Matahari Cycle Tours & Travel Sdn. Bhd., George Town

I decided I wanted to do a tour with Matahari based on the stellar reviews, and I was not disappointed. SJ organized a slightly adapted tour for me and just one other traveler and cycled with us through much of the southeast of Penang island, taking us through beautiful nature and explaining all the questions we had about rural Malay life. We had the most amazing lunch provided and I really felt I went off the beaten path. Would totally recommend!

On the basis of an excellent experience with Matahari in 2018 I booked 1 night, 2 day tour that took me through parts of Penang, Kedah and Perak. My host and cycling partner was SJ, founder of Matahari. SJ over the years has built up many connections with local people and enterprises. My favourites were the salted egg workshop, the boat building yard and the charcoal ovens. We cycled through Chinese villages in full celebration of Hokkien Chinese New Year. SJ shares his wide knowledge of local flora and fauna and culture. He always ensures clients’ safety pointing out holes or obstacles on the road and making sure you are hydrated. He is a listener and accommodated my wish to visit a particular museum, honoured my ice cream Sunday and kept his eyes open for a coconut water stall. I had asked that we speak only in Malay during the trip. He helped me to say things more correctly. The accommodation at the ATV Adventure camp was my first experience with glamping. The people there were so friendly. This tour has fueled my memories and highly recommend Matahari.