Tioman Things to Do

Being a nature reserve fringed by beautiful, quiet beaches and laid-back fishing villages, Tioman Island is most well-known for its first-class dive sites consisting of a diverse array of marine life as well as fascinating shipwrecks. Aside from the excellent snorkelling and diving opportunities, there are a whole bunch of exciting and pleasurable activities and things to do Tioman that are above the water.

Hiking and trekking

The island is shrouded in luscious rainforests that are home to an assortment of tropical wildlife, such as monitor lizards, monkeys, mouse deer, fruit bats, birds, red giant flying squirrel, walking catfish and butterflies. Lying within the fertile jungles and wild-growing flowers, are various hiking trails that are ideal for those who want to get up close and personal with the fauna and flora that make up the island.

Two of the more popular jungle treks are from Tekek to Juara, which takes around 2 hours from start to finish; as well as the trek from Tekek to Monkey Bay. Waterfalls are also here in abundance, making the sweaty treks through the tropical foliage all the more rewarding and have even been featured in the 1958 film, South Pacific. Be sure to check out Mukut Waterfall and Tioman’s biggest waterfall, Asah Waterfall during your visit.

Rock climbing

Calling all adrenaline junkies! Rock climbing has become a popular and thrilling activity for those who like adventure here in Tioman and the rocky landscape caters to this need by tailoring the adventurous pastime to climbers of all levels.

Novice rock climbers can test their mettle at several rock-climbing sites around the island, while more advanced climbers can try their hand at the five-day climb to the mist-capped summit of the Twin Peaks, known by Tioman’s sailors as the Dragon Horns.

Beginner climbers can practice at the base of these Twin Peaks while those attempting to reach the summit will face dizzying heights and unpredictable weather conditions. Petit Climbing Centre offers a two night, three day package which includes accommodation, equipment, food, guides, porters as well as boat transfers to and from Mersing Jetty for MYR 1200 per person.

Turtle hatchery

For those who long to do something truly unique and memorable, Juara Turtle Hatchery is definitely a must-visit during your stay on the island. Tioman Island is world renowned for its marbled-shelled beauties and this is the perfect way to interact with them in a gentle, ethical and natural manner.

The hatchery aims to conserve, research and educate locals and visitors about the needs of the turtles, as well as the threats posed to their existence. Visitors can volunteer on the project by assisting in the protection of the eggs, nests and habitats; collect data and compile research; as well as release the beautiful, scrambling hatchlings into the ocean. The project requires volunteers especially during mid-March until the end of October but there are other activities and areas that welcome year-round support and assistance.

Fishing

Fishing trips are also a fun activity to engage in whilst in Tioman; and not only will this pastime provide you with a tasty dinner, but it will also give you a chance to authentically connect with the native villagers and experience the local culture and traditions. From Dorado, barracuda, mackerel, queen-fish, snapper fish and even marlin; the teeming seas surrounding Tioman will delight those who fancy this type of outdoorsy activity. Visitors can bring along their own fishing gear should they wish but the local fishermen, boatmen and anglers are more than happy to rent out their fishing equipment for the day.

Marine park museum

Just opposite the Marine Park at the end of Tekek, north of the jetty, lies the Marine Park Museum with its educational and colourful displays informing visitors about the various marine species in Tioman as well as efforts to conserve and preserve the seas surrounding the island. This is a wonderful spot for little ones, families and those wishing to learn more about life below the waves. The three-levelled, air-con venue is also a good spot to beat and as an added bonus, entry is completely free.