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If you are hoping to see proboscis monkeys in Sabah read this guide carefully. We will tell you everything you need to know to see these strange and surreal primates. Proboscis monkeys are also known as “long nose monkeys”. These unique monkeys can only be found in the wild in Borneo. Their primary habitat is mangrove forests, especially in coastal regions. But how on earth do you find these curious critters? Read on.
In this article we will tell you everything you need to know to see Proboscis monkeys in Sabah. Prices, location, timings and more…
ALSO don’t miss our FULL GUIDE on THE BEST things to do in Sabah
What are proboscis monkeys?
Proboscis monkeys may well be the most unique and strange monkeys in the world. Proboscis monkeys are best known for their large noses. They also have some pretty strange quirks too. We love their bizarre noises (It sounds just like “hey”.) These monkeys are genuinely fascinating to watch. Whether it is the babies playing or the group dynamics between the adults, proboscis monkeys are seriously interesting.
How do you see Proboscis monkeys in Sabah?
There are two main ways to see Proboscis Monkeys in Sabah – the most authentic and natural option is to take a cruise along the intrepid Kinabatangan River. However, if you are short of time you can also see Proboscis monkeys at the Labuk Bay Sanctuary.
1 Book a Kinabatangan River Cruise
The best way to see Proboscis monkeys in their natural environment is to take a River Tour of the Kinabatangan River
The proboscis monkeys at Labuk bay live in a preserved area of mangrove forest in a large palm plantation. At Labuk Bay they do not keep the proboscis monkeys in captivity. However, the proboscis monkey habitat is limited and compromised. If you want to see proboscis monkeys in the wild, one of the best ways to do this is to take a river cruise along the Kinabatangan River.
If you look at the trees by the river bank you may be able to see proboscis monkeys playing or resting. Bring some binoculars or similar to get the best view of these monkeys.
2 Visit the Labuk Bay Sanctuary
If you intend to visit the Labuk Bay proboscis monkey sanctuary, plan your visit carefully to avoid disappointment. You can see proboscis monkeys at the Labuk Bay sanctuary just outside Sandakan.
How to get to Labuk Bay
- Go to Sandakan – You may be interested in our guide on how to get from Kota Kinabalu to Sandakan
- Take a taxi to Labuk Bay – you can arrange a taxi using the Grab Taxi App (it should cost around RM 30 – 40 from Sandakan) – Consider asking for a return price deal with your driver because Labuk Bay is quite remote
- Alternatively – Rent a car in Sandakan (this typically starts at around £30 or $35 per day)
To ensure that you actually see the monkeys visit during one of the feeding times. They have different feeding times at each of the platforms.
The area is actually quite large and therefore you will need to make sure you have transport to get all of the way to the feeding platform (not just the entrance). You can buy tickets at the ticket office on arrival. The feeding platforms are a 10 minute drive from the ticket office at the entrance.
What are the feeding times at Labuk Bay?
The proboscis monkeys are fed daily at the same times. The feeding times at Labuk Bay:
- Platform A: 9.30am and 2.30pm
- Platform B: 11.30 am and 4.30 pm
If you arrive a little early you will probably see the proboscis monkeys gathering before feeding time.
TOP TIP: If you plan to visit the Sepilok Orangutan Sanctuary in the morning, head over the Labuk Bay for the 11.30am feeding time at platform B.
How much does it cost to visit the Labuk Bay Proboscis monkey sanctuary?
The Labuk Bay proboscis monkey sanctuary is relatively cheap to visit. The prices are as follows:
For Non-Malaysians
- RM60 for adult non-malaysians
- RM30 for non Malaysian children (3 – 12 years)
For Malaysians
- RM15 for Malaysian adults
- RM5 for Malaysian children (3 – 12 years)
Where are the best places to stay in Sandakan?
1 Nature Lodge Sepilok
The Nature Lodge Sepilok offers affordable accommodation very close to Sepilok. This place is not luxurious or fancy but it is nice and well located. They have dorms, double rooms and twin rooms for competitive prices.
2 Sepilok Forest Edge Resort
If you’re looking for something luxurious in the wild check out the Sepilok Forest Edge Resort. The beautiful Sepilok Forest Edge is immersed in the jungle right next to the Sepilok Rehabilitation Centre. They offer luxurious wooden nature lodges and chalets including a gamping pool villa and chalets with a bathtub.
3 Sandakan Backpackers Hostel
On a budget? Check out the Sandakan Backpackers Hostel. Located in Sandakan town center the Backpackers Hostel offers a range of low cost accommodation including dorms and private rooms. Rooms range from around £7 for a bed in a shared dorm to around £25 for a family room or triple room.
4 The Sabah Hotel (Sandakan)
AND last but not least check out the Sabah Hotel. This mid range hotel offers luxury for a great price. This is probably the best option for families in Sandakan. The Sabah hotel include an excellent breakfast. They also have an outdoor pool and very good facilities and amenities. This is a great option if you want something fairly luxurious for a great price.
Where next? (other things to do in Sabah)
We already mentioned the Sepilok Orangutan Sanctuary in Sandakan. There are also loads of other awesome activities in Sabah. For snorkeling, diving and amazing islands head towards Semporna and Mabul (where you can arrange a surprisingly affordable stay close to one of the BEST diving destinations in the world!). If you’re looking for natural beauty and adventure in the mountains head to Kinabalu. There are some amazing home stays in the Kinabalu valley. Don’t miss the Rafflesia Gardens in Poring and the Poring hot springs and canopy walkways. If you’re heading towards Kota Kinabalu consider the island hopping trip. Sabah really is epic. ALSO while you are in the area – don’t miss these EPIC Sandakan attractions
