Singapore to Perhentian Island Overland with Taman Negara (Group Tour in Italian, max 10 people)
12 Days / 11 Nights
Group tour in Italian with limited places /
Private tour in English
From €2,945 per person
Tour Overview
A comprehensive and profound overland journey that combines iconic metropolises, historic cultures, and pristine nature, crossing Singapore and Malaysia to the pristine sea of the Perhentian Islands. From UNESCO colonial cities to authentic experiences in local villages, from tea plantations to mountain forests to the world's oldest jungle in Taman Negara. A highly experiential itinerary, with no internal flights, an Italian guide in small groups, and a pace balanced between discovery, adventure, and tropical relaxation.
Tour Highlights:
🌇 Iconic Singapore: Merlion Park, Civic District, Marina Bay, Chinatown, and Gardens by the Bay with the Garden Rhapsody show.
🏛️ UNESCO Malacca: Santiago Gate, Red Square, Baba Nyonya Museum, Harmony Street, and Jonker Street with Peranakan cuisine.
🥻 Authentic experiences in rural Malaysia: Batu Caves, Ipoh, and an overnight stay in a traditional Malay village.
🍃 Deep nature: Cameron Highlands, Mossy Forest, Gunung Brinchang, and tea plantations.
🌳 Taman Negara: River cruise, trekking in the world's oldest jungle, and a night hike.
🏝️ Perhentian Islands: Eco-chic resorts, crystal-clear waters, snorkeling, and ultimate relaxation.
Day-By-Day Itinerary
Arrival – Singapore, First Encounter with the City
Day 1
Day Description
Arrive in Singapore and meet our representative. Private transfer to the hotel for check-in (standard 3:00 PM). Free day to relax and get settled in.
Overnight stay at Mercure Stevens – Superior Room or similar.
Singapore Afternoon City Tour and Iconic Neighborhoods (Breakfast)
Day 2
Day Description
After breakfast at the hotel, the morning is free to explore Singapore independently or take optional excursions. In the afternoon, at 3:30 PM, meet your guide in the lobby of the 3-star Mercure On Stevens to begin a walking tour of the city lasting approximately 5 hours. Merlion Park is reached via a short walk and public transportation (estimated time: 25-30 minutes). Merlion Park is one of Singapore's landmarks, located opposite Marina Bay, offering an iconic view of the city skyline.
Continue to the Civic District, the city's historic and administrative heart, home to some of the most significant colonial buildings, such as the Victoria Theatre and the National Gallery. Stroll along the Singapore River to Clarke Quay, a neighborhood known for its colorful historic houses, now home to restaurants and bars overlooking the river. From Clarke Quay, transfer by metro or bus to Chinatown, where you'll discover the Sri Mariamman Temple, traditional shops, and local markets. During the tour, there will be a short break to enjoy a coffee, local tea, or traditional snack (optional, approximately 10 SGD per person).
In the late afternoon, we continue to Marina Bay Sands and, with a pleasant stroll, reach the Gardens by the Bay, an example of futuristic landscape architecture. At 7:45 PM, we attend the Garden Rhapsody light and sound show within the Supertree Grove. After the show, we will walk back to Marina Bay Sands, where the guide's service ends. Participants can choose to continue their evening at leisure or return to the hotel independently. The guide can assist with finding a taxi (costs to be paid by the guests).
Overnight stay: Mercure On Stevens 3* – Superior Room.
Singapore – Colonial Malacca – Kuala Lumpur (Breakfast, Peranakan Lunch)
Day 3
Day Description
After breakfast at the hotel, depart at 8:30 a.m. with a driver from your hotel in Singapore, heading north to the historic city of Malacca (approximately 200 km). After completing customs formalities in Johor Bahru, we'll switch vehicles/guides and continue along the west coast of the Malay Peninsula.
