Rainforest Discovery Centre – Experience Borneo from Above
The Rainforest Discovery Centre in Sepilok near Sandakan, Sabah, Borneo, is a premier destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Situated within the lush Kabili-Sepilok Forest Reserve, the Rainforest Discovery Centre serves as both an educational hub and an ecological gem. Visitors can stroll along the stunning canopy walkway, which offers breathtaking views of the rainforest from high above the ground. The centre is renowned for its night walks, where one can observe the nocturnal activities of the forest’s diverse wildlife, including exotic birds and unique insects. Located about 23 kilometres from Sandakan town, the Rainforest Discovery Centre is dedicated to conservation and environmental education, making it an inspiring place that brings the wonders of the rainforest to life.
Canopy Walk, Rainforest Discovery Centre
Rainforest Discovery Centre Canopy Walk
The Rainforest Discovery Centre’s Canopy walk is a highlight for many visitors, offering an exceptional perspective of the rainforest canopy. Stretching 620 meters in length and reaching a height of about 27 meters at its highest point, the canopy walk provides breathtaking views from above. This impressive structure includes three viewing towers Bristlehead, Trogon, and Hornbill Towers connected by the walkway, along with the Sunbird Shelter. Designed to accommodate large crowds, the walkway is approximately 1.5 meters wide and is safe for visitors of all ages, including preschool children. It is especially popular among birders and nature photographers, offering a unique vantage point to observe the diverse wildlife.
Canopy Walk, Rainforest Discovery Centre
Nature Trails in Rainforest Discovery Centre
The Rainforest Discovery Centre offers a network of inter-looping nature trails that provide easy access to the forest. These trails are equipped with informative panels that educate visitors about the diverse birds and animals residing in the forest. Popular trails include the Kabili Trail, a challenging return hike for experienced hikers, and the walk around the lake, which is more suitable for casual visitors. Night walks along these trails offer a chance to see wildlife such as slow loris, tarsier, mouse deer, civet cats, Vipers, and various insects like stick insects and fireflies. The trails are well-maintained, with gravel paths and some sections of well-trodden soil trails for deeper exploration.
Signboard, Rainforest Discovery Centre
Sepilok Giant
The Sepilok Giant, a Yellow Seraya tree (Shorea acatissima), is an awe-inspiring natural landmark in the Kabili-Sepilok Forest Reserve, which you can find within the Rainforest Discovery Centre. Standing at an impressive height of 65 meters, this ancient tree is estimated to be between 800 and 1,000 years old, making it one of Borneo’s oldest and tallest trees. The Sepilok Giant’s towering presence is a testament to the rich biodiversity and ecological significance of the rainforest. This majestic tree offers a glimpse into the past and plays a crucial role in the forest ecosystem, providing habitat and sustenance for various wildlife species. Visiting the Sepilok Giant at the centre allows one to appreciate the grandeur and resilience of Borneo’s ancient rainforests.
Botanical Garden and Diversity of Flora and Fauna
The Rainforest Discovery Centre boasts a Plant Discovery Garden that showcases a diverse array of native and hybrid orchids, arid land plants, aquatic plants, pitcher plants, economic crops, and tropical American plants. The garden is designed to educate visitors about the region’s unique flora through colourful outdoor interpretive panels. In terms of biodiversity, the Rainforest Discovery Centre is home to an astounding variety of flora and fauna. The Kabili-Sepilok Forest Reserve, where the centre is located, is a pristine lowland dipterocarp and mangrove forest that hosts over 300 species of birds, including iconic species like the Bornean Bristlehead, Black & Crimson Pitta, Blue-headed Pitta, Giant Pitta, Black Hornbill, and Rhinoceros Hornbill. The forest also supports a range of mammals such as Orang Utan, red leaf monkeys, gibbons, mouse deer, civet cats, and flying squirrels.
The Rainforest Discovery Centre in Sepilok, Sabah, Borneo, is a captivating place that offers visitors an immersive experience in the heart of Borneo’s rainforests. With its impressive canopy walkway, diverse nature trails, and rich biodiversity, the centre is a haven for nature enthusiasts and a vital hub for conservation efforts. Whether you are exploring the majestic Sepilok Giant or simply enjoying a serene walk through the forest, the centre provides a unique opportunity to connect with nature and appreciate the wonders of this remarkable ecosystem. Usually, the centre is visited during your stay in Sepilok or Sandakan area before or after you visit the Kinabatangan River. If you want to visit the centre, you can contact us for more details and assistance with your trip.