Sepilok Travel Guide 2025: How To Visit, Where To Stay & Top Things To Do

Biodiversity: Orangutans, Sun Bears, Proboscis Monkeys, Pygmy Elephants, Hornbills, Rainforest Birds

Top Activities: Orangutan Feeding, Rainforest Canopy Walk, Night Jungle Walk, Birdwatching, Wildlife Photography

Why Sepilok Deserves a Spot on Your 2025 Travel List

There are few places left in the world where you can witness endangered wildlife, walk among towering rainforest trees, and support genuine conservation efforts—all in a single destination. That’s what makes Sepilok so special. It isn’t just another stop on a bucket list; it’s a living, breathing ecosystem where every visit helps protect something fragile and irreplaceable.

In a time when travel is becoming more mindful and meaningful, Sepilok offers exactly what many of us are seeking: authenticity, connection, and purpose. This small corner of Sabah is a sanctuary not just for Orangutans and Sun Bears, but for travelers who want to slow down, learn something new, and reconnect with the natural world.

Beyond the attractions and itinerary suggestions, Sepilok gives you the chance to be part of something bigger—to travel in a way that respects the land, supports the local community, and protects the rainforest for future generations. And in 2025, that kind of travel feels more meaningful than ever.

Whether you're a wildlife photographer, an eco-traveler, or simply someone curious about Borneo’s biodiversity, this Sepilok travel guide shows that there’s far more to discover than you might expect.

Top Things to Do in Sepilok

The charm of Sepilok lies in its immersive natural experiences. Whether you’re here for a few hours or several days, this Sepilok travel guide highlights the top activities you shouldn’t miss.

1. Observe Orangutans in Their Natural Habitat

Seeing an Orangutan swing gracefully through the trees is unforgettable. The Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre allows you to witness this iconic species in a semi-wild environment while supporting their recovery.

2. Meet the World’s Smallest Bears

Just next door, the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre introduces visitors to rescued sun bears. These tree-climbing animals are incredibly expressive and fun to watch.

3. Walk the Rainforest Canopy

Head to the Rainforest Discovery Centre to walk through the treetops, explore botanical gardens, and go birdwatching.

4. Go Birding in a Global Hotspot

With over 300 recorded species, Sepilok is a birder’s paradise. The Bornean Bristlehead is one of the rare endemics you may spot.

5. Join a Guided Night Trail

Explore the rainforest after dark and encounter Flying Squirrels, Civets, Owls, and glowing fungi on a guided night walk at RDC.

Visiting the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre

As the cornerstone of this Sepilok travel guide, the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre is one of the most important sanctuaries in Southeast Asia.

This centre rehabilitates orphaned and injured orangutans, preparing them for eventual release into the wild. Visitors can observe them during two daily feeding times (10:00 AM and 3:00 PM), but that’s only part of the magic. The outdoor nursery, visible through large glass panels, offers intimate views of young Orangutans learning to climb, feed, and socialize under the guidance of expert carers.

Pro Tips:

Arrive early for front-row views at the feeding platform.
Stay quiet and respectful—this is their home, not a zoo.
Don’t bring food or drinks near the observation areas.

Highlights:

Outdoor nursery viewing deck
Educational exhibits on Orangutan conservation
Great photo opportunities (bring a zoom lens!)

To learn more about what to expect, tips for visiting, and how this sanctuary helps save endangered primates, read our in-depth guide: Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre: What You Need to Know Before You Go

Should You Visit the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre?

Absolutely—especially if you’re passionate about animal welfare. The Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre (BSBCC) rescues and rehabilitates Sun Bears from illegal captivity and deforestation.

While they’re lesser known than Orangutans, Sun Bears are just as fascinating. Their small size, long tongues, and unique chest markings make them incredibly photogenic. Elevated boardwalks allow you to view the bears foraging, climbing trees, or lounging in hammocks.

This center emphasizes education and advocacy, helping raise awareness about the threats Sun Bears face across Southeast Asia. Most visitors are surprised by how engaging and emotional this experience is.

Here's a more detailed article for the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre: Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre: Is It Worth Visiting in 2025?

Exploring Rainforest Discovery Centre: Birding & Canopy Walks

A highlight of any Sepilok travel guide is the Rainforest Discovery Centre (RDC). This lesser-known gem deserves as much attention as the wildlife centers.

What You Can Experience:

Canopy Walk: A 347-meter-long skywalk brings you eye-level with hornbills, monkeys, and treetop flora.
Birdwatching Tower: Don’t forget binoculars—RDC is a hotspot for rare species like the Black-and-Crimson Pitta and Rufous-collared Kingfisher.
Night Trails: These guided walks offer a unique glimpse into the jungle after dark, when it buzzes with nocturnal life.
Botanical Garden: Educational signage makes this a great stop for those curious about local plant life.

