The Sepilok Orang-utan and City Tour offers a captivating blend of wildlife and culture in the bustling city of Sandakan, Malaysia. Visitors can witness the remarkable rehabilitation efforts at the renowned Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, observing the gentle giants during feeding sessions. But the adventure doesn’t stop there – the tour also takes guests on a journey through the vibrant heart of Sandakan, exploring local landmarks like the Central Market and the serene Puh Jih Syh Buddhist Temple. With convenient hotel transfers and a delicious lunch included, this day trip promises an unforgettable experience that caters to the curious traveler’s every need. What awaits beyond the city’s limits is a testament to the diversity and natural wonders of this enchanting destination.
Good To Know
- Explore the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre and observe the endangered Bornean orangutans in their natural habitat.
- Discover the vibrant local culture and historical heritage of Sandakan city, including visits to the Central Market, Sim-Sim Water Village, and Puh Jih Syh Buddhist Temple.
- Enjoy a comprehensive tour experience with an English-speaking guide who provides insights and facilitates the itinerary.
- Convenience of hotel pick-up and drop-off, and inclusion of airfares, taxes, and insurance for a hassle-free day trip.
- Tour not wheelchair accessible, but most travelers can participate with proper preparation and precautions.
Tour Overview
Embarking on a day trip in Sepilok, Sandakan, Malaysia, travelers will have the opportunity to witness the remarkable Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre.
The tour also includes visits to top attractions such as the Central Market, Sim-Sim Water Village, and Puh Jih Syh Buddhist Temple.
Lunch at a local restaurant is provided, ensuring a well-rounded experience.
Throughout the day, an English-speaking guide will accompany the group, offering insights and facilitating a seamless itinerary.
With hotel pick-up and drop-off, as well as included airfare, taxes, and insurance, this tour offers a comprehensive and convenient way to explore the highlights of Sepilok and Sandakan.
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Inclusions
The tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, ensuring a seamless start and end to the day.
Travelers will enjoy a sharing basis tour with an English-speaking guide, providing valuable insights throughout the journey.
The package also includes airfares, camera/video fees, taxes, and insurance, making it a comprehensive experience.
Plus, guests can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the tour, offering flexibility and peace of mind.
Key inclusions:
- Sharing basis tour with an English-speaking guide
- Airfares (BKI/SDK/BKI)
- Camera/video fees, taxes, and insurance
Itinerary
Early in the morning, travelers are transferred to Kota Kinabalu International Airport for their flight to Sandakan.
Upon arrival, they’ll meet their English-speaking guide at the Sandakan Airport.
Then, it’s a 30-minute drive to the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, where they’ll attend the 10 am orangutan feeding session. This provides an opportunity to see these fascinating primates up close in their natural habitat.
The tour covers the key attractions in Sandakan, including the Central Market, Sim-Sim Water Village, and Puh Jih Syh Buddhist Temple.
Throughout the day, travelers will be accompanied by the knowledgeable guide, ensuring they make the most of their Sepilok day trip.
Additional Information
This day trip isn’t wheelchair accessible, so travelers with mobility challenges may find navigation and accessibility difficult.
However, the tour offers several recommended items to enhance the experience:
- Insect repellent to deter mosquitoes
- Raincoat to stay dry in potential showers
- Hat to provide sun protection
Plus, the tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers, as infants must sit on laps.
Despite these limitations, most travelers are still able to participate and enjoy the highlights of the day, including the renowned Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre and other top attractions in Sandakan.
Reviews
Travelers have shared overwhelmingly positive feedback on this day trip, with a stellar 5.0 overall rating from a total of 3 reviews.
Reviewers praised the knowledgeable and accommodating guides, who provided insightful commentary throughout the tour. Visitors appreciated the unique opportunity to observe both wild and sheltered orangutans at the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, offering a balanced perspective on the conservation efforts.
The well-curated itinerary, which included top attractions like the Central Market and Puh Jih Syh Buddhist Temple, also received high marks.
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Exploring Sepilok
The day trip to Sepilok offers visitors a captivating glimpse into the world of the endangered Bornean orangutan.
At the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, guests have the opportunity to witness the feeding sessions and observe the orangutans in their natural habitat. The centre’s mission is to rehabilitate and release these remarkable primates back into the wild.
Visitors are often amazed by the following:
- Seeing the orangutans’ incredible agility as they swing from tree to tree
- Learning about the centre’s conservation efforts and how they care for the rescued orangutans
- Appreciating the serene natural setting that provides a sanctuary for these gentle creatures
Discovering Sandakan City
Exploring Sandakan city offers visitors a chance to enjoy the vibrant local culture and uncover its rich historical heritage.
The tour includes a visit to the Central Market, where visitors can browse stalls selling a variety of local produce, handicrafts, and souvenirs.
The Sim-Sim Water Village, built on stilts over the water, provides a unique glimpse into the traditional way of life.
At the Puh Jih Syh Buddhist Temple, travelers can admire the intricate architecture and learn about the region’s Buddhist influences.
The local restaurant lunch allows visitors to savor authentic Sabahan cuisine, further enhancing the cultural experience.
Preparing for the Adventure
With the exploration of Sandakan’s cultural highlights behind them, those embarking on the Sepilok Orang-utan Tour will want to ensure they’re well-prepared for the day’s adventures.
The recommended items list includes essentials like insect repellent, a raincoat, and a hat to protect against the tropical climate. Plus, binoculars can enhance wildlife viewing during the tour.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, most travelers can participate. Infants must sit on laps, and the experience isn’t recommended for pregnant individuals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Extend My Stay in Sandakan?
Yes, you can extend your stay in Sandakan. The tour package includes round-trip airfare, but you’re free to adjust your length of stay in Sandakan as desired. Many travelers choose to extend their visit to explore the city and surrounding areas further.
Is There an Option to Visit the Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary?
Yes, there’s an option to visit the Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary on a separate tour. This can be added to the day trip package for an additional cost and time requirement.
What Is the Best Time of Year to See the Orangutans?
The best time to see orangutans at the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre is during the feeding sessions, which occur twice daily at 10 am and 3 pm. Visitors have the highest chance of spotting the primates during these scheduled feeding times.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
Participants can’t bring their own food or drinks on the tour, but a local lunch is included. The tour provides hotel pickup, flights, and entry fees, so travelers don’t need to worry about additional costs.
Do I Need a Visa to Participate in This Day Trip?
Participation in this day trip does not require a visa, as the tour takes place entirely within Malaysia. However, visitors should ensure their passports are valid and check any applicable entry requirements for their country of origin.
Sum Up
The Day Trip Sepilok Orangutan and City Tour offers a captivating blend of wildlife and cultural exploration in Sandakan, Malaysia. Guests will witness orangutans at the renowned Sepilok Rehabilitation Centre and discover the city’s vibrant local attractions, all while enjoying convenient transfers and a delicious included lunch. This immersive experience provides an unforgettable opportunity to connect with Malaysia’s natural and cultural heritage.
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