Discovering Southeast Asia

Arrival in Penang and meeting with the tour leader. If time permits, take the opportunity to explore the city’s fascinating cultural heritage. This former British colony boasts an exotic blend of Malay, Indian, Chinese and European influences, reflected in its people, architecture and, above all, its outstanding cuisine.

Leaving Malaysia behind, you will take a short flight to Medan, on the Indonesian island of Sumatra, across the Strait of Malacca. Here you can visit the Grand Mosque or simply relax and soak up the city’s lively atmosphere (flights are not included and can be arranged during the trip). You will then discover Sumatra’s lush rainforest, one of the richest and most fascinating ecosystems on the planet. Continuing inland, you will reach Lake Danau Toba, homeland of the Batak people, with Samosir Island at its centre. A wide range of activities is available here, from cycling or motorbike exploration to swimming and trekking, as well as Indonesian cooking classes—along with the simple pleasure of admiring breathtaking scenery and immersing yourself in Batak culture.

Wildlife in this region is incredibly abundant, but the main highlight of the next stop is the orangutans of Bukit Lawang, deep in the Sumatran jungle. During your visit, you will have the chance to observe these remarkable animals up close and, if you wish, join a jungle trek in the hope of spotting them in their natural habitat. Gunung Leuser National Park and its surrounding areas offer much more as well, from exploring the “bat cave” to guided day hikes or multi-day treks in search of wild orangutans and the many other primate species and large mammals that inhabit the park.

Returning to Malaysia, you will have time to explore Georgetown on Penang Island, a captivating town where you can stroll among crumbling colonial buildings and admire vibrant street art. From Penang, you will cross the Malaysian peninsula to reach another tropical paradise: the famous Perhentian Islands, a true haven for snorkelling and diving enthusiasts. After three nights of pure relaxation, you will head back to the big city—Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia’s capital and one of Southeast Asia’s most important economic hubs. This dynamic, multicultural metropolis perfectly reflects the soul of the country, with neighbourhoods and districts shaped by the many cultures that have influenced Malaysia, while also looking confidently towards the future of a rapidly developing nation. After two nights in Kuala Lumpur, you will travel south to the final Malaysian stop of the journey: Melaka. Once a strategic trading port, this charming city preserves a unique heritage born of Malay, Portuguese, Dutch and British influences. You can explore its history by visiting its landmarks or enjoying a river cruise.

Singapore, the final stop, is one of Asia’s most vibrant and prosperous metropolises, an ideal place to spend a few days immersed in discovery, modernity and tradition. In true adventure spirit, you will gather at the legendary Long Bar of the Raffles Hotel to toast the journey with a Singapore Sling and relive the experiences and emotions shared along the way.