Explore the Enchanting Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre
Discover the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, a vital sanctuary for wildlife conservation and an unforgettable experience in the heart of Borneo.
A brief summary to Pusat Pemuliharaan Orang Utan Sepilok
- W.D.T. 200, Sabah Wildlife Department, Jalan Sepilok, Sandakan, Sepilok, Sabah, 90000, MY
- +6089-633587
- Monday 9 am-12 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-12 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-12 pm
- Thursday 9 am-12 pm
- Friday 9 am-11 am
- Saturday 9 am-12 pm
- Sunday 9 am-12 pm
The Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre is a beacon of hope for the endangered orangutan population in Borneo. Established in the late 1960s, this sanctuary has been instrumental in the recovery and rehabilitation of orphaned and injured orangutans, allowing them to learn vital survival skills before being reintroduced into the wild. Visitors to the centre can enjoy guided tours that provide insight into the organization’s efforts and the challenges faced by these incredible primates. As you stroll through the lush rainforest, you’ll encounter various viewing platforms where you can observe the orangutans during feeding sessions, a truly breathtaking experience as these gentle giants swing gracefully through the trees. The centre is not just a tourist attraction; it serves as an educational hub, offering visitors a chance to learn about the importance of conservation and the ongoing efforts to protect the orangutan habitat from deforestation and other threats. In addition to orangutans, the facility is home to various other wildlife species native to Borneo, making it a vibrant ecosystem worth exploring. The centre is open daily, with specific hours for feeding sessions, so be sure to plan your visit accordingly to maximize your experience. With its commitment to animal welfare and conservation, a trip to the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre is both an enlightening and heartwarming adventure.
Local tips
- Arrive early to catch the morning feeding sessions for the best chance to see the orangutans.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on uneven terrain and in a humid environment.
- Bring binoculars or a camera with a zoom lens for better views of the orangutans in the trees.
- Consider visiting during weekdays to avoid larger crowds and enhance your experience.
- Check the feeding times in advance and plan your visit around them for the best experience.
Getting There
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Public Bus
From Sandakan city center, head to the Sandakan Bus Terminal located at Jalan Leila. Look for the bus heading to Sepilok. The bus will take you directly to the Sepilok area. Inform the driver that you want to go to Pusat Pemuliharaan Orang Utan Sepilok. The ride takes approximately 30 minutes. Once you arrive at Sepilok, follow the signs toward the Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, which is about a 10-minute walk from the bus stop.
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Taxi or Ride-Hailing Service
If you prefer a more direct option, you can take a taxi or use a ride-hailing service like Grab. Simply provide the driver with the address: W.D.T. 200, Sabah Wildlife Department, Jalan Sepilok, 90000 Sandakan, Sabah. The journey will take around 30 minutes depending on traffic.
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Walking (from nearby accommodations)
If you are staying at a hotel or guesthouse in Sepilok, you can walk to Pusat Pemuliharaan Orang Utan Sepilok. Just follow Jalan Sepilok, and you will see signs directing you to the Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre. Make sure to check the distance from your accommodation, as some places are within walking distance.