Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre Tours and Activities

Watch as a community of orphaned orangutans play in the trees above you at this sanctuary.

The world’s first official orangutan rehabilitation center offers the rare opportunity to see the endangered species in their natural habitat. Sepilok Orang Utan Sanctuary was formed in 1964 to reintroduce orangutans orphaned and displaced by logging or hunting. Today, 10,625 acres (4,300 hectares) of the Kabili-Sepilok Forest Reserve is home to up to 80 of the beautiful animals, and at feeding time visitors can witness their playfulness first hand. Walking paths traverse the forest and an exhibition hall provides the story of the sanctuary. Sepilok Orang Utan Sanctuary has become one of the most popular attractions in the Sandakan region, and is a great family outing.

Under the dense forest canopy you’ll find a series of boardwalks that lead to the park’s main attractions. Keep your eyes peeled for the local residents as they swing through the trees above you. Follow the main path to reach the viewing gallery for the best chance of seeing the orangutans.

Two daily feeding sessions draw large crowds of tourists and orangutans, and no visit is complete without witnessing the excitement. Watch as rangers hand feed the apes bananas and milk. While the orangutans are familiar with human contact, visitors are urged not to leave the designated areas, and to hold on to their possessions. Cameras, hats and bags are occasionally seen as toys by the apes.

Tours of the sanctuary are offered and begin with a visit to the exhibition hall. Discover the plight of one of the most endangered species in the world, and hear about the efforts of the sanctuary to rectify the situation. For the more adventurous, acquire a permit to trek the 3-mile (5-kilometer) mangrove trail that ventures deep into the thick jungle.

Sepilok Orang Utan Sanctuary is located approximately 14 miles (23 kilometers) from Sandakan and can be reached by taxi or bus. The center is open daily and a fee for admission applies.

Popular places to visit

Rainforest Discovery Centre

Rainforest Discovery Centre

Explore the great outdoors at Rainforest Discovery Centre, a lovely green space in Sepilok. While in this walkable area, you can savour the top-notch restaurants.

Rainforest Discovery Centre
Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary

Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary

Two daily feeding sessions draw crowds of tourists to watch monkeys as they swing through their natural habitat.

Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary

Borneo Sun Bear Conservation Centre

Visit the native and exotic animals who call Borneo Sun Bear Conservation Centre home during your trip to Sepilok. While in this walkable area, you can savour the top-notch restaurants.

Borneo Sun Bear Conservation Centre

Pulau Kabili

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Pulau Kabili during your travels in Sandakan. Amble around the area's rainforests or visit its temples.

Pulau Kabili

Sandakan Memorial Park

Explore the great outdoors at Sandakan Memorial Park, a lovely green space in Sandakan. While in this relaxing area, you can savour the top-notch restaurants.

Sandakan Memorial Park

Sandakan Memorial Park

You can spend time studying the exhibits at Sandakan Memorial Park during your travels in Sandakan. While in this relaxing area, you can savour the top-notch restaurants.

Sandakan Memorial Park

Top Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre Hotel & Accommodation Deals

Sepilok Jungle Resort

Sepilok Jungle Resort

2.5 out of 5
Jalan Rambutan, Mile 14 Sepilok, Sandakan, Sabah
Sepilok Jungle Resort
Sepilok B&B

Sepilok B&B

3 out of 5
Jalan Fabia, Sandakan, SEPILOK
Sepilok B&B
Sepilok Nature Resort

Sepilok Nature Resort

3 out of 5
KM 22.5 (Mile 14), Jalan Sepilok, Off Jalan Sapi Nangoh, Sandakan, Sabah
Sepilok Nature Resort
Sepilok Forest Edge Resort

Sepilok Forest Edge Resort

3 out of 5
Jalan Rambutan, Sepilok Mile 14, Sandakan, Sabah
Sepilok Forest Edge Resort
Tanini Sepilok (Formerly Nature Lodge Sepilok)

Tanini Sepilok (Formerly Nature Lodge Sepilok)

2.5 out of 5
Jalan Sepilok, Sandakan
Tanini Sepilok (Formerly Nature Lodge Sepilok)
Borneo Sepilok Rainforest Resort

Borneo Sepilok Rainforest Resort

1.5KM, Jalan, Sepilok, Sabah
Borneo Sepilok Rainforest Resort
Paganakan Dii Tropical Retreat

