Day Trip Sepilok Orang Utan & Proboscis Monkey (Flight Excluded)

Traveling to Borneo and eager to see its iconic wildlife up close? The Day Trip to Sepilok Orang Utan & Proboscis Monkey offers a well-rounded, immersive experience that packs a lot into just one day. While it’s not a cheap tour, its focus on authentic encounters and expert guidance makes it a compelling choice for wildlife lovers.

What makes this tour stick out? First, you’ll get the chance to observe orangutans at the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre—a highlight for many. Second, the opportunity to see elusive proboscis monkeys in their natural habitat at Labuk Bay is a rare sight. Third, the small-group format, with a maximum of 15 participants, promises personalized attention and a more relaxed experience.

One potential caveat is the early start—an 4:30 am pickup—to ensure you maximize your day. This might be a challenge for some, especially if you’re not a morning person or have tight flight schedules.

This trip is ideal for wildlife enthusiasts who want an active, educational day, and don’t mind the early wake-up call. It’s also suited for travelers who value expert guides and small-group experiences that feel more personal and less rushed.

Good To Know

• Wildlife Encounters in One Day: See orangutans, sunbears, and proboscis monkeys—three of Borneo’s signature species—within a single trip.
• Small-Group Experience: Max 15 people for more personalized guidance and better chances to ask questions.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Yan and Rezal are praised for their knowledge, enthusiasm, and local insight.
• Convenient Transfers: Door-to-door transport from Kota Kinabalu and Sandakan makes logistics easier.
• Local Lunch Included: Enjoy a sit-down meal outside Sandakan, adding a local flavor to your day.
• Early Start: With a 4:30 am pickup, be prepared for a very early morning but a full, rewarding day.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Stop 1: Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre

Your day begins with a roughly half-hour drive from Sandakan Airport to Sepilok. This center is famed for rehabilitating orphaned and injured orangutans, making it a vital conservation effort. Watching orangutans feed from the viewing platform is a truly special moment, and many visitors find it both inspiring and humbling.

The centre also features a 25-minute documentary, giving background on orangutan conservation efforts. Reviewers like Blanca and Richard highlight how close-up viewing here is a highlight, with one noting, “we got to see everything we wanted,” thanks to knowledgeable guides like Rezal who create a friendly, engaging atmosphere.

Stop 2: Bornean Sunbear Conservation Center

Though not explicitly detailed in the itinerary, the tour mentions the option of visiting nearby conservation projects like the Sunbear Center. If included, this offers a chance to learn about Borneo’s smallest bears, often overlooked but adorable and fascinating. Visitors appreciate the opportunity to see these bears up close in a caring environment, adding another layer of understanding about local wildlife.

Stop 3: Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary

Next, the journey takes approximately 45 minutes to Labuk Bay. The sanctuary spans around 400 acres of mangrove forest, providing a lush backdrop for proboscis monkeys—arguably Borneo’s most bizarre-looking primate. This is often the highlight for many, as these elusive creatures are not always easy to spot in the wild.

From the observation platform, you’ll get a reasonably close view of these monkeys, said to be endemic to Borneo. As one reviewer pointed out, “having a close sighting of these animals is a rare treat,” and guides like Yan ensure you’re positioned well for great viewing.

What Travelers Say: Authentic Insights

The reviews shed light on what to expect. Many rave about guides like Yan and Rezal, describing them as knowledgeable, enthusiastic, and genuinely dedicated to wildlife conservation. Richard mentions Yan’s proactive approach, noting her effort to provide “up-to-date information,” which enhances the experience significantly.

Others, however, warn about logistical hiccups. One reviewer had a bad experience with the pickup failing to arrive, emphasizing the importance of confirming arrangements. The tour’s early start is generally appreciated for maximizing wildlife sightings but can be tough for those not used to waking before dawn.

Food and Comfort

Lunch is included at a local restaurant outside Sandakan, providing a chance to relax and enjoy some regional flavors. Reviewers appreciated the opportunity to sit down and refuel after a busy morning. Vegetarian options are available if requested in advance.

Transport and Group Size

The use of air-conditioned minivans ensures comfort, especially given the early start and potential tropical heat. The small-group format contributes to a more intimate experience, allowing guides to customize commentary and answer questions in depth.

The Value of the Experience

At $176 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive wildlife experience, particularly considering the inclusion of all transfers, entrance fees, lunch, and expert guides. While some might find the price steep, the quality of sightings, the personal attention, and the conservation-focused stops justify it for many.

It’s worth noting that internal flights from Kota Kinabalu are not included, so travelers should consider the added cost of flights. Booking these in advance online is recommended, as some reviews mention confusion or additional costs if not well coordinated.

Why It’s Worth It

• Wildlife in a natural setting: Watching orangutans and proboscis monkeys in their habitat beats zoo visits any day.
• Expert guidance: Guides like Yan and Rezal enhance understanding and make sightings more likely.
• Efficient use of time: Covering three key wildlife stops in one day is ideal for travelers with limited time.
• Cultural insight: Lunch at a local restaurant offers a taste of regional cuisine.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This day trip is perfect for wildlife enthusiasts, nature lovers, and conservation-minded travelers. It suits those who appreciate small-group settings and want a guide who can share in-depth knowledge. Since the tour involves early mornings, it’s best for energetic travelers prepared for a full, active day.

If you’re seeking luxury or a leisurely pace, this might feel a bit rushed. But if your goal is to see Borneo’s signature creatures—orangutans, sunbears, and proboscis monkeys—in one well-organized day, this trip checks most boxes.

Final Thoughts

This tour delivers a balanced mix of wildlife viewing, educational commentary, and culture. The small-group format, combined with expert guides like Yan, makes it a standout option for those serious about their wildlife encounters. While the early start requires some commitment, the chance to see orangutans feeding, observe rare proboscis monkeys, and learn about conservation efforts firsthand makes it worthwhile.

It’s a good value considering the included transportation, admissions, and lunch—especially for travelers who want a structured, insightful day without sacrificing comfort. Just remember to confirm your pickups and flights ahead of time to avoid surprises.

This tour suits proactive travelers who love wildlife and want an authentic peek into Borneo’s extraordinary creatures. It’s ideal for those who value expert guidance and small-group intimacy, making each sighting more meaningful and memorable.

FAQ

How early does the tour start?
Pickup begins at 4:30 am, to maximize wildlife sightings and make the most of the day’s itinerary.

Are transfers included?
Yes, the tour includes two-way door-to-door transfers in both Kota Kinabalu and Sandakan, with air-conditioned transport.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a local restaurant outside Sandakan provides lunch, with vegetarian options available if notified in advance.

What wildlife will I see?
You’ll see orangutans at Sepilok, proboscis monkeys at Labuk Bay, and potentially sunbears at the conservation center.

How large are the groups?
The maximum group size is 15, ensuring a more personalized and relaxed experience.

Are guides knowledgeable?
Yes, guides like Yan and Rezal are praised for their enthusiasm, expertise, and effort to provide up-to-date information.

Can children participate?
Yes, children are welcomed, but must be accompanied by an adult.

What about camera and video fees?
Additional fees may apply for cameras and videos, as well as taxes and beverages.

Is the tour suitable for non-early risers?
The tour’s early start might be challenging, but it’s essential for good wildlife sightings.

Do I need to book my flights separately?
Yes, internal flights from Kota Kinabalu are not included. Booking online in advance is recommended for best fares.

This comprehensive day trip offers a well-rounded opportunity to encounter Borneo’s iconic wildlife in a responsible, small-group setting. It’s a smart choice for travelers eager to combine education, adventure, and conservation into one memorable day.