The world’s first official orangutan rehabilitation centre 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-kilometre) mangrove trail that ventures deep into the thick jungle.
Sepilok Orang Utan Sanctuary is located approximately 14 miles (23 kilometres) from Sandakan and can be reached by taxi or bus. The centre is open daily and a fee for admission applies.
