Half-Day Sepilok Orangutan and Sun Bear Tour | Unforgettable Wildlife Encounter
The Half-Day Sepilok Orangutan and Sun Bear Tour invites you to discover the heart of Borneo’s wildlife and conservation efforts, all within a few unforgettable hours. Located just outside Sandakan City, this tour is perfect for travelers who want to experience Borneo’s most iconic animals without a full-day commitment.
Your journey begins with a comfortable hotel pickup in Sandakan before heading to the world-renowned Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre.
Here, you’ll watch a short documentary that introduces the inspiring story of how orphaned and injured orangutans are rescued, rehabilitated, and released back into the wild.
Then, stroll through lush rainforest walkways to the feeding platform, where you can observe these intelligent primates in their semi-wild habitat — a truly heartwarming encounter that highlights Borneo’s commitment to wildlife protection.
Next, continue to the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre, home to the world’s smallest bear species.
Learn about their rescue and rehabilitation programs while observing the playful and curious sun bears up close in their natural forest environment.
Regardless of whether you join the morning or afternoon session, this Half-Day Sepilok Orangutan and Sun Bear Tour promises an enriching and educational experience.
With convenient hotel transfers, expert local guidance, and up-close encounters with endangered wildlife, it’s the ideal eco-tour for nature lovers, families, and first-time visitors to Sandakan.
Highlights
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Experience the Half-Day Sepilok Orangutan and Sun Bear Tour, a perfect way to explore Sandakan’s top wildlife attractions in just a few hours.
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Visit the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre and witness rescued orangutans during their morning or afternoon feeding sessions.
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Learn about Borneo’s successful conservation efforts through an educational documentary on orangutan rescue and rehabilitation.
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Get up close to the world’s smallest bears at the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre, a sanctuary dedicated to their protection and recovery.
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Enjoy a comfortable round-trip transfer from your Sandakan hotel with a friendly local guide who shares insights into Borneo’s rainforest and wildlife.
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Ideal for nature lovers, families, and eco-tourists looking for an unforgettable experience on the Half-Day Sepilok Orangutan and Sun Bear Tour.
Best Time to Join
The Half-Day Sepilok Orangutan and Sun Bear Tour can be enjoyed year-round, but certain times offer a more rewarding experience.
For example, the Morning Feeding Tour is ideal if you prefer cooler weather and want to see the orangutans at their most active during feeding time.
For travelers seeking a more relaxed and less crowded visit, the Afternoon Feeding Tour provides the same opportunity to observe these gentle primates and sun bears in a calmer setting.
The dry season, which runs from March to October, is generally considered the best period to join this tour, as the sunny weather and clear trails make wildlife viewing and photography even more enjoyable.
What to Wear
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Lightweight, breathable clothing suitable for Borneo’s tropical climate
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Comfortable walking shoes or sandals with good grip for light forest trails
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Hat or cap for sun protection during the Half-Day Sepilok Orangutan and Sun Bear Tour
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Sunglasses and sunscreen, especially during the dry season (March–October)
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Light rain jacket or poncho in case of unexpected showers
What to Bring
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Refillable water bottle (consumption only allowed outside the centers)
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Camera or smartphone for photos – but no flash photography is permitted
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Small backpack to carry personal items securely
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Insect repellent to stay comfortable while walking near the rainforest
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Cash for souvenirs or refreshments at the Sepilok café
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A respectful attitude – keep quiet and avoid disturbing the animals
Important Notes
- No flash photography is allowed at both centers to avoid disturbing the animals.
- Stay quiet and respect the animals in their natural habitat.
- No food or drinks allowed inside the centers to maintain hygiene and safety.
- Plan your visit to match the orangutan feeding sessions for the best experience.
Additional Notes
- Tour Duration: 3-4 hours (including transfers)
- Accessibility: Suitable for all ages, but light walking is required.
- Facilities: Restrooms and a small café are available at Sepilok.
- Getting There: The center is 25 km from Sandakan (40-minute drive).
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long is the Half-Day Sepilok Orangutan and Sun Bear Tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3–4 hours, including hotel transfers from Sandakan.
2. What are the tour options for feeding sessions?
You can choose between a morning feeding session for cooler weather and more active orangutans, or an afternoon session for a less crowded experience.
3. Is the tour suitable for children and seniors?
Yes, the tour is suitable for all ages, though light walking on forest trails is required.
4. Are food and drinks allowed inside the centers?
No, to maintain hygiene and safety, food and drinks are not permitted inside the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre or the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre.
5. Can I take photos during the tour?
Yes, photography is allowed, but flash photography is strictly prohibited to avoid disturbing the animals.
➤If you have any other questions about the Half-Day Sepilok Orangutan and Sun Bear Tour, please contact us, and our team will be happy to assist you.
