What is Sky Mirror Malaysia?
Twice a month, a hidden sandbar reveals itself at Sasaran Beach along the coast of Selangor. When the tides are right, the shallow waters that envelope the sandbar transform it into a massive mirror that stretches almost as far as the eye can see, reflecting the sky and everything beneath it. This natural phenomenon, known as “Sky Mirror Malaysia”, has also been described as the Salar de Uyuni of Malaysia, a comparison to the famous salt flats of Bolivia where a similar phenomenon can be seen. So why head as far as South America, when you can experience it right here in Malaysia?
The phenomenon of the Sky Mirror has made it the perfect spot for amazing and creative photographs, drawing many tourists and professional photographers to its picturesque views.
How do you get there?
The Sky Mirror is located at Kuala Selangor, and only an hour’s drive from the city to the jetty.
If you’re departing from Singapore, you can opt for a 5-hour drive up to Sasaran town. Alternatively, you can book a bus from Singapore to KL Pudu bus terminal, and from there, take a 2.5-hour bus ride to Kuala Selangor.
From the jetty, it’s a 30-minute boat ride to the Sky Mirror sandbank in the middle of the Strait of Malacca.
What is the best time to visit Sky Mirror Malaysia?
The sandbar that forms the Sky Mirror only emerges twice a month, during the new moon and the full moon. It is accessible 3 days before the new/full moon, and lasts until 5 days after the new/full moon. Tours are available on these days, with a limited number of slots per day. Timings are highly dependent on the exact tide levels of the day, and it is best to book your schedule with a travel agency ahead of time. Typically, the best time to visit is between 7am to 2pm. Of course, don’t forget to check the weather forecast if you hope to see a blue sky instead of a gloomy one.
What to expect during the visit to Sky Mirror Malaysia?
You will be standing literally in the middle of the sea. Aside from the sand and seawater, you can expect to see a wide range of marine organisms, including baby clams, sea grapes, sea snails, hermit crabs, and various shelled creatures in the sand. If you’re lucky enough, you might even be able to catch a glimpse of pink dolphins during your boat trip.
There will be many boats and people on the sandbank as many travel agencies operate tours to the sandbank concurrently. The sandbank is huge, so you can always walk to a quieter area to avoid the crowds. But be sure to know where the edge of the sandbank is, and do not go beyond it for your safety. Ask your tour guide for guidance.
Prices and Duration of the Tour
Prices vary across travel agencies. These travel agencies will typically offer the Sky Mirror tour as part of a package of tours, so prices will also depend on the package you opt for. You can check their individual websites for details.
The Sky Mirror tour itself takes around 2 to 2.5 hours, totaling 3 to 4 hours when you include the boat trip to and from the sandbar.
Tour slots can be very limited, so it is advisable to book early to avoid disappointment.
What to bring along?
- Wear bright and colourful clothes for a better contrast with the blue sky in your pictures.
- Don’t forget to bring sunblock along to avoid sunburn. If you want, you can bring your sunglasses, hats, or a colourful umbrella too!
- Don’t forget the camera! A selfie stick and a tripod are also useful accessories to bring along.
- Just in case you get wet, you might want to bring along an extra set of clothes, or a towel.
- Insect repellent if you’re afraid of bugs.
- Bring a plastic bag or waterproof bag with you to put your belongings, or you may end up having to leave everything in the boat.
What do you think of Sky Mirror Malaysia? Please leave a comment to let us know. Don’t forget to share and let your friends and family know too!
