Borneo is one of the last remaining strongholds of the critically endangered orangutan, the world’s largest arboreal mammal and one of our closest living relatives. With their long arms, intelligent eyes, and shaggy reddish fur, Bornean orangutans (Pongo pygmaeus) spend most of their lives high in the rainforest canopy, moving gracefully from branch to branch in search of fruit and shelter.
These “people of the forest” are renowned for their tool use, problem-solving abilities, and deep maternal bonds; mothers care for their young for up to eight years, teaching them essential survival skills. Seeing them in the wild — whether swinging through the treetops or building their nightly nests of leaves, is one of the most moving wildlife encounters in Asia.
Despite ongoing threats from deforestation and habitat loss, dedicated conservation work and protected reserves across Sabah and Sarawak have made Borneo one of the best places on Earth to see orangutans in their natural habitat.
Borneo offers several exceptional areas for spotting orangutans in the wild, each with its own distinct ecosystem and viewing experience:
Often called the “crown jewel” of Borneo’s rainforests, Danum Valley is one of the most biodiverse ecosystems in the world. Here, orangutans roam freely alongside pygmy elephants, gibbons, and hornbills. Visitors can stay at the Borneo Rainforest Lodge, which features canopy walkways and guided treks designed to maximise wildlife sightings.
Located near Sandakan, Sepilok is one of the world’s leading orangutan rehabilitation projects. Orphaned and injured orangutans are cared for and reintroduced into the surrounding forest. Visitors can observe the feeding sessions at 10am and 3pm, which offer a moving look into the species’ recovery.
The wildlife-rich floodplains of the Kinabatangan River provide another excellent opportunity to see wild orangutans. River cruises glide through misty jungle corridors, where orangutans, proboscis monkeys, macaques, and pygmy elephants can all be seen in a single outing.
A vast expanse of protected forest in eastern Sabah, Tabin offers a quieter, more off-the-beaten-path orangutan experience. It’s particularly rewarding for birdwatchers and photographers seeking a wilder setting.
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.
Borneo Rainforest Lodge is set in the fauna and flora rich Danum Valley; this rustic lodge is the perfect place to stay on a selection of bespoke Borneo holidays. The spacious main building offers an open veranda where the traveller can sit back and enjoy the incredible diversity of this forest environment whilst wooden chalets and bungalows provide comfortable lodgings for guests. The mist shrouded treetops and babbling river lull one to sleep after a day's wildlife spotting.
A peaceful getaway into nature, set among ancient rainforests, freshwater wetlands, limestone woods, and mangrove forests.
Heavy rains across Sabah and Sarawak make trekking conditions challenging, but the forests are lush and photogenic. Orangutans are harder to spot as they move deeper into the canopy to stay dry.
Still wet, though the rain begins to ease toward the end of the month. Lodges are quieter, and photographers can capture the rainforest at its most atmospheric — misty mornings and vibrant green foliage.
The transition into the drier season begins. Orangutans become more active as fruit starts to ripen, and conditions for forest treks steadily improve. A good time to travel before the high season starts.
The dry season arrives, marking the start of the best orangutan-viewing months. Forest trails are easier to navigate and orangutan sightings around Danum Valley and the Kinabatangan River become more frequent.
Excellent weather and abundant fruit make orangutans particularly active. Mothers with young are often seen venturing through the trees, and this is a fantastic month for both photography and gentle trekking.
Prime orangutan season. Days are typically dry and warm, and the rainforest is alive with movement — orangutans, gibbons, macaques, and hornbills are frequently spotted.
Peak wildlife month in Borneo. Orangutans are highly visible as they forage in fruiting trees, and river safaris along the Kinabatangan often deliver exceptional sightings. Advance lodge bookings are recommended.
Still excellent conditions, with long, dry days and superb visibility. A great time for family safaris, combining wildlife with diving or beach stays.
The dry season continues, though light rains may begin toward the end of the month. Orangutans remain active, and forest colours are at their most vibrant.
Short tropical showers return, but sightings remain good, especially in Sepilok and Danum Valley. The forests are quieter and rates slightly lower — a great shoulder-season choice.
The onset of the wet season brings heavier rain and higher humidity. Orangutans are less predictable but can still be observed near rehabilitation centres and along sheltered forest edges.
The wettest month in Borneo. While wild sightings are fewer, visiting the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre offers reliable viewing and supports conservation during the quieter travel season.
Seeing orangutans in Borneo is a deeply immersive experience. Most encounters take place on guided treks through the rainforest or quiet river cruises along the Kinabatangan. Small group safaris, led by expert naturalist guides, help you track orangutans responsibly, minimising disturbance while maximising the chance of sightings.
Visits to rehabilitation centres like Sepilok complement these wild encounters, allowing you to witness crucial conservation work firsthand. Each journey is designed with sustainability at its core, ensuring that your visit contributes directly to protecting these extraordinary great apes and their fragile habitats.
Join us on this photographic safari, specialist-led by a seasoned professional in the realm of photography, Charlie Ryan. Capturing the essence of Borneo’s wildlife through his lens, Charlie’s work has been published in National Geographic, BBC, and Netflix.
Rainforests & Pulau Tiga
Begin you luxury Borneo adventure by venturing into the rainforests and along the river in search of proboscis monkeys, orangutans and pygmy elephants, before ending your journey relaxing on the white-sand beaches of Pulau Tiga.
