During my time in Borneo I had the chance to visit the Semenggoh Orangutan Rehabilitation Center just outside of Kuching. This rehabilitation center is not nearly as popular as the one on the east coast of Borneo, in Sepilok, but I think because of that it might be the better place to spot orangutans.
I hopped on a midday bus in the Kuching town center for $3 US Dollars, rode for about 30 minutes to the entrance before I was dropped off, paid $3 US for the entry fee, and walked the 1/2 mile up the entrance road to the actual rehab center. On my way up the road I was immediately greeted by a mother and baby orangutan hanging out in the woods near the rehab center. They were waiting for one of the two feeding times that take place in the park. After snapping a few pictures I walked to the first feeding station where I was greeted by four orangutans hanging out there eating as well as a rehab official and about 7 other tourists. The official informed us of the rules regarding not disturbing the orangutans during feeding as well as a brief history of the park and its inhabitants.
After about 15 minutes of feeding at the first platform, we hiked a short distance through the forest trails to the second feeding platform. Here we were greeted with a nice surprise. The orangutans are free to roam about the forest surrounding the rehab center and thus do not always make appearances during feeding times. Today, however, not only were we able to see the mother and baby, but also the paternal leader of the orangutans and his new mistress. The second feeding platform already had two orangutans waiting to be fed, and after ten minutes the rehab official spotted something in the distance. Giving a call and whistle, we soon heard the response of branches swaying and leaves crackling. Looking behind us and up the hill a bit we saw massive tree branches give way as a huge orangutan gracefully swayed from one tree to the next. Watching such a large, heavy creature swing through trees with such agility was quite a sight to behold. Immediately the two orangutans currently on the feeding platforms leaped off, giving way to the leader of the group. The rehab official also gave a wide berth so as not to upset him. I watched as whole packs of bananas were gracefully peeled and eaten, and felt a sense of respect for these animals whose habitat is nearly completely taken away from them.
Unfortunately, a busload of tourists arrived and overran the second feeding platform, so I backed away and headed back the main path towards the entrance. On my way there I stopped and gazed at two of the orangutans making their way back into the forest. Feeling content for the day, I headed back to the bus terminal to await my ride back to my hostel. Drenched from sweat, needing some water, and only out $6 US Dollars, I felt like this was one day well worth the time and money.
