Sandakan : Sepilok, Sun Bear & Labuk Bay Tour with Lunch

If you’re planning a trip to Sabah and want to see some of Malaysia’s most captivating wildlife, this full-day tour in Sandakan might just be the highlight of your visit. It packs in visits to three renowned sanctuaries, offers a chance to see orangutans, proboscis monkeys, and sun bears in their natural or rescued environments, and includes a tasty local lunch.

What makes this tour particularly appealing? We love the opportunity to witness orangutan feedings twice a day—an incredible way to observe these gentle giants up close. The chance to see proboscis monkeys, known for their enormous noses, in their mangrove habitat is both rare and fascinating. Finally, the Sun Bear Conservation Centre offers a rare glimpse of the world’s smallest bears, which are surprisingly adorable and highly endangered.

One possible consideration is the entire schedule’s pace—if you prefer a more relaxed day with lots of downtime, this might feel a little full-on. Still, it’s well-organized for maximum wildlife viewing and educational value.

This trip suits wildlife enthusiasts, families, or anyone eager to learn about conservation efforts in Sabah. If you’re after a comprehensive, authentic encounter with Bornean wildlife in a single day, it’s hard to beat.

Good To Know

• Wildlife-focused experience in Sabah, Malaysia, offering close encounters with orangutans, proboscis monkeys, and sun bears.
• Educational guides share insights on conservation and animal behavior, enriching the experience.
• Comfortable transportation and organized itinerary ensure smooth transitions between sanctuaries.
• Includes a local lunch, providing a taste of Sabah’s culinary delights.
• Flexible booking options and free cancellation make planning easier.
• Accessible for most travelers, including those in wheelchairs or in private groups.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering Sandakan’s Wildlife Wonders

This tour provides a solid overview of Sandakan’s most famous wildlife spots—perfect for travelers who want to see a variety of species in a single day without the hassle of planning multiple trips. It’s especially valuable because it combines wildlife viewing with learning about ongoing conservation projects, making your visit both fun and meaningful.

Morning at Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre

The day begins with a hotel pickup, usually arranged from any hotel in Sandakan. After around 30 minutes on the bus, you’ll arrive at the Sepilok Orang Utan Centre, a sanctuary dedicated to orangutan rehabilitation. Here, a guide will take you through the outdoor nursery and explain the ongoing efforts to rescue and reintroduce orangutans into the wild.

One of the tour’s highlights, as noted by previous participants, is the morning feeding session. Watching these intelligent, gentle creatures munch on fruit in their natural forest environment creates an unforgettable moment. Expect to spend roughly 1.5 hours exploring the center, with plenty of opportunities for photos and questions.

Guests have mentioned that guides are knowledgeable about orangutan behavior and conservation, which adds depth to the experience. An educational video at the Nature Education Centre further enhances understanding of orangutan plight and efforts to protect their habitat.

Midday at Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary

Next, you’ll stop for a lunch break at a local restaurant near the mangrove forests of Labuk Bay. The meal typically offers local flavors—think rice, fresh seafood, and tropical fruits—fueling you for the afternoon ahead.

Post-lunch, the tour continues at the Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary, where the focus shifts to the amusing proboscis monkeys. These monkeys are famous for their large noses and playful antics, often sitting in the treetops or engaging in social behaviors that are captivating to watch.

The guide will lead a walk explaining the behavior and habitat of these primates, and you’ll likely see them in their natural environment. The site’s location in a mangrove forest means other wildlife, like hornbills or otters, might also make an appearance.

Reviewers have appreciated the guided nature of the visit: “We loved the way the guide explained proboscis monkey behaviors and pointed out other wildlife you might spot.” With about 1.5 hours allocated, you get an immersive experience without feeling rushed.

Afternoon at Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre

In the afternoon, attention turns to the world’s smallest bears. The Sun Bear Conservation Centre (SBCC) is a highlight, especially for animal lovers. Here, rescued sun bears explore their forested habitat, and you’ll observe them engaging in foraging and climbing.

Guides at SBCC are passionate and well-informed, sharing insights into the bears’ behavior and the ongoing conservation work. Watching these bears—often curious and surprisingly lively—brings a real connection to the plight of these vulnerable creatures.

According to reviews, guests appreciated the chance to see the bears “up close in a safe environment” and valued learning about the efforts to protect them. Expect to spend about an hour here, during which you might also see some of the ongoing rehabilitation work.

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Final Stop at the Orangutan Centre

To round off the day, you’ll return to Sepilok for another feeding session at the orangutan sanctuary. This second visit offers another opportunity to observe orangutans in their natural environment, reaffirming the importance of conservation efforts.

The tour concludes with transportation back to your hotel or onward to Sandakan Airport, often around 8 hours after pick-up.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Value for money is significant here, considering the number of sanctuaries visited, the educational component, and the included lunch. The guide’s insights make the experience richer, and many reviewers note the professionalism and friendliness of the team, led by experienced guides who genuinely care about the wildlife.

The transportation is comfortable and well-organized, with most travelers feeling the day was efficiently managed. The small group sizes or private options increase intimacy and allow for personalized attention, which can be a bonus for those keen on photography or asking questions.

However, keep in mind that the full-day schedule involves quite a bit of walking and some early starts, so it’s best suited for those in good health who enjoy active outings. Also, the weather can be unpredictable—be prepared with rain gear or insect repellent, as the environments are lush and humid.

Practical Tips for a Great Day

• Wear comfortable shoes and light, breathable clothes.
• Bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunblock, especially for open areas.
• Don’t forget your camera, binoculars, and personal medications.
• Carry cash for small purchases or tips, though most meals and admissions are included.
• Respect wildlife rules—keep a safe distance and refrain from feeding or disturbing animals.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for wildlife enthusiasts eager to see iconic Bornean animals in their habitats or rescue centers. It’s a great option for families, as it offers educational content suitable for children, and for solo travelers seeking an organized, hassle-free day immersed in nature.

Those wanting a rundown of Sabah’s conservation efforts will find this tour both informative and inspiring. It’s perfect if you want a balanced mix of wildlife viewing, education, and local culture, all wrapped into one day.

FAQs

How long does the tour last?
It runs for approximately 8 hours, starting with hotel pickup in Sandakan and returning at the end of the day.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for most travelers with mobility needs.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, light clothing, a camera, biodegradable insect repellent, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and cash are recommended.

Are meals included?
Yes, the tour includes a local lunch en route, giving you a chance to enjoy Sabah’s culinary flavors.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in your plans.

What wildlife might I see besides orangutans, proboscis monkeys, and sun bears?
Other animals such as hornbills, otters, macaques, and silver leaf monkeys are often spotted during the tour.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the educational content and manageable pace make it suitable for families, provided children are comfortable with walking and outdoor environments.

This Sandakan wildlife tour offers a well-rounded experience, combining wildlife encounters with educational insights and local flavors. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned wildlife lover, it provides a meaningful glimpse into Sabah’s extraordinary natural heritage—all packed into a single, memorable day.

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