For any wildlife photographer visiting Borneo, getting up close to the world’s smallest bear is a must-do. The Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre in Sepilok offers exactly that opportunity — a rare and intimate encounter with one of the planet’s most charming and least-seen ursids.
A Safe Haven for Sun Bears
The Sun Bear Conservation Centre serves as a fantastic facility and safe home for sun bears that have been mistreated or kept in captivity. Rather than a traditional rehabilitation centre where animals are eventually released, this facility provides a massive open space where these rescued bears will live out the rest of their lives.
The bears look happy and flourishing, a stark contrast to their previous conditions. They do not appear depressed or overwhelmed. The facility provides plenty of drinking water and excellent conditions for foraging.
The Viewing Experience
To observe the bears without disturbing them, the centre features two elevated viewing areas:
- Platform 1
- Platform 2
This bird’s-eye view is a brilliant setup. You are positioned quite high up, meaning your presence does not distract the bears or interfere with their natural behaviour.
Throughout the centre there are plenty of signposts detailing the history of the sun bears and how the facility came to be. There is even a dedicated area playing a video that explains the centre’s mission and history, which usually draws a good crowd.
Photography Gear and Rules
If you are bringing professional gear, there is an important rule to note: there is an additional fee for bringing in a camera with a lens over 500mm. This rule appears to be in place to prevent professional photographers from bringing in top-tier equipment and profiting from images of the bears.
I shoot with a mirrorless Canon camera and brought my Canon RF 100–500mm lens. By keeping it tucked in and folded back, I was fine, as it does not look overly conspicuous at its shortest focal length. For wider environmental shots of the sanctuary platforms, swapping to an RF 28–70mm f/2.8 or RF 14–35mm f/4 L is a great way to capture the scale of the forest enclosures without running afoul of the focal length restrictions.
Entry Costs
Since the conservation centre is located directly opposite the Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, it makes perfect sense to combine both into a single visit. Here is what you can expect to pay:
- Adult Entry: 50 MYR (Approx. £8.50)
- Camera Fee: Extra charge applies only if your lens exceeds 500mm
It is a truly rewarding experience to see these endangered animals thriving in a protected environment. If you are travelling to Sepilok, the Sun Bear Conservation Centre is an essential addition to your itinerary alongside the neighbouring Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre.
