Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre★★★
The Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre is one of the most touching places on Borneo — and one of the few places in the world where you can observe orangutans in a semi-wild environment. Since 1964, orphaned and rescued orangutans have been raised here and prepared for a life in the wild. The center covers 43 km² of protected rainforest.
The feeding times (10:00 and 15:00) are the highlight: On a platform in the forest, bananas and milk are laid out, and the semi-wild orangutans swing in on ropes to feed. Some bring their babies — a sight that touches the heart. The animals come voluntarily — if they find enough in the forest, they stay away. This is precisely the goal of rehabilitation.
Right next door is the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre — the world's only rescue center for Malayan sun bears (the smallest bears in the world). The endearing animals with their golden chest patch climb, play, and sun themselves in large enclosures. Less known than Sepilok, but equally worthwhile.
Also nearby: the Rainforest Discovery Centre (RDC) — a canopy walkway 28 meters high with excellent birdwatching. Hornbills, barbets, and pitta birds are regularly seen here.
💡 Tipp
Come for the morning feeding (10:00) — the orangutans are more active and the group is smaller than in the afternoon. Combine Sepilok with the Sun Bear Centre (right next door) and the Rainforest Discovery Centre (5 min away) for a full day of nature.
