Joanna James
Located on the southeastern coast of Johor in Malaysia, Desaru is a vacationer’s paradise that will keep you entertained with several unique experiences. Whether you’re travelling alone or with your family, here are 5 of the most interesting adventures you can enjoy during your stay in this tropical haven.
Malaysia is known for its rich agricultural heritage and one of the best ways to explore this is by touring the Desaru Fruit Farm. Extending across 180 acres, this agrotourism destination takes visitors on a deep dive into the realm of fruits - their colourful varieties, benefits and even eco-friendly farming methods. Anyone staying at the nearby Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas will have easy opportunities to visit the farm and be part of a guided tour across the various herbal, vegetable and fruit gardens. Families can also visit the in-house petting zoo or enjoy a farm-to-table dining experience which features fresh produce.
The nearby Johor River is a rare breeding ground for fireflies and regularly features a mesmerising spectacle of lights straight from a fairytale. You can witness this beautiful natural phenomenon at the Kota Tinggi Firefly Park near the river. Once there, you can hop on a boat for a scenic ride along the river to experience the swarm of fireflies that light up the riverbanks. You’ll be accompanied by experienced guides who explain the intricate firefly ecosystem. The best time to enjoy a firefly spectacle is at night, particularly when the sky is clear for better visibility.
If you want to stay cool on a hot day, visiting the Adventure Waterpark where you can spend your afternoon is one of the best things to do in Desaru, Johor. Featuring the charming backdrop of a nearby Malaysian fishing village, this massive aquatic park is perfect for a family outing. It can accommodate around 12,000 guests and features more than 20 exhilarating rides and intriguing attractions. Whether you want to experience an adrenaline rush in the water or stay dry while still having plenty of fun, the waterpark has something for everyone.
Apart from its nature-based attractions Johor also carries remnants of the past, most notably at the Jomis Old Jetty in Sungai Rengit. The jetty was once a busy hub but now only features a series of steel pillar structures that stretch out into the sea. These ancient pillars now stand as the only testament to the site’s once-vibrant atmosphere, while evoking a sense of mythology and fantasy as they stand still against the lapping waves. Don’t forget to bring a camera when you visit the site, as plenty of photo opportunities await you at this tranquil spot.
If you’re the daring kind who likes to get up close for some thrilling encounters, you shouldn’t miss the chance to visit the Teluk Sengat Crocodile Farm, the largest crocodile farm in Malaysia. Home to more than 1000 saltwater crocodiles of varying ages and sizes, the farm features various curated natural habitats designed to provide a haven for these predators. As you tour the farm, you can learn of its history which dates back to the 1950s and the importance of crocodile conservation efforts.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
