Planning a road trip in Malaysia is one of the best ways to explore its diverse landscapes, from beaches to highlands. With Hertz, you get comfort, flexibility, and even airport transfer services to start your journey with ease. This guide highlights top destinations, travel times, and practical tips for a smoother drive.
Northern Adventures: Penang, Ipoh, and Langkawi
Penang
(350 km from Kuala Lumpur, about 4 hours’ drive)
Penang is often described as Malaysia’s cultural capital, blending rich heritage with world-famous food. Georgetown’s historic streets, recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcase colonial buildings, temples, and vibrant street art. A ride up Penang Hill offers sweeping island views, while evenings are best spent sampling hawker favourites such as char kway teow and Penang laksa. For many, Penang is the ultimate road trip destination that captures both tradition and modernity.
Ipoh and Gopeng
(180 km from Kuala Lumpur, about 2 hours’ drive)
Ipoh is known for its colonial charm and thriving café culture. In the Old Town, elegant shophouses stand alongside contemporary murals, creating an atmosphere that is both nostalgic and modern. A stop in nearby Gopeng adds a touch of adventure, with Gua Tempurung offering one of the largest limestone cave systems in the region. Thrill-seekers often stay for white-water rafting, making this road trip a mix of culture, history, and outdoor excitement.
Langkawi
(420 km from Kuala Lumpur, around 5 hours by road plus ferry)
Langkawi promises sun, sea, and relaxation. After the drive north and a ferry ride across the Andaman waters, travellers are greeted with sandy beaches, lush rainforests, and duty-free shopping. The Langkawi Sky Bridge is an unmissable attraction, suspended high above the jungle with panoramic views of the island. Pantai Cenang, the island’s most popular beach, is lively with water sports, dining, and nightlife, while quieter stretches of coast offer peaceful retreats.
Eastern Escapes: Redang and Kuantan
Redang Island
(400 km from Kuala Lumpur, about 4.5 hours’ drive to Kuala Terengganu, then a boat transfer)
For travellers seeking paradise, Redang Island delivers with powdery beaches and crystal-clear waters. Known for its coral reefs and abundant marine life, it is one of the best snorkelling and diving spots in Malaysia. The journey may take longer, but the reward is unforgettable. On the mainland, the Crystal Mosque, built of glass and steel, is a stunning modern landmark that should not be missed.
Kuantan
(260 km from Kuala Lumpur, about 3 hours’ drive)
Kuantan is Pahang’s coastal jewel, perfect for a relaxed seaside escape. Cherating Beach attracts surfers and nature lovers, while Sungai Pandan Waterfall is a favourite spot for families who enjoy swimming beneath cascading waters. The town balances eco-adventures with laid-back coastal living, making it a versatile destination for both short trips and longer stays.
Central Highlands: Genting and Cameron
Genting Highlands
(60 km from Kuala Lumpur, about 1 hour’s drive)
Easily the quickest highland escape, Genting Highlands combines entertainment with cool weather. The journey itself is part of the fun, especially the Genting Skyway cable car ride that glides above the rainforest canopy. Once at the top, visitors enjoy a mix of casinos, live shows, shopping malls, and theme parks, all set against refreshing mountain air.
Cameron Highlands
(200 km from Kuala Lumpur, around 3 hours’ drive)
Cameron Highlands is a retreat into rolling hills blanketed with tea plantations. A visit to Boh Tea Plantation offers not just fresh tea but also views across endless green terraces. The Mossy Forest adds a touch of mystery, with mist-covered trails and unique plant life. Combined with strawberry farms, flower gardens, and a cool climate, Cameron Highlands remains one of Malaysia’s most beloved road trip destinations.
Insider Spots Worth Considering
Beyond these well-known journeys, there are plenty of insider spots that seasoned travellers recommend. Perlis, Malaysia’s smallest state, charms visitors with its limestone caves and weekend border markets. On the east coast, Kota Bharu is rich with waterfalls and cultural attractions such as handicraft villages and bustling bazaars. Closer to Kuala Lumpur, Kuala Selangor offers the magical experience of firefly boat rides and the shimmering Sky Mirror phenomenon. These places may not always appear on every list, but they reward those who go a little further.
Travel Tips and Why Choose Hertz
Before setting off, ensure your Touch ’n Go card is topped up for tolls and plan fuel stops if you are heading into rural areas. If you are driving an electric vehicle, Malaysia now has an expanding network of charging stations, though it is always best to map out charging points in advance. Navigation apps like Waze and Google Maps provide real-time updates to help avoid traffic and find alternative routes when needed.
Hertz Malaysia makes every road trip easier with a wide choice of vehicles, from compact cars to spacious SUVs and electric options for eco-conscious travellers. With convenient airport pick-ups, comprehensive insurance, and a fleet maintained to international standards, you can enjoy your journey with confidence, knowing Hertz has taken care of the details.
Final Thoughts
Road trips in Malaysia combine the excitement of travel with the joy of discovery. From the lively food streets of Penang to the misty trails of Cameron Highlands, each journey brings its own rewards. With Hertz Malaysia, you can take these trips in comfort and peace of mind, exploring the country at your own pace and creating stories worth sharing.