Paganakan Dii Tropical Retreat

2.5 out of 5
Mile 14, Jalan Labuk, Taman Hiburan Jalil Alip, Sandakan, Sabah
Paganakan Dii Tropical Retreat
Livingston Hotel

Livingston Hotel

3.5 out of 5
Jalan Utara, Mile 4, Sandakan, Sabah
Livingston Hotel
Mickey Mouse Signature Suite

Mickey Mouse Signature Suite

3.5 out of 5
A2-3-6, Sri Utama Condominiums, IJM, Sandakan, Sabah
Mickey Mouse Signature Suite
See all 67 properties in Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre

At the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, visitors can immerse themselves in unique experiences such as wildlife spotting, scenic walks, and hiking through lush rainforests. Engage with the incredible orangutans in their natural habitat while enjoying the vibrant ecosystem of Sabah. This destination offers a memorable adventure for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts alike.

Shopping

For unique gifts and souvenirs, explore the nearby Sandakan Harbour Mall, located 19.3km from Sepilok. This vibrant shopping centre offers a mix of businesses and entertainment, perfect for a family day out. If you're up for a drive, you’ll find a great selection of local crafts.

Recreation

At Sepilok, immerse yourself in nature with guided walks through the rainforest, experiencing the tranquillity and wildlife. Enjoy yoga sessions amidst lush greenery and rejuvenating spa treatments that utilise local herbs, enhancing your connection to this unique environment.

Adventure

Experience the Kinabatangan Jungle Camp, located 45.1km from the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, where you can immerse yourself in nature, enjoy outdoor activities, and create family memories. Discover the Sandakan Heritage Trail, situated 19.3km away, offering scenic walks through lush landscapes and a glimpse into local history.

Nightlife

After a day with the orangutans, unwind at the Sandakan Harbour Square. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere with local seafood stalls and cafes. For a relaxed drink, visit the cosy Borneo Eco Tours Café, where you can sip on fresh juices while chatting with fellow travellers under the stars.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre

At the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre in Sandakan, Sabah, you'll find a blend of outdoor adventures and cultural experiences. Key attractions include the renowned Sepilok Orangutan Sanctuary, where you can witness the rehabilitation of these incredible primates, along with nearby reserves and parks perfect for nature lovers. This destination promises unforgettable encounters with wildlife and a chance to appreciate the beauty of the rainforest.

  • Rainforest Discovery Centre: Located 1.3km from Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, this reserve offers an immersive experience in the lush rainforest. With friendly vibes, you can explore canopy walkways and spot diverse wildlife, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers.
  • Sandakan Memorial Park: Situated 11.3km away, this poignant memorial reflects the rich culture and history of the region. It serves as a tribute to those who suffered during World War II, providing an insightful glimpse into the past amid beautifully landscaped gardens.
  • Pulau Kabili: This island, located 8.0km from the centre, boasts stunning outdoor and beach vibes. Ideal for relaxation, you can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, or exploring the vibrant marine life in the crystal-clear waters.

Best time to go to Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre

The best time to visit Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. May is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with frequent rain. February is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with moderate rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January79.0°F (26.1°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
February78.8°F (26.0°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
March79.7°F (26.5°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
April80.8°F (27.1°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
May81.7°F (27.6°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
June81.1°F (27.3°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
July80.6°F (27.0°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudySlightly HighSlightly High
August80.8°F (27.1°C)Frequent RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
September80.6°F (27.0°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
October80.4°F (26.9°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
November80.2°F (26.8°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
December79.9°F (26.6°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre

To save money during your visit to the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, consider travelling in February or November to December when prices are lower. Booking your accommodation about a month in advance often yields the best rates, especially for Saturday stays. Use Expedia to find last-minute hotel deals and filter for eco-friendly options. Additionally, combining your hotel, flights, and activities into a package can lead to substantial savings. Don’t forget to look for free cancellation policies to give yourself some flexibility.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre are February and November to December, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to April and July to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel around Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay around Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre is Sunday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool lets you set your budget, choose your ideal location, and more. You can organise your results to display prices from lowest to highest, making it easy to find the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you can refine your selections by hotel type—if you check the Eco-certified filter, you’ll see a list of sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that you can book.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your hotel stay at the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.