Things to to in Kuching during RWMF (Part 1)

There's only one big international event in Kuching that can bring in foreigners: The Rainforest World Music Festival (RWMF) happening from 10 till 12 July 2009. It's only during that time of the year you would find hotels fully booked and more foreigners walking around town. Kuching is gearing up for this event, which is why I'm starting my "RWMF series" on things to do in Kuching. Part 1 in the series:

Visit Orangutans at the Semenggoh Wildlife Centre

For a RM 3 entry ticket, this has got to be one of the best value for money tourist experience you can get in Kuching, especially if you have not seen orangutans. Feeding times are 9am and 3pm, so you'd want to get there half an hour before feeding times. When they come towards the feeding place, you can see the top of trees moving. This is very interesting and it gives me the same suspense feeling as a T-Rex or King Kong coming in my direction.

The orangutans are not caged and roam freely in the wildlife park which is a rehabilitation centre, so they only come out for viewing at their feeding times. The number of orangutans that come out for viewing is not guaranteed. They feed for about half an hour and then disappear into the forest. You can get real close to the orangutans if they decide to wonder towards you. Forget about using public transport to reach this place because it's 45 minutes away from the city with no clear signs at the entrance or along the way. You're better off with a local friend, taxi or tour group.