This school holiday, ditch the traffic jams, shopping mall crowds, and screen time. Instead, pack your bags, hop on a bus, and treat your family to a getaway that’s as enriching as it is relaxing. These family-friendly eco destinations across Malaysia aren’t just about being in nature they’re about learning from it.
Each destination offers a hands-on look at how communities live sustainably, care for the environment, and preserve cultural heritage. It’s a green education for kids and a much-needed breather for parents. Even better? These places are all easily accessible from major bus terminals, with the last stretch doable by e-hailing or local transfer.
Travel smarter, tread lighter, and make memories that matter one bus ride at a time.
1. The Dusun, Seremban, Negeri Sembilan
Nearest Bus Stop: Terminal 1 Seremban (~15km away)
Nestled in the lush foothills of the Berembun Forest Reserve, The Dusun is a family-run eco-retreat where nature and sustainability go hand in hand. The villas are designed to blend into the landscape, offering stunning rainforest views and a peaceful escape from city life.
The founders live on-site and have built strong ties with nearby communities. Guests can explore jungle trails, visit the deer enclosure and chicken coop, or enjoy a traditional massage. It’s the perfect introduction to low-impact living, with composting, plastic-free policies, and community support at its core.
2. Kampungstay Desa Murni, Temerloh, Pahang
Nearest Bus Stop: Temerloh Bus Terminal (~14km away)
Looking to give your kids a taste of kampung life? Kampungstay Desa Murni is a modern homestay rooted in tradition and community spirit. This was Malaysia’s first registered homestay programme back in 1995, and today, over 40 households still welcome guests with genuine hospitality.
Accommodations offer a mix of rustic charm and modern amenities (yes, there’s Wi-Fi). Families can enjoy hands-on activities like batik painting, fishing, and guided village walks, or unwind with a kampung-style sauna or cupping therapy session. It’s a cultural experience that supports the local economy and leaves a lasting impression.
3. Kelabit Highlands, Sarawak
Nearest Bus Stop: Miri Sentral (then flight to Bario)
For those who crave adventure and cool mountain air, head to the Kelabit Highlands in Sarawak. Bario, the main gateway, sits over 1,000 metres above sea level and offers a peaceful retreat surrounded by lush valleys and indigenous culture.
Stay in a traditional longhouse or eco-friendly lodge like Labang Longhouse Lodge, where you’ll enjoy hearty local meals and Kelabit hospitality. Activities include treks to waterfalls, salt-making demonstrations, and cultural performances. It’s an unforgettable way for children to explore a different way of life—and for families to unplug from the digital world.
4. Kuala Sepetang, Taiping, Perak
Nearest Bus Stop: Simpang Taiping Bus Station (~11km away)
A charming fishing village once known as Port Weld, Kuala Sepetang is a hidden gem perfect for eco-curious families. Explore one of the country’s best-managed mangrove forests on a river cruise, or take an educational tour to learn about the local ecosystem.
Kids will be fascinated by the traditional charcoal kilns still in use today living proof of sustainable craftsmanship passed down through generations. Stick around for sunset and catch the fireflies lighting up the riverbanks. It’s nature’s magic show, and it never gets old.
5. Tanah Aina Fahad, Raub, Pahang
Nearest Bus Stop: Raub Bus Terminal (~32km away)
Tucked into the Pahang rainforest, Tanah Aina Fahad is an eco-resort that lets families reconnect with nature in style. With options ranging from tented stays to terrace rooms, there’s something for every comfort level.
Your days here will be filled with nature-driven activities, think jungle treks, waterfall visits, and birdwatching. Kids can explore forest trails at their own pace, while parents unwind to the sounds of the river and enjoy organic meals prepared on-site. It’s a wholesome, screen-free escape for the whole family.
Bonus Tip: Travel Light, Travel Green
All these destinations are within reach via bus travel an easy, affordable, and eco-friendly way to explore Malaysia. Most bus terminals connect seamlessly with e-hailing services or local transfers, so you can leave the car behind and reduce your carbon footprint to these family-friendly eco destinations .
Planning your trip? Book your bus tickets with redBus and enjoy a greener, smarter travel experience. Use code MYNEW to get 30% instant discount (up to RM9) and 30% cashback (up to RM16) within one hour of booking.
Ready to go green this school holiday?
Whether you’re trekking through misty highlands, soaking in village life, or watching fireflies dance on a riverbank, these eco escapes promise more than just rest they offer reconnection. With the planet, with culture, and most importantly, with each other.
