June

June brings a shift in gear across Asia – although some regions turn wet and steamy, there's still plenty of sunshine to be found. Borneo wildlife is at its most visible.

In Malaysia, the east coast is sunny and dry with clear seas – perfect for boat trips. In the Cameron Highlands the air is cooler, especially on shaded walks through the tea plantations. June remains prime time for wildlife spotting in Borneo, from proboscis monkeys and crocodiles along the water to macaques and hornbills in the canopy. Locals open their homes, dance and feast across Sarawak for the Gawai Dayak harvest festival (the main celebration takes places 1-2 June, but celebrations can be month-long). Northern and southern Vietnam have rising humidity and regular afternoon storms, but central Vietnam is in peak beach season.

Vietnam

Best for the central region

Long, warm sunny days mean June is a great time to head to destinations on Vietnam’s central coast, like Hoi An and Danang. The Danang International Fireworks Festival adds extra energy to the riverfront, especially in the evenings. While central Vietnam is a top June recommendation from us, the north and south are less reliable: Hanoi is hot and humid, and Ho Chi Minh City enters its steamy wet season, with afternoon downpours that can disrupt sightseeing and transport. If you're travelling this month, stick to the centre – and if you venture south pack light clothes, start your days early, and enjoy a slower pace that is compatible with the heat.

Malaysia

Best for beaches and highland trails

June is one our favourite months to explore Malaysia. On the east coast, seas around Tioman and Redang are calm and clear, making this a great time for snorkelling and boat trips. The west remains humid but rainfall isn’t prolonged, so cities like Kuala Lumpur and Penang are good for morning sightseeing and streetfood stall hopping. George Town comes to life with its annual arts season: pop-up exhibitions and live music add flair to its colonial streets. For cooler air, head to the Cameron Highlands, where tea plantations and forest paths offer a welcome break from the heat.

Borneo

Best for spotting jungle wildlife

June is a fantastic time to visit Borneo, with dry weather across much of the island and great conditions for jungle walks and river safaris. Orangutans, hornbills and macaques are active in the canopy, while crocodiles and proboscis monkeys often appear along the water’s edge. In Sarawak, Gawai Dayak – a major harvest festival – brings communities together for dancing, music and shared meals. It’s a high-spirited and welcoming time to experience local culture, celebrated by the Dayak, Iban, Bidayuh and Orang Ulu indigenous tribes. As well as being a festive time of year, warm weather and rising river levels make wildlife sightings likely, especially around the Kinabatangan floodplains. Head to Semenggoh to spot semi-wild orangutans in a natural forest environment. It’s hot – but worth it.

Borneo is home to over 50 Dayak tribes, each with their own language, laws and traditions. June’s drier weather makes it easier to venture into the forests and visit rural regions – stay in a longhouse to experience tribal life as it’s lived today, and as it’s been for centuries.”

Speak with a destination specialist

Friendly, dedicated people who care as much about your trip as you do.

The rest of the year