Head down to the jetty after sunset, alight into one of the silent electric boats, and glide over the dark river to watch the amazing light show provided by these little luminescent lovelies. While it’s possible to make your way to the small fishing village of Kuala Selangor on your own, many visitors find it convenient to join a guided tour from Kuala Lumpur, which often includes hotel transfer, a boat ride to see the spectacle, and a waterfront seafood dinner. You can also combine the fireflies display with an afternoon visit to Kota Melawati (Fort Altingsburg), where you may be able to spot silvered-leaf monkeys.
The Kuala Selangor fireflies are a must-see for nature lovers and kids.
The use of flash photography is not permitted during firefly tours.
Tours to Kuala Selangor from Kuala Lumpur can last anywhere from four to eight hours, depending on the option you choose.
Most guided fireflies tours include hotel pickup and drop-off in Kuala Lumpur.
Reaching the jetty in Kuala Selangor from which firefly tours depart can be a bit complicated; taking your own car or joining a guided tour make for the most convenient experience. If you visit independently, make sure to arrange your return transportation ahead of time or plan to spend the night in the village.
Kuala Selangor’s fireflies are visible throughout the year thanks to Malaysia’s tropical climate. During the monsoon season, from October to December, be prepared for heavy showers that could disrupt the viewing experience.
Situated off the beaten tourist path, this village at the mouth of the Selangor River maintains a traditional atmosphere that feels worlds away from the big city. The fireflies might be the biggest draw, but there are plenty of other attractions in the area as well, including the 19th-century Bukit Melawati fortress, Sri Shakti Temple, and the outdoor sanctuary of Kuala Selangor Nature Park.