Orangutan and Pygmy Elephant Conservation

Based in the Lower Kinabatangan Floodplain Rainforest in Sabah, this orangutan project completely encompasses the awe-inspiring diversity and dynamism of Borneo's wildlife. The area in which you will be volunteering is situated within WWF's protected 'Corridor of Life', a region of enormous importance in balancing land-development and the needs of its indigenous communities and wildlife.

About The Project

This project allows complete immersion into the natural wonder of the unique habitat, aiming to work on the reforestation of the environment, to help orangutans and pygmy elephants in Borneo to thrive. As a volunteer, you will stay in the small village of Sukau, a rural, indigenous community with a population of approximately 1000. The charming, hospitable 'Orang Sungai' ('People of the River') are always keen to share their way of life and welcome guests into their community. In return, you will assist with educating the local population on the importance of conservation and implementing more sustainable ways of living. The main part of the programme will be centred on activities in and around Sukau village or along the Kinabatangan River, but you will also spend time working with the project staff, assisting with wildlife monitoring through river-cruises and rainforest-treks. As well as orangutans and pygmy elephants, the project is also home to gibbons and hornbills, making it a wildlife-spotting haven. Towards the end of the programme, volunteers have the chance to visit the world-famous Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre to experience more of the incredible work undertaken by this project, and to gain a greater understanding of the necessities of conservation.

Prior To Arrival

Please note that itineraries are subject to change and what follows is simply a rough guideline:

First Days

Project Days

You will spend your regular working days actively taking part in conservation activities. These include the following activities:

Boat Trips:

The principal focus of the project is to work towards the conservation of the orangutans and pygmy elephants in Borneo. By monitoring their numbers and patterns, you will be able to help the project team to understand the successes of their efforts. Cruise along the main river and its tributaries, keeping your eyes peeled for the wildlife species roaming along the river banks, and snapping some great pictures along the way!

Trekking:

As well as observing the wildlife via boat, you will also embark on numerous treks, allowing you to learn more about Sabah’s rainforests. Study endemic flora, observe native fauna, and take the time to appreciate the verdure of this spectacular habitat.!

Reforestation:

The local environment has suffered greatly over the years as a result of logging and deforestation. The area needs to be reforested if there are to be any hopes of wildlife species thriving here, and a major part of your time volunteering will be spent planting trees. The project aims to plant thousands of trees per year, so get involved and help make a difference to the lives of orangutans, elephants and more.

Spending Time With The 'Orang Sungai': 

As a volunteer, you will also work with the local community, living alongside them on the riverbank. In exchange for them opening up their homes, you will spend time educating the community, providing them with economic motivation for conservation. Teach them about the value of their local wildlife, encouraging them to take on sustainable ways of living.

Work With The Local School Children:

As well as educating the local communities, you may also have the opportunity to work with local school children, teaching them about the importance of conservation in their home environment and instilling a more sustainable, conscious mindset – after all, these children are the future of the local community!

Last Days

The day before you leave you will depart Sukau and transfer to Sandakan. On the way, you will stop at Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre to view the morning orangutan feeding session. After lunch, you will visit the Rainforest Discovery Centre before heading back to Sepilok for the afternoon feeding session. This visit will emphasise the necessity for conservation projects, as you will have the opportunity to compare the lives of captive orangutans to those that live in the wild.

After a busy day, you will check into your accommodation in Sandakan for the night and enjoy a farewell dinner with your group. On your final day, you will check out of your accommodation and transfer to Sandakan Airport for your return flight or to commence your independent travel plans.

This project takes place between January and November, with start dates in the 21st of every month. You may also be able to volunteer on the 11th of December. Please contact us to find out whether your preferred start date is available.

Enjoy your free time by going on to the local town and enjoying the surroundings. Visit the Agnes Newton Keith Home, Puu Jih Shih Buddhist Temple, or the Sandakan Memorial Park. Alternatively, you can speak to your travel consultant for further suggestions before departure, or chat with your project facilitator for their top tips!