Darren Yeoh
Sara KohForget spending a fortune on a flight to New Zealand! Even if you have the budget, you might be surprised to learn that you can experience similarly stunning landscapes in Malaysia. Prepare to be captivated by majestic mountains, vibrant green pastures, and vast open spaces—all within easy reach.
From the tranquil canals of Perlis, Malaysia’s smallest state, to the majestic Mount Kinabalu in Sabah, and the breathtaking vistas of Sarawak, Malaysia offers a wealth of incredible locations that could easily pass for New Zealand in your photos. Let’s start with Perlis, a state brimming with mesmerizing paddy fields and waterways.
Explore its wide-open spaces and soak in the beauty of its water-filled landscapes. For a truly memorable experience, enjoy a picturesque picnic at pristine spots like Sungai Jernih or Tasoh Lake. The scenery is simply divine, and the company (prepare for some Lord of the Rings references!) is priceless.
Also Read: 10 Unique Things to Do in Malaysia That Are Kind of Weird
A view of Perlis’s Tasoh Lake from the jetty
Image credit: shizham
Sabah is mostly famous for the iconic Mount Kinabalu from which you can get photos to trick almost anyone into believing that you were in New Zealand. The Desa Dairy Farm in Kundasang, however, is in a league of its own. Google ‘New Zealand sights in Malaysia’ and most probably you will find it sitting on the very first slot of the results. And for good reason. It is a serene, quiet dairy farm surrounded by Shire-like hills. There are no hobbits and gray wizards there unfortunately. Still, the scenery itself is breathtaking.
But apart from hiking and visiting cows, do explore Poring Hot Springs or go white water rafting at the Padas and Kiulu river. And please, don’t miss out on giving Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park a visit. Sipadan Island is another ‘viewtiful’ place in Sabah that’s worth a visit.
This isn’t a New Zealand outback, this is Desa Dairy Farm in Kundasang, Sabah
Image credit: Desa Dairy Farm
Desa Dairy Farm in Kundasang, Sabah, is a must-visit for nature lovers and families. Famous for its picturesque scenery reminiscent of New Zealand, the farm offers breathtaking views of Mount Kinabalu against a backdrop of rolling green pastures. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including feeding adorable calves and goats, learning about the dairy production process, and indulging in fresh dairy products like milk, yogurt, and ice cream. The farm’s cool mountain air and stunning vistas make it a perfect spot for relaxation and photography.
The Kota Kinabalu City Mosque floats on water
Image Credit: CEphoto, Uwe Aranas
Desa Dairy Farm in Kundasang, Sabah, is a must-visit for nature lovers and families. Famous for its picturesque scenery reminiscent of New Zealand, the farm offers breathtaking views of Mount Kinabalu against a backdrop of rolling green pastures. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including feeding adorable calves and goats, learning about the dairy production process, and indulging in fresh dairy products like milk, yogurt, and ice cream. The farm’s cool mountain air and stunning vistas make it a perfect spot for relaxation and photography.
Catch the breathtaking views of Mount Kinabalu’s peak
Image credit: Ariel Steiner
Mount Kinabalu, a majestic peak rising to 4,095 meters in Sabah, Malaysia, is a natural wonder and a popular destination for hikers. Its diverse ecosystem, ranging from lush rainforests to alpine meadows, is home to a unique array of flora and fauna, including the iconic Rafflesia flower. Climbing Mount Kinabalu is a challenging but rewarding experience, typically requiring two days and one night. Hikers ascend through varying terrains, eventually reaching the summit to witness a breathtaking sunrise above the clouds. While a reasonable level of fitness is required, the climb is achievable for many, making it a sought-after adventure for both seasoned trekkers and those looking to conquer their first major peak.
The Niah Caves in Miri, Sarawak are but one of the many limestone cave systems in Malaysia.
Image credit: Starlightchild
In Sarawak, you can find an array of national parks where you can ogle at glorious hills, beautiful beaches and lush forests. If you find yourself in Sarawak during the month of July, be sure to check out the annual Rainforest World Music Festival, where you can look forward to having a unique and wholesome music festival experience.
Otherwise, visit the Niah Caves to see the one of Malaysia’s largest limestone cave systems or go trekking at Lambir Hills National Park, which is known for lush forest reserves and hilly fresh air.
The Bako National Park in Sarawak is famous for its unique rock formations by the shore
Image credit: amrufm
Bako National Park, located in Sarawak, is a truly unique and unforgettable wilderness experience. As Sarawak’s oldest national park, it protects a diverse range of habitats, from lush rainforests and mangrove swamps to dramatic coastal cliffs and secluded beaches. Visitors can explore a network of well-maintained trails, offering opportunities to spot proboscis monkeys, bearded pigs, monitor lizards, and a plethora of bird species. Boat trips along the coast provide stunning views and access to secluded bays. Whether you’re trekking through the jungle, relaxing on a pristine beach, or simply marveling at the incredible biodiversity, Bako National Park offers an immersive and rewarding nature adventure.
Enjoy the cool breeze at Cameron and Genting Highlands
Image credit: Michele Mazzoli
The Cameron and Genting Highlands in Pahang are two of the most popular highland holiday destinations in Malaysia. While Cameron Highlands gives off a more peaceful, close-to-nature kind of vibe, Genting Highlands is all about entertainment 24/7.
That being said, being placed at high altitudes on lush hills, both Cameron and Genting Highlands provide visitors with breathtaking scenery. The never ending greenery will have you imagining that you’re in the wide open spaces of New Zealand.
In Cameron Highlands, head up to the observation tower of Gunung (Mount) Brinchang and be treated to a spectacular view of Cameron Highlands. You also might want to stop by the Boh Tea Plantation for a tour around the grounds.
Whereas in Genting Highlands, the mountainous landscapes are best enjoyed while riding a cable car. The natural scenery is truly spectacular in both places and the cool weather (usually never above 25 degrees Celsius) is a major plus.
Hop between Malaysia’s swoon-worthy islands
Image credit: Jakub Michankow
And last but not least, one other way you can experience New Zealand-esque scenery in Malaysia is through its many islands. Perhentian, Langkawi, Pangkor, Sipadan…there’s just no end to them!
At various parts of any of these islands, you will find jungles and crystal clear shorelines alike: scenery which so closely resemble the dynamic beaches and islands in New Zealand. On various islands, there are of course specific activities not to miss out on.
On Langkawi, for example, do take a ride in a helium-powered hot-air balloon in the SkyTour Park. Whereas when in Perhentian or Sipadan, you will never forgive yourself if you pass up the opportunity to scuba dive and swim among the many aquatic life there. (Sadly, I have no Lord of the Rings puns for sandy beaches. Sigh, life is sad)
Aren’t these places just amazing? Thank God I don’t have to fly halfway across the world to get to see breathtaking sights like these anymore.
Also Read: Top 9 Otherworldly Stargazing Sites in Malaysia
So, with that being said, road trip to Malaysia soon, anyone?
