The Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, opened in 1964, is Malaysia's first orangutan rehabilitation facility, set inside a rainforest reserve about 25 km west of Sandakan in Sabah. It cares for orphaned and rescued Bornean orangutans with the goal of returning them to the wild, and visitors watch semi-wild orangutans from boardwalks and observation decks during scheduled feedings. It is commonly combined with the nearby Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre and the Rainforest Discovery Centre for a half- or full-day outing.
Twice-daily feeding sessions when semi-wild orangutans gather at the platform — the signature viewing moment
Outdoor Nursery observation building where younger orangutans play, on a separate feeding schedule
Indoor exhibition and a video presentation explaining the rehabilitation and release process
Rainforest boardwalks with chances to spot proboscis monkeys, gibbons and other wildlife
Walking-distance links to the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre and Rainforest Discovery Centre
Good to know
RulesBags, food and drinks are not allowed inside the forest area. Store everything in the free lockers at the entrance before entering (macaques raid belongings and food). Confirm the latest rules on arrival.
MannersKeep about 6 m from the orangutans at all times, stay on the boardwalks and never touch or feed them. No flash photography and no loud noise (to avoid disease transmission and stress).
SafetyMacaques snatch water bottles, plastic bags and food from hands very fast. Go empty-handed, and do not reach toward the monkeys or hold prolonged eye contact.
SeasonThe drier months (roughly March–October) are better for viewing; other months bring frequent rain and slippery, muddy trails. Bring a rain jacket and non-slip shoes, and note that sightings are not guaranteed, especially in wet weather.
CautionWhen traveling from Sandakan, watch for unmetered taxis inflating fares or failing to agree a price upfront. Using the Grab app or fixing the fare in advance is safer, and you can ignore touts insisting you must hire a 'compulsory private guide' for an extra fee.
RulesAn entrance fee (foreigners roughly RM30 adult / RM15 child) plus a separate camera fee (around RM10) may apply. Prices, opening hours and feeding times change, so verify the latest details through official channels before visiting.
Practical info
About a 30-minute drive from Sandakan town/airport by taxi or Grab; a few daily buses also run. Feedings are at the platform 10:00 and 15:00, and at the Outdoor Nursery 09:30 and 14:30 (varies by day) — arrive 15–30 minutes early. The afternoon session is usually less crowded. Verify fees and times before you go.
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