Semenggol Nature Reserve

Introducing Semenggol Nature Reserve

Twenty-eight orangutans live in the Semenggoh Nature Reserve, located in the southern suburbs of Kuching. A wildlife center, about one kilometer from the main gate, showcases their stories and displays a stuffed orangutan that tragically passed away.

The official feeding starts at 9:00 and 15:00, with staff constantly shouting loudly from a specially built platform to attract the orangutans to come and eat. It is about 2 kilometers from the park gate, which means you need to enter the park at least half an hour in advance to see the whole feeding process.

Due to the vast size of the reserve and the sparse population of orangutans, not every feeding session is successful in attracting orangutans, especially during the rainforest season, around April and May. However, you may encounter these adorable animals along the way from the main gate to the feeding area.

Tickets

Adults RM10, RM5 for ages 6-18, free for ages 5 and under

Attraction opening hours

Daily 8:00-10:00 (feeding starts at 9:00), 14:00-16:00 (feeding starts at 15:00)

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Most Popular FAQs for Semenggol Nature Reserve

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Semenggoh Nature Reserve is a wildlife rehabilitation center established in 1975. It is one of Malaysia's most important centers for the rehabilitation of orangutans and other wildlife. The reserve is vital for conservation efforts and for scientific research on orangutans. It is a significant part of Malaysia's commitment to preserving the natural habitat and wildlife of Borneo.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Semenggoh Nature Reserve is located about 24 kilometers south of Kuching, Sarawak. Visitors can reach the park by taxi or private car from Kuching. Public buses also operate from Kuching City to the reserve. Once at the entrance, it’s a short walk to the feeding platforms.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Semenggoh Nature Reserve is open daily from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM to 4:30 PM. The best time to visit is during the feeding sessions: 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM, when orangutans are most likely to appear. The dry season, between March and October, is generally the best time to visit for pleasant weather and clearer conditions.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The entrance fee is MYR 10 for adults and MYR 5 for children. Tickets can be bought on-site at the entrance of the reserve. It is recommended to arrive early to secure a spot for the feeding sessions. Tickets cannot be bought online.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Tickets do not need to be booked in advance, as they can be purchased on-site. However, if visiting during peak seasons or school holidays, it is advisable to arrive early to avoid missing the feeding sessions.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A visit to Semenggoh Nature Reserve typically takes 2 to 3 hours, including time for the feeding sessions and a short nature walk. If you plan to stay longer, you can explore more of the trails and enjoy the forest environment.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

The main highlight is the feeding platforms, where you can observe rehabilitated orangutans coming down from the trees. The reserve also offers forest trails, which lead to beautiful scenic views of the jungle and a variety of local wildlife, such as gibbons and hornbills.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available for groups, and they are conducted in English. Visitors can learn about the local wildlife, the rehabilitation efforts for orangutans, and the reserve's ecosystem. There are no audio guides available.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The feeding platforms provide the best photo opportunities to capture the orangutans in action. The surrounding jungle trails also offer beautiful scenic views of the forest, which are perfect for nature photography.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

The recommended route begins at the entrance, where you can purchase tickets and then proceed to the feeding platforms. After the feeding session, you can take a short nature walk through the forest trails to explore the surrounding environment and observe more wildlife.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

There are no night visits or light shows in Semenggoh Nature Reserve. The reserve operates primarily during daylight hours for wildlife observation. Special night safaris are not available here, but some tours may offer day trips including the nearby Bako National Park.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The reserve can be quite crowded during weekends and public holidays. To avoid large crowds, it is best to visit during weekdays or early in the morning. The afternoon feeding session tends to be less crowded than the morning one.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

There are basic toilets and a small canteen offering snacks and drinks. The reserve is quite rustic, and there are no extensive shopping facilities. Visitors are advised to bring their own water and snacks if they plan to stay for an extended period.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The nature trails are mostly not wheelchair accessible and may be difficult for elderly visitors due to uneven terrain. However, the main area near the feeding platforms is accessible to children and elderly visitors with some walking assistance. A basic level of mobility is required for visitors.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is required for entry fees and purchases inside the reserve. Cards and mobile payments are not accepted at the reserve, so visitors should bring local currency (Malaysian Ringgit).

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There is a small canteen inside the reserve serving basic food and beverages. For more dining options, visitors can head to Kuching, where a variety of restaurants and cafes offer local and international cuisine.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and halal food options are available in Kuching. The canteen inside the reserve mainly offers simple snacks, and for specific dietary preferences, it's best to eat in Kuching.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Accommodations near Semenggoh Nature Reserve include Riverbank Suites, Damai Puri Resort, and various guesthouses in Kuching. The reserve is about a 30-minute drive from the city center.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Nearby attractions include Bako National Park, Sarawak Cultural Village, and Mount Santubong. These can be easily combined in a day trip from Kuching.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are no dedicated souvenir shops inside Semenggoh Nature Reserve. However, visitors can find orangutan-themed souvenirs such as T-shirts, hats, and crafts in Kuching and nearby markets.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

From Semenggoh, visitors can take a taxi or private car back to Kuching. Alternatively, buses and shared shuttles are available for transportation back to the city.