"Really enjoyed the Rainforest Discovery Center. I had just been to the Sepilok orang utan rehabilitation center nearby (20 mins walk away - don't bother getting a taxi) - and enjoyed the peace and quiet - as the orang utan rehab center was very busy in parts. There are some breathtaking raised walkways, suspension bridges and bird observation towers. You truly feel like you are in the heart of the jungle."
Spending a whole day watching birds may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but for some folks, it is a wonderful way to connect with nature.
The Rainforest Discovery Centre (RDC) in Sandakan, Sabah is a birdwatcher’s paradise as hundreds of species can be found here, as well as many varieties of plants, trees and insects. The RDC is one of the top environmental education centres in Sabah. It is also the most accessible natural rainforest – the Sepilok-Kabili Forest Reserve – in the state. Managed by the Sabah Forestry Department, the 4,300ha centre is really more of a park where visitors can go to learn about the flora and fauna of Borneo island. The annual Borneo Bird Festival is usually held at the end of the year at RDC, attracting birding enthusiasts from all over the world.The annual Borneo Bird Festival is usually held at the end of the year at RDC, attracting birding enthusiasts from all over the world.
There are a handful of jungle trails to check out. Each one is to follow and properly marked, with plenty of signboards along the way. Pay attention to your surroundings as you might just be able to catch a few of the forest’s natural inhabitants hanging about, doing their thing. There’s also the canopy walk, which is very popular with visitors. The steel walkway is 347m in length, and goes up to about 25m in height. It leads you to the observation towers – the Bristlehead and Trogon.
If you visit the RDC, be sure to check out the canopy walk. There’s no need to worry about the 2m-wide structure as it is safe and sturdy and was purposely built to withstand large crowds. Both adults and children can take their time to walk around the area.
Birdwatchers may want to park themselves at the towers, or at the Sunbird Shelter. Some of the bird species that have been found at RDC include the Bornean Bristlehead, Black and Crimson Pitta and Rhinoceros Hornbill.
The Plant Discovery Garden is a lovely place not just to rest and relax, but also learn about the plants featured there.
Although RDC started as a learning centre for students and teachers, it has evolved to become a destination for tourists, both local and international. There’s so much to see and learn at the forest, and there’s no need to get a guide either as the signboards are very informative.
Of course, birding fans would also appreciate this place.
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RDC is about 20km from Sandakan town and just a stone’s throw away from the Sepilok Rehabilitation Centre and the Borneo Sunbear Conservation Centre. Ride-sharing cars and taxis are easily available, and many locals would know exactly where this place is. It would be easier to engage the services of a local guide, though, who would then arrange for everything.
Rainforest Discovery Centre, Forest Research Centre, Sepilok, P.O. Box 1407, 90715 Sandakan, Sabah Tel: (089) 533 780, (089) 533 781 and (089) 535 201 Email: rdcsepilok@yahoo.com
Sabah Hotel
Sabah Hotel is a haven for nature lovers as this eco-friendly resort is situated in the center of a tropical rainforest. Perched on top of a hill, guests will enjoy the view of the natural surroundings and plant life. Complimentary newspapers, work desks, mini bars, and satellite television are a few of the amenities included in the guestrooms. Start the day with a Western or Asian breakfast from the Plantation Café, but be sure to save enough room for a Chinese lunch at the Ming Restaurant. Corporate travelers may utilize the Executive Parlor which is fully equipped with meeting rooms, cocktails, and food menus. The pool, tennis courts, nature walks, and game facilities are available for a little recreation. Be sure to take the kids to the Sabah Hotel’s playground for a few hours. If you’re looking for a special and unique experience, look no further than Sabah Hotel.
Offering quality accommodations in the culture, sightseeing, restaurants district of Sandakan, Hotel City Star is a popular pick for both business and leisure travelers. From here, guests can enjoy easy access to all that the lively city has to offer. This modern hotel is in the vicinity of popular city attractions such as Basel Christian Church of Malaysia, Agnes Newton Keith Home, Japanese Cemetery.
Hotel City Star offers impeccable service and all the essential amenities to invigorate travelers. For the comfort and convenience of guests, the hotel offers 24-hour room service, free Wi-Fi in all rooms, restaurant, tours, laundry service.
Experience high quality room facilities during your stay here. Some rooms include internet access – wireless (complimentary), air conditioning, desk, mini bar, telephone, provided to help guests recharge after a long day. Besides, the hotel's host of recreational offerings ensures you have plenty to do during your stay. With an ideal location and facilities to match, Hotel City Star hits the spot in many ways.