Ideal for nature photographers, families, and biology enthusiasts, RDC is a calm and educational space surrounded by rainforest.

For a deeper dive into birding trails, canopy walks, and night hikes, check out our guide: Expert Rainforest Discovery Centre Guide: Birding, Canopy Walks & Night Trails

How to Get to Sepilok

Getting to Sepilok is easier than many expect. Here's how:

From Kota Kinabalu

- Flight: 45-minute direct flight to Sandakan, followed by a 30-minute ride to Sepilok
- Bus: 6–8 hours to Sandakan, then 30 minutes to Sepilok

From Lahad Datu or Kinabatangan

- Hire a private transfer or join an overland tour heading toward Sepilok

Plan ahead if traveling during high season (July–August), as transport and accommodations fill up fast.

Need detailed transport tips? Our guide covers every route and option. Check out: Expert Travel Tips: How to Reach Sepilok from Kota Kinabalu, Sandakan & Lahad Datu Stress-Free

Where to Stay in Sepilok: Best Lodges & Eco Resorts

Sepilok has a great range of eco-conscious and budget-friendly accommodations, many within walking distance of top attractions.

Top stays:

Sepilok Jungle Resort- Family-friendly with an immersive jungle environment
Sepilok Nature Resort – Lakeside chalets and serene rainforest views
Paganakan Dii Tropical Retreat – Rustic elegance with open-air rooms

Explore more top-rated lodges and resorts in detail by reading: Where to Stay in Sepilok: Best & Cozy Lodges, Resorts & Budget Accommodations

Sepilok for Families: Wildlife and Kid-Friendly Fun

Travelling with children to Sepilok is not only possible—it’s deeply rewarding. With gentle walking trails, interactive exhibits, and encounters with orangutans and sun bears (from a safe distance!), Sepilok offers an unforgettable nature-based experience that’s both educational and exciting for young minds.

Additionally, families can enjoy quiet moments at the Rainforest Discovery Centre canopy walks, learn about rainforest conservation, and explore shaded nature gardens perfect for curious explorers.

Discover in-depth knowledge for this section by reading here: Sepilok for Families: Wildlife Encounters & Kid-Friendly Activities

Best Time to Visit Sepilok

Sepilok can be visited year-round, but the best time to experience its lush rainforests and vibrant wildlife is during the dry season from March to October. This period offers more stable weather, clearer skies, and better conditions for outdoor activities like canopy walks, birdwatching, and visiting wildlife sanctuaries.

If you’re hoping to catch Orangutans during feeding times or see birds like Hornbills and Kingfishers in action, the months of April to July are particularly rewarding due to the local fruiting season, which attracts more animal activity.

From August to October, birdwatchers and nature photographers flock to Sepilok, taking advantage of optimal light and less humidity. While the rainy season from November to February brings heavier showers and occasional tour disruptions, it also paints the rainforest in its most vibrant shades of green and attracts fewer tourists—ideal for those who prefer a quieter, slower-paced experience.

Regardless of when you go, this Sepilok travel guide recommends planning your key activities in the early morning or late afternoon, when wildlife is most active and temperatures are more comfortable.

Ideal Months:

- March to October: Drier season, better for wildlife sightings and photography

Rainier Months:

- November to February: Expect lush scenery and higher humidity; tours may be affected by rain

Learn comprehensive insights and weather tips in Sepilok from our post here: Best Time to Visit Sepilok for Wildlife & Sightseeing

What to Pack for a Sepilok Rainforest Tour

Pack smart and stay comfortable in Sepilok’s humid, forested terrain.

Essentials:

Lightweight clothing (long-sleeved shirts and pants)
Insect repellent and sunscreen
Waterproof bag and rain poncho
Hiking shoes or comfortable walking sandals
Binoculars and camera
Reusable water bottle
Flashlight or headlamp for night walks

To learn more, read our blog: What to Pack for Sepilok Tours: Best Tips for 2025

Ethical Wildlife Tourism in Sepilok

One of the most important messages in any Sepilok travel guide is the emphasis on ethical wildlife tourism. Sepilok is a rare destination where humans and animals coexist in close proximity, but it’s vital that visitors act responsibly to protect the environment and its inhabitants.

Whether you're observing Orangutans at the rehabilitation centre or Sun Bears at the conservation facility, always maintain a respectful distance and avoid any behavior that could stress or endanger the animals—this includes feeding, touching, or using flash photography.

Travelers should also stay on marked trails, speak quietly in observation areas, and support local businesses that practice sustainability, such as eco-lodges, certified guides, and conservation-focused tour operators. Choosing to travel ethically in Sepilok not only enhances your experience but also contributes directly to the protection of endangered species and the preservation of Sabah’s rainforest ecosystems.

As you explore the wonders of this region, remember that every small choice—from the lodge you book to the way you interact with wildlife—can have a lasting impact.

