Suitable for a half-day trip, Pulau Harimau, which literally means Tiger Island, is located off east coast of Mersing district, Johor.
The island is a hidden treasure in Malaysia where most of the residents wouldn’t have been here throughout their lifetime.
It has successfully retained its purity and pristine nature and hence, it offers maximum serenity and tranquillity to visitors.
What are you waiting for?
This interesting and charming island is now waiting for you to discover it from top to bottom.
Why Stay in Pulau Harimau?
Looking down from high up the sky, the landscape of this island looks like a tiger in the middle of the ocean. And that’s why Pulau Harimau got its name.
There is no sign of pollution on this island. The water is so clear that you can see fishes and reefs right from the water’s surface.
Pulau Harimau is not a famous tourist destination but amongst the most elegant islands you can ever find in Malaysia, there is no doubt that Pulau Harimau is one of them.
If you ask around those who has been there, no one will tell you how undeveloped and backward the island is. Nevertheless, they’ll tell you this amazing and stunning island is definitely worth the trip and you know where your next vacation destination is.
How to Get to Pulau Harimau
Only boat transfer from Mersing Jetty will take you to Pulau Harimau. You’ll need to arrange road transfer to Mersing Jetty by your own.
There are a few scheduled boat transfer daily but all of them depend on tidal condition. Tickets can be bought at the counter.
There are direct coach services available daily. You can book your tickets right after checking the Singapore-Mersing bus schedules online. Normally the bus leaves early in the morning. More info: https://causewaylink.com.my/express-bus#tab_jbms
It’s a whole new world right after you travel through the giant cavern of Pulau Harimau. You’ll be greeted by a natural private pool with turquoise water and here you can enjoy swimming and floating around aimlessly.
On the other side of the island is white sandy beach and the view of the clear blue sky and dazzling ocean is extremely stunning. Don’t forget to take pictures of this amazing view.
There is a staircase heading up to the lighthouse that is opened for visitors. At the lighthouse you can enjoy overlooking down and take in wonderful views of the island’s unique landscape.
Pulau Harimau is the paradise for divers as the turquoise water has high clarity. Go for scuba diving and snorkelling when you reach here. There are numerous cute fishes and coral reefs waiting for you to get close with them.
Where to Stay in Pulau Harimau
This uninhabited and deserted island has no resort at all. The nearest resorts are Alang’s Rawa Resort and Rawa Island Resort located on the nearby island, Rawa Island. These resorts provide island hopping to Pulau Harimau as well.
April to September would be the best months to visit Pulau Harimau as the weather is good and the coast is clear for snorkelling, scuba diving and many other interesting activities. If you’re fortunate, you even get the chances to see seasonal fishes swimming in the warm water.
Avoid visiting Pulau Harimau when monsoon wind blows, which probably falls between December to February. Rainy days and rough sea could totally ruin your holiday mood because it’s too dangerous to go for any activities. Even worse, there are very few ferries or boat to take you there too.
Located 16km off the east coast of Johor, Pulau Rawa is a private and secluded island possessed by Johor Sultanate.
Besides well-known for extremely white fine sands on the beach, the island is surrounded by mesmerising coral reefs that can be explored through snorkeling.
The interior of Pulau Rawa is covered completely with lush tropical rainforest, which is still the most mysterious and attracting part of it.
Sunbathe, snorkel, dive, swim and walk, Pulau Rawa is able to make your ideal vacation becomes real.
Why Stay in Pulau Rawa?
Looking for a short weekend getaways from Singapore? Pulau Rawa not only offering a peaceful and quiet environment all day long is but also perfect for the world of two but also family holidays, friends gatherings and even corporate retreats.
The island is unspoiled for its little development. Thus, it has all that a pristine island should have, whether it be clear water, clean environment or swaying palm trees.
There are hammocks around that visitors can relax and enjoy the beautiful sight of the island.
Take advantage in the relaxing and exciting beach activities around.
Also, try your best to immerse yourself in this whole new world so that you can escape from daily busy life. After regenerating strength for a few days, you’ll be vigor returning to normal life.
At their legendary night (Saturday night), BBQ dinner with a wide array of delicious seafood and exquisite taste will be served to satisfy your appetite.
It’s also a party night that serves cocktails and you can see people dancing and chit-chatting all night long.
How to Get to Pulau Rawa
Pulau Rawa is easily accessible from Singapore. It requires road transfer from Singapore to Mersing jetty and another boat transfer from the jetty to the island.