Upon arrival in Malacca, we'll begin our walking tour of the city. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008, Malacca's historic center preserves an important colonial and religious architectural heritage, evidence of the numerous European and Asian dominations that have occurred over the centuries. The tour begins at Santiago Gate, the only remnant of the Portuguese fortress "A Famosa," built in the 16th century and partially destroyed by the British. We continue by climbing St. Paul's Hill, where the ruins of the ancient church of the same name are located, offering beautiful views of the city and the Strait of Malacca. The walk continues to Red Square, the Dutch colonial heart of the city, home to the Stadthuys and Christ Church. Lunch at a typical local restaurant to savor the flavors of Peranakan tradition.
In the afternoon, visit the Baba-Nyonya Museum, which tells the story of the Peranakans, the Chinese people of the Straits of Malacca, known for their syncretic culture between East and West. Follow this with a stroll along Harmony Street, so named for its diverse religious sites: visit the Cheng Hoon Teng Chinese Temple, the oldest in Malaysia, the Kampung Kling Mosque, and finally stroll along the famous Jonker Street, the street of antiques and handicrafts, with free time for shopping for local products.
At the end of the tour, depart for Kuala Lumpur (approximately 2 hours – 200 km). Upon arrival, check-in to your hotel and enjoy the evening at leisure.
Overnight: The Stripes Kuala Lumpur 5* – Deluxe Room
Kuala Lumpur - City tour to discover the cultural melting pot (breakfast, lunch at a Michelin-starred restaurant)
Day 4
Day Description
After breakfast at the hotel, meet your guide at 9:00 am for a morning dedicated to discovering the main symbols of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia's dynamic and multicultural capital.
The first stop is the Thean Hou Temple, one of the largest Chinese temples in Southeast Asia. Dedicated to the sea goddess Mazu, venerated by the Hainanese community, the temple is a refined example of syncretic architecture combining Buddhist, Taoist, and Confucian traditions. Situated on a hill, it offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding landscape.
Continue with a photo stop outside the Royal Palace (Istana Negara), the official residence of the King of Malaysia. The palace, visible only from the outside, is protected by royal guards in traditional uniforms.
The itinerary continues with a panoramic drive in front of the National Mosque (Masjid Negara), a symbol of Malaysia's religious and cultural independence, built in 1965 in a modern architectural style with traditional Islamic influences.
Arrival at Dataran Merdeka (Independence Square), a symbol of liberation from British rule, where the Malaysian flag was raised for the first time on August 31, 1957. The square is surrounded by some of the city's most significant colonial buildings, including the Sultan Abdul Samad Building, characterized by its Moorish-style domes.
In the late morning, stop at a local restaurant famous for its chicken rice, an iconic Malaysian dish. The restaurant has been awarded a Michelin star for the quality and authenticity of the dish, which pairs tender steamed or soy-cooked chicken with flavored rice and traditional sauces. Return to the hotel after lunch and enjoy the afternoon at leisure for individual activities. We suggest visiting the adjacent Central Market, a historic covered market where you can purchase local handicrafts, batik, and souvenirs, or stroll through nearby Chinatown, a lively neighborhood with stalls, street food, and ancient temples such as the Guan Di Temple and Sri Mahamariamman.
Overnight: The Stripes Kuala Lumpur 5* – Deluxe Room.
Note: Optional evening excursions available upon request:
Kuala Lumpur – Batu Caves Hindu Temple - Ipoh Walking Tour - Malay Village (Traditional Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner)
Day 5
Day Description
Depart at 8:30 a.m. for the Batu Caves, a complex of limestone caves sacred to the Hindu community, known for the monumental golden statue of the god Murugan and the long, colorful staircase leading into the main cave.
Continue to Ipoh (200 km – approximately 3 hours). Upon arrival, lunch at a local restaurant on Temersing Lake, where you can sample typical specialties such as nasi lemak, curry mee, and Ipoh's famous white coffee.
In the afternoon, enjoy a walking tour of Ipoh: visit Concubine Lane, a historic street lined with artisan shops and cafes, and Mural Art's Lane, a street decorated with murals that tell the stories of the city and its people.
