4 day itinerary for Tawau

Itinerary

Tawau is a hidden gem in Malaysia, known for its beautiful nature, rich culture, and delicious food. Here’s a fun and engaging 4-day itinerary that will help you make the most of your time there!

## Day 1: Arrival and Local Exploration

Morning:

• Arrival in Tawau: Welcome to Tawau! Check into your hotel and freshen up.
• Breakfast: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café. Try the nasi lemak or roti canai with a cup of local coffee.

Midday:

• Tawau Market: Head to the Tawau Central Market. It’s a vibrant place where you can find fresh produce, local snacks, and souvenirs. Don’t forget to try some local fruits like durian or rambutan!

Afternoon:

• Lunch: Grab lunch at a nearby eatery. The seafood here is fantastic, so consider trying some grilled fish or prawns.
• Tawau Hills Park: After lunch, take a trip to Tawau Hills Park. Enjoy a leisurely hike through the lush rainforest, and if you’re feeling adventurous, you can trek to the waterfalls.

Evening:

• Dinner: Head back to town and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. Sample some soto Tawau or mee goreng.
• Night Market: If you’re up for it, visit the Tawau Night Market for some street food and local delicacies. It’s a great way to experience the local culture!

## Day 2: Nature and Wildlife

Morning:

• Breakfast: Enjoy breakfast at your hotel or a local café.
• Maliau Basin: Take a day trip to Maliau Basin, often referred to as the "Lost World." It’s a bit of a drive, but the stunning biodiversity and pristine rainforest are worth it!

Midday:

• Lunch: Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy amidst nature or check if there are local eateries nearby.

Afternoon:

• Wildlife Spotting: Spend the afternoon exploring the basin. Keep an eye out for unique wildlife, including orangutans and various bird species.

Evening:

• Return to Tawau: Head back to Tawau and unwind.
• Dinner: Treat yourself to a nice dinner at a seafood restaurant. The grilled squid is a must-try!

## Day 3: Cultural Immersion

Morning:

• Breakfast: Start your day with a local breakfast.
• Visit to the Tawau Chinese Temple: Explore the beautiful architecture and learn about the local Chinese community’s history.

Midday:

• Lunch: Try some local Chinese cuisine at a nearby restaurant. Char kway teow or Hainanese chicken rice would be delicious options!

Afternoon:

• Tawau Museum: Visit the Tawau Museum to learn about the region’s history, culture, and natural heritage. It’s a small but informative place.
• Shopping: Spend some time shopping for local handicrafts and souvenirs.

Evening:

• Dinner: Enjoy a relaxed dinner at a local restaurant. Try the nasi goreng or curry laksa.
• Relax: Take a stroll along the waterfront and enjoy the sunset. It’s a perfect way to end the day!

## Day 4: Island Adventure

Morning:

• Breakfast: Have a filling breakfast to fuel your day.
• ## Day Trip to Sipadan Island: Book a tour to Sipadan Island for some snorkeling or diving. It’s one of the best diving spots in the world!

Midday:

• Lunch: Enjoy a packed lunch on the island or at a local dive resort.

Afternoon:

• Snorkeling/Diving: Spend the afternoon exploring the underwater world. The coral reefs and marine life are absolutely breathtaking!

Evening:

• Return to Tawau: Head back to Tawau and freshen up.
• Farewell Dinner: For your last night, indulge in a special dinner at a nice restaurant. Celebrate your trip with some local delicacies and maybe a drink or two!

Tips:

• Transportation: Consider renting a car for convenience, especially for day trips.
• Local Etiquette: Be respectful of local customs and traditions, especially when visiting places of worship.
• Stay Hydrated: The tropical climate can be hot and humid, so drink plenty of water!

I hope this itinerary helps you have an amazing time in Tawau! Enjoy every moment of your adventure! 🌴✨