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Kawa-Kawa River Cruise

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Kawa-Kawa River Cruise Weather, Climate and Best Time to Visit

Data source：Meteostat
Update date：2025-10

Kawa-Kawa River Cruise year round climate

  • Spring (March–May): Average 27.3–28.1°C. The climate is warm and sunny with very low rainfall, making it one of the driest periods of the year. Common activities: Kawa-Kawa River cruise, proboscis monkey observation, enjoying sunset views. Suggested attire: Light, breathable summer clothing, sun hat, sunglasses, sunscreen.
  • Summer (June–August): Average 26.2–26.5°C. Temperatures drop slightly but remain hot. June is a relatively high rainfall month, but overall rainfall is still extremely low, and the climate is dry. Common activities: Evening firefly tour, riverbank photography, exploring local natural ecology. Suggested attire: Light, quick-drying clothing, thin long-sleeved shirt (for mosquito protection), sun protection products.
  • Autumn (September–November): Average 26.1–26.7°C. The climate remains warm and dry with very little rainfall, and weather conditions are stable and pleasant. Common activities: Daytime wildlife observation, stargazing at night, experiencing local cultural activities. Suggested attire: Comfortable cotton and linen clothing, light shoes, bring a light jacket for indoor air conditioning or evening coolness.
  • Winter (December–February): Average 25.8–27.3°C. The climate is warm. December is the coolest month of the year, and January and February are the driest periods of the year with the lowest rainfall. Common activities: Early morning or evening river cruises, fishing, strolling along the riverbanks. Suggested attire: Minimal summer wear, short sleeves, shorts, sandals, prepare a small amount of moisturizing products.

Kawa-Kawa River Cruise climatological average

Annual average temperature: approx. 26.8°C / Annual rainfall: approx. 63 mm / Summer humidity: 55-70% / Rainiest month: June

Kawa-Kawa River Cruise monthly average temperature and precipitation

Month
Air temperature (°C)
Precipitation (mm)
January
26.6°C
1.9
February
27.3°C
1.2
March
28.1°C
1.2
April
27.9°C
2.8
May
27.3°C
7.6
June
26.5°C
11.2
July
26.3°C
6.1
August
26.2°C
7.3
September
26.7°C
5.4
October
26.1°C
6.4
November
26.4°C
4.4
December
25.8°C
8

Kawa-Kawa River Cruise weather for the next seven days

12/3
Wednesday
Patchy rain nearby
29.3°C/24°C
12/4
Thursday
Patchy rain nearby
28.9°C/23.8°C
12/5
Friday
Moderate rain
28.1°C/23.5°C
12/6
Saturday
Patchy rain nearby
27.9°C/23.4°C
12/7
Sunday
Moderate rain
28.6°C/22.5°C
12/8
Monday
Patchy rain nearby
27.5°C/22.1°C
12/9
Tuesday
Patchy rain nearby
27.6°C/23.2°C

Kawa-Kawa River Cruise Frequently Asked Questions and Useful Information for Travel

What is the best season to visit and what can I expect?

The best time to visit the Kawa-Kawa River Cruise is during the dry season from March to October, which offers clearer skies and optimal wildlife sightings. Visitors can expect to see abundant wildlife, including proboscis monkeys and diverse bird species, during the day, followed by spectacular firefly displays at night. The weather is generally pleasant, making river cruises comfortable and enjoyable.

What are the must-see attractions?

Must-see attractions on the Kawa-Kawa River Cruise include viewing endemic primates such as the proboscis monkey and silvered leaf monkey, birdwatching for hornbills and other exotic species, and experiencing the mesmerizing firefly light shows at dusk. Additionally, the sunset views at Pantai Emas nearby and the lush mangrove landscapes add to the unforgettable experience.

How to get here? Usually people start from which city/place to visit Kawa-Kawa River Cruise

Most travelers start their journey from Kota Kinabalu, Sabah’s capital city, which is about 112 kilometers southwest of the Kawa-Kawa River. From Kota Kinabalu, it’s approximately a 1.5-hour scenic drive to Kota Belud, where the cruise departs. Many tours offer hotel pick-up services from Kota Kinabalu, making access convenient for visitors.

What is the uniqueness local knowledge of Kawa-Kawa River Cruise?

Kawa-Kawa River is unique for its rich biodiversity and the rare opportunity to see Sabah’s endemic primates, especially the proboscis monkey, in their natural habitat. The river’s mangrove ecosystem supports a diverse range of wildlife and is culturally significant as a conservation area. The nighttime firefly congregations create a magical, almost surreal natural light show unique to this river.

Which nearby places can be arranged together with Kawa-Kawa River Cruise into one trip?

Nearby attractions that can be combined with the Kawa-Kawa River Cruise include Kinabalu Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its mountain biodiversity, the Poring Hot Springs for relaxation, and the local handicraft markets in Kota Belud for cultural shopping. Visitors can also explore Pantai Emas for sunset views and other nearby mangrove tours.