Afterward, transfer to a traditional Malay village (approximately 65 km – 1 hour) where you will have the opportunity to experience authentic Malay village life at a charming homestay on the shores of the lake. Upon arrival, you'll be greeted with a welcome drink, checked into the traditional wooden chalets, and given an introduction to the local culture. During your stay, you'll enjoy cultural activities such as a sarong-making lesson and the traditional game of congkak. Dinner is shared, featuring a traditional Malay menu personally prepared by the hosts, with traditional attire provided.
Overnight stay: Heritage wooden house without air conditioning, private bathroom. Alcohol is prohibited, and shoes are not permitted inside the houses.
Malay Village - Bukit Merah Orang Utan Island - Penang (breakfast, lunch, street food in Penang)
Day 6
Day Description
After a traditional breakfast in the village, at 9:45 a.m., we leave the tranquil rural setting behind and continue toward the vibrant island of Penang, crossing the hinterland of West Malaysia.
En route, we reach Bukit Merah (80 km - 60 min), home to Orang Utan Island, a conservation project dedicated to protecting Bornean orangutans. A short boat transfer (departure time 11:15 a.m.) takes us to the forest island where orangutans live in semi-freedom. During the visit, we walk through a protected tunnel where we can observe these magnificent primates in their natural habitat and learn about the conservation projects for this endangered species. The visit lasts approximately 1.5 hours.
We continue northwest (75 km - 60 min), arriving in Penang via one of Asia's longest bridges, which connects the mainland to the island and offers panoramic views of the strait.
Upon arrival in Georgetown, the historic heart of Penang and a UNESCO World Heritage site, we'll stop for lunch at a typical local food court. Here, you'll be able to sample some of the island's most famous specialties, such as Char Kway Teow, Assam Laksa, and Penang Rojak, an expression of the region's multicultural cuisine.
After lunch, we'll continue with a visit to Penang's most famous water village, Chew Jetty, part of the Clan Jetties, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Consisting of historic Chinese settlements built on stilts over the water, they showcase a unique way of life and offer a glimpse into Penang's past.
The tour continues with a discovery of the island's historical and religious heritage.
A visit to the exterior of Fort Cornwallis, the oldest British fortification in Malaysia, built by Sir Francis Light in the 18th century. From the fort's ramparts, you can observe the harbor and the numerous colonial buildings surrounding the square, a testament to the British imperial era.
We then enter the heart of the city by visiting Khoo Kongsi, one of the most impressive Chinese clan houses in the country, adorned with elaborate wooden carvings and architectural details typical of southern Chinese communities.
The tour continues on foot through the alleys of the historic center, passing art galleries, artisan cafes, and historic shops, where Chinese temples, mosques, and Christian churches coexist. The spice-scented streets lead to Little India, a neighborhood bustling with shops selling colorful fabrics, spices, and Indian street food. At the end of the tour, check-in to your hotel and enjoy free time to rest or explore the city on your own.
Overnight stay: The George Boutique Hotel 5* – Deluxe Room.
IMPORTANT NOTE: In the event that the visit to Orang Utan Island is not possible due to the lowering of the Bukit Merah lake, the guide will arrange additional visits on the same day to Georgetown on Penang Island, including visits to the interesting Thai and Burmese temples.
Penang - Cameron Highlands (Breakfast) Tea Plantations
Day 7
Day Description
After breakfast, depart the hotel heading southeast, leaving the shores of the Strait of Malacca behind and ascending to the Cameron Highlands, a plateau located over 1,500 meters above sea level. The approximately 4-hour journey (250 km) passes through agricultural landscapes and small rural villages, offering glimpses into daily life in mainland Malaysia.
Upon arrival in the Cameron Highlands, stop for lunch at the Strawberry Park Resort, nestled among verdant hills and strawberry fields.
