With the recent COVID interstate travel ban lifted, Malaysians are scurrying to find travel destinations and activities to let off some steam. The upcoming school holidays are a good time to spend some quality time with the whole family. Check out these 5 kid-friendly, outdoor activities to do over the holidays!
1. Houseboating at Belum Temenggor Forest Reserve, Perak
The Belum Temenggor forest reserve forms the last and largest continuous forest block in Malaysia. It’s located in the state of Perak and reaches all the way up to Southern Thailand, spanning up to over 300,000 hectares in total. Belum Temenggor is considered to be one of the world’s oldest rainforests, and at the heart of it is Temenggor Lake. Measuring over 15,000 hectares, the lake is home to incredible flora and fauna, some of which cannot be seen anywhere else. It offers a variety of exciting activities for the whole family, but their most unique offering is their houseboating experience.
(Image: Belum Temenggor website)
The 2 days 1 night experience can accommodate up to 10 people (depending on houseboat type & current SOP measures), making it an ideal getaway for the whole family. Fully equipped with facilities and a trained crew, the houseboat is ready to cater to a number of activities decided by the patron. Check out their packages here.
2. Mutiara Taman Negara, Pahang
Situated in Pahang, this 130-million-year-old virgin rainforest is one of Malaysia’s prized gems. Discover amazing flora and fauna through their canopy walk, a suspension bridge spanning over 500 meters long and hangs 40 meters above ground or sit back and enjoy the calmness of the rainforest at the one and only resort available on-site, the Mutiara Taman Negara.
(Image: Mutiara Taman Negara Facebook)
The Mutiara Taman Negara is the one and only resort located inside the national park’s boundaries, overlooking the Tembeling and Tahan rivers. The resort offers different types of accommodations and a variety of other activities including jungle trekking, fishing, and an array of other activities that can be catered for a fun time for the whole family. Find out more here.
3. Farm In The City, Seri Kembangan
(Image: Farm In The City website)
Just 30 minutes from KL, this village-themed petting zoo is a great place for the little ones to interact with animals like horses, porcupines, goats, and many more.
The animals are free to roam around the farm without any cages or fences. Animal treats are also available so the kids can feed some giant tortoises, baby crocodiles, and more. With over 100 species of exotic animals and 60 species of plants and vegetables, Farm in the City is a fantastic place for kids to learn outside of the school textbooks.
4. Snake and Reptile Farm, Perlis
The research facility and exhibition, 12 acres Snake and Reptile Farm of Perlis is surrounded by the Bukit Bintang Forest Reserve. It is located at Sungai Batu Pahat, in Perlis, Malaysia and is the only snake farm ever to be built in Malaysia. The farm boasts over 30 species of snakes and a variety of different reptiles.
(Image: Taman Ular dan Reptilia Negeri Perlis Facebook)
Not only housing reptiles, but the farm is also home to an impressive sunflower park. Recently opened in 2019, tourists have been flocking the site to witness incredible, towering sunflowers blooming in the bright sun. While there, don’t forget to visit the petting zoo and sneak in a cuddle or two with the fluffy bunnies! For more information, head on over to their Facebook page.
5. Kuala Gandah National Elephant Conservation Centre, Pahang
Malaysia’s own elephant conservatory, establish in 1989, is managed by the Malaysia Wildlife Department. Here you can find elephants roaming around carefree and get up close and personal with these gentle giants. Children can watch, feed, and even bathe with the creatures in a stream close by if the water levels are high enough.
Elephants are raised, sheltered, and care for ethically in the sanctuary. Learn more about their daily schedule here.
(Image: Kuala Gandah National Elephant Conservation Centre Facebook)
Looking for something else to do with the whole family? Check out these cool weekend activities to do in Klang Valley.
