Exploring the lush rainforests of Borneo is a dream for many nature enthusiasts. The day trip to Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre and Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary offers a remarkable opportunity to witness some of the region’s most iconic wildlife. Visitors can observe the fascinating behaviors of orangutans and proboscis monkeys in their natural habitats, guided by knowledgeable experts. With convenient transportation, a delectable local lunch, and ample photo opportunities, this tour promises an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a seasoned wildlife enthusiast or a curious traveler, this day trip holds the potential to leave a lasting impression.
Key Points
- Observe iconic Borneo wildlife, including orangutans, sun bears, and proboscis monkeys, during a day trip from Kota Kinabalu.
- Enjoy a small-group guided tour with a maximum of 20 participants and knowledgeable English-speaking guides.
- Visit the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, Bornean Sunbear Conservation Center, and Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary.
- Includes lunch, air-conditioned minivan transport, hotel/port pickup and drop-off, and comprehensive package for a seamless wildlife experience.
- Tour starts early at 4:30 AM for optimal wildlife viewing, with door-to-door transfers provided for convenience.
Tour Overview and Highlights
This day trip from Kota Kinabalu offers travelers the chance to see three of Borneo’s most iconic wildlife species – orangutans, sun bears, and proboscis monkeys.
The small-group guided tour, with a maximum of 20 people, includes visits to the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, the Bornean Sunbear Conservation Center, and the Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary.
Lunch at a local restaurant and door-to-door transfers in Kota Kinabalu and Sandakan are also provided.
Guests can expect an immersive wildlife experience, led by knowledgeable English-speaking guides.
The tour’s highlights include observing the orangutans’ rehabilitation efforts, learning about sun bear conservation, and witnessing the unique proboscis monkeys in their natural habitat.
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Tour Details and Inclusions
Costing from SEK 2,405.16 per person, the tour price varies depending on group size, including lunch, air-conditioned minivan transport, hotel/port pickup and drop-off, and an English-speaking guide. Fuel surcharge, return airfares (BKI/SDK/BKI), and gratuities are also covered, while camera/video fees, taxes, luggage fees, and beverages are excluded.
Inclusions | Exclusions |
---|---|
Lunch | Camera/video fees |
Air-conditioned minivan | Taxes |
Hotel/port pickup and drop-off | Luggage fees |
English-speaking guide | Beverages |
Fuel surcharge, return airfares, gratuities |
The tour offers a comprehensive package, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable wildlife experience for travelers.
Meeting and Pickup Information
Pickup for Kota Kinabalu clients is scheduled 2-3 hours before their flight to Sandakan, while Sandakan clients are picked up between 08:00-08:30 hrs. The tour starts promptly at 04:30 am.
The meeting and pickup information are designed to ensure a seamless start to the day trip:
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Guests are provided with door-to-door transfers, making the journey to the first wildlife sanctuary effortless.
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An early start time allows for optimal wildlife viewing and avoids the crowds.
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Guests are advised to arrive on time to make the most of this once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Traveler Information and Requirements
Confirmation of booking is received upon purchase, allowing travelers to plan their day trip with confidence.
Infants must sit on laps, though the tour isn’t recommended for pregnant individuals. Wheelchair access is unavailable, and children must be accompanied by an adult throughout the excursion.
Vegetarian meal options can be provided if requested at the time of booking. Lastly, a valid passport is required for travel on the scheduled day.
Domestic flights are encouraged to be booked online for the best fares.
The tour caters to a wide range of travelers, ensuring a memorable wildlife experience for those seeking to explore the unique flora and fauna of Sabah.
Wildlife Viewing Experiences
The day trip offers visitors an unparalleled opportunity to observe some of Borneo’s most iconic wildlife species in their natural habitats.
At the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, travellers can witness the endearing antics of these intelligent primates as they swing effortlessly through the treetops during feeding time.
The Bornean Sunbear Conservation Center provides a chance to see the world’s smallest bear species up close, known for their playful and charming dispositions.
Finally, the Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary is home to large troops of the distinctive long-nosed primates, offering excellent photo opportunities as they leap between mangroves.
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Observe orangutans in their natural habitat at Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre.
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Get up close with Bornean sun bears at the conservation center.
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Witness the unique proboscis monkeys at Labuk Bay Sanctuary.
Pricing and Booking Details
The day trip to Sepilok and Labuk Bay costs from SEK 2,405.16 per person, with the exact price varying based on the group size.
2-way door-to-door transfers in Kota Kinabalu and Sandakan, as well as return airfares, are included in the tour price.
Travelers can also expect to enjoy a provided lunch at a local restaurant during the excursion.
The tour requires a valid passport, and infants must sit on laps, as it’s not recommended for pregnant travelers.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, children can attend if accompanied by an adult.
Vegetarian options are available upon request.
Booking confirmation is received at the time of reservation.
Customer Feedback and Reviews
Travelers have generally provided positive feedback on the day trip to Sepilok and Labuk Bay, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 across 11 reviews.
Reviewers highlighted the knowledgeable guides, the unique wildlife experiences, and the safe environments they encountered during the tour. Some minor complaints were made regarding pricing discrepancies and accommodations for food allergies, but overall, the tour seems to be well-received by wildlife enthusiasts.
Reviewers praised the knowledgeable guides who provided valuable insights into the local wildlife.
The opportunity to see orangutans, sun bears, and proboscis monkeys in their natural habitats was a major draw for many travelers.
Tourists felt the tour provided a safe and well-organized experience, allowing them to fully enjoy the natural wonders of Borneo.
Important Considerations
When planning this day trip, travelers should consider several important factors.
The timing of the tour requires an early start, with pickup as early as 4:30 AM, which may not suit all visitors.
Plus, the tour isn’t recommended for pregnant women or those with limited mobility, as it involves walking and navigating uneven terrain.
Visitors should also be aware that there will be additional fees for cameras and videos at the wildlife sanctuaries.
While the tour includes a vegetarian option, it’s essential to inform the provider of any specific dietary requirements in advance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is There a Minimum Group Size Requirement?
There is no minimum group size requirement for this tour. The tour accommodates small groups with a maximum of 20 travelers, providing a more intimate wildlife viewing experience.
Can We Customize the Tour Itinerary?
Yes, the tour can be customized to some extent. While the core itinerary is fixed, the tour operator may accommodate special requests or adjust certain activities based on the group’s interests and needs, if feasible and agreed upon in advance.
What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy?
The tour operator’s cancellation and refund policy is flexible, allowing customers to receive a full refund if they cancel their booking up to 24 hours before the tour date. There may be fees for any last-minute cancellations.
Are There Any Additional Optional Activities Offered?
There are no additional optional activities offered on this tour. The tour focuses solely on guided wildlife viewing at the three main sites – Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, Bornean Sunbear Conservation Center, and Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary.
How Do I Book the Tour if I’m Not Staying in Kota Kinabalu or Sandakan?
For travelers not staying in Kota Kinabalu or Sandakan, they can book the tour by contacting the tour operator directly. The tour company will arrange pickup and drop-off services from their location, ensuring a seamless travel experience.
Recap
The Day Trip to Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre and Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary offers an unforgettable wildlife experience in Borneo.
Participants can observe iconic species in their natural habitats, guided by knowledgeable experts.
With door-to-door transfers, a local lunch, and stunning photography opportunities, this tour ensures an intimate setting for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers alike.
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