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Best Time to Visit Tabin for Wildlife Tours

Marriea Travels Marriea Travels June 19, 2025
Calendar page with a bullet pin marking a date, symbolizing the best time to visit Tabin in Sabah

What Makes Tabin Wildlife Reserve So Special?

Tabin Wildlife Reserve, nestled in Sabah’s eastern region, is a haven for endangered wildlife, tropical flora, and natural phenomena like the iconic Tabin Mud Volcano.

 

Spanning over 300,000 acres of lowland dipterocarp rainforest, it’s one of Malaysia’s most biologically rich protected areas. The reserve is home to the Bornean pygmy elephant, clouded leopards, and hundreds of bird species. Its natural biodiversity and accessibility make it one of the best places in Borneo for wildlife-focused eco-tourism.

 

Understanding the best time to visit Tabin allows travelers to witness these incredible species in their most active seasons. From dense jungle treks to peaceful canopy walks, your experience changes dramatically based on the weather and wildlife calendar.

 

Regardless of whether you’re planning your first Borneo escape or returning for another taste of the wild, this blog will guide you through the best time to visit Tabin for wildlife sightings, birdwatching, and nature photography.

Understanding Tabin’s Climate: Wet vs. Dry Season

To know the best time to visit Tabin, you need to understand its rainforest weather pattern. Like the rest of Borneo, Tabin experiences two main seasons:

Wet Season (November – February)

During this period, rainfall is frequent and intense, especially in December and January. Trails may become muddy, rivers swell, and some outdoor activities can be delayed or canceled due to weather.

 

But it’s not all bad news. The wet season brings lush greenery, flowering plants, and increased activity among amphibians and insects. Some bird species are also more active during this time.

 

Dry Season (March – October)

If you're after the best time to visit Tabin for wildlife tours, this is it.

 

Between March and October, Tabin experiences lower rainfall, clearer skies, and better trail accessibility. This is when mammals like elephants and deer gather around waterholes, and birds are easier to spot along the canopy.

Month-by-Month Wildlife Experience in Tabin

Let’s break down what each month offers so you can plan your wildlife adventure better.

January – February: Green, Wet, and Lush

The beginning of the year brings Tabin into its lushest and rainiest form. Rainfall is consistent, trails become challenging, and wildlife sightings are less predictable.

 

While the foliage thrives in this season, thick undergrowth often makes it difficult to spot animals from afar. However, for travelers drawn to the raw, humid intensity of the rainforest, this period offers a serene and meditative experience. Mornings are misty and magical, and the jungle feels deeply alive.

 

While not the best time to visit Tabin for mainstream wildlife tourism, January and February hold their own charm for photographers, researchers, and return visitors who seek solitude and a deeper sensory connection with nature.

 

Expect fewer crowds, quieter lodges, and dramatic landscapes that are ideal for those who enjoy slow travel and unfiltered rainforest immersion.

 

In summary:
  • Lush rainforest landscapes but heavy rainfall.
  • Good for photographers who love misty scenes and dramatic skies.
  • Wildlife spotting is trickier due to foliage density and limited visibility.
  • Expect leeches, slippery trails, and sudden downpours.
Dense, green rainforest in Tabin Wildlife Reserve with wet foliage and mist lingering after a tropical rain
After a tropical downpour, the rainforest comes alive—leaves glisten, the air thickens with earthy scent, and wildlife stirs beneath the fresh canopy

March – May: Drying Forest, Increasing Wildlife Activity

As the rainfall begins to ease, the rainforest in Tabin starts to dry up, making jungle treks more accessible and enjoyable. This transitional season marks the beginning of peak animal activity, with mammals and birds becoming more visible near rivers, salt licks, and the mud volcano.

 

The forest canopy opens up, sunlight filters in, and the entire reserve becomes easier to explore for nature lovers.

 

For those looking for the best time to visit Tabin, March to May serves as the ideal pre-peak season with a balance of comfort and discovery. The forest is still green from recent rains but drier than the earlier months, allowing both birdwatchers and wildlife photographers to capture rare sightings.

 

It’s an exciting time for first-time visitors who want immersive experiences without the heavier tourist traffic of the core dry months.

 

In summary,
  • The start of the dry season brings better conditions for tours.
  • Elephants begin appearing more near rivers and mud volcano areas.
  • Excellent for birdwatching, especially during migratory season.
  • Jungle treks and canopy walks become more accessible.

June – August: Peak Wildlife Season

The months of June through August are widely considered the best time to visit Tabin for wildlife tours. These dry-season months offer clear skies, safer trekking conditions, and the highest probability of seeing iconic species like the Bornean pygmy elephant, hornbills, and even orangutans.
 
