Discover the Story of Sepilok
Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre is one of the oldest and largest orangutan rehabilitation centres in the world. It was established in 1964, and since then, it has rescued, rehabilitated, and care for orphaned orangutans before releasing them back into the wild.
Located within a protected forest reserve of approximately 43 square kilometres (4,300 hectares), Sepilok provides a natural environment where orangutans can learn essential survival skills.
This is not a zoo. Instead, Sepilok focuses on conservation and low-impact tourism, allowing visitors to observe wildlife in a responsible and sustainable way.
Visitors may encounter wildlife such as:
- Orangutan (Pongo pygmaeus)
- Bornean Sun Bear (Helarctos malayanus)
- Rhinoceros Hornbill (Buceros rhinoceros)
- Viper snakes
- Various tropical bird species
Visitors may have the opportunity to observe rescued orangutans during feeding sessions.
Getting to sepilok
Sepilok is located in sandakan, approximately 25 km from the town centre and about 30 minutes from sandakan Airport.
Its convenient location makes it an easy and must-visit destination for travellers exploring Sabah.
Local Tours & Community support
Many visitors explore Sepilok through guided wildlife tours and local travel operators in Sabah, making it easier to visit nearby attractions and learn more about Borneo’s wildlife conservation efforts.
Furthermore, choosing a local operator means you are directly supporting the local community while enjoying a more authentic travel experience.
Reasons to Visit sepilok
Sepilok offers a rare opportunity to see orangutans up close in their natural habitat. More importantly, your visit contributes to conservation efforts and supports wildlife protection
Moreover, It is also one of the best places in Sabah to experience low-impact tourism, where nature is preserved and respected.
Plan the best time to visit
Opening hours may vary during public holidays and special occasions. Visitors are encouraged to chech the official website before visiting.
Support Conservation: Adopt an orangutan
Adoption packages and contribution fees may vary depending on the latest programme updates.
Purpose of the fee is the funds are used to cover the costs of food, medical treatment, and the rehabilitation process for rescued orangutans, helping them become independent and return to the forest reserve.
As an “adoptive parent” you will receive:
- An adoption certificate
- A photo of your adopted orangutan
- Its background profile
- Regular progress updates
please note that this is a symbolic adoption. Your donation helps support the centre. The orangutan remains safely at the rehabilitation centre and cannot be taken home.
To learn more about wildlife conservation efforts, visit WWF
Explore more in Sepilok
If you would like to discover more, explore our full guide : Borneo Rainforest Experienceshttps://gibbonadventures.com/tour-packages-in-borneo/