The short answer
Lok Kawi Wildlife Park: what visitors should know first
Yes for families, and worth it if you may not see wild orangutans on this trip. Go in the morning for feeding sessions, arrange your return ride in advance and bring repellent and water.
History and context
The story behind Lok Kawi Wildlife Park
The sources I opened do not give the opening year. The park is run by the Sabah Wildlife Department and holds more than 200 rescued, confiscated or surrendered animals on about 280 acres.
Useful facts
Lok Kawi Wildlife Park facts at a glance
- Location
- Lok Kawi, Penampang, about 21 km from the city
- Operator
- Sabah Wildlife Department
- Animals
- Orangutans, pygmy elephants, proboscis monkeys, sun bears
- Size
- About 280 acres, 200+ animals
- Trail
- 1.4 km jungle trail in the botanical garden
Why it matters
Why Lok Kawi Wildlife Park is worth your time
Borneo's wildlife is one of the main reasons people come to Sabah, but spotting it in the wild can need long trips. This park gives a reliable look at the island's animals close to the city, and it holds more than 200 rescued, confiscated or surrendered animals.
For children and older travellers it is a gentler alternative to a jungle trek, and the visit supports the work of the state wildlife department. It also helps explain why conservation matters before you travel to other parts of Sabah.
Highlights
What not to miss
- 01
Bornean species
See orangutans, proboscis monkeys and pygmy elephants in one visit.
- 02
Feeding sessions
Twice-daily presentations explain the animals' stories.
- 03
Botanical trail
A short walk past orchids and ferns.
Plan your visit
How to experience it
Plan the trip in the morning, since feeding and presentation sessions are held twice a day and animals are more active in cooler hours. Ask your driver to wait or arrange a pickup in advance, because there are few rides at the exit.
Walk the main loop and focus on the animals you are least likely to see in the wild: orangutans, proboscis monkeys and Bornean pygmy elephants, plus sun bears and hornbills in the aviary. Take your time at enclosures, as the park keeps rescued animals and the staff explain their histories at presentations.
If you have energy, the 1.4 km jungle trail through the botanical garden may reward you with orchids and ferns. Carry insect repellent, sunscreen and plenty of water, and rest in the shaded areas.
Plan with confidence
Small decisions that make the visit easier.
- Go in the morning
- Arrange your return transport
- Carry cash for entry
- Bring repellent and water
- Avoid Fridays for sessions
Know before you go
Timing, access and comfort
- Area
- Penampang district, about 21 km from the centre
- Time needed
- Half a day
- Best time
- Morning, for animal presentations
- Walking level
- Moderate
- Senior comfort
- The park is large and hot, with walking between enclosures and little transport on site. Carry a hat and water, take breaks in shaded areas and keep the visit to a couple of hours.
- Tickets and access
- Sabah Tourism lists a walk-in cash fee, higher for non-Malaysians; confirm current rates. Feeding sessions run twice daily except Fridays. Book return transport in advance, as rides can be hard to find.
Best for
Plan it with
Plan the practical part
Hotels near Lok Kawi Wildlife Park
Staying close keeps journeys short — useful for early starts and for anyone who tires quickly.
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Travelling with parents?
The park is large and hot, with walking between enclosures and little transport on site. Carry a hat and water, take breaks in shaded areas and keep the visit to a couple of hours.
Raahzo can arrange an arrival or day companion who handles tickets, queues and pacing, and keeps the family updated.
See concierge supportFAQs
How far is it from the city?
About 21 km, or 30 to 45 minutes by road depending on traffic.
When are the feeding sessions?
Twice daily, except Fridays; check the day's times.
How much are tickets?
Sabah Tourism listed RM10 for Malaysian adults and RM20 for non-Malaysian adults; confirm current prices.
Sources and further reading
Timings, fees and access rules change. Recheck with the official source before you travel.
