of a lifetime! For more than 40 years, we have offered unparalleled educational voyages where students spend a semester at sea sailing between islands, countries, and even continents. We design our programs to provide engaging learning experiences with real outcomes in ways that are impossible to replicate in the traditional classroom. Living as part of a close-knit team on an ocean-going vessel, our students learn fundamental lessons beyond academics: teamwork, leadership, and personal responsibility. They receive academic credit from the University of South Florida, along with PADI scuba certifications and IYT sailing certifications. Our programs are designed to inspire students to realize that it’s the journey, not the destination, that matters the most.

GoEco - Top Volunteer Organization

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GoEco - Top Rated & Award Winning Volunteer Programs Abroad

GoEco is one of the world’s top volunteer organizations, with award-winning and ethical programs selected by sustainable travel experts. Since 2006, tens of thousands of volunteers have taken part in projects and internships worldwide, focusing on wildlife and marine conservation, education, and medical initiatives. GoEco operates in over 50 countries, providing unique cultural immersive experiences that aim to make a positive impact on the environment and society. The organization also offers internships and academic programs for students. GoEco provides safe and meaningful experiences while promoting sustainable travel and reducing carbon emissions.

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Oyster Worldwide

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Conservation Volunteering in Borneo

Growing human populations and increasing destruction of natural habitats is a constant risk to the survival of many incredible species. This programme is a great opportunity for volunteers to make a real difference to wildlife. It aims to help protect and regenerate the habitats of many animals. Work in the rainforest that is full of exotic animals, close to the river Kinabatangan, and help to maintain its beauty. Volunteers can expect to head out on jungle explorations to learn about the complex ecosystem. They will also work with local communities to help them in a variety of sustainable environmental projects. There will also be an opportunity for volunteers to visit the famous Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre. Based in a small village, this programme allows volunteers to become immersed in the culture of the Orang Sungai people and to live in a stunning riverside location.

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A Guide to Adventure Travel in Malaysia

Locations

Stepping foot on the “peninsula of gold,” it’s hard to contain the excitement for backpacking Malaysia. And for good reason! Whether it’s cosmopolitan cities spiraling into space or swaying rope bridges between mountaintops, Malaysia’s boundaries are thrown across several landmasses, and are packed with a little bit of everything.

The capital of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur is the most popular destination in Malaysia to visit. It’s large and in charge, yet ready to welcome you with a cheery “Dapatkan bersedia untuk masa yang liar!” From the sweeping Petronas Twin Towers to the hustle-and-bustle of the exotic Central Market, Kuala Lumpur is not easy to take in… and even harder to forget.The Kuala Lumpur Bird Park and the Elephant Orphanage Sanctuary have rave reviews; who wouldn’t want to get up close and personal with a Malaysian Blue Flycatcher or a chubby baby elephant? Locals (humans and the occasional boa constrictor) and tourists are drawn to all the culture and modernization of this capital.

Borneo is a unique island. It is considered part of three different nations: Malaysia, Indonesia, and Brunei. The rainforest, that encapsulates 75% of the island, is one of the oldest in the world and is home to the Borneo elephant, the cloud leopard, and the ever-famous Borneo orangutan. Let the time you spend in Borneo open your eyes and heart to the beauty of Mother Nature and all her inhabitants.

On the western edge, Malacca is quaint, quintessential, and quirky. The city is a UNESCO World Heritage site — the perfect bygone addition to your Malaysia visit — and allows you to step into a history book. Jonker Street is not to be missed, with its sizzling street food and stalls that offer some of the most unique souvenirs you’ll find south of the equator! At 260 feet, the Malacca Menara Taming Sari is a panoramic monument, offering a 360-degree view of the city.

Boredom is not an option with countless jungles to explore, animals (some only native to Malaysia) to discover, colorful buildings to amaze, and street food to satisfy those whose “eyes are bigger than their stomachs”.

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Latest Program Reviews

My greatest adventure yet!

May 12, 2024by: Emma Gardner - United StatesProgram: Seamester Study Abroad and Gap Year Voyages
9

Being a student on Sea|Mester was the most incredible experience of my life. I did the South Africa to Antigua voyage on Vela, and it exceeded any and all expectations I could have possibly had. I got to visit places that I never thought I would get to go. I met people that started out as strangers, but quickly became family to me. Prior to Sea|Mester, I had very little sailing experience and no diving experience and I think that that is a common turn off for people that come across this program, but you have no need to be worried if you're in that boat (haha). The staff does an exceptional job teaching you the ropes, making you feel safe, and making you feel like the boat is your home. If you're a hands on learning that thrives on getting outside of your comfort zone, adventure, and travel then this program is for you. I can not effusive enough how much Sea|Mester and my crew changed my life. If you're presented with the privilege to be a student on Sea|Mester... do it. If Sea|Mester taught me anything, it's to say yes even when you're scared. The greatest adventure of your life could be waiting for you.

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