Rivers are calm, trails are dry, and the mud volcano becomes a magnet for animals seeking essential minerals. If you want guaranteed opportunities for wildlife sightings, this is hands down the best time to visit Tabin. Jungle activities run smoothly, sunrise walks are breathtaking, and night safaris come alive with nocturnal creatures.
 
Whether you're a passionate birder, family traveler, or a couple on an eco-retreat, these months present Tabin at its absolute best for adventure, exploration, and unforgettable moments.
 
In summary:
  • Widely considered the best time to visit Tabin.
  • High chance of spotting pygmy elephants, hornbills, and orangutans.
  • Longer, drier days are perfect for full-day jungle hikes and night safaris.
  • Tabin’s mud volcano becomes a hotspot for mammals.
Multiple Bornean pygmy elephants moving through the rainforest in Tabin Wildlife Reserve during peak wildlife season
A rare and heartwarming sight—herds of Bornean pygmy elephants emerge during peak season in Tabin, offering visitors unforgettable encounters with Sabah’s gentle giants (Photo by: Tabin Wildlife Resort)

September – October: Still Dry, But Quieter

The dry season continues into September and October, making this stretch another great window for visitors who prefer a more peaceful experience.

 

Although wildlife sightings remain strong, this is generally a shoulder period where fewer tourists are around, and accommodations are more readily available. The forests are still vibrant, and trails remain accessible, making it a rewarding time to explore without the crowds.

 

Many seasoned travelers consider this one of the best times to visit Tabin for a quieter but still immersive nature journey. With the forest preparing for the coming rains, animal behavior becomes more dynamic, especially near the mud volcano and riverbanks.

 

If you value both comfort and solitude, these two months strike a perfect balance between weather and exclusivity.

 

In summary:
  • Post-peak months still offer excellent weather and fewer tourists.
  • Ideal for those wanting a more intimate nature experience.
  • Forest starts preparing for the upcoming rainy season.

November – December: Rain Returns

The tail-end of the year marks the return of Tabin’s wet season, bringing back heavy rain showers, overcast skies, and a rise in humidity.

 

Wildlife becomes harder to spot, and many guided tours may be limited by trail conditions. That said, this season brings out the rainforest’s more mystical qualities—lush scenery, foggy mornings, and a renewed burst of plant life.

 

Although it’s not the best time to visit Tabin for those seeking wildlife encounters, some nature photographers and repeat visitors enjoy the tranquillity and moodiness of this period.

 

Lodges tend to be less busy, and the air is rich with the scent of earth and rain. If you’re after serenity, and don’t mind getting a bit wet, the rainforest’s off-season might just surprise you.

 

In summary:
  • Wet season begins again.
  • Harder to spot wildlife and less predictability in tour schedules.
  • River tubing and some treks may be suspended for safety.
Rain falling over dense tropical forest in Tabin Wildlife Reserve, with mist and wet foliage visible
Rain nourishes the heart of Tabin—tropical showers drench the forest, enhancing its lush beauty and awakening the rhythm of Borneo’s rainforest life

Best Time for Birdwatching in Tabin

Birdwatching in Tabin is exceptional year-round, but it reaches its peak from April to August, when migratory species pass through and fruiting trees attract flocks of hornbills and other tropical birds.
 
The drier months offer better light conditions and more accessible trails, allowing birders to make the most of their early morning canopy walks or guided tours into the forest.
 
If you’re planning a bird-focused trip, this is clearly the best time to visit Tabin for sightings and photography. The visibility is excellent, and chances of spotting rare or endemic birds increase significantly.
Blue-banded Kingfisher perched near a stream in Tabin Wildlife Reserve, displaying its vivid blue and orange plumage
The elusive Blue-banded Kingfisher rests by a forest stream, its brilliant plumage flashing against the rainforest’s green backdrop (Photo by: Tabin Wildlife Resort)

When to Visit Tabin for Wildlife Photography

Nature photographers should time their visit based on lighting, trail access, and animal movement.

 

Best time to visit Tabin for photographers:
  • Golden hours: Dry season offers clearer skies and morning light.
  • Action shots: June to August provides the most animal activity.
  • Macro photography: Rainy months are better for insects, frogs, and mushrooms.
Don’t forget waterproof covers and quick-dry bags for your gear—Borneo’s weather can be unpredictable even in the dry season.

What About the Tabin Mud Volcano?

The Tabin Mud Volcano is a key attraction within the reserve and serves as a crucial mineral source for wildlife.
This open, mineral-rich area draws in animals like elephants, civets, and deer, making it one of the top locations for wildlife viewing and photography.
 
