You know how planning a trip to a tropical place like Sabah can feel like a gamble against the weather. One of the most common questions we hear from travellers is about timing, since heavy rain or intense sun can easily disrupt plans.

The truth is, Sabah’s weather is more nuanced than just a simple wet and dry season. It’s known as the “Land Below the Wind” because it sits just south of the typhoon belt that affects the Philippines, making it a generally safe destination year-round. However, the timing of your visit really does shape what you can experience.

Average temperatures in coastal cities like Kota Kinabalu hover between 27°C and 32°C all year, so it’s always warm. The key difference is rainfall.

This guide will give you a clear breakdown of the best time to visit Sabah. We’ll explore the best time to visit Sabah for specific activities, from hiking Mount Kinabalu to seeing incredible wildlife along the Kinabatangan River, so you can plan the perfect trip.

Overview of Sabah’s Climate

Sabah has a classic tropical climate, which means consistent warmth and humidity throughout the year. The weather patterns are mainly defined by two monsoon seasons, though their effects vary across the state.

The Southwest Monsoon typically runs from May to September, bringing drier conditions to the west coast, including Kota Kinabalu. In contrast, the Northeast Monsoon from October to February brings heavier rainfall, particularly to the east coast, which is home to wildlife hotspots like Sandakan and the Kinabatangan River.

Dry Season (March to September)

The dry season is arguably the most popular time to visit, especially for first,time travellers. With clearer skies and more sunshine, it’s the ideal period for beach holidays and outdoor adventures.

During these months, cities like Kota Kinabalu receive significantly less rainfall, often under 200mm per month. This makes it perfect for island hopping in the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, where you can explore islands like Manukan and Sapi with calm, clear waters.

April and May are particularly excellent, offering stable weather before the peak tourist crowds of July and August arrive for the European summer holidays. Getting here is straightforward, with major carriers like AirAsia and Malaysia Airlines offering direct flights into Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI) from Kuala Lumpur International Airport 2 (KLIA 2) and other hubs.

Wet Season (October to February)

While the name might sound off,putting, the wet season has its own unique advantages. From October to February, the landscape becomes incredibly green and vibrant, and the rainforests feel truly alive.

Rainfall is more frequent, often arriving in short, heavy afternoon bursts rather than all,day downpours. In some areas, monthly rainfall can exceed 300mm. The upside is fewer tourists and potentially lower prices, with some holiday resort accommodation offering discounts of 15% or more compared to the peak season.

This is the prime time for wildlife spotting, especially along the rivers. It’s also a great time to experience the cooler, misty atmosphere in highland areas near Mount Kinabalu National Park. Just be sure to pack personal care products like hand sanitisers, as the humidity can make you want to freshen up often.

Best Months for Specific Activities

The best time to visit Sabah truly depends on what you want to do. While the weather is generally pleasant year,round, aligning your trip with the ideal conditions for your chosen activities makes all the difference.

Beaches, Diving, and Island Hopping

For sun,sand, and sea, the dry season from March to September is unbeatable. The calm waters and clear skies are perfect for exploring the islands of the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park near Kota Kinabalu.

If world,class diving is on your list, aim for April to June. During this period, the underwater visibility around legendary sites like Sipadan Island on the east coast can exceed 30 metres. Remember that permits for Sipadan are limited to just 176 per day and must be booked far in advance through a licensed operator.

For whale shark encounters, a 2023 study by the Marine Research Foundation confirmed that the best time to spot them near Lankayan Island is between March and May.

Hiking Mount Kinabalu

Climbing Malaysia’s highest peak requires careful planning, and weather is a huge factor. The best and safest time to hike Mount Kinabalu is during the dry season, particularly from March to May when the weather is most stable.

During these months, you have the highest chance of a clear sunrise view from the summit, where temperatures can drop to between 0°C and 3°C. Permits for the mandatory two,day climb are extremely limited and should be booked at least six months in advance through an accredited tour company like Amazing Borneo or Mountain Torq.

While climbing is possible at other times, ascents during the wet season (especially November and December) carry a higher risk. Sabah Parks officials may close the summit trail if heavy rain makes the granite surfaces too dangerous and slippery.

Wildlife Spotting

Believe it or not, the wet season from October to February is often considered the ultimate time for wildlife encounters. The increased rainfall swells the rivers, especially the Kinabatangan River, allowing safari boats to venture deeper into smaller tributaries.

This is when the rainforest is at its most fruitful. The rain triggers the flowering and fruiting of many trees, which attracts an abundance of wildlife to the riverbanks. It offers the best chance to see the “Borneo Big 5”:

  • Pygmy elephants
  • Orangutans
  • Proboscis monkeys
  • Rhinoceros hornbills
  • Estuarine crocodiles

Fewer boats and tourists mean the animals are often less timid. Operators like Sukau Rainforest Lodge provide excellent guided tours that take advantage of these peak viewing conditions.

Key Festivals and Events in Sabah

Planning your trip around a local festival offers a fantastic way to experience Sabahan culture. The dry season hosts two of the state’s most vibrant celebrations, giving you another reason to visit during these months.

Kaamatan Harvest Festival (May)

Kaamatan is the most important festival for the Kadazan,Dusun, the largest ethnic group in Sabah. It’s a month,long celebration of the rice harvest, culminating in a huge public holiday on May 30th and 31st.

The main festivities are held at the Kadazandusun Cultural Association (KDCA) in Penampang, just outside Kota Kinabalu. Here, you can experience traditional music, buffalo races, and cultural performances. A major highlight is the Unduk Ngadau, a beauty pageant that celebrates the spirit of Huminodun, a mythological maiden who was sacrificed to save her people from famine. Visitors can also sample local delicacies like *hinava* (a citrus,cured fish salad) and potent rice wine known as *lihing*.

Regatta Lepa (April)

Held annually in Semporna on the east coast, usually during the third week of April, the Regatta Lepa is a stunning tribute to the seafaring traditions of the Bajau Laut people.

The festival showcases the ‘lepa’, which are intricately carved traditional sailing boats. The main event is a competition to find the most beautifully decorated lepa, with boats adorned in colourful flags and banners. The celebration also includes boat races, cultural performances, and a lively market atmosphere.

It’s a wonderful event to combine with a diving trip to the world,renowned islands of the Semporna archipelago.

Conclusion

Ultimately, choosing the best time to visit Sabah comes down to your priorities.

For classic sunny holidays filled with beach trips, island hopping, and hiking Mount Kinabalu, the dry season from March to September is your ideal window.

If your main goal is to witness the rainforest at its most vibrant and experience incredible wildlife spotting with fewer crowds, the wet season from October to February offers a unique and rewarding adventure.

Each season reveals a different side of this beautiful corner of Malaysia, making Sabah a truly year,round destination.