When to Visit Kotakinabalu
Year-round climate guide & best times to travel
Best Time to Visit by Travel Style
Beach & Relaxation
March to September offers the most favorable conditions with lower rainfall and calmer seas, ideal for island hopping and water activities.
Cultural Exploration
Year-round destination for cultural activities, though April to September provides more comfortable walking conditions with less rain.
Adventure & Hiking
March to September is optimal for Mount Kinabalu climbing and jungle trekking, with clearer skies and drier trail conditions.
Budget Travel
October to February typically sees lower accommodation rates and fewer crowds, despite being the wetter season.
Month-by-Month Climate Guide
January
January marks the peak of the northeast monsoon season with frequent rainfall and overcast skies. Despite the wet conditions, temperatures remain warm and humidity stays at a consistent 70%. This is considered the wettest period of the year.
February
February continues the monsoon pattern with regular precipitation and cloudy conditions. The month sees gradual improvement towards the end as the northeast monsoon begins to weaken. Humidity remains steady at 70% with warm tropical temperatures.
March
March represents a transitional period as the northeast monsoon weakens and conditions begin to improve. Rainfall starts to decrease while maintaining the characteristic 70% humidity levels. This marks the beginning of the drier season.
April
April enjoys significantly improved weather conditions with reduced rainfall and more sunshine. The 70% humidity continues while temperatures remain consistently warm. This month marks the start of the favorable travel season.
May
May offers excellent weather conditions with minimal rainfall and plenty of sunshine, making it ideal for outdoor activities. Humidity stays at 70% with warm, tropical temperatures throughout the month. This is considered one of the best months to visit.
June
June continues the dry season with low rainfall and abundant sunshine, perfect for beach activities and island hopping. The consistent 70% humidity and warm temperatures create ideal tropical conditions. Peak tourist season begins this month.
July
July represents peak dry season conditions with minimal precipitation and clear skies dominating the weather pattern. Humidity remains at 70% with consistently warm temperatures. This is one of the most popular months for tourists.
August
August maintains excellent dry season weather with very low rainfall and abundant sunshine. The 70% humidity levels and warm temperatures continue to provide ideal conditions for all outdoor activities. Tourist numbers remain high.
September
September marks the end of the peak dry season with still favorable conditions and low rainfall. Humidity stays consistent at 70% while temperatures remain warm and pleasant. This is the last month of optimal weather conditions.
October
October begins the transition toward the wetter season as the northeast monsoon approaches. Rainfall starts to increase while humidity remains at 70% and temperatures stay consistently warm. Tourist crowds begin to thin out.
November
November sees the onset of the northeast monsoon with significantly increased rainfall and more frequent cloudy conditions. Humidity stays at 70% with warm temperatures continuing throughout the month. This marks the beginning of the wet season.
December
December experiences heavy monsoon rains with frequent downpours and overcast skies dominating the weather pattern. Despite the wet conditions, humidity remains at 70% and temperatures stay warm. This is typically the wettest month of the year.