Sepilok Orang Utan Sanctuary

Orang Utans have long fascinated mankind. Known scientifically as "Pongo Pygmaeus", they have been found to be 96.4% similar to our human genes!

Gentle and shy by nature, sightings of orang utan in the wild are rare. However, one place you are guaranteed of seeing them is at the Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre. The world's largest orang utan (Man of the Forest) sanctuary is just 40 minutes away from downtown Sandakan. To visit, take a taxi or "Sepilok" buses from the station near Central Market in Sandakan.



The Sanctuary started in 1964 for rehabilitation of orphaned baby orang utans from logging-sites, plantations and illegal hunting, returning them to the wilds as soon as they're ready. More than 4,500 hectares of virgin jungle were designated as forest reserve and sanctuary for these charming creatures.

Touching these creatures is discouraged to prevent the spread of human diseases to the creatures. There are some who have grown so fond of human company that they refuse to return to the wilds. Other semi-wild orang utans come to the Sanctuary twice daily from the forest for feeding of milk and bananas.

Conservation/Entrance Fee (Payable at Registration Centre): RM10 per person. Do check for changes. Feeding Time: 10.00am and 3.00pm

If you would like to stay overnight to observe these creatures further, accommodation is available outside the sanctuary.