Photo: Contiki
Ever dreamed of swinging through the jungle like Tarzan? Or channelling your inner wildlife explorer? Borneo might be your best bet. Home to orangutans, tropical beaches, and the kind of sunsets that make every other sunset seem boring, a Borneo adventure deserves to be on your bucket list. But there’s a catch: knowing the best time to visit Borneo can make or break your adventure. So let’s unpack it, one rainforest trail at a time.
What are Borneo’s main seasons?
Dry season
The dry season, from March to October, is the superstar of Borneo’s calendar. Think blue skies, minimal rainy days, and the perfect conditions for diving, trekking, and snapping selfies with orangutans, or spotting turtles laying eggs! Usually, the dry season is considered to be the best time to visit Borneo.
Wet season
Yep. Borneo has an entire season dedicated to rain, running from November to February. But don’t write it off just yet. Sure, there’ll be heavy downpours, but they’re usually short-lived, and let’s be real, nothing screams adventure like strolling through the rainforest during a tropical storm. Plus, you’ll get to enjoy quieter trails, greener landscapes, and lush waterfalls too.
What is the best month to visit Borneo?
The dream months? May and June. The weather’s flawless, the crowds are manageable, and mother nature will show you her prettiest side while hiking through Kinabalu National Park or lounging on Kota Kinabalu’s beaches. It’s tropical paradise at its peak.
Image source:Contiki
When’s the best time to see orangutans in Borneo?
When it comes to spotting orangutans, timing is everything. These red-haired forest dwellers love the dry season, too. The best months to catch them in action? March through May. Hit up the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre or trek deep into Semenggoh for your chance to see them in their natural habitat. You don’t wanna forget your camera for this one…
How many days do you need in Borneo?
You’ll want at least around 7-10 days to do Borneo justice. Here’s a perfect 9-day Borneo itinerary if you want all the deets.
Weather in top places in Borneo
Kuching
Kuching’s weather is as laid-back as its vibe. Expect warm temperatures year-round, hovering between 23°C and 31°C. The dry season in Kuching (May to September) is ideal for exploring its quirky cat statues and the nearby Bako National Park. But even in the wet season, a drizzle only adds to the city’s charm.
Kinabatangan River
The Kinabatangan River is a wildlife hotspot, and the weather plays along to keep it thriving. Dry season (March to October) is perfect for river safaris to spot pygmy elephants (AKA the world’s smallest elephants!!!) and proboscis monkeys. Wet season? Sure, it brings more rain, but also a chance for more dramatic wildlife sightings and lush, vibrant landscapes.
Image source:Contiki
Kota Kinabalu
Kota Kinabalu is synonymous with sunny skies and endless beach days, especially from March to October. Temperatures hover around a tropical 26°C to 33°C, which is the perfect time to head to Ara Dinawan Island for a day of kayaking and snorkelling (literally one of the best things to do in Borneo that isn’t wildlife related). Even during the wetter months, quick showers mean rainbows!
Selingan Island
This tiny hidden gem is not just about beaches, it’s where turtles steal the spotlight. March to October is perfect weather with clear skies and there’s also a higher chance of witnessing a nesting turtle or hatchlings scuttling toward the sea.
Sepilok
Sepilok’s rainforest vibe comes with warm temperatures year-round, from 23°C to 31°C. Dry season (April to October) makes exploring the Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre a breeze. And the wet season just adds an extra layer of jungle mystique. Either way, orangutans are the main characters here.
Image source:Contiki
Ready for your Borneo trip?
Whether you’re planning your trip around the dry season’s picture-perfect weather or embracing the wet season’s rainforest drama, Borneo will surely blow your mind. From spotting orangutans to conquering Mount Kinabalu, every moment is an adventure waiting to happen. So get ready for an epic adventure because really, the best time to visit Borneo is whenever you’re ready to make some epic memories!