Step 1: Land Transfer
The land transfer can be divided into two ways:
1.1 Singapore To Mersing Jetty By Bus
This is the cheapest ride but a bit hassle and slower as you need to clear the customs if you’re from Singapore. Several buses offer direct transfer to Mersing daily.
The fare costs ranging from SGD$30 to SGD$36.50 per way and the most common pick-up point would be Golden Mile Complex.
For more detailed information, check the bus schedules online: busonlineticket.com
1.2 Singapore To Mersing Jetty By Private Car
Good news to those who are traveling in a large group. Being the leading private car company in Malaysia, SGMYTAXI is offering direct transfer services to Mersing Jetty at the customized pick-up point.
Aimed at providing utmost comfort, their luxury fleets can accommodate up to 7 passengers together with their luggage. You need not to clear the customs and the driver can even drop you off at any places for some drinks. Online booking is available at SGMYTAXI.com.
You don’t need to buy a ticket for boat transfer, normally the rates are included in both Rawa Island resorts package, the resort you plan to stay will arrange it for you.
Be prepared that the boat might be delayed due to unfavourable tidal conditions. You may shop around while waiting for the arrival of the boat.
What to Do in Pulau Rawa
Fill your vacation moments fun with thrilling water sports and beach activities. You’ll need a longer stay if you plan to experience all the activities offered in Pulau Rawa.
1. Snorkeling at Pulau Rawa
Get ready for a fantastic adventure that can be enjoyed for the whole family. In this watery wonderland, you’ll be surrounded by magnificent marine life and you are able to explore them closely.
2. Hiking at Pulau Rawa
There are trails built for visitors to explore the island. The trail that leads to the hilltop offers panoramic views of island and its surrounding ocean. This 40 minutes adventure will definitely bring you closer to nature.
3. Island Hopping near Pulau Rawa
All the islands nearby such as Pulau Harimau and Pulau Mensirip have a unique history and beautiful parts that worth exploring.
You can also have a picnic any of the islands you fancy and enjoy the beauty of nature.
4. Kayaking at Pulau Rawa
A kayak trip makes you stay connected with nature in a unique way. Seeing the island from a different angle can be your most memorable adventure on Rawa Island.
Crystal clear water off Rawa Island offers the divers a wonderful diving experience. With the establishment of the dive centre, scuba divers can join their PADI courses that cater to different diving levels.
6. Beach Volleyball at Rawa Island
Beach volleyball is a fun game that can play for hours and not even realizing it.
Besides bringing health benefits, it keeps everyone involved in the game and you can even make new friends!
7. Relax on The Rawa Island’s Beach
The white sandy beach beckons sandcastle-builders and sunbathers to relax and have some fun.
Strolling along the beach and take in the stunning sunset can melt all your stress immediately. Hammocks are available around for relaxation too.
8. Water Slides at Rawa Island
There are 2 slides around and both will get you to end up splashing into the sea. The blue straight slide is suitable for those who fear height.
And for the orange slices, it’s higher and you will enjoy twists and turns while gliding down the slides.
Where to Stay in Pulau Rawa
In this peaceful island boasts only 2 beautiful resorts and both of them are renowned for providing outstanding customer services.
1. Alang’s Rawa Resort
By providing warm hospitality, the resort is proud of receiving many return guests each year. It’s often rated a sweet and caring resort rather than luxury and big.
Offering great deals packages that include accommodation, all meals, and even boat transfers, Alang’s Rawa Resort aims at convenient their guests and make billing as simple as they can.
All the rooms are elegant and comfortable and each of them boasts excellent views of the blue sea.
At the adjoining restaurant, Rawa Special Fish is their highlight dishes. They also create a comprehensive menu that could fulfill the wide range of needs of their guests.
You can go to any water sports while staying here. The resort offers free snorkels, snorkel masks, and kayaks. All you need to do deposit RM50 per equipment and enjoy your day!
2. Rawa Island Resort
Rawa Island Resort is a warm and big resort enveloped in the natural beauty of Rawa Island. They have well-trained staff to make your stay comfortable and fill with enjoyment.
Photo credits: rawaislandresort.com
For accommodation, the resort caters to different traveling groups such as families, couples, group of friends and even single travelers. Modern facilities and amenities are well-equipped to ensure a pleasant stay.
Offering a wide range of water sports and beach activities, the resort lets you choose your ideal ways to enjoy Rawa Island to the fullest. You can also indulge in their spa that offers Thai massages for complete relaxation.
Please take note visitors are prohibited from littering and taking any marine life home, even if it’s dead because the island is a preserved area.
