Did you know the name 'orangutan' is derived from a Malay word that means 'man of the forest'?
Orangutans are an endangered species of great apes endemic to the rainforests of just two islands in Indonesia and Malaysia: Sumatra and Borneo. This means that they can be found on these islands, and nowhere else in the world!
With their distinctive orange-brown fur and undeniably human-like characteristics, these intelligent and social animals are among the most charismatic creatures in the world and are a top bucketlist species for nature lovers to spot in the wild. To help ensure guests visiting Borneo or Sumatra do just that, here is an overview of the best places to have an up-close and personal encounter with these lovable primates.
Tanjung Puting National Park, Indonesia
Located in the Indonesian province of Central Kalimantan, it’s home to one of the largest populations of wild orangutans in the world. The park is known for its extensive network of waterways and is a popular destination for boat tours, which allow visitors to see orangutans up close as they roam through the rainforest. In addition to orangutans, the park is also home to other endangered species such as the Asian elephant and the sun bear.
Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, Malaysia
Located in the Malaysian state of Sabah, on the island of Borneo. The centre was established in 1964 to rehabilitate orphaned and injured orangutans, and it has since become a popular tourist destination. Visitors can watch the orangutans being fed at the centre’s feeding platforms, or take a guided tour of the centre’s rainforest trails to see the orangutans in their natural habitat.
Gunung Leuser National Park, Indonesia
A protected area located in the Indonesian province of Aceh, on the island of Sumatra. The park is home to a large population of wild orangutans, as well as other endangered species such as the Sumatran tiger and the Sumatran elephant. The park is known for its challenging terrain and is a popular destination for trekking and wildlife viewing.
Semenggoh Nature Reserve, Malaysia
Located in the Malaysian state of Sarawak, on the island of Borneo. The reserve is home to a rehabilitation centre for orphaned and injured orangutans, and visitors can watch the orangutans being fed at the centre’s feeding platforms. The reserve is also home to a variety of other wildlife, including gibbons, hornbills, and monitor lizards.
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