RAINFOREST DISCOVERY CENTRE (RDC) - SANDAKAN

The Rainforest Discovery Centre (RDC) is located not too far from the Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre. This is the best place to get closer and to know the uniqueness and the importance of Borneo’s rainforest.

The RDC also gives visitors a chance to get intimate with nature through its Nature Experience programme which includes a guided walk to the Plant Discovery Garden, Rainforest and indoor/outdoor activities.

The signboard leading to the Centre.

The RDC has an Exhibition hall showcasing the Flora and Fauna of Sabah.   

 

The cafeteria in RDC.

There are 2 ways to experience the rainforest. One is to walk on the unique steel canopy walk or some call it skywalk and the other way is to trek on the forest floor. The canopy walkway provides spectacular views of the lush rainforest Reserve of Sipilok which is the home of the Orang Utan Rehabitation Centre.  

  

The walkway which is about 30 meters above the ground is ideal for Bird watchers who may be able to glimpse some 250 species of birds found here such as the hornbills, kingfishers, pitas and the Bornean bristlehead.

As it was a very hot afternoon, I did not see any wildlife except a couple of hornbills flying some distance away beyond the reach of my small digital camera. I guess the best time to visit here would be in the morning.    

Views from the Walkway.

Menggaris tree - king of the forest.

Some of the wild forest fruits which I have never seen before. 

According to the information on the signboard, these are "kalumpang sarawak" fruits from the cocoa family.

  These trees are now safe from the chainsaw. 

Trekking on the forest trails floor was another wonderful experience. Fortunately, there were no leeches.

This RDC is opened 7 days a week including Public Holidays from 08:00-17:00. Entrance fee for local is RM5 Per adult and RM2 per Child. As for foreign visitors, the charge is RM10 per adult/child.

If you are a Nature Lover or Bird Watcher, Go there! No questions asked and no regrets.

Seriously, this is a true nature's paradise. Though we spent only an hour or so, I absolutely enjoyed rainforest despite the hot and humid condition.