Sandakan: Orangutan Sanctuary Shared Day Trip Tour

Traveling through Sabah, Malaysia, means encountering some of the world’s most unique wildlife. The Sandakan Orangutan Sanctuary Shared Day Trip offers a balanced glimpse into the region’s conservation efforts, combining close encounters with orangutans, proboscis monkeys, and sun bears—all in a single day. This tour promises a mix of educational insights, beautiful scenery, and a chance to see these incredible creatures in naturalistic settings.

What we love about this experience? First, it’s the variety—you’re not just visiting one sanctuary but three vital conservation centers. Second, the guides are known for their knowledge and friendly approach, making each stop informative. Third, the included delicious lunch and logistical smoothness mean you can relax and enjoy the day without worry.

One potential consideration? The full-day schedule means lots of walking and bus riding, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a busy day on their feet. Also, because some parts are natural habitats, weather can be unpredictable, which might impact your experience.

This tour is ideal for wildlife enthusiasts wanting a rundown of Sabah’s conservation efforts, travelers keen on photography, and those who appreciate good local food and well-organized excursions. If you’re after an authentic, educational, and fun day, this trip will check many boxes.

Good To Know

• Diverse wildlife encounters including orangutans, proboscis monkeys, sun bears, and more.
• Educational insights from knowledgeable guides and video programs.
• Beautiful rainforest scenery with a canopy walk and sky walk among giants.
• Balanced itinerary with morning and afternoon orangutan feedings.
• Includes a hearty lunch and all entrance fees for a hassle-free experience.
• Small group size ensures personalized attention and thoughtful interaction.

You can check availability for your dates here:

In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins with a hotel or airport pick-up in Sandakan, making logistics straightforward. Traveling by a comfortable van, you’ll cover about 20 minutes to the first stop, the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre. The group size is limited to just 10 participants, which helps keep the experience intimate and allows your guide, often praised for their friendliness and knowledge, to answer your questions and share insights.

Sepilok Orangutan Sanctuary: Morning and Afternoon Feedings

The main highlight of the trip is visiting Sepilok, a renowned facility dedicated to rehabilitating orangutans. We loved the opportunity to see the morning feeding in the forest, which is a carefully controlled event that allows visitors to observe orangutans in a semi-wild environment. Many reviewers mention that the guides are excellent at explaining the orangutans’ behavior and conservation status, making the experience both fun and educational.

Later in the afternoon, the group returns for the second orangutan feeding, increasing your chances of spotting these incredible apes. The video program at the Nature Education Centre adds context, explaining the challenges orangutans face and what conservation efforts are underway.

Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary

After a 30-minute drive, you arrive at Labuk Bay, a mangrove forest home to approximately four groups of proboscis monkeys. This is where you’ll see these distinctive primates up close—an absolute treat, especially for photographers. One reviewer notes, “It’s the best place for close-up shots of proboscis monkeys. They’re surprisingly expressive and funny to watch.” Besides monkeys, expect to see Silver Leaf Monkeys, Pig-tailed Macaque, and various bird species like hornbills and kingfishers.

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Lunch at Sepilok Jungle Resort

A highlight for many is the lunch break at SJR. The menu offers well-reviewed local dishes and tapas-style options, making it a perfect way to refuel. Guests mention it as a delicious meal in a charming setting, with some noting that the food exceeded expectations considering the remote location.

Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre

Post-lunch, the tour visits the Sun Bear Conservation Centre. Known as the world’s smallest bear, the sun bear is captivating, and the guides are praised for their passion and depth of knowledge. Seeing these bears in a naturalistic environment and understanding their plight adds depth to your wildlife experience.

Rainforest Discovery Centre and Sky Walk

The final part of the day takes you to the Rainforest Discovery Centre (RDC). Here, you’re offered a guided tour and a chance to walk on the only Sky Walk in Sandakan, a 620-meter suspension bridge that elevates you into the canopy. At 28 meters above ground, this walk offers a rare perspective on the towering trees and lush foliage. Guests often mention how “walking among the giants was surreal,” adding an element of adventure and wonder to the day.

Ending the Trip

After exploring RDC, the van takes you back to your hotel or airport, ending a full but rewarding day. The schedule is tight but well-paced, with enough time at each stop to appreciate the wildlife and environment without feeling rushed.

Practical Details

Duration and Timing

The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, with specific start times depending on availability. It’s best to check ahead and plan your day accordingly. The early morning orangutan feedings are usually a highlight, so arriving early at your hotel is recommended.

Price and Value

At $340 per person, the price includes all entrance fees, a guided experience, transportation, and lunch. Considering the number of centers visited and the depth of information provided, this fee offers good value for a comprehensive wildlife day. Guests have found the tour well-organized and worth the cost, especially compared to arranging separate visits.

Small Group Experience

Limited to 10 participants, the small group size means a more personalized experience. Reviewers appreciate the chance to interact more directly with guides and ask questions freely.

What to Bring

Comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a camera are essentials. The natural environment means rain is always possible, so a light raincoat or umbrella is wise. Remember that touching animals or plants is not allowed, and smoking is prohibited.

Final Thoughts

This tour packs an incredible amount of wildlife observation into a single day, making it a fantastic choice for those who want to see Sabah’s iconic animals without multiple separate excursions. It offers a well-balanced mix of conservation education, stunning scenery, and authentic wildlife encounters.

The inclusion of delicious local food and a small-group setting elevates the experience beyond a typical day trip. The guides’ expertise and friendly demeanor add warmth and insight, ensuring you leave more informed and inspired.

While it’s a long day with lots of walking and bus journeys, the payoff is a richer appreciation for Sabah’s remarkable biodiversity. It’s especially suitable for travelers with a keen interest in wildlife, photography, and conservation.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for wildlife lovers eager to see orangutans, proboscis monkeys, and sun bears in one go. It suits those who enjoy structured yet flexible tours, with enough time for photos and learning. It’s also excellent for families who want a meaningful day exploring nature, as long as little ones are comfortable with the physical pace.

If you’re after a meaningful, well-organized adventure that combines wildlife, education, and scenic rainforest walks, this tour offers solid value and memorable moments. It’s a great way to deepen your understanding of Sabah’s conservation efforts while having fun spotting some of the most adorable and fascinating animals on Earth.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from your hotel or Sandakan airport.

How long is the entire tour?
The full-day experience lasts approximately 7 hours, depending on group size and traffic conditions.

Are entrance fees included?
All entrance fees for Sepilok Orangutan Sanctuary, Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary, and Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre are included.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, water, and a camera are recommended.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour is not suitable for children under 2 years, pregnant women, wheelchair users, or those with animal allergies.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is lunch included?
Yes, the tour includes a delicious lunch at SJR, featuring local dishes and tapas.

What’s the group size?
Limited to 10 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Will I see the orangutans feeding twice?
Yes, the schedule includes both the morning and afternoon feedings, increasing your chances of viewing.

To sum it up, the Sandakan Orangutan Sanctuary Shared Day Trip offers a well-rounded, engaging journey into Sabah’s wildlife and conservation efforts. It’s perfect for those seeking an authentic, educational, and scenic day among some of the most endangered and charming creatures. With thoughtful organization, knowledgeable guides, and a variety of habitats, it provides excellent value for anyone eager to connect with nature in Malaysia’s rainforest.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby