Lok Kawi Wildlife Park | Kota Kinabalu

Information

Landmark: Lok Kawi Wildlife Park
City: Kota Kinabalu
Country: Malaysia
Continent: Asia

Lok Kawi Wildlife Park, Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia, Asia

Lok Kawi Wildlife Park is a zoological facility located in Sabah, Malaysia, approximately 22 kilometers south of Kota Kinabalu.

Visual Characteristics

The park features a mix of naturalistic enclosures and open-range areas. Enclosures are constructed using materials such as concrete, wood, and wire mesh, designed to mimic natural habitats. Vegetation within the park is dense, comprising tropical rainforest species. The park's layout includes paved walkways and gravel paths.

Location & Access Logistics

The park is situated off Jalan Kinarut, accessible via the Pan Borneo Highway (AH150). It is approximately a 30-minute drive from Kota Kinabalu city center. Ample parking is available on-site. Public transport options include local bus routes that stop near the park entrance; specific route numbers should be confirmed locally as they are subject to change. Taxi services are also readily available from Kota Kinabalu.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Lok Kawi Wildlife Park was established in 1990 and officially opened to the public in 2007. Its primary purpose is conservation, education, and research of wildlife native to Borneo and other regions. The park is situated on land that was formerly agricultural, now reforested and managed to support its animal inhabitants.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can observe a variety of animals including orangutans, proboscis monkeys, sun bears, clouded leopards, and various bird species. The park offers a "Safari Tour" where visitors can ride in a tram through open-range enclosures. Scheduled animal feeding sessions and educational talks are conducted daily. A dedicated children's zoo area is also present.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restroom facilities are located at multiple points throughout the park. Shaded areas are provided by natural tree cover and some man-made shelters. Cell phone signal (4G) is generally available within the park. Food and beverage vendors operate within the park's main entrance area, offering local snacks and meals.

Best Time to Visit

The park is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best time of day for animal viewing is typically in the morning or late afternoon when animals are more active. The months of March to October generally offer drier weather conditions, though rain can occur year-round in tropical climates.

Facts & Legends

A notable feature is the park's successful breeding program for the Bornean orangutan. Local folklore sometimes associates certain ancient trees within the park's vicinity with forest spirits, though these are not officially documented within the park's educational materials.