Swampy mangroves, extensive river floodplains, dipterocarp rainforests and montane hillscapes are among the varied environments that can exist even within trekking distance of each other. Each possess its own ecosystem and wildlife characteristics.

The tidal mangrove forests act as vital buffers against coastal erosion and as protective breeding and nursery zones for numerous fish and aquatic species.

There are mangrove belts along most of Peninsular Malaysia's west coast as well as in Sabah and Sarawak.

Some such as in Kuala Selangor Nature Park have boardwalks for safety and convenience of visitors.

The most common type of rainforest is the dipterocarp forest. It is one of nature's most complex ecosystems, a habitat for thousands of plant species from tiny lichens to exotic palms, ferns and vines and huge trees rising well over 50m to the heavens. Each has its own functional place in the jungle's cycle of life.

Further up the hills and mountain slopes, montane forest environments take over with their cooler ambience and presenting spectacular views that are well worth the trek.

Jungle trekking can take an hour or more and, with camping, as many days as desired. Among the best periods to go trekking in Peninsula Malaysia is in the 'dry season' from March to September when the rainfall is less. In Sabah and Sarawak the 'wet season' is from July to October.

In many areas, jungle trekking can be combined with other interesting activities such as river expeditions.