In the early afternoon, depart by 4x4 for an excursion to discover the Mossy Forest, one of the oldest tropical forests in the region, characterized by thick fog, moss- and liana-covered trees, and unique biodiversity. A short trek on wooden walkways allows you to immerse yourself in this mountain ecosystem, located over 2,000 meters above sea level.
You reach Gunung Brinchang, the highest point in the Cameron Highlands, which offers sweeping views of the surrounding landscapes.
Continue to the Boh Sungai Palas tea plantation, one of the most famous in Malaysia. Here, you'll tour the factory to learn about the tea processing process and enjoy a fantastic view of the rolling hills covered in tea plantations from the terrace.
Finally, a short stop at one of the local strawberry farms, known for its sweets and famous strawberry milkshake. Return to the hotel in the late afternoon. Dinner at leisure.
Overnight: Strawberry Park Resort – Studio Room.
Cameron Highlands - Taman Negara (breakfast, dinner) Into the wild
Day 8
Day Description
After breakfast, depart from the hotel at 8:00 a.m. for the transfer to Kuala Tembeling Jetty (approximately 2 hours).
From there, enjoy a scenic traditional boat ride along the Tembeling River, surrounded by dense rainforests. The boat ride lasts approximately 3 hours and is the most authentic way to reach Taman Negara National Park, one of the world's oldest rainforests, dating back over 130 million years.
Upon arrival in the late afternoon, check-in at the resort located within the park and enjoy some free time to relax surrounded by nature.
After dinner, embark on a nighttime walking tour of the park with a local guide. This approximately 1-hour experience allows you to observe tropical insects and small reptiles, and listen to the nocturnal sounds of the forest.
Overnight stay: Mutiara Taman Negara – Standard Chalet.
Taman Negara (Breakfast, Dinner) Trekking in the World's Oldest Jungle GROUP IN ENGLISH
Day 9
Day Description
Breakfast at the resort. At 9:00 a.m., depart for an exciting hike within the national park. The trek leads to Teresek Hill, a journey of approximately 3.5–4 hours. This activity is considered a soft adventure and allows you to admire the tropical rainforest from unique perspectives, enjoying a spectacular view of Gunung Tahan from the top of the hill. Afterwards, return to the resort for lunch. In the afternoon, a boat trip on the Tahan River to the Lata Berkoh rapids is planned (duration 2.5–3 hours). Here, you can enjoy a refreshing dip in the cool spring waters of Gunung Tahan, a sort of natural "jacuzzi." The cruise also includes a stop at the Ikan Kelah Fish Sanctuary, where you can observe and feed the freshwater fish.
Return to the resort, dinner, and overnight stay.
Overnight stay: Mutiara Taman Negara – Standard Chalet.
Taman Negara - Kuala Besut Jetty - Perhentian Island (Breakfast, Dinner)
Day 10
Day Description
After breakfast, 8:00 a.m., combined bus and boat transfer (expected arrival at 6:45 p.m., subject to weather conditions and availability). Check-in at the exclusive 4-star Alunan Resort with an all-inclusive package, including alcoholic beverages. Relax, sun, and sea at the resort.
Overnight stay at Alunan Resort 4* - Serenity Suite
Note: Option to change your beach resort to Bubu Resort & Villa 4*, Mimpi Resort 4*, or Marriott Perhentian 5*, or proceed to Redang Island at Coral Redang 3*, Laguna Redang 4*, or The Taaras Beach Resort & Spa 5*.
Perhentian Island (All Inclusive) Crystal clear sea and relaxation
Day 11
Day Description
Breakfast at the hotel. Relax, sun, and sea at the all-inclusive resort.
Overnight stay at the 4-star Alunan Resort - Serenity Suite
Perhentian Island - Kuala Besut - Kota Bharu airport (Breakfast) Departure.
Day 12
Day Description
Breakfast at the hotel. Free time (standard check-in at 11:00 am) until the boat transfer to Kuala Besut Pier and then by road to Kota Bharu Airport (75 minutes) for your return flight (not included).