When you mention “highland” in Malaysia, most would probably bring up the touristy farms of Cameron Highlands or – God forbid – that den of tacky fun and vice at Genting Highlands Resort.
But there’s another side to the highlands of Malaysia, where you’re surrounded by thick mists and cool, fresh air while the cries and whines of wildlife ring in your ears.
That’s right, highland camping!
Though camping can be a part of challenging climbs on mountains like Gunung Tahan or Mount Kinabalu, sometimes all you need are the sights and sound of nature without the hassle of preparing an entire expedition. Whether it’s no-hassle glamping or a DIY setup in a quiet spot, Malaysia’s many mountain ranges and hills have got you covered.
Pitch up your tent and chair, warm up a hot drink and leave your routine behind with these Malaysian highland camp sites!
Hola Campsite (Cameron Highlands)
Nestled right in the slopes of the Golden Hills area, Hola Campsite is an easily accessible and safe glamping campsite up in Cameron Highlands.
Despite the lack of trees and some concerning amount of condominium blocks popping up nearby, the place still affords campers a sweeping view of the Titiwangsa Mountains.
Hola is made of a simple gravel ground spread across two areas and 17 camping spots, so there’s no need to worry about bugs or creepy crawlies when you’re pitching your tent. It is also fenced in by a sturdy high fence, giving those who prioritize safety a great deal of peace of mind.
The area here is known for its cool weather that can range from 13-36 degrees Celsius depending on the season. Fog occasionally makes an appearance here, allowing you chill out and take in the eerie atmosphere.
NOTE: With recent construction at a nearby site, a review on their Facebook page has brought up the issue of noise. Call ahead of time to make sure your camping trip isn’t a noise fest.
Facilities
Parking, hot water and toilets with showers available. Pet-friendly.
More Info
Hola Campsite Facebook page
https://www.facebook.com/holacampsite/
Yunkai Campsite (Bentong)
Imagine waking up to a sea of clouds in the more secluded corners of Bentong.
Well, imagine no longer, because that’s exactly what Yunkai Campsite offers!
A mere 30 minutes away from Kuala Lumpur by car – just off the road to Genting Highlands – Yunkai Campsite offers you a cool retreat from the concrete jungle by placing your tent atop a balding hill with sparse vegetation.
But this lack of greenery actually allows you a panoramic view into the valley, where you’ll see a breathtaking landscape of jungle crowned by the Titiwangsa Mountains.
If that wasn’t enough, Yunkai is also the perfect spot to catch the sea of clouds that blankets the valley. Though they can obscure the distant peaks or even smother the entire campsite in impenetrable fog, if you chill out and let Mother Nature take her course, you might just be rewarded with the rare sight of green peaks floating atop a sea of cotton white clouds! Naturally, these rare sights are only enhanced by the magnificent sunrises and sunsets that are viewable here.
And, as a little bonus, you get some organic veggies from the nearby affiliated Vision Eco organic farm with your booking!
Facilities
Parking at entrance, toilets with showers. Pet-friendly.
More Info
Yunkai Campsite Website
https://yunkaicamp.easy.co/
Yunkai Campsite Facebook page
https://www.facebook.com/YunKaiCampsite
406 Dusun Durian (Penang)
Camping? On Penang Island? It’s likelier than you think!
Hidden in the quieter southwestern end of Penang is 406 Dusun Durian, which offers delicious varieties of the King of Fruits along with equally exquisite views of Bukit Genting! On clear days, it’s even possible to spot Pulau Betong and its turtle shell all the way in the Straits of Malacca.
And thanks to the copious trees and greenery here, it’s slightly more shaded than Yunkai, which makes it perfect for just kicking back and listening to the rustle of the leaves from blustery winds. Take care not to open your nostrils too hard though, or you’ll find yourself drooling after some “eau de durian”!
406 Dusun Durian also comes with both standard and luxury tents – some equipped with mini air conditioners! To facilitate any group activities or meetings, they also provide large canvas tents with huge, welcoming entrances.
If zoning out to the superb views or team building doesn’t excite you, then the nearby waterfall is a guaranteed for some wild, wet fun!
More Info
406 Dusun Durian Facebook Page
https://www.facebook.com/406dusun
Kuak Hill Resort (Perak)
Just north of the royal town of Kuala Kangsar, inside a vast hillside clearing, lies the paradise of Kuak Hill Resort.
Targeted towards the glamping crowd and families, it boasts a highly unique setup of camping sites that are placed on raised wooden platforms that snake down the hill, all connected by metal platforms. If you manage to round up a group to go with you, it’s almost like creating your very own cozy little village on the hills of Perak!
Kuak Hill Resort is also a boon for outdoors lovers thanks to its whole host of activities that take you on a journey into the wilds of Perak, including muddy ATV rides, drenching yourself on waterfalls, jungle-hiking on quiet trails and even a sightseeing cruise on the nearby Tasik Raban lake!
Make sure to visit the orchard to get some fresh fruits, vegies and produce too!
Facilities: Event room, café, children’s water play area.
More Info
Kuak Hill Resort Website
https://kuakhillresort.com/
Kuak Hill Resort Facebook Page
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61558139297775
Kuak Hill Resort Instagram Page
https://www.instagram.com/kuakhillresort/?hl=en
Yaka Campsite
If you ever wanted to camp in your neighbourhood park just down the road, then head for Yaka Campsite.
The catch? It’s in the hills of Negri Sembilan!
Down south in Negri Sembilan between the sleepy towns of Lenggeng and Broga, Yaka Campsite is a vast hillside property that offers numerous camping spots on its lush green slopes. Most of these spots offer campers splendid views of the faraway hills on clear days.
With nothing but a grassy knoll and trees peppered around your tent, it’s all about the camping experience here. Of course, you’re never far from the camps generous facilities, which include showers, toilets, a sheltered common area, a small store and even a fridge!
Just a short walk away, there’s also the Hill Top Eco Deer Ranch, a small zoo with a collection of farm animals along with exotic creatures like meerkat and ostriches – always a hit with the kids.
Facilities: Toilets, showers, fridge, sinks. Pet-friendly.
More Info
Yaka Campsite Website
https://www.yakacampsite.com/home
Yaka Campsite Facebook Page
https://www.facebook.com/yakacampsite
Still looking for that special place in the great outdoors to pitch up your tent? Then have a look at our guide to Kenya’s hidden retreats or our list of some of the most luxurious stays in the Patagonia region!
