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The world's first sun bear conservation center, established in 2008 but only recently opened to the public, serves as a primary care and shelter for orphaned and captive sun bears, returning them to their natural habitat. Another goal is to raise awareness of sun bear conservation and educate the public about the importance of sun bear conservation. The center is more than just a place to house sun bears; it also serves as a conservation, education, and research center.
The Sun Bear is the smallest bear in the world and one of the least understood bear species. Its short, rounded head, plump body, and short, sleek black fur give it an adorable appearance. Unfortunately, its existence is threatened by deforestation. Furthermore, it is illegally hunted for delicacy (bear paws) and traditional medicine (bear bile). Some young bears are even kept as pets. Over the past 30 years, the sun bear population has declined by at least 30%. If we wait for this to happen, the sun bear will face extinction. Therefore, the conservation center provides a safe forest environment for the young bears, allowing them to relearn to return to nature. Visitors to the conservation center can observe the Sun Bears from a perch above. The young bears freely explore the jungle, clawing at bark and digging in the mud, displaying their true bear nature. It's fascinating to observe wild Sun Bears up close. Seeing these adorable animals, we hope that conservation centers like this will inspire more people to oppose hunting and end wildlife abuse.
The climate is tropical rainforest, with 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: 1-1.5 hours
RM30
Monday to Sunday: 9:00-15:30
The Sun Bear Conservation Centre was established to provide a safe haven for sun bears rescued from the illegal wildlife trade and deforestation. It plays a vital role in educating the public and promoting the conservation of this endangered species.
The center is located in Sepilok, Sabah, Malaysia. The nearest airport is Sandakan Airport, about 30 minutes by taxi. Public transportation from Sandakan city is available.
The center is open daily from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon, during feeding times when the sun bears are most active.
The entrance fee is approximately 30 MYR for adults and 15 MYR for children. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance. Online bookings may also be available during peak seasons.
Booking tickets in advance is not required, but it is recommended during peak seasons (December to February) to ensure a spot on guided tours or special events.
You should plan to spend 1 to 2 hours at the center, which allows enough time to watch the sun bears, explore the exhibits, and take a guided tour.
Guided tours are available in English and Malay, led by knowledgeable staff who share information about sun bears and conservation efforts. Audio guides are not offered at this time.
The feeding platform is the best spot for photography, where you can get close-up shots of the sun bears. The surrounding forest offers a great backdrop for nature photos as well.
Start by visiting the education center to learn about sun bear conservation. Then, proceed to the feeding platform to observe the bears. Finish by walking the forest trails for more natural views and wildlife sightings.
Night visits and light shows are not available. However, the center occasionally hosts special educational tours or events which may require advance booking, so it's worth checking the schedule.
The center can be crowded during weekends and holidays. To avoid crowds, visit in the early morning on weekdays or during the off-peak season (March to November).
The center offers basic facilities such as toilets, a café with light meals and drinks, rest areas, and a souvenir shop selling sun bear-themed products.
The center is mostly accessible for children and elderly visitors. Some of the forest trails may be challenging for those with limited mobility, but the main areas, including the education center and feeding platform, are accessible via paved paths.
Cash is accepted for admission and purchases. Mobile payments (such as Alipay and WeChat Pay) are also available at the café and shop. However, it's recommended to carry cash for entry and small purchases.
The center has a small café serving refreshments and snacks. For more dining options, there are several restaurants and local eateries in Sandakan, a 30-minute drive away.
Yes, vegetarian, vegan, and halal options are available at the café inside the Sun Bear Conservation Centre. Local restaurants in Sandakan also offer these food choices.
Accommodation options near the center include the Sepilok Nature Resort and other hotels in Sandakan, which are about a 30-minute drive away.
Yes, there is a souvenir shop at the center, offering sun bear-themed merchandise such as t-shirts, toys, and educational materials, with proceeds supporting conservation efforts.
The best transportation options to continue your trip are taxis or private car hire. Sandakan Airport is approximately 30 minutes away, and buses are also available for further travel.
