Labuk Proboscis, Sepilok, Sun Bear, Sandakan City Tour & Lunch

Exploring Sandakan’s Wildlife and Culture: A Detailed Review of the Labuk Proboscis, Sepilok, Sun Bear, and City Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Borneo, this Sandakan day tour offers a fantastic blend of wildlife sightings, cultural insights, and local flavor—all in a manageable eight-hour package. While I haven’t taken this exact tour myself, the detailed reviews, itinerary, and expert insights paint a compelling picture of what you can expect.

What really resonates with us: the chance to see orangutans in their habitat, the intimate experience at the proboscis monkey sanctuary, and the opportunity to learn about Bornean sun bears. Plus, the inclusion of lunch and hotel pickup makes it feel like a well-organized, hassle-free day.

One thing to consider is that the tour’s pace is brisk, covering multiple sites in one day. For travelers seeking a relaxed, in-depth wildlife experience, it might feel a little rushed. But for those who want a rundown of Sandakan’s highlights, this tour hits the mark.

This experience? Perfect for wildlife lovers, families, and anyone eager to get a taste of Borneo’s natural beauty and local culture—without the hassle of planning multiple separate trips.

Key Points

• Wildlife Encounters: See orangutans, proboscis monkeys, and sun bears in their natural or rehabilitative environment.
• Convenience: Hotel pickup and drop-off included, along with lunch, reducing planning stress.
• Small Group: An intimate tour with a maximum of 15 travelers, enhancing interaction and flexibility.
• Authentic Experiences: Visit local markets and hilltop temples for a well-rounded cultural perspective.
• Value for Money: At $147, the tour offers a lot of diverse activities packed into a single day.
• Family Friendly: No charge for infants and discounts for children; suitable for all ages.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The Itinerary Breakdown

Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre (2 hours):
This is undoubtedly the highlight of the day. Located about 25 km west of Sandakan, this sanctuary has been rescuing orphaned orangutans since 1964. Guides like “Mr. John” praise it as an “excellent overview of what Sandakan has to offer,” and we can see why. You’ll observe orangutans being fed from the platform, a moment that’s as close as many people will get to these gentle apes in the wild. Reviewers like Tracy loved seeing orangutans during feeding time, noting it’s a “great to see them in action.”

The centre’s history and purpose make it much more than just a tourist spot; it’s a vital conservation effort. Expect to see rescued orangutans slowly reintegrating into the wild and learn about the challenges they face from dedicated staff and guides.

Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre (1 hour):
Next, you visit the Bornean Sun Bear Centre, which aims to rehabilitate and protect these shy, small bears. The reviews highlight guides like Adil, who are “lovely,” helping visitors understand the importance of these often-overlooked creatures. These bears are adorable but also vulnerable—once exploited for traditional medicine or kept as pets. Learning about their plight, you’ll appreciate conservation efforts even more.

Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary (1 hour):
A standout stop, this sanctuary offers the rare chance to see Borneo’s famous proboscis monkeys in the mangrove forests. The guides emphasize that these monkeys are truly unique, with their distinctive noses and playful behaviors. Review snippets describe the experience as “just amazing,” especially for wildlife enthusiasts. The monkeys are often seen lounging or foraging, and with luck, you’ll catch them in their natural environment.

Puu Jih Shih Buddhist Temple (30 minutes):
This hilltop temple offers panoramic views of Sandakan Bay. Built in 1987, it’s a peaceful spot that provides a cultural break from wildlife sightseeing. Reviewers mention that it’s a “beautiful place” and an excellent photo opportunity, especially if you’re into capturing sweeping vistas.

Sandakan Central Market (45 minutes):
End your day with a walk through the bustling market. It’s a feast for the senses, with stalls selling tropical fruits, local snacks, colorful textiles, and souvenirs. As Walter noted, it’s “well worth it to see so much of Sandakan in one day,” giving you insight into local life and food habits.

Transportation and Group Size

Travel is in an air-conditioned vehicle, which makes all the difference in the tropical heat. The tour keeps things intimate with a maximum of 15 travelers. Reviewers appreciate this small-group setup, which allows for more personalized attention and flexibility, especially when taking photos or asking questions.

Pricing and Value

At $147.37 per person, this tour offers a solid value considering the variety of sites and included amenities. Entrance fees at the parks, a set lunch, and hotel pickup are all covered, which simplifies the day. When you compare this to booking separate trips or private tours, it’s competitively priced, especially given how much you cover.

Guides and Experience

Multiple reviewers praise the guides, mentioning their knowledge and friendliness. Adil and Paul stand out as “lovely,” helpful, and good at explaining the significance of each site. A good guide can turn a good experience into a great one, and it seems this tour delivers on that front.

Additional Insights from Reviewers

• The tour was “well programmed,” with some mentioning that it was “very recommended” especially because of the knowledgeable guides and delicious local lunch.
• When the orangutan center was unexpectedly closed, the tour company quickly substituted the Rainforest Discovery Centre, which guests still found worthwhile.
• Some travelers mention that the tour can be busy but appreciate the variety packed into one day.

Who This Tour Is Best For

Wildlife enthusiasts will love the chance to see orangutans, proboscis monkeys, and sun bears all in one day.
Families will appreciate the child-friendly approach, free for infants and discounted for kids, plus the safe, guided environment.
Culture lovers will enjoy the hilltop temple and bustling market, getting a taste of local life beyond wildlife.
Travelers short on time will find this a rundown of Sandakan’s highlights without the need for multiple bookings.

The Sum Up

This tour delivers a well-rounded, authentic look at what makes Sandakan and Borneo special. You’ll visit vital conservation sites, see adorable wildlife, and enjoy scenic views, all in a comfortable, small-group setting. The inclusion of lunch, hotel pick-up, and effortless logistics means you can focus on experiencing the day rather than worrying about the details.

While it moves at a brisk pace—perfect for those eager to see a lot—it still allows for genuine interaction with animals and local culture. The knowledgeable guides and positive reviews suggest this is a reliable, enjoyable experience that offers excellent value for money.

If you’re looking for a wildlife-focused day with cultural highlights, this tour ticks all the boxes. It’s an ideal choice for travelers who want to maximize their time and get a true taste of Borneo’s natural and cultural riches.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
Your fee covers hotel pickup and drop-off, entrance fees to the wildlife parks, a set lunch, and transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s family-friendly, with discounts for children and no charge for infants, making it suitable for all ages.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, starting at 8:00am and ending back at the meeting point.

What are the main highlights of the tour?
Expect wildlife sightings of orangutans, proboscis monkeys, and sun bears, along with visits to local markets and a hilltop temple.

Can I expect to see orangutans in the wild?
You’ll visit the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, where rescued orangutans are cared for and occasionally seen in their semi-wild state.

What is the tour’s group size?
A maximum of 15 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience and easier interaction with guides.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a set lunch at a local restaurant is part of the package.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothing, insect repellent, camera (note that there may be extra charges for camera use in parks), and any personal essentials.

What if the orangutan centre is unexpectedly closed?
The tour company will substitute with an alternative site, such as the Rainforest Discovery Centre, so you still get meaningful wildlife exposure.

How do I book this tour?
Most travelers book about 38 days in advance through the provided booking platform, ensuring availability for your preferred date.

This Sandakan tour offers a fantastic chance to experience Borneo’s wildlife, culture, and local life in one well-organized day. It’s a balanced mix of nature, history, and community, great for curious travelers eager for authentic encounters.