The island of Borneo has a typical tropical climate and you can expect plenty of rainfall throughout the year. Temperatures in the lowlands and along the coast hover around 30 °C throughout the year, with cooler weather especially at higher elevations (e.g. Kinabalu National Park).
Although it rains quite heavily throughout the year in Sabah, a distinction can be made between the dry season (February-August) and the rainy season (September-January). However, the seasons don't have that much influence on travel, you have to count on the occasional downpour at any time.
When visiting Borneo, look at the weather, especially if you want to do a specific activity (e.g. diving, climbing Gunung Kinabalu). Slightly seasonal can also be a chance to spot some animals in the wild.
Weather and temperatures during the year
In Borneo, the weather is very similar throughout the year, yet slight differences can be observed.
Weather in January
With an average temperature of 30°C, January is a pleasant month to visit Borneo.
While the western side of Sabah (Kota Kinabalu, etc.) has relatively dry and favourable weather, the eastern side (Sandakan, Semporna) faces heavy rainfall which can make diving on the surrounding islands difficult or even impossible.
Weather in February
With February comes the dry season to all of Sabah, with blue skies and the most pleasant temperatures of the year awaiting you in the western part of the state.
The islands around Sandakan and Semporna are still facing heavier rainfall, so better plan your visit for later.
Weather in March
March is a pleasant month to visit, while the western part of Sabah receives an average of 23mm of rainfall, the islands to the east receive over 160mm.
March is also the start of the good season for climbing the mountains in the central area of Sabah, but unfortunately the chances of good visibility from the top are low all year round.
Weather in April
If you want to travel around Sabah, April can be an excellent choice. The weather is relatively stable, with less rainfall and pleasant average temperatures of around 30°C.
Weather in May
May marks the start of the season on the east coast of Borneo, and divers from all over the world flock to the islands. Average rainfall increases around Kota Kinabalu but is still only 41 mm.
Weather in June
June is the first month of the main tourist season in Borneo, bookings for activities definitely need to be made further in advance. The weather is stable, with minimal rainfall in the east and regular showers in the west of Sabah.
Weather in July
Hotel resorts, dive centres and tour operators face the biggest onslaught. It is also the hottest of the year, with average temperatures soaring to a staggering 32°C.
Weather in August
August isn't a bad month to visit either, it's hot and humid, but underwater visibility is excellent and the chances of summiting Gunung Kinabalu are high, as are the prices for accommodation and activities.
Weather in September
With September, the tourist season ends and the rainy season slowly arrives. Still, it's not a bad month to travel or dive on Sabah's east coast.
Weather in October
The average temperature is 31°C and the rainy season is in full swing, yet you can expect only a few heavy downpours a day and you may be looking at azure blue skies for the rest of your stay. The water on the islands can be murky and there may be larger waves.
Weather in November
The highest rainfall is concentrated on the east coast, while the west coast can still be sunny. The weather is particularly worse in the mountains where there is significant cloud cover and some hikes may be closed.
Weather in December
In December, the average temperature in Sabah is 30°C, with the rainy season particularly pronounced in the east and on the islands. However, with Christmas comes an influx of visitors who come regardless of the weather.
Table of temperatures during the year
When to go to Sabah
The weather in Borneo is very changeable and at any time of the year you can expect beautiful sunny weather, but also persistent downpours.
In general, the best time to visit Sabah is the dry season, from February to August. Go to the west coast at any time of the year, but avoid the months of November and December on the east coast, especially if you want to go diving.
When is the best time to see animals in Borneo?
Wildlife can be spotted throughout the year, yet there are a few periods when the chances of spotting particular species are higher.
From May to September, fruit ripens, which brings orangutans and other species of monkeys closer to the ground and easier to observe.
From October to April, again, some species of birds migrate across the island and can only be seen at this time of year.
When is the rainy season in Borneo?
The rainy season in Borneo is officially from September to February, but you can experience significant rainfall at any time throughout the year. Fortunately, after the downpours, the sun usually comes out and blue skies show up.
When is a good time to climb Gunung Kinabalu?
It is possible to climb Mount Kinabalu at any time of the year, but the period from March to September is the most recommended, as this is when the best weather of the year has been experienced on the peak in recent years.
When to go diving in Borneo?
Diving is great in Borneo all year round. If you're heading up the east coast to the islands around Semporna, the high season runs from April to October.
However, this is also the time of year when prices are highest and getting permits for Sipadan Island is the most difficult.