Access to this site is much easier during the dry season, particularly from June to September, when the trails are safe and sightings are more frequent. For anyone prioritizing the mud volcano, the best time to visit Tabin is undeniably during these months.
 
The drier weather ensures uninterrupted access, and the concentration of animals is higher as they seek the mud's vital nutrients. It’s also one of the few places where you can observe animal tracks and behavior in real-time, offering both excitement and education for eco-travelers.
Eruption of Tabin’s mud volcano with thick mud spewing into the air in a dense Bornean jungle setting
A rare spectacle in Tabin Wildlife Reserve—the mud volcano erupts, shooting mineral-rich mud into the air and transforming the forest floor into a bubbling landscape (Photo by: Sbn Hamit)

Best Time to Visit Tabin for Eco-Tourism Activities

Eco-tourists seeking low-impact, sustainable adventures will benefit from visiting between March and September.

 

This window allows for:
  • Minimal environmental impact due to stable weather
  • More walking-based activities over vehicle use
  • Better support for local community-based guides and rangers
Avoid peak rainy months if your focus is low-footprint travel and responsible wildlife viewing.

Best Time to Visit Tabin as a Family

Families looking to explore Tabin with children or older adults will appreciate the more stable and dry conditions offered between June and September.

 

During this period, the trails are safer, accommodations run full programs, and there’s a higher likelihood of wildlife sightings.

 

Ultimately, June and September are often regarded as the best time to visit Tabin for multi-generational travel. From gentle nature walks to mud volcano outings and relaxed riverbank safaris, families can enjoy the rainforest without the disruptions that rain or muddy trails bring.
A family of four sitting on the forest floor in Tabin Wildlife Reserve, with leaves as their backdrop
Experiencing Tabin as a family is most rewarding during the dry season—when trails are clear, wildlife is active, and unforgettable moments can unfold beneath the forest canopy

What to Pack Based on the Season

Planning to visit during the dry season? Pack:
  • Lightweight breathable clothing
  • Binoculars for wildlife spotting
  • A wide-brim hat and sunscreen
  • Insect repellent
Visiting during the wet season? Bring:
  • Waterproof poncho or rain jacket
  • Quick-dry gear and clothes
  • Waterproof boots with grip
  • Dry bags for electronics

Just to be 100% prepared, check out our new blog for a clearer idea of what to pack for your Tabin trip: What to Pack for Tabin Wildlife Reserve: Complete Guide for Jungle Adventure

Final Thoughts: When Is the Best Time to Visit Tabin?

Choosing the best time to visit Tabin can make all the difference between a standard nature tour and an extraordinary wildlife experience.

 

While the rainforest offers something unique in every season, the dry months, particularly from June to August, stand out as the most rewarding period for spotting wildlife, exploring jungle trails, and enjoying uninterrupted eco-adventures.

 

These months provide ideal weather conditions, vibrant animal activity near the mud volcano, and excellent opportunities for birdwatching, photography, and immersive nature walks.

 

For seasoned explorers or curious first-timers, aligning your trip with the right season ensures a deeper connection to the forest and the animals that call it home.

 

To explore further into Sabah’s wild side and more travel inspiration, don’t miss our full feature: The Ultimate Tabin Wildlife Reserve Travel Guide 2025. Let your next great escape be rooted in the rhythms of Borneo’s rainforest, where timing truly is everything.

FAQs: Best Time to Visit Tabin for Wildlife Tours

The best months are June to August, when wildlife is most active and weather conditions are ideal.

Experience Tabin with EcoTour Malaysia

When planning your adventure to Borneo’s untamed rainforest, it’s not just about where you go, but how you experience it.

 

At EcoTour Malaysia, we believe that the best time to visit Tabin deserves the best kind of travel experience: seamless, thoughtful, and rooted in sustainability.

 

From the moment you arrive in Lahad Datu to your final jungle trek, our curated tours are designed to help you witness Tabin’s wildlife at its peak while ensuring your journey is comfortable, ethical, and unforgettable.

 

We tailor our trips around the best time to visit Tabin based on your interests and travel goals. Our experienced guides, eco-lodge partners, and customizable itineraries make every step of your Tabin journey more meaningful.

 

➡️When you’re ready to begin, reach out to us for curated Tabin itineraries and personalized assistance for your perfect rainforest escape.
Wildlife & Eco-Tours You Have to Check:
Kinabatangan River Day Tour Wildlife Cruise
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2D1N Kinabatangan River Wildlife Safari
2D1N Kinabatangan River Wildlife Safari | Bilit Adventure Lodge from Sandakan
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Full Day Sepilok Orangutan Sun Bear Labuk Bay RDC Tour
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2D1N Turtle Island Selingan Tour
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