Malaysian Borneo

wildlife viewing in forest corridors from Sabah to Sarawak

Malaysian Borneo’s landscapes range from mangrove coastlines and lowland forest to mountain ranges and river floodplains. The tropical climate supports an exceptional level of biodiversity, including more than 600 bird species and a number of rare mammals such as the orangutan, pygmy elephant, and proboscis monkey.

Sabah in the northeast is the main focus for wildlife. The Sepilok Forest Reserve offers reliable access to semi-wild orangutans and sun bears, the Kinabatangan River is known for its dense concentration of primates, elephants, and birdlife.

The Tabin Wildlife Reserve protects regenerating lowland forest, while the Danum Valley preserves pristine primary rainforest.

Sarawak, to the southwest, offers a broader mix of culture, forest, and karst landscapes. Bako National Park near Kuching provides close encounters with proboscis monkeys and coastal rainforest, while Gunung Mulu National Park protects extensive limestone caves and forested mountains.

Significant areas of forest have been cleared over recent decades for agriculture, mainly oil palm and small scale farming, yet significant tracts of protected habitat remain and conservation work is active in several key regions. Protected areas across Sabah and Sarawak preserve important sections of rainforest that continue to provide critical habitat for these species.

The tropical climate of Malaysian Borneo supports dense rainforest and warm temperatures year round, but seasonal changes in rainfall can affect access, visibility, and wildlife activity. Travel is possible at any time of year, though conditions vary between the drier and wetter months.

March to October – Drier Season

This is the best period for travel across Sabah and Sarawak. Rainfall is lower and conditions are more comfortable for exploring rainforest trails and river systems. Wildlife activity is high, and sightings of orangutans, proboscis monkeys, and pygmy elephants are more frequent along the Kinabatangan River and in forest clearings. Photography conditions are clearer and humidity slightly reduced, and road access to remote reserves such as Tabin and Danum Valley is more reliable.

June to August marks the main travel period, when lodges operate at full capacity and the forests are at their most accessible. Although brief tropical showers still occur, they rarely disrupt activities.

November to February – Wetter Season

The northeast monsoon brings heavier rainfall, particularly along the east coast of Sabah. Downpours are common, often in the afternoon or evening, and humidity is at its highest. Some roads can become muddy or slow to travel, and river levels fluctuate more widely. Despite this, wildlife viewing remains productive and the rainforest is at its most vibrant. Birdlife is active, primates are still seen regularly, and lodges are quieter.

clear trails and reliable river access during the drier months