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Lush jungle waterfall surrounded by dense rainforest
Wildlife · Things to do in Malaysia

Borneo Rainforest & Orangutans

Meet orangutans at Sepilok and cruise the Kinabatangan for proboscis monkeys and hornbills.

About Borneo Rainforest & Orangutans

Malaysian Borneo — the state of Sabah — is one of the planet’s great wildlife frontiers. Here you can stand metres from rehabilitated orangutans at Sepilok, watch proboscis monkeys and pygmy elephants from a boat on the Kinabatangan river, and look up at Mount Kinabalu, Southeast Asia’s highest peak.

What to see & do

  • Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre feeding sessions
  • Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre
  • Kinabatangan river safari for proboscis monkeys & hornbills
  • Tunku Abdul Rahman marine park islands off Kota Kinabalu
  • Views of Mount Kinabalu, the region’s highest peak

🗓️ Best time to visit

March–September is the driest stretch in Sabah, though wildlife is active year-round. Morning and dusk river cruises offer the best sightings.

🚆 How to reach

Fly into Kota Kinabalu (BKI) for the west coast and islands, then a short domestic flight to Sandakan for Sepilok and the Kinabatangan. Lodges arrange transfers and river cruises from Sandakan.

💰 Cost

A multi-day Borneo wildlife trip is the priciest Malaysian experience — budget ₹40,000–₹80,000 per person for flights, lodges and guided cruises.

Insider tips

  • Book Sepilok feeding times and Kinabatangan lodges well in advance.
  • Bring binoculars, insect repellent and quick-dry clothing.
  • Keep distance from orangutans — never touch or feed the wildlife.
  • Choose dawn and dusk river cruises for the most active animals.

Frequently asked questions

When is the best time to experience Borneo Rainforest & Orangutans?

March–September is the driest stretch in Sabah, though wildlife is active year-round. Morning and dusk river cruises offer the best sightings.

How do I get there?

Fly into Kota Kinabalu (BKI) for the west coast and islands, then a short domestic flight to Sandakan for Sepilok and the Kinabatangan. Lodges arrange transfers and river cruises from Sandakan.

How much does Borneo Rainforest & Orangutans cost?

A multi-day Borneo wildlife trip is the priciest Malaysian experience — budget ₹40,000–₹80,000 per person for flights, lodges and guided cruises.