Front Office Address: Rawa Island Resort, Tourist Centre, Jalan Abu Bakar, 86800 Mersing, Johor, Malaysia.
Phone: +607 – 799 1204 / +607 – 799 1205
Pulau Rawa Map
When is The Best Time to Visit Pulau Rawa
The island is closed during monsoon season (October to February). This is due to strong winds blow and rough sea may cause harm and danger to the visitors. Hence, travel within this period may lead to disappointment.
To get the best sunny days with bright sunshine, plan your visit between April to September especially during June and July. The weather, water, and everything is great for water sports!
Travel Tips to Rawa Island
Bring only cash as you cannot use the debit card and the credit card here.
Forget to draw some cash? No worry as ATM is available at the Mersing jetty.
Bring medicines along as no hospital and clinic is built here.
Do not travel during monsoon season. It will ruin your vacation.
Boat transfers are always included in travel packages.
7 Best Glamping In Malaysia. Would you like to go camping where you do not have to look for a suitable spot, or to waste your first hour pitching tents and wondering where the bathroom is?
Then, you should try glamping! Short from ‘glam camping’.
You can now experience the essence of camping, but well within your comfort zone.
Some of the world’s most exclusive glamping sites are accessible across Malaysia.
Glamping allows you to experience nature as if you are truly camping, with a touch of luxury and ease.
Experience glamping: your new way of camping.
Gamping that comes with luxury additions to what most people understand camping to be.
And today’s post, I’m going to share with you the 7 famous glamping sites in Malaysia where you can enjoy the comforts of home.
1. Caravan Serai, Pahang (Best Glamping In Malaysia)
Caravan Serai is one of the leading glamping sites in all of Asia. It competes favorably with other top glamping sites in wider Asia and Australia. It is a fantastic location in Pahang Darul Makmur, only a fifteen minutes’ drive from Bentong town.
Also read: 7 Awesome Waterpark To Visit In Johor
It is only 45 minutes by road from Kuala Lumpur. The site, deep inside a natural forest is a favorite among people who like to have a good dose of luxury when they are out of the trodden path and camping somewhere surrounded by nature. Apart from the forest, there are fruit orchards, lovely hills and rivers that flow with the slow and grace pace of the exclusive place.
Here you will receive the authentic Malaysian hospitality at its best in this secluded location where you can have the perfect getaway with family and friends, or a retreat for lovers in need of a great place to have some time alone to bond and relax.
Accommodation
There are two main types of accommodation here:
Deluxe Safari Tent: In this tent, you will find a comfortable Queen sized bed, air-conditioning, basic and functional furniture and standing fans. A bathroom is also attached to your tent.
Caravan Suite: This is a suite you will be hard pressed to believe that it is in a jungle. It comes with a King Size bed and the necessary high quality beddings; it has attached to it a carpeted living room and a modern bathroom with all amenities including hot water heaters. The suite face natural features and the luxury here is unequalled.
What to do
The site has a fully functional restaurant which can sit 130 comfortably. Here you will have delicious Malaysian dishes as well as an international menu.
Nature walks
Team building
Treasure hunting
ATV (All-Terrain Vehicle) rides
Karaoke
Volleyball and many other activities.
Caravan Serai, Pahang
Address: Lot 3159 & 3160, 12 ¾ Mile Jalan Tras, 28700 Bentong Town, Pahang, Malaysia.
Contact: +603-7972 3655
2. Canopy Tribes, Johor
Would you like to experience the magical outdoors of Malaysia in a tented camp where you do not have to pitch a tent yourself, or generally have to go through all the rigors of setting up camp and building a fire?
Canopy Tribes is you ideal location for glamping. Here, you will have your own Bell Tent amid natural surroundings. The camp is set just a few minutes’ walk from the famous Kota Tinggi Waterfall.
The tents are pitched in an unspoiled rainforest where you will find rolling hills, rivers, valleys and an amazing collection of birdlife.
Canopy Tribes is a place where the whole family will have a good time. Even a group of friends or colleagues will have a fun and activity filled retreat here.
The campfire is one that you should not miss for any reason; lots of laughter and the telling of interesting stories is the order of the day. The BBQ will provide the best bush dinner you will probably have in your life, even the children are catered for here.
Accommodation
Accommodation at Canopy Tribes is in large Bell Tents which come with proper lighting, BBQ unit just next to the tent, quality bathrooms and toiletries.
What to do
There is plenty to do at Canopy Tribes. Some of the activities here include:
Evening walks to the lake nestled in the forest, just a short walk away.
Visiting the Kota Tinggi Waterfall, just a short walk away too.
