Orangutans, often called the "people of the forest," are among the animal kingdom's most iconic creatures. With their striking reddish fur and thoughtful eyes, these primates hold a special place in nature enthusiasts and conservationists' hearts. On the occasion of International Orangutan Day, observed on August 19 each year, let's embark on a virtual journey to discover the seven best places where you can witness these gentle giants in their natural habitats.
Borneo Rainforests, Malaysia
Borneo's sprawling rainforests, located in both Malaysia and Indonesia, are a hotspot for orangutan enthusiasts. The Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre in Malaysia is committed to preserving these primates, allowing visitors to observe orangutans in a semi-wild environment. Danum Valley, nestled in Sabah, offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness these majestic creatures against untouched wilderness. Here, you can witness orangutans navigating the canopy alongside an array of unique flora and fauna, making it a haven for ecotourism and wildlife lovers.
Sumatra, Indonesia
Sumatra's lush jungles are home to the Gunung Leuser National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the last refuges for Sumatran orangutans. At Bukit Lawang, a gateway to the park, you can closely observe these agile creatures as they swing through the trees. The experience is heightened by witnessing their interactions and behaviours amidst the park's diverse ecosystem, encompassing lush vegetation and captivating wildlife.
Tanjung Puting National Park, Indonesia
Tanjung Puting National Park in Indonesian Borneo invites you on a remarkable river cruise adventure. Traverse the winding waterways to glimpse orangutans in their natural habitat. Camp Leakey, a renowned research centre, offers an educational component to your journey, shedding light on orangutan behaviour and conservation efforts. As you drift along the rivers, the deep intimacy of observing orangutans up close in their intricate environment is a truly unforgettable experience.
Kinabatangan River, Malaysia
The Kinabatangan River in Malaysian Borneo offers a different angle for orangutan sightings. As you cruise the river's edge, you're immersed in the heart of a biodiverse ecosystem. Orangutans, alongside pygmy elephants, proboscis monkeys, and many bird species, create a dynamic tableau against the backdrop of dense rainforest. Kinabatangan River provides a rare chance to encounter orangutans in their natural habitat while appreciating the broader spectrum of wildlife coexisting along the riverbanks.
Semenggoh Nature Reserve, Malaysia
Located near Kuching, Semenggoh Nature Reserve is a unique sanctuary for orangutans transitioning from captivity to semi-wild conditions. This centre supports rehabilitating these creatures, allowing visitors to witness feeding sessions and observe their natural behaviours. The reserve's setting allows you to closely witness the interaction between orangutans and their caregivers, offering insight into rehabilitation.
Sarawak, Malaysia
Sarawak, a Malaysian state in Borneo, boasts diverse landscapes perfect for orangutan encounters. From the Batang Ai National Park's lush terrain to the Lanjak Entimau Wildlife Sanctuary's expansive ecosystems, Sarawak's jungles provide a mosaic of environments where orangutans thrive. In addition to orangutans, you'll immerse yourself in the habitats shared by many wildlife species, revealing the complex interplay of life in these unique ecosystems.
Ulu Temburong National Park, Brunei
Brunei's Ulu Temburong National Park is a hidden gem, offering an undisturbed rainforest haven for orangutans. You can observe these primates in a tranquil setting, far from the crowds. The park's conservation efforts seamlessly integrate into your experience, offering a peaceful escape and a meaningful connection to nature's beauty and fragility.
Responsible Tourism
Do maintain a respectful distance from these wild creatures to avoid stress or disruption to their natural behaviours. Do follow designated paths and guidelines set by local authorities to minimise your ecological impact. Don't feed or touch orangutans, as this can lead to dependency on humans and the potential spread of diseases. Don't use flash photography, as it can startle the animals. Do support ethical tour operators prioritising the well-being of orangutans and their habitats.