The largest island in Asia, Borneo is warmed by a tropical climate with temperatures that hover between 27C and 32C year-round. July is typically the most popular month to travel here thanks to dry conditions, orangutan-filled trees and myriad turtle-spotting opportunities. Here’s everything you need to know.
Main photo: Sabah in northern Borneo (Alamy)
When is dry season?
Borneo’s dry season runs from March to October with humidity levels at their lowest in this part of southeast Asia. Visitor numbers, meanwhile, are at their highest and it’s the perfect time to travel if you’re also wanting to take advantage of kicking back on its jungle-fringed beaches.
When is rainy season?
Borneo’s hot and humid rainy season runs between November and March and is best avoided — wildlife tends to hide in the dense furrows of the tropical island’s national parks during periods of heavy rainfall. It’s also tricky to enjoy Borneo’s diving scene as the waters are at their roughest. Have to travel between these months? Dodge January and December if possible — they’ve got Borneo’s highest rainfall levels and showers can occur at any time.
When is the best time to see orangutans?
While May tends to be the best month for seeing orangutans in the wild, anytime between March and October should deliver on sightings. In June, the fruiting season is in full swing – as are the orangutans that come closer to the main trekking paths as they forage for a snack or two. The Danum Valley* is a prime place for spotting rust-tinted monkeys.
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When is the best time to see turtles in Borneo?
Turtle season begins in June and runs through to September. Head to Lankayan Island or Turtle Island, also known as Selingan Island, for your best chance of spotting a flipper or two.
When is the best time to go diving in Borneo?
April to December is the best time to dive and spy whale sharks, with visibility at its clearest in July and August. You should also consider September when the weather remains dry and tourist numbers dwindle.
When is the best month for trekking in Borneo?
April is the best time for jungle trekking, thanks to the dry run of weather across the island and temperatures averaging 28C. Most keen hikers also head to the Kota Kinabalu and make their way to Mount Kinabalu* thanks to its easy summit.
When is the best time for Borneo’s beaches?
May’s the best time to visit Borneo’s beaches, with plenty of sunshine bleaching the icing sugar-white sands. If you want something quieter, opt for March. For the most part, the island is dry and quiet, so you’ll have more space to stretch out. It also marks the start of whale shark season.
When are Borneo’s festivals?
Gawai Dayak, also known as the Harvest Festival, runs from May 31 to June 1 and is a celebration of the indigenous people and 200 tribes that once roamed Borneo. Dayak people in Sarawak celebrate by jazzing up longhouses, donning traditional dress and sharing huge platters of food. May also hosts the Miri Jazz Festival – a two-day event where local and international artists perform in the hope of inspiring future musicians. Borneo International Kite Festival, meanwhile, is a shower of colour held in Bintulu at the end of September.
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Inspired to visit Borneo but yet to book your trip? Here are the best hotels from Booking.com* and Expedia*. These are the best tours of Borneo from our trusted partners*.
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