Top Things To Do In Sepilok, The Last Frontier Of The Borneo Jungle
The small town of Sepilok sits on the edge of the Borneo Rainforest and is a hotspot for ecologists and tourists who want to see the unique biodiversity in the Sabah region of Malaysia. Although the town is made up of few streets there’s lots to do and see in the area. Below we share what to do in Sepilok including visiting endangered orangutans, staying in a Sepilok Nature Resort, and cruising down the Kinabatangan River.
Sepilok was a highlight of our 8 month backpacking trip due to the uniqueness of the town, we really felt as though we were getting an opportunity to see animals that one day will no longer be here.
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Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre - See Semi-Wild Orangutans Up Close
Sitting in-between dense Bornean Jungle and endless rows of palm oil plantations is the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre. The Orangutans are known as being semi-wild due to the fact that the centre puts out food for them everyday, allowing the orangutans to come if they please. You will likely purchase a day ticket which will be valid for visiting both the morning and evening sessions, we opted to visit for both feeding times however the animals only showed during the morning session. There is also a nursery on-site where you can observe mothers and their young who are being rehabilitated feeding and playing on the ropes. Location 📌
Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre - A Unique Opportunity To See The World’s Smallest Bear
Right next-door to the Orangutan Centre is the world's-first Sun Bear Conservation Centre, dedicated to helping raise awareness about the endangered sun bears. With a suspended walkway full of information and viewing platforms over the bears, this is a great way to spend an afternoon. On-site there is also a gift shop as well as a small museum, which shows an interesting documentary about the bears. We recommend combining the two centres into a single tour, or if you’re staying nearby such as in the Sepilok Jungle Resort, they are within walking distance. Location 📌
Rainforest Discovery Centre Sepilok - Stroll Through The Borneo Rainforest At Canopy Level
Without doubt one of the highlights of our visit to Sepilok was waking up before sunrise to explore the Rainforest Discovery Centre. With an elevated platform at the height of the canopy, it gives you a great way to explore the Bornean Jungle from a different perspective. You’ll have the chance to spot hornbills, eagles, snakes, semi-wild orangutans and so much more. We highly recommend a visit to the RDC and it’s easy to walk to if you stay at Sepilok B&B. Location 📌
Stay At A Sepilok Nature Resort - Listen To The Sounds Of The Jungle As You Sleep
Many people opt to join a tour from Sandakan for the day to explore Sepilok, however we think it’s much better to stay in the heart of the little town. You can fall asleep to the low hum of the jungle around you. We loved Sepilok Jungle Resort as it had a swimming pool and a delicious restaurant onsite. Location 📌
Kinabatangan River Cruise - Take A Boat Tour To Another World
Something you must not miss is a cruise on the Kinabatangan River. Here you can see the endemic Proboscis Monkeys, elephants, orangutan, crocodiles and hornbills which are collectively known as the Borneo Big Five. You can either do a day tour or opt to stay on the river banks. Location 📌
Spend A Night On The Kinabatangan River - Stay in a Kinabatangan Riverside Lodge
Wanting more adventure? Then spend a couple of days with an eco lodge on the banks of the Kinabatangan River, a hot spot for wildlife in Borneo. Stay on camp platforms, go on jungle treks and experience life on the river. Location 📌
Proboscis Monkey Centre - Perhaps Unethical
You may see this advertised however we did not go. We read a couple of bad reviews about the welfare of the monkeys so choose to skip this centre. We were super glad we didn’t go as we were lucky to see loads of wild Proboscis Monkeys on The Kinabatangan River when we stayed with Tungog Eco Camp. Location 📌
Day Trip To Sandakan - Explore The City For A Day
If you've finished exploring Sepilok why not head to the main city of Sandakan to explore the history and culture. You can pop into a traditional English Tea House, explore the local market and visit temples. For us Sepilok was the main attraction and we skipped Sandakan altogether. Location 📌
Sepilok RDC Night Walk - Discover The Nocturnal Wildlife Surrounding Sepilok
A popular activity that gets booked up fast, you can book your place on the RDC’s Facebook page by sending them a message. On the walk during dusk you might see scorpions, snakes, flying squirrels and more! Location 📌
Best Time To Visit Sepilok
Best Places To Stay In Sepilok
Sepilok town sits on the edge of the Sabah Jungle Reserve and acts as a gateway to the Rainforest; it is also home to some of Borneo’s Conservation efforts to protect the exceptional wildlife and educate us on the threats to their habitat. Sepilok is a small town with only a handful of accommodation options meaning we advise you to book in advance.
We use Booking.com and HostelWorld for all of our stays around the world!
Below is a list of top accommodations we recommend for Sepilok, Sabah:
Essential Travel Items You Need For Borneo
 | Jungle Formula - High Deet Mosquito Spray The weak sprays will not work! Make sure to bring a high deet percentage spray made for the tropics. We also use Mosquito Wipes. |
 | Lifestraw - Filtered Water Bottle Allowing you to fill up water whenever and wherever with peace of mind, plus you’re helping the environment! |
 | Universal Travel Adaptor With Multiple USBs Life while travelling will never be the same again! Charge multiple devices all at once in any country... game changer. |
 | Binoculars To Spot The Wonderful Wildlife You're most likely heading to Borneo for the wildlife. Don't miss out on seeing these amazing animals up close and pack a good pair of binoculars! |
Top Tips For Travelling Borneo
If you’re visiting Borneo, here's our top tips:
Try Nasi Lemak - The national dish of Malaysia, Nasi Lemak is fresh grated coconut and steamed rice served on banana leaves.
Book flights in advance - they can become expensive if you leave it last minute… Also don't forget your Apple Airtags to track your bags.
Don't skip the Kinabatangan River - It may be pricey but this is where you're going to see most of Borneo's wildlife, including wild orangutans, proboscis monkeys and pygmy elephants.
Dress for the jungle - Pack long sleeve, lightweight materials that cover you from mosquitos but will also keep you cool. Don't forget your Raincoat as tropical downpours are frequent.
Travel Tools To Help You Plan
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Thank you for reading and enjoy your Borneo adventure. Reach out to us over on Instagram @KateandMikesTravels. We always love to hear from people who read our blogs!
*Some links in this article are affiliate meaning we may earn a small commission with no extra cost to you! It helps grow the blog so thank you for supporting us.
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