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Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre
Discover the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre—Sabah’s iconic wildlife sanctuary where rescued orangutans learn to return to the wild. Trek, witness feedings, and embrace a conservation mission that warms the heart.
Begin Your Wild Journey
Tucked in the lush Kabili-Sepilok Forest Reserve of Borneo, the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre (SOURC) isn’t just a tourist stop—it’s an emotional journey into the heart of wildlife rescue. Founded in 1964, SOURC has become a cornerstone in wildlife conservation, drawing eco-travelers and animal lovers from across the globe.
What to Expect
A Day in the Life at SOURC
- Witness orangutans up close during feeding times: 10:00 AM & 3:00 PM.
- Explore the Outdoor Nursery, where young orangutans take their first steps to freedom.
- Trek through the Kabili-Sepilok rainforest, a haven for birdwatchers and jungle adventurers.
But wait—what if no orangutans show up?
It’s not a glitch, it’s a win. During fruiting seasons, orangutans may skip the platform feedings because they’ve found enough food naturally. That’s the goal—to reintegrate them into the wild successfully.
Why No Hugs Allowed?
Love orangutans? We do too—but physical contact can transmit human diseases to these 96% genetically-similar primates. So, at SOURC, a safe distance is required to protect both you and them.
“I have touched and hugged an orangutan before—why not here?” Because respecting nature means not interfering with their journey back to it.
Entry Fees & Camera Policy
Entrance Fee
- Adults: RM5 (Malaysian), RM30 (non-Malaysian)
- Children: RM2 (Malaysian), RM15 (non-Malaysian)
Camera Fees
- Phone Cameras: Free
- DSLRs & GoPros: RM10
Ticket valid for the entire day.
Visiting Hours
| Day | Morning Hours | Afternoon Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Monday – Thursday | 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM | 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM |
| Friday | 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM | 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM |
| Saturday – Sunday | 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM | 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM |
Location & Access Guide
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre (SOURC) |
| Address | Pusat Pemulihan Orangutan Sepilok, W.D.T 200, 90009 Sandakan, Sabah, Malaysia |
| GPS Coordinates | 5.8646° N, 117.9497° E |
| State | Sabah |
| Year Established | 1964 |
| Managed By | Sabah Wildlife Department |
| Location Type | Kabili-Sepilok Forest Reserve |
| Facility Highlights | Outdoor Nursery, Viewing Platform, Jungle Trails |
| Feeding Times | 10:00 AM & 3:00 PM |
| Wildlife Species | Orangutans, Birds, Sun Bears |
| Touch Policy | Visitors not allowed to touch orangutans due to disease risk |
| Ticket Price (Adult) | RM5 (Malaysian), RM30 (Non-Malaysian) |
| Ticket Price (Child) | RM2 (Malaysian), RM15 (Non-Malaysian) |
| Camera Fee | Free for phones, RM10 for professional gear |
| Ticket Validity | Valid for one day |
| Nearby Lodging | Multiple jungle lodges within 1km |
| Getting There | ~40 min drive from Sandakan City Centre (23km) |
| Public Transport | Bus from Sandakan, drop-off at Jalan Sepilok junction (~2.5km away) |
| Taxi Fare | Approx. RM40 to Sandakan |
| Nearby Attraction | Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre (adjacent) |
| Operating Hours | Mon–Thurs 9AM–12PM & 2PM–4PM; Fri 9AM–11AM & 2PM–4PM; Weekends 9AM–12PM & 2PM–4PM |
| Contact Number | 089 – 633 587 |
| Fax | 089 – 633 597 |
User Reviews & Testimonials
“It was deeply moving to watch the orangutans learn to climb and play again. Knowing they’d be free one day made the experience priceless.” — Mustapha, Kuala Lumpur
“No frills, no fake interactions—just pure conservation work. Sepilok humbled me.” — Rastal, Australia
“Seeing a mother and her baby in the Outdoor Nursery brought tears to my eyes. Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre is worth every second of the trip.” — Elise, France
Final Thoughts
Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre is a living, breathing success story. It’s where humanity meets nature—not to dominate, but to heal. It invites us to be part of a mission bigger than ourselves.
Ready to stand face-to-face with one of Earth’s most intelligent beings—and help save them in the process? Whether you’re traveling solo or with loved ones, your trip to Sepilok could be the most meaningful memory you’ll make in Borneo.
Share this guide, spread the word, and let Sepilok show you the wild side of compassion.
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