Borneo Tours in December 2025

What our customers ask about Borneo Tours in December 2025

• What is the weather like in Borneo Islands during December?

  December brings the wet season to Borneo Islands with afternoon downpours common in Sabah and Sarawak. The Kinabatangan River area sees temperatures of 28-32°C with quick but intense rain showers. TourRadar travelers report that rain rarely disrupts wildlife activities. A traveler notes: "Despite some afternoon showers we had incredible wildlife sightings along the Kinabatangan River including pygmy elephants and orangutans."

• What are the best wildlife viewing opportunities in Borneo during December?

  The month offers prime wildlife encounters at Borneo's major sanctuaries. Visitors to Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre and Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary can spot orangutans proboscis monkeys and pygmy elephants. The Borneo Rainforest Lodge in Danum Valley welcomes guests with sightings of gibbons bearded wild boars and flying squirrels. A TourRadar traveler shares: "Our December visit to Kinabatangan River was incredible - we saw mother orangutans watching their babies learn to climb and multiple hornbill species during our river cruises."

• What special holiday events or cultural experiences are available in Borneo during December?

  December lights up with cultural celebrations especially around Christmas in Kota Kinabalu and Kuching. The Mari Mari Cultural Village hosts traditional Dusun village celebrations and performances. Properties like Sepilok Jungle Resort and Bilit Adventure Lodge prepare special holiday meals. A TourRadar traveler notes: "Spending Christmas in a Dusun village was magical - we participated in traditional dances and enjoyed local festive delicacies."

• What are the accommodation options available in Borneo during December?

  Lodging ranges from upscale resorts to authentic forest retreats. Key options include the Borneo Rainforest Lodge in Danum Valley Sepilok Jungle Resort by the orangutan sanctuary and Kinabatangan Riverside Lodge. A TourRadar guest reports: "The Sepilok Jungle Resort was perfectly located for wildlife viewing and despite December being peak season the rooms were comfortable and well-maintained."

• How busy is Borneo during December and should I book in advance?

  December marks high season particularly around Christmas and New Year. Wildlife sanctuaries at Sepilok and lodges on the Kinabatangan River typically fill up several months ahead. Booking data shows December tours run 15-20% fuller than other months. A TourRadar traveler advises: "We booked our December trip six months ahead and were glad we did as many preferred accommodations were already full."

• What are the best river cruises available in Borneo during December?

  River cruises excel in December especially on the Kinabatangan River. Nature Lodge Kinabatangan runs morning and evening boat trips for optimal wildlife spotting. The Sekonyer River at Tanjung Puting provides another great cruise option. One TourRadar visitor recalls: "Our December river cruises at Kinabatangan were incredible - we saw multiple orangutan families and herds of pygmy elephants along the riverbank."