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The Lapu Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary is located in the mangroves by the sea near the fishing village of Samawang in Sandakan, Malaysia. It's one of the best places to observe proboscis monkeys, allowing you to clearly observe them without a telescope and even snap a few photos with them.
The sanctuary currently houses three large families of proboscis monkeys and one single-parent family. Visitors may also see silvered leaf monkeys, short-tailed monkeys, Asian spotted hornbills, otters, white-bellied woodpeckers, and kingfishers. The proboscis monkey (Nasalis larvatus) is a primate endemic to Borneo, primarily found in coastal mangroves, swamps, and riverine forests of Sabah. It feeds on the leaves of a unique Sabah tree species. It is currently endangered and is listed as an internationally endangered species. Males' noses are characterized by increasing size with age, eventually developing a large, red, eggplant-like shape, while females have more normal-looking noses. Males' noses produce a distinctive, trumpet-like call. Due to their highly specialized dietary requirements, proboscis monkeys often die within a week of capture, making them endangered.
The tropical rainforest climate has a dry season from March to November and a rainy season from November to February, but you can visit all year round.
Recommended play time: 1.5-2 hours
9:30am - 2:30pm (Platform A)
11:30am - 4:30pm (Platform B)
The Labuwan Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary was established to protect the endangered proboscis monkeys, which are native to Borneo. The sanctuary plays a vital role in the conservation of these unique creatures, providing them with a safe environment to thrive.
The sanctuary is located in Labuan, Malaysia. To get there, you can take a taxi or rent a car from Labuan's town center. The sanctuary is well-signposted, making it accessible by road.
The sanctuary is open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM. The best time to visit is early in the morning or late afternoon, when the monkeys are most active.
The entrance fee is approximately 10-20 MYR (Malaysian Ringgit), payable at the entrance. Tickets are purchased onsite, though you can check for any online booking options through local tour operators.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary for most visitors, though it is recommended for large groups or during peak tourist seasons.
Plan to spend about 1-2 hours at the sanctuary, including time for walking the trails and observing the monkeys.
Guided tours are available in English and Malay. These tours provide valuable insights into the conservation efforts and the behavior of the proboscis monkeys.
The viewing platforms near the monkey feeding areas are great for photography. The riverbank also offers scenic backdrops for capturing the monkeys in their natural environment.
Start with the main viewing area where you can observe the monkeys, then take the nature trails to explore the surrounding habitat. End with a visit to the riverbank for a more peaceful experience.
Night visits and light shows are not available. The sanctuary is best visited during daylight hours, as that is when the monkeys are most active.
The sanctuary can get busy on weekends and during public holidays. The least crowded times are early mornings on weekdays.
Basic facilities such as toilets and water are available. There is a small shop selling souvenirs and snacks, but no full-service restaurant on-site.
The sanctuary is relatively accessible, with paved paths for easier walking. However, some trails may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. It is advisable to check in advance for any special arrangements for disabled access.
Cash is commonly accepted. Cards and mobile payments may not be available, so it is best to carry cash with you when visiting the sanctuary.
There are no major restaurants inside the sanctuary. However, there are local eateries in Labuan town, offering Malaysian and international cuisine.
Yes, vegetarian, vegan, and halal options are available in local restaurants around Labuan.
There is a small souvenir shop at the sanctuary selling items like T-shirts, hats, and keychains. More souvenirs can be found in Labuan town.
