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Sepilok Orangutan Sanctuary Borneo

WHERE TO GO IN BORNEO

One of just four orangutan sanctuaries worldwide, Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre (SORC) was founded in 1964. Arguably the best known in the world for its groundbreaking work in protecting these much-loved primates, it is also the first sanctuary in the world to offer rehabilitation to orphaned orangutans.

Sepilok offers the best opportunity to witness the ‘man of the forest’ in a beautiful setting, occupying 15 square miles of virgin rainforest within the Kabili-Sepilok Forest Reserve. About 60-80 orangutans live freely in the reserve, and it is the only habitat in which the loveable primates can exist so comfortably.

A visit here is often cited as one of the highlights of our Borneo holidays. Fascinating and exciting to watch, these orange giant apes are also endearingly gentle, surprisingly flexible, intelligent creatures and will gaze at you with almost disconcerting frankness!

We recommend that you spend more than one day taking advantage of the birding, trekking and trips along the river in the neighbouring areas of Sepilok to fully appreciate the other natural and wildlife attractions.

Where is the Sepilok Orangutan Sanctuary Located

Located just 25 kilometres north of Sandakan, you will be met upon arrival at Sandakan airport and privately transferred around 25 minutes to the sanctuary. Private transfers are included as part of your Borneo Safari.

Orangutan Borneo Credit Donal Boyd

Orangutan Jlhopgood Flickr

Orangutans

There are just three orangutan species left in the wild, the Bornean, Sumatran and Tapanuli. This "person of the forest" is the largest arboreal mammal and the only great ape in existence in Asia. With long arms that may reach two metres in length, shaggy reddish-brown fur and grasping hands and feet, the orangutan swings slowly through the tree canopy of Borneo. When night approaches they make nests of vegetation to sleep in and occasionally smaller ones during the day to rest.

Hotels near Sepilok Orangutan Sanctuary

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Sepilok Nature Resort

Surrounded by thick jungle, the wooden chalets provide great access to the rehabiliation centre.

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Sepilok Forest Edge Resort

Nestled within a sprawling 20-acre expanse of rolling farmland, Sepilok Forest Edge Resort is perfectly situated on the fringes of the world-renowned Orangutan Forest Reserve. Here, you'll discover a harmonious blend of modern-day comforts infused with the rich traditions of life in Sandakan.

My Nature Resort

MY Nature Resort

MY Nature Lodge is a remarkable eco-lodge tucked away within the serene embrace of the Sepilok Nature Reserve, a sprawling 25-acre haven ensconced in the heart of Borneo's captivating rainforest. This lush sanctuary is a haven for biodiversity, making it an ideal retreat for nature enthusiasts and wildlife aficionados.

The lodge boasts generously proportioned, well-ventilated rooms and chalets, meticulously designed to offer guests a comfortable and eco-conscious respite. Upon stepping outside, you'll be transported to a realm of natural wonder.

A revitalizing swimming pool entices for a leisurely swim, while the open-air restaurant invites you to relish delectable cuisine amidst the symphony of the jungle.

For an unparalleled rainforest adventure, embark on a journey through the verdant surroundings via elevated rainforest platforms and traverse treetops along a breathtaking 1,000-foot boardwalk. Here, you'll have the opportunity to encounter resident wildlife, including the iconic orangutans, playful macaques, and a kaleidoscope of vibrant tropical birds.

MY Nature Lodge transcends being a mere accommodation; it's your gateway to the soul of Borneo's unspoiled rainforest, delivering an immersive encounter with one of the planet's most remarkable natural ecosystems.

Visiting Sepilok Orangutan Sanctuary

The primary goal of Sepilok Orangutan Sanctuary may be orangutan rehabilitation, but it also focuses on public education, conservation projects and exercises. There is also research and information on other endangered animals like the rhinoceros, making it an important center for Borneo’s wildlife and ecology.

During the tour, a boardwalk will take you to a viewing gallery and feeding platform where the orangutans are fed milk and bananas twice daily at both 10.00am and 3.00pm by the rangers that work within the park. We advise you visit at one of the feeding times suggested to ensure you get to see the orangutans during their daily activity.

They are deliberately fed bland foods in the hope that they will start to forage for themselves and become more independent, hopefully being released back into the wild. Also attracted by the food during feeding hours, long-tailed macaques are known to frequent the center's grounds.

Sepilok Orangutan Sanctuary Photos