Tips:

Observe quietly and never feed or touch wildlife
Stick to marked paths and avoid disturbing natural habitats
Choose eco-certified tours and locally owned lodges
Dispose of waste properly and avoid single-use plastics

Want to make a positive impact while you travel? Learn how by reading our new blog: Ethical Wildlife Tourism in Sepilok: Best Tips To Be a Responsible Visitor

Full-Day Sepilok Wildlife & Nature Experience Itinerary

1

Departure: 8:30 AM – Hotel or Airport Pickup

Your day begins with a convenient pickup from your hotel in Sandakan, Sepilok, or directly from Sandakan Airport. A friendly guide will greet you and brief you on the day’s wildlife-rich adventure ahead.

9:00 AM – Visit Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre

Your first stop is one of Borneo’s most celebrated conservation sites—the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre. Witness young orangutans in the outdoor nursery, learning to climb, forage, and play under expert care.

You’ll also view a short, informative documentary in the visitor hall that outlines the incredible rescue and rehabilitation work being done here.

10:30 AM – Scenic Drive to Labuk Bay

Hop back into the vehicle for a 30-minute scenic drive through lush rainforest landscapes as you head toward your next wildlife encounter.

11:00 AM – Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary

Get up close with the peculiar and beloved Proboscis monkeys, known for their large noses and potbellies. This privately owned sanctuary offers a rare opportunity to observe these endemic primates during feeding sessions, as they swing through mangroves and interact in family groups.

12:30 PM – Lunch at Sepilok Jungle Resort

Refuel with a relaxing lunch at Sepilok Jungle Resort, nestled in a tranquil rainforest setting. Enjoy a mix of local Malaysian dishes and Western comfort food surrounded by nature's sights and sounds.

1:30 PM – Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre (BSBCC)

Next, visit the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre, home to the world’s smallest bear species. Stroll along elevated boardwalks as you observe these rescued bears climb trees, forage for food, or nap in hammocks. Learn about their conservation story and the threats they face from habitat loss and poaching.

2:30 PM – Orangutan Afternoon Feeding Session

Return to the Sepilok Orangutan Centre for the 3:00 PM feeding session, when semi-wild orangutans descend from the forest for supplementary fruit offerings. This is a great time for photos and offers another chance to see different individuals in action.

3:00 PM – Rainforest Discovery Centre (RDC) & Canopy Walk

Your final stop is the Rainforest Discovery Centre, a hidden gem for nature lovers. Walk among the treetops on the Canopy Walkway, explore the botanical gardens, and spot colorful birds like hornbills or kingfishers from the birding towers. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of flying squirrels or monkeys in the distance.

1 4:00 PM – Drop-Off at Hotel or Airport

After a full day immersed in wildlife, conservation, and rainforest exploration, you’ll be dropped off at your hotel or Sandakan Airport, just in time for your evening rest or onward journey.

Book This Full Day Tour

Full Day Sepilok Orangutan Sun Bear Labuk Bay RDC Tour

Full Day Sepilok Orangutan, Sun Bear, Proboscis Monkey & Rainforest Discovery Tour | Wildlife Experience in Sandakan

Rated 4.67 out of 5

4.67(3 reviews)

8 - 9 hours

Free Cancellation

from RM1,125.00

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To learn more about this full-day Sepilok tour, make sure to read its detail blog: Unforgettable Full-Day Sepilok Itinerary: #1 Wildlife & Nature Experience

Final Thoughts: Your Journey to Borneo Starts Here

There’s something about Sepilok that lingers long after you’ve left, the soft rustle of the rainforest, the quiet awe of seeing an Orangutan in the wild, the feeling that for once, you’re exactly where you’re meant to be. It’s not just a destination, but a place that invites you to slow down, look closer, and connect with nature on its own terms.

This Sepilok travel guide has given you a window into what’s possible here—wildlife sanctuaries built on compassion, eco-adventures shaped by conservation, and communities working hand in hand with nature. But the real magic of Sepilok can’t be captured in words. You’ll find it in the moments of stillness, in the smiles of the locals, and in the silent understanding between you and the forest.

Sepilok offers something quietly transformative. And when you're ready to turn inspiration into action, your journey to Borneo will be waiting—with open skies, open trails, and open hearts.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many days should I spend in Sepilok?

Most visitors find that 2 to 3 days in Sepilok is ideal. This allows enough time to visit the Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, Sun Bear Conservation Centre, and Rainforest Discovery Centre without rushing. If you enjoy birdwatching or night walks, adding an extra day gives you the flexibility to explore at a slower pace.

Can I visit Sepilok on a day trip from Sandakan?

Is Sepilok suitable for children and families?

What should I pack for a trip to Sepilok?

Is Sepilok a good base for exploring other parts of Sandakan? Yes! Sepilok is only about 30 minutes from Sandakan town, makin