There is cycling
Safe kayaking
Firefly cruise
Fishing
Hiking
Nature walks
Bird watching at the Panti Bird Sanctuary
Visiting local orchards and sampling fresh tropical fruits
Visit the Ostrich farm nearby
Visit a crocodile farm with plenty of crocodiles
Canopy Tribes, Johor
Address: 7815, Jln Lombong, Batu 8 (3km before the Kota Tinggi Waterfall), 81900 Kota Tinggi, Johor, Malaysia.
Contact: +6018-786 5152 / +6019-733 9866 / +607-244 3788
The air is always cool, fresh and crisp all year round. This is because the resort is set right on Malaysia’s Titiwangsa Mountain Range which is a good 600m above sea level.
The mountain air is purified by the mountain breeze which rustles through the tropical rainforest, unadulterated by man for eons and eons. The area boasts a rich collection of flora and fauna.
Image credits: sailorrest.com
The birdlife here is an ornithologist’s paradise. It is the perfect place to seek refuge from the stressful city life, especially if you are coming from the coastal cities where the sun can be really hot.
The resort is only an hour’s drive from Kuala Lumpur to the Northeast. You will use the E9 highway out of town, on to the Lebuhraya Kuala Lumpur to Gua Musang/E8 and the on to Route 68 at Kampung Bukit Tinggi. Take the exit to Janda Baik. From there it is just a short drive to the result.
Image credits: sailorrest.com
Accommodation
For glamping purposes, there is a camping site right within the resort where you can have a fabulous time with your friends or family in a unique outdoorsy atmosphere.
You will find quality tents equipped with good firm mattresses together with warm and cozy comforters. In the section you will find clean toilets and hot shower facilities.
For those not inclined to glamping, there are chalets and a bungalow where you can spend the night.
What to do
Trekking to the Waterfall: A fun filled activity that takes about 40 minutes. Enroute, you will have breathtaking views of the mountain ranges. You can also opt to pass through the traditional village of Orang Asli via a longer route for the more ‘outdoor’ people.
The river walk: Take a walk on the river by stepping over the rocks and negotiating the easy rapids. Good for adult and teen exercise.
River bathing: The shallow pools and slow flowing river and gentle rapids make for a great day at the river. An illuminated night bath is something you will remember for a lifetime.
More: Plenty of other fun and games for both adults and kids.
Sailor’s Rest Resort, Janda Baik
Address: Lot 8592, Lorong Dato Panglima, Kg. Sg. Lurau, Janda Baik, 28750 Bentong, Pahang, Malaysia.
Contact: +6012-360 9227 (Hashim)
4. Japamala Resort, Tioman Island
In Pahang, Malaysia, the state to the east of the peninsula lies the Tioman Island. It is an inhabited island that sits 32km from the coast. The tropical island is 20 km from north to south with an average width of 12 km.
Here, you will find Japamala Resorts, a fine tropical and seaside island resort. Here, you will be free of the hustles of the city. You will find the best glamping accommodation and fun-filled activities to add to the enjoyment of this fine resort.
To get to Tioman Island, you will take a taxi from either Singapore or Johor Bahru and travel northeast to Mersing or from Kuala Lumpur to Mersing to the southeast. From the Mersing coast, you will take a boat ride to Japamala Resorts which are on the west coast of the islands.
Accommodation
Your sleeping and living quarters here will be something out of this world, literally! This is because your chalets will be high above the lush jungle below, perched on trees. Oh, the breeze, the sea views, the birds chirping and the crickets singing all night long! Wonders of nature. This is what awaits you at your choice island glamping resort.
What to do
This is one glamping site where you will never suffer from boredom. There is so much to do. Some of the activities you will find here include:
Japamala Resort, Tioman Island
Address: Japamala Resorts, Kampung Lanting, 86800 Pulau Tioman, Pahang, Malaysia.
Contact: +609-419 7777
5. Tanah Aina Faha in Ulu Dong, Raub, Pahang
Tanah Aina Fahad is a resort deep in the jungle near the famous waterfalls of Lata Jaram. It is a good place to relax and enjoy the lush green forests, waterfalls and the rivers. Nature lovers will find a paradise here as there is so much to see and do.
Just 21/2 hours from Kuala Lumpur by road, you will enjoy the great scenery from the forests and the mountains. Be sure to carry your camera because the picturesque drive to Raub is one you will want to remember for a long time.
The resort is a mixed resort with different sections for different accommodation plans. The glamping section is the best for nature lovers as you will be fully in touch with nature.
