The Orangutans of Sepilok

The Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, in the rainforest of Sabah on the island of Borneo, is one of the most famous places in the world to see orangutans, the great red apes found only on Borneo and Sumatra. A renowned sanctuary set in a reserve of protected jungle, it rescues orphaned and injured orangutans, cares for and rehabilitates them, and returns them to the wild, letting visitors watch these gentle, intelligent apes at feeding platforms and in the surrounding forest.

What you actually see

• The orangutans - the great red apes at the feeding platforms.
• The nursery - the young orphaned orangutans learning to climb.
• The rainforest - the protected reserve and its walkways.
• The sun bear centre - the neighbouring sun bear sanctuary.

When to go

The drier months, roughly March to September, are most comfortable, though the centre operates year-round; the twice-daily feeding times are the best chance to see the orangutans, so plan your visit around them.

Honest expectations

This is a genuine conservation centre, not a zoo, so sightings at the feeding platforms are likely but not guaranteed, as rehabilitated apes are free to come and go. Orangutans are endangered, largely by deforestation for palm oil, giving the visit a bittersweet edge. It is hot and humid. Keep your distance and secure your belongings, as the apes and monkeys are curious.

Nearby

The Kinabatangan River wildlife cruises and the diving of Sabah are within reach.