Lok Kawi Wildlife Park is a 280-acre zoological and botanical garden at Penampang, about 21 kilometres from Kota Kinabalu, managed by the Sabah Wildlife Department. It houses more than two hundred animals that were rescued, confiscated or surrendered, among them proboscis monkeys, orangutans, deer, sun bears, Malayan tigers and Bornean pygmy elephants, along with an aviary of hornbills, parrots, eagles and other birds. The park is laid out so that you can walk between enclosures through shaded paths, and there is a 1.4 kilometre jungle trekking trail with orchids and ferns, and the chance to see Rafflesia. It is a good choice for families, for visitors with a few spare hours and for anyone who wants to be sure of seeing Borneo's iconic animals, because wild sightings can be elusive. The park is a government facility with modest facilities, but it is cheap and well suited to a morning visit.
What you will see
The animals are the main draw. Orangutans and sun bears are the favourites, and the Bornean pygmy elephants and proboscis monkeys offer a close look at species that are hard to find in the wild. Feeding sessions are held twice a day from Monday to Sunday, except on Fridays, when sessions may be held in school holidays, and they are the best time to see the animals active. Plan your route to be at the enclosures you care about for feeding time.
Practical points
It takes roughly thirty to forty-five minutes to reach the park by road from the city, depending on traffic. A taxi or e-hailing car is the easy way out, but getting a ride back can be harder, so arrange a return in advance or go with a tour.
Entry is a modest fee that is lower for children and for Malaysians, and it is paid in cash at the gate, so bring notes. Confirm the opening hours with the park before you travel. Wear a hat, carry water and use repellent, as the walk is hot and shaded areas are limited.
Perspective
This is a conservation-focused park and not a theme park, so facilities are simple and some enclosures are older than others. It makes a good pairing with Mari Mari Cultural Village on the same side of the city, and it is the easiest option for a family with small children who would struggle with a long river cruise or a mountain trip. Go in the morning, when the animals are most active and the heat is manageable.
What to expect
The experience
A self-guided walk through a forested zoo and botanical garden, with feeding sessions and a short jungle trail.
Best time
Go in the morning, when it is cooler and the animals are most active, and time your visit around feeding.
How long
Two to three hours for the main enclosures, longer if you walk the jungle trail.
Tips
Bring cash for the gate, a hat, water and repellent. Arrange your return transport in advance, because rides back from the park can be hard to find.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Families and anyone who wants a guaranteed close look at orangutans, sun bears and pygmy elephants.
- Families
- The easiest wildlife outing for children, with shaded paths, feeding sessions and a low entry fee.
- Couples
- A relaxed morning outing before a quiet afternoon at the beach or the waterfront.
- Pair with
- Mari Mari Cultural Village is on the same side of the city and fits a half day.
- Time needed
- Half a day including the drive.
Good questions
How far is Lok Kawi Wildlife Park from Kota Kinabalu?+
It is about 21 kilometres south of the city, roughly a thirty to forty-five minute drive depending on traffic. Taxis and e-hailing are the usual ways to get there.
Which animals can I see?+
More than two hundred animals, including orangutans, proboscis monkeys, sun bears, Malayan tigers and Bornean pygmy elephants, plus an aviary of birds.
How much does it cost?+
Entry is a modest fee, lower for children and for Malaysians, paid in cash at the gate. Confirm current prices and opening hours with the park.
When are the feeding sessions?+
Sessions run twice a day from Monday to Sunday except Fridays, with Friday sessions possible in school holidays. Ask at the entrance for the day's timings.
Is there a walking trail?+
Yes, a 1.4 kilometre jungle trail with orchids, ferns and a chance of Rafflesia. Wear sturdy shoes and carry water.