What welcomes you here is the gentle roar of the driver rushing downstream and to think that you will have your fabulous tent just close by is quite intriguing.
With water insects hopping about and the numerous birds flying around and chirping happily, your retreat will be complete.
Being high from the sea level, the air is cool and fresh all year round. The treks into the jungle and river hikes will do you a lot of good too.
Accommodation
At Tanah Aina Fahad, the glamping section features luxury tents with basic amenities. They are comfortable and warm at night. Outside, the views of Sungai Dong dominate your skyline. With the river just next to you, the setting could not be better thought out.
What to do
A nature walk is what you will have the moment you step out of the tent. There is a lot to see in terms of the flora and fauna.
Jungle trekking
Camp fires
Leap of faith games
Waterfall visits
Swimming
Picnicking
Live bands
Tanah Aina Fahad in Ulu Dong, Raub, Pahang
Contact (9:00am-6:00pm): +6016-609 0493 (Ms. Juliet) / +6016-215 9252 (Hannah)
6. Walai Penyu Resort, Sabah
For the lovers of ecotourism, you have a place to go glamping now. This is at the Walai Penyu Resort, Sabah. Of prime ecological importance of this island is the hatching of endangered turtle eggs. Thousands of turtles land here to lay their eggs.
It is a spectacle that all nature lovers will cherish for life. The staff at the resort can make arrangements for you to go watch the turtles. You can even help to release the hatchlings to the sea and you will have played your part in making this world a better place.
About 24km from Sandakan Airport is where the resort is. The beaches are pristine; the weather nicely hot apart from the monsoon season when the resort is closed.
The area is just like the famed south pacific islands full of sun, sand and romance. Sip your drinks at the terrace, or feel the soft sand under your toes, you will relax and recharge fully by the time your vacation comes to an end.
Accommodation
The tents at Walai Penyu Resort are clean, well-organized and close to the ocean. The hum of the waves as the tide comes in will calm you as will the breeze from the sea. Your tent will have clean linen at all times, bottled water and basic furniture. The bathrooms are shared and hot showers are available at all time.
What to do
Lots of swimming
Snorkelling
Beach Walks
Beachcombing
Turtle watching
Sunbathing Eco-tours in the hinterlands
7. Tadom Hill Resorts, Selangor
It is hard to believe but it is true that within ten minutes of leaving the Kuala Lumpur International Airport, you will find yourself in a tranquil resort where you will be one with nature.
Tadom Hill Resort in Selangor offers some of the best glamping you can find in Malaysia. The resort is only ¾ of an hour from Kuala Lumpur city.
The resort is set in an idyllic location; forty acres of natural space with forest, lakes, rivers and imposing limestone hills. Nature walks here are nothing you have experienced in the areas near Kuala Lumpur and beyond.
This resort is self-sustaining ecologically. You will find that all the structures are made from bamboo harvested in the resort. Bamboo grows fast and so there is always bamboo to harvest at all times.
Accommodation
Garden Tent Site: Uniquely designed tents to kame an elegant camping
Hammock Spheres: Relax your body on hammocks made from parachute material as cool air wafts in from the sides and starlight shines through the skylight
Lakeside Tent Site: Comfortable tents set high overlooking a tranquil lake.
Bamboo Glamp: This is an ongoing expansion program expected to be complete by the last quarter of 2016. It will include some tastefully designed bamboo chalets for the ultimate glamping experience.
What to do
The Tadom Groove: A man-made recreational area where there are live shows and a fully functioning bistro.
Diving
Swimming
Water and Tarzan swings and many more activities.
Tadom Hill Resorts, Selangor
Address: Bukit Tadom, Kampung Labohan Dagang, 42700 Banting, Selangor, Malaysia.
Contact: +6012-522 5728 / +6012-522 5908 / +6012-522 5883
But.. What If You Don’t Want To Take Public Transport?
Getting to all the glamping sites will need transport, even where the journey will be completed by boat.
To enjoy these trips to the fullest, you will need to find a transport service that will fit into your program and not you fitting yourself to their schedules.
This is the reason why you need to hire a private taxi to Malaysia from Singapore from SGMYTAXI.
7 to 10 seaters MPV vehicle, spacious for a family or a group of friends plus their luggage.
You can stop anywhere you want for refreshments, lunch, photos or just to take in the scenery during trip Bus only stop at scheduled places.
Moreover, if you are going glamping from Singapore, you will not need to leave your car for immigration and customs processing. All these will be done with you seated right in the car.
Drivers are well trained and they are dedicated to keeping their customers satisfied all the time.
This is the reason why you need to hire a 
