Sepilok Orang Utan & Bornean Sun Bear Centre with Sandakan City Tour with Lunch

Exploring Sandakan’s Wildlife and Culture: A Detailed Review of the Sepilok Orang Utan & Sun Bear Tour

If you’re headed to Malaysia’s Sabah state and eager to see some of Southeast Asia’s most endearing wildlife, the Sepilok Orang Utan & Bornean Sun Bear Centre with Sandakan City Tour offers a well-rounded day. For $190.79 per person, you get about 8 hours of immersive experiences, including visits to iconic wildlife sanctuaries, a cultural temple, and a vibrant market — all with the convenience of round-trip hotel transfers.

What we love about this tour is how it combines wildlife conservation with authentic local culture. You’ll meet orangutans and sun bears in their protected habitats, gaining insight into the ongoing rescue efforts. Plus, the inclusion of a traditional lunch offers a taste of local flavors. That said, it’s worth considering that the tour schedule is packed, which may limit time spent at each stop for those wanting a more leisurely pace.

This tour is ideal for travelers who appreciate wildlife and cultural sights, value guided insights, and want a comprehensive, hassle-free day. If you’re short on time but eager to see orangutans and sun bears in Sabah, this trip hits many of the right notes.

Key Points

• Wildlife at its best – Visit the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, where rescued orangutans are gradually reintroduced to the wild.
• Conservation focus – The Bornean Sun Bear Center emphasizes rescue, rehabilitation, and public awareness about this rare species.
• Cultural highlights – Stop at Puu Jih Shih Buddhist Temple and Sandakan Market for a local flavor.
• All-inclusive value – Entrance fees, lunch, and transfers are included, making it straightforward and cost-effective.
• Guided expertise – Knowledgeable guides enhance your understanding of conservation efforts and local culture.
• Group size – The tour caters to groups up to 40 travelers, balancing a social atmosphere with manageable logistics.

The Itinerary in Detail

Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre

Our journey begins about 25 km west of Sandakan, at the Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre, which has been running since 1964. Here, the focus is on caring for orphaned orangutans rescued from logging sites, illegal pet trade, or human conflicts.

We loved the way this sanctuary treats its primates, providing space for them to roam freely in the jungle yet return for scheduled feedings. The chance to see these intelligent, gentle creatures in a semi-wild environment is genuinely special. As one reviewer noted, “The orangutans run free within the jungle and come to the reserve for food,” giving a natural feel to the experience.

Expect to spend about two hours exploring the feeding platforms, walking through the canopy, and learning about orangutan conservation. The entrance fee is included, and the sanctuary’s focus on rescue and rehabilitation makes it a meaningful visit, not just a tourist stop.

Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre

Next, we visit the Bornean Sun Bear Centre, a dedicated facility for the world’s smallest bear species. This center aims to rescue sun bears from illegal pet trade and illegal hunting, providing a safe environment and promoting awareness.

We appreciated the center’s clear mission and the opportunity to learn about the bears’ natural behaviors and threats they face. The guided tour lasts around an hour, offering close-up views of the bears in spacious enclosures that mimic their natural habitat. One reviewer remarked, “The centre does a lot of work to rescue them from humans and prepare them before release into the wild,” which highlights the conservation impact.

Puu Jih Shih Buddhist Temple

Then, we ascend to Puu Jih Shih Temple, perched on a hilltop overlooking Sandakan Bay. Built in 1987, this peaceful Buddhist site provides a serene break from wildlife encounters, with panoramic views that are perfect for photos.

The 20-minute stop is brief but offers a glimpse into local spirituality and architecture. The temple’s peaceful ambiance makes it a nice contrast to the lively wildlife centers.

Sandakan Central Market

Finally, we stroll through the Sandakan Central Market, a lively hub for regional produce, seafood, and local snacks. It’s a true taste of daily life in Sabah. Food lovers will appreciate the affordable hawker stalls, offering fresh local dishes and snacks.

While the visit is only about 30 minutes, the market’s vibrant atmosphere and authentic flavors leave a lasting impression. Several reviews emphasize how much travelers enjoy sampling the local cuisine here, making it a worthwhile cultural stop.

Practical Considerations

The tour runs Monday to Sunday, from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, with most travelers booking well in advance—on average 175 days ahead—reflecting high interest and positive reviews. The group sizes are capped at 40, ensuring you won’t feel lost in a crowd but still enjoy a lively atmosphere.

Transportation is included, with hotel pickup and drop-off, which simplifies logistics. The tour provides a full day of scheduled activities, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a busy day. If you’re seeking a relaxed, unhurried visit, this might feel rushed, especially during the wildlife stops.

The price includes all entrance fees and a delicious local lunch, making it good value, given the quality of experiences. However, extras like camera fees, drinks during meals, or optional tips are extra, so budget accordingly.

Authentic Experiences and What You’ll Take Home

One of the most praised aspects is the knowledgeable guides like Mr. Darwis, who keep you informed and engaged. Several reviews mention how guides enhance the experience, sharing insights into the behaviors of orangutans and the challenges facing bears.

Expect to see orangutans and sun bears in environments designed to mimic their natural habitat, which makes the experience more authentic than captive zoos. The sanctuary’s rescue story adds depth, making your visit educational and emotionally resonant. It’s not just about snapping photos but understanding ongoing conservation efforts.

The inclusion of a local lunch is a bonus, giving you a taste of Sabah’s cuisine—often described as flavorful with a twist, adding local flair to your day. The market visit allows you to witness the vibrant local life, further enriching your understanding of the area.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is perfect for wildlife lovers and cultural travelers who want a comprehensive look at Sandakan’s highlights without the hassle of organizing transport or entrance fees. It’s especially suited for those interested in conservation, as the visits are educational and impactful.

If you enjoy guided experiences and value authentic interactions with animals and locals, you’ll find this tour rewarding. However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace or have limited mobility, the packed schedule might feel a bit hurried.

Final Thoughts

For anyone visiting Sabah, the Sepilok Orang Utan & Sun Bear Centre tour offers a compelling mix of wildlife encounters, cultural insights, and local flavors. It balances the awe of seeing endangered species with an understanding of ongoing conservation efforts, making it more than just a sightseeing trip.

The experience’s highlights—meeting orangutans swinging through the trees, observing sun bears in spacious enclosures, and soaking in the views from a hilltop temple—are memorable and meaningful. The inclusion of a good-value lunch and smooth hotel transfers make it convenient, especially for first-time visitors.

While the schedule is tight, the guides’ knowledge, authentic settings, and impactful conservation stories make this a worthwhile adventure. It’s a great choice for travelers eager to see Sabah’s wildlife and culture in a single, well-organized day.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
Approximately 8 hours, including travel time, wildlife visits, and cultural stops.

Are meals included?
Yes, a local lunch is included in the tour price.

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, round-trip transfers from your Sandakan hotel are included.

What wildlife species will I see?
You will see orangutans and sun bears at their respective sanctuaries.

Do I need to pay extra for entrance fees?
No, all listed entrance fees are included in the price.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but consider the schedule’s pace for younger children.

What is the group size?
Typically up to 40 travelers, providing a balance of social and manageable group dynamics.

Can I take photos?
Yes, camera use is allowed, but some parks may charge additional fees for cameras or videos.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, as most activities are outdoors; poor weather may lead to rescheduling or refunds.

What should I wear?
Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing, including insect repellent, and sturdy shoes for walking.

This tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into Sabah’s conservation efforts and local culture—ideal for travelers who want meaningful encounters with nature and community in one manageable day.