Full Day At Sepilok Orangutan, Sun Bear & Sandakan City Tour

If you’re looking to combine wildlife encounters with a taste of Sabah’s local charm, this full-day tour offers a well-balanced mix. For just $163, you’ll spend about 9 hours exploring the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre, and key sites around Sandakan. Led by friendly guides, this tour is as much about learning as seeing animals in their natural-ish habitat.

What we really like about this experience is how up-close and personal you get with the orangutans — watching young orangutans being fed is a highlight — and the Sun Bear Centre, which offers insight into some of Borneo’s most adorable but endangered creatures. Plus, the city tour includes a visit to meaningful sites like the Sandakan Memorial Park and the Puu Jih Shih Buddhist Temple, giving a nice balance between wildlife and local culture.

One thing to keep in mind is that the schedule is quite full, so if you prefer a slow, leisurely pace or have mobility issues, this might feel rushed at times. Also, the best part of the tour is the outdoor wildlife viewing, so weather can affect your experience — don’t forget your raincoat or umbrella just in case.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want an immersive day of wildlife, history, and culture without sacrificing comfort. If you love animals, are curious about Borneo’s conservation efforts, or want a broad overview of Sandakan’s highlights, you’ll find this tour very satisfying.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Wildlife Encounters: Close views of orangutans and sun bears foster a real connection with Sabah’s conservation success stories.
Comprehensive City Tour: Visits to historical and cultural sites like the Memorial Park and Buddhist Temple enrich the day.
Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides provide context and answer questions, making the experience educational.
Efficient Schedule: The itinerary packs a lot into 9 hours, ideal for travelers with limited time who want a full picture.
Comfort & Convenience: Hotel pickup and drop-off, plus included lunch, make logistics smooth.
Authentic Experience: Visiting conservation centers offers a genuine look at ongoing efforts to protect these iconic species.

Planning more time in Sandakan? We've covered other experiences worth considering.

A Detailed Look at the Experience

This tour kicks off with hotel pickup in Sandakan, making sure you start your day hassle-free. The drive to Sepilok, about 30 minutes, is a good chance to get oriented with the landscape and hear some background about Sabah’s wildlife efforts. The first major stop is the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, where you’ll witness the adorable young orangutans in their nursery, a truly heartwarming sight. We loved the way the guides explained the rehabilitation process — it’s about bringing these intelligent creatures back into the wild, not just showcasing animals.

You’ll also watch the morning feeding, a carefully managed activity that draws a crowd but remains intimate enough to see each orangutan’s personality. The optional video provides extra context, explaining the conservation work in depth. Travelers have commented that “it was a privilege to see orangutans in such a natural setting” and that “the nursery was particularly touching, seeing the little ones so close.”

Next, the tour visits the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre. These tiny bears, often called “the world’s smallest bears,” are surprisingly charming. The enclosure mimics their natural habitat, and the guides are eager to share facts about their diet and behavior. As one reviewer put it, “It’s fascinating to see these little bears climbing and playing — you get a real sense of their personality.” Observing the bears in a well-laid-out conservation center adds an educational layer to your wildlife experience.

After the wildlife stops, the tour transitions to Sandakan city highlights. The Sandakan Memorial Park offers a sobering yet important look at the city’s WWII history. It’s well-maintained and provides a reflective space, especially for history buffs. The Puu Jih Shih Buddhist Temple offers panoramic views of Sandakan and the surrounding landscape, giving a peaceful contrast to the busy city streets.

Other stops include St. Michael’s Church, the Central Market, and the Agnes Keith Museum. The museum is especially interesting because it provides a glimpse into colonial life, with artifacts and exhibits that tell stories of Sandakan’s past. As one guest mentioned, “It’s a great way to understand the local culture and history in just an hour or so.”

Finally, the tour winds down at the English Tea House, where you can relax and enjoy panoramic views over a cup of tea or coffee. The setting is charming and provides a well-deserved break after a busy day of sightseeing.

Transportation is via a comfortable coach, which makes moving between sites easy. The group size varies, but the small group vibe helps with personalized attention. The lunch included is straightforward but satisfying — enough to keep you energized for the afternoon.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

This tour offers a rare chance to see iconic wildlife—orangutans and sun bears—in well-maintained conservation centers, which is a step above just viewing animals in the wild. The guides’ explanations deepen your understanding of the animals’ stories, making the experience more meaningful. On top of that, the blend of cultural sites and historical landmarks makes this a well-rounded day, especially for those who want more than just wildlife viewing.

The value comes from the comprehensive nature of the tour: transportation, admission fees, lunch, and guided commentary are included. When considering the cost, many travelers find it reasonable given the quality of the experience and the ease of logistics.

However, be prepared for a full schedule — it’s a long day, and weather can influence some parts, especially outdoor visits. Also, while the tour is wheelchair accessible, it involves walking on sometimes uneven paths, so comfortable shoes are a must.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

If you’re a wildlife enthusiast eager to see orangutans and sun bears up close, this tour is ideal. It’s also excellent for history lovers interested in Sandakan’s WWII past or cultural sites. The mix of nature and city gives a good overview for first-time visitors wanting a broad, authentic taste of Sabah. Families with children, provided they’re comfortable with walking and outdoor activities, will also find this engaging.

Travelers looking for a very leisurely or private experience might prefer private tours or more relaxed alternatives, but for a guided, efficient day with plenty of highlights, this tour hits the mark.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup from any hotel in Sandakan is included, and you should wait in the lobby 10 minutes before your scheduled time.

How long is the drive between sites?
The bus or coach ride between major stops lasts about 30 minutes each way, helping keep the day flowing smoothly.

What animals will I see?
You’ll see orangutans in the nursery and during feeding, plus the smallest bears — the Sun Bears — in their conservation center.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a simple but satisfying lunch is part of the package, allowing you to refuel without worrying about extra costs.

How long is the city tour?
The city tour itself lasts around 6.5 hours, covering sites like the Memorial Park, Puu Jih Shih Temple, and the Agnes Keith Museum.

Can I visit the sites separately?
This tour is designed as a full-day experience; individual site visits will likely require separate arrangements.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, especially if your kids enjoy animals and history, but be aware of the walking involved and outdoor conditions.

What should I bring?
Bring your camera, drinks, biodegradable sunscreen, insect repellent, cash, and comfortable walking shoes.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, it is wheelchair accessible, but some walking on uneven terrain may be involved.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your schedule shifts.

This tour balances nature, history, and culture in a way that makes Sabah’s complexity accessible and engaging. Whether you’re a wildlife lover, a culture seeker, or someone who wants a taste of everything, it offers a comprehensive day with plenty of memorable moments. Just remember to bring your curiosity, a good pair of shoes, and an open mind — you’re in for a rewarding experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: