Guide to Sandakan – The Gateway to Sabah’s Wild Heart
About Sandakan
Sandakan – the Gateway to Borneo’s Wildlife – sits on the northeast coast of Sabah, Malaysian Borneo. This little treasure combines a fascinating history, vibrant rainforests, and amazing wildlife experiences. Once the capital of British North Borneo, Sandakan is now a chill and intriguing town, making it the ideal spot to begins adventures in some of the planet’s most biodiverse areas. From gliding down the Kinabatangan River to catch a glimpse of orangutans and crocodiles, to diving into local conservation projects or meandering through charming heritage streets, Sandakan encourages everyone to take it easy and enjoy the amazing sights of Borneo
Best Time to Visit Sandakan
From January to March, Sandakan is all about that dry weather vibe, with plenty of sunshine and lower humidity. It’s the perfect time to get outside for some sports or to check out the local wildlife! The weather’s pretty chill, staying cosy between 22°C and 32°C all year long. From early February to mid-April, it’s the perfect time to hit up the outlying island for some sunny beach fun and those stunning, clear waters. The best time to visit Turtle Islands Park to see turtles is between July and October, when the number of landings peaks.
Where Stays in Sandakan
Sandakan has accommodation for every traveller. There are a variety of hotels and hostels in the downtown area, from those with lower prices to those with more upscale amenities, all within walking distance of the city’s restaurants, shops, and harbour. This spot is perfect for travellers looking for convenience and easy access to day tours.
A lot of wildlife enthusiasts opt to hang out in Sepilok instead. Just a hop outside the city, Sepilok is nestled in lush rainforest and is right next to the orangutan and sun bear conservation centers. Jungle lodges and eco-resorts around here provide a chill vibe, where mornings begins with the sweet sounds of birds and the forest coming to life. One of the coolest things about hanging out in Sandakan is just how connected to nature. Even after eating breakfast next to the forest, in the city in half an hour.
How to get to Sandakan
Flying into Sandakan from abroad will need go through Kuala Lumpur (KUL) or Kota Kinabalu (BKI) first, then a domestic hop to Sandakan Airport (SDK). From KL, a direct flight takes about three hours. From Kota Kinabalu could take a 45 to 50 minutes flight. Buses roll out from Kota Kinabalu to Sandakan, taking about 7–8 hours. A taxi or Grab from the airport to the Sandakan center is the main options. And for the freedom lovers out there, renting a scooter is the way to go – nothing beats the open road.
One last tip: when peak holiday season rolls around, early booking is the name of the game. That’s how to lock in the best deals.
Is it Worth Going to Sandakan
Once upon a time, this town went by the name Elopura. These days, it’s the second-largest town in Sabah, but it still vibes with that old-world charm. Sandakan is Borneo’s wild entrance, where playful orangutans swing among the trees of Sepilok and tiny elephants splash around in the Kinabatangan River. Spending a night at Turtle Islands Park is like stepping into a magical scene, with sea turtles nesting under a starry sky—it’s a timeless tradition that’s been happening for ages. History chats from the hilltop St. Michael’s Church, a tough cookie from the war and a real stone marvel. Fresh seafood is sizzling away at floating villages, and strong kopitiam coffee is keeping those lazy afternoons by the bay going strong. Authentic, genuine, and totally unforgettable. This is the Borneo where epic adventures come to life.
Top Things to Do
in Sandakan
Visit the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre
Founded in 1964, the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre (SORC) is one of just four places like it on the planet. It’s pretty well-known for being a pioneer in the fight to protect orangutans. Oh, and it’s the very first place to help out orphaned individuals get back on their feet. Visitors can totally catch a glimpse of these “men of the forest” in a breathtaking setting, with the center covering 15 square miles of pristine rainforest in the Kabili-Sepilok Forest Reserve. There are about 60 to 80 orangutans hanging out in the reserve, which is the one spot where these amazing primates really get to live their best lives. On the main platform, visitors can see the orangutans between their 10:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. feedings. In the outdoor nursery, they can see the younger orangutans. The nearby forest reserve has awesome trekking trails and is a hangout for over 200 bird species. There are plenty of jungle lodges just a kilometre from the center, offering easy places to stay, making SORC a must-visit spot in Sandakan.
Feeding the smallest bear at Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre
The Sun Bear Conservation Center (BSBCC) is the only specialised sun bear conservation center in the world. It provides visitors with a unique opportunity to witness the world’s tiniest bear while also directly helping efforts to rescue, rehabilitate, and prevent poaching. A bunch of bears were saved from cramped cages or illegal situations, and the center offers them a fresh start to explore natural forest enclosures. Come check it out, support important research and eco-friendly tourism—help save sun bears from deforestation and the illegal pet trade while discovering why they’re so important to our world. The center is nestled within the Kabili-Sepilok Forest Reserve in Sandakan, Sabah, just a stone’s throw away from the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre. Open every day from 9:00 AM until 3:30 PM. For the greatest experience, schedule visit for the feeding sessions between 11:30 AM and 2:30 PM, arrive early to view active bears, and avoid using flash photography.
River Cruise on the Kinabatangan River
The “Corridor of Life” is a common name for Sabah’s Kinabatangan River. Winding over 560 kilometres, this river is Malaysia’s second-longest and boasts one of the most diverse ecosystems in Southeast Asia. This ecosystem is home to more than 300 bird species, 100 reptiles, and 127 mammals, making it a top spot for wildlife lovers. Taking a river cruise here is like stepping into a whole new universe. The Kinabatangan offers a chance to meet Borneo’s legendary “Big Five”: the quirky proboscis monkey, the elusive orangutan, the critically endangered