From Sandakan: 2D1N Turtle Island & Sepilok Wildlife Experience

Traveling to Sabah? This 2-day tour from Sandakan offers a well-rounded glimpse of Borneo’s unique wildlife and conservation efforts. From the gentle release of baby turtles to watching orangutans in their natural habitat, it combines scenic boat rides, educational encounters, and memorable wildlife experiences.

What we love about this tour is how it balances relaxation with meaningful engagement—the chance to snorkel or sunbathe on Turtle Island, paired with visits to inspiring conservation centers. The inclusion of guided talks and feeding sessions enriches the experience, making it more than just sightseeing. Plus, having meals included and transfers organized reduces the hassle, letting you focus on the joy of nature.

However, a potential consideration is the tour’s fixed schedule and non-refundable policy, which means travelers should be confident about their plans. Also, some might find the group size—up to 100 travelers—a bit crowded for intimate wildlife encounters.

This experience suits those who are passionate about wildlife, eager to learn about conservation, and looking for a meaningful yet comfortable adventure in Sabah. It’s particularly good for first-timers wanting an overview of Borneo’s natural treasures without sacrificing convenience.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary: Combines wildlife encounters, conservation education, and relaxing beach time.
• Inclusive package: Meals, transfers, and entrance fees are covered, offering good value.
• Educational focus: Unique presentations and feeding sessions provide insights into local conservation efforts.
• Convenient logistics: Pickup, organized transportation, and guide support streamline the experience.
• Limited flexibility: Non-refundable booking means plans should be firm.
• Group size: Up to 100 travelers, which may affect the intimacy of wildlife interactions.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: Turtle Island Adventure

The journey begins early morning in Sandakan, with a pickup around 8:30am. After a scenic one-hour boat ride, you’ll arrive at Selingan Turtle Island, a designated conservation site. The boat ride itself is a highlight—smooth waters and forested islands make for a picturesque start.

Once on the island, travelers are offered two main options: snorkeling with juvenile marine life or simply relaxing on the beach. Many reviews mention how the snorkeling area is lively enough for kids and adults alike, with clear waters and plenty of colorful fish. One traveler noted, “The snorkeling was surprisingly good, with lots of small fish and coral.” Others prefer sunbathing or just enjoying the peaceful island ambiance.

What elevates this experience is the slide show on turtle conservation, which provides context about the importance of protecting these creatures. Midday is perfect for soaking up the sun or exploring the island’s quiet corners.

In the evening, the highlight is witnessing the turtle nesting—if lucky, you’ll see turtles laying eggs, a rare and humbling sight. The tour offers the chance to join the release of baby turtles, a poignant moment that feels like contributing directly to conservation. Several reviewers mention that this activity is genuinely touching, with one saying, “Watching the tiny turtles scurry to the sea made me feel connected to nature in a real way.”

Day 2: Wildlife Encounters in Sepilok

The second day shifts focus to orangutans and sun bears. Early morning, you’ll visit the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre. Here, the feeding session in the outdoor nursery is scheduled in the morning, giving you the chance to observe orangutans up close as they forage and play. Reviewers often mention how engaging the guides are, explaining the orangutans’ behaviors and rehabilitation efforts.

Following that, a 25-minute educational program at the Nature Education Centre deepens understanding of orangutan conservation. One comment from a reviewer highlighted the value of this: “The guides are very knowledgeable, and it’s fascinating to learn about their efforts to rescue and rehabilitate orangutans.”

Next, a leisure walk to the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre allows a relaxed observation of the world’s smallest bears. The center’s setting in the forest makes for a natural environment, and many appreciate how the center emphasizes education about the bears’ plight. As one visitor noted, “Seeing the tiny, playful sun bears in their habitat was both adorable and eye-opening.”

Additional Details and Practical Tips

The tour includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with two lunches provided, ensuring you’re well-fed after busy mornings. The transfers and entrance fees are included, removing the common hassle of arranging transport locally. Guides are English-speaking, which helps in understanding the wildlife and conservation stories.

While the price of approximately $626 per person might seem steep, it reflects the organized nature of the trip, the included meals, and the access to conservation centers. Many reviews suggest it offers good value, especially for those interested in conservation and wildlife.

The tour operates with a start time of 8:30 am, and you should be prepared for a full, engaging experience. Note the tour’s non-refundable policy, so confirm your plans beforehand to avoid disappointment.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect for wildlife enthusiasts, families, or first-time visitors eager for a broad overview of Sabah’s natural highlights. It’s also suitable for those who prefer guided experiences with educational insights, rather than independent exploration. With the group size capped at 100, it offers a lively, but not overly crowded atmosphere.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day tour from Sandakan offers a practical, immersive way to experience some of Borneo’s most treasured wildlife and conservation projects. The combination of scenic boat rides, relaxing beaches, and fascinating wildlife encounters makes it a well-rounded choice for travelers wanting meaningful engagement with nature.

The itinerary’s structure ensures that you see orangutans in their natural habitat, learn about turtle conservation firsthand, and walk among sun bears—all in a manageable timeframe. Meals, transport, and guided commentary are included, simplifying logistics and maximizing your time with wildlife.

If your goal is to witness conservation efforts firsthand while enjoying comfortable, organized travel, this tour fits the bill. It’s best suited for curious travelers who appreciate educational moments, love wildlife photography, or want a memorable, impactful experience in Sabah.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes transfers from Sandakan, making the logistics straightforward and hassle-free.

What is the duration of the boat ride to Turtle Island?
The boat ride is approximately one hour, offering a pleasant scenic start to your island experience.

Are meals included?
Yes, this tour provides breakfast, lunch (two meals), and dinner, which helps keep your energy up for the busy days.

Can I participate in the turtle release?
Yes, you have the opportunity to join in releasing baby turtles into the sea, a special moment highlighted in reviews.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most guests can participate, and the activities like snorkeling and wildlife viewing are generally family-friendly, though supervision is advised.

What are the main highlights of Day 2?
The orangutan feeding session at Sepilok and the sun bear observation at the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre are the key attractions.

Will I learn about conservation?
Absolutely. The tour features presentations, feeding sessions, and guided explanations that emphasize conservation efforts.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, swimming gear if snorkeling, a hat, insect repellent, and a camera (note that camera fees may apply).

Is the tour non-refundable?
Yes, once booked, the experience is non-refundable and cannot be altered.

This comprehensive tour from Sandakan offers a well-balanced mix of adventure, education, and relaxation, perfect for travelers eager to see the wild side of Borneo and learn about vital conservation projects.