SEPILOK ORANGUTAN REHABILITATION CENTRE, SABAH

Overview

The Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre is one of Sabah’s most important wildlife conservation sites, dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and releasing orphaned and injured orangutans back into their natural rainforest habitat.

Established in 1964, the centre is located within the Kabili-Sepilok Forest Reserve near Sandakan and is home to a protected area of tropical lowland rainforest. It was one of the first orangutan rehabilitation projects in the world.

Visitors can observe orangutans during feeding times from specially designed viewing platforms, offering a rare opportunity to see these intelligent primates up close while maintaining a safe and respectful distance.

The centre also focuses heavily on conservation education, research, and public awareness about the threats faced by orangutans, including habitat loss and illegal wildlife trade.

Facilities at Sepilok Orangutan Centre

• Orangutan Feeding Platforms
• Nature Trails through Lowland Rainforest
• Visitor Information Centre
• Educational Exhibition Hall
• Nursery for Young Orangutans
• Wildlife Observation Areas
• Boardwalks and Jungle Walkways
• Cafeteria and Rest Area
• Souvenir Shop
• Restrooms and Visitor Facilities

Areas Open to Tourists

• Feeding Platform 1 & 2
• Rehabilitation Nursery Viewing Area
• Kabili-Sepilok Forest Reserve Boardwalk
• Education Centre Gallery
• Jungle Trails (Designated Routes Only)
• Adjacent Sun Bear Conservation Area (Nearby Attraction)

How to Access

By Car / Taxi

• Located approximately 25 km from Sandakan town
• Accessible via paved roads to Sepilok area
• Taxi and Grab services available from Sandakan

From Sandakan Airport

• Approximately 20–25 minutes by car
• Taxi and pre-arranged transfers available

From Sandakan Town

• Approximately 30–40 minutes by car
• Popular day-trip destination for tourists

Other Transport Options

• Organised wildlife tours
• Hotel shuttle services
• Private car hires

Transportation information is provided for general reference only and may change over time. Please confirm with local operators before travel.

Entrance Fees

• Adults: Approx. MYR 30–50
• Children: Discounted rates available
• Camera Fee: May apply for photography equipment
• Guided Tours: Optional extra charges
• Combo Packages: Available with nearby conservation centres

Prices are for reference only and may change without notice. Please verify at the official ticket counter.

Visitor Experience

• Orangutan Feeding Sessions: Witness rescued orangutans emerging from the forest during scheduled feeding times.
• Rainforest Walks: Explore elevated boardwalks through ancient lowland rainforest.
• Wildlife Encounters: Spot other native species such as hornbills, macaques, and monitor lizards.
• Conservation Learning: Gain insight into rehabilitation and wildlife protection efforts.

Key Tips for Visitors

• Arrive Early: Morning feeding sessions offer the best chance to see orangutans.
• Stay Quiet: Minimise noise to avoid disturbing the animals.
• Follow Guidelines: Always stay within designated viewing areas.
• Bring Insect Repellent: The rainforest environment can have mosquitoes.
• Use Comfortable Footwear: Walkways may involve uneven or humid jungle conditions.

Nearby Tourist Attractions

• Sun Bear Conservation Centre
• Rainforest Discovery Centre
• Sandakan Memorial Park
• Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary
• Sandakan Heritage Trail
• Kinabatangan River (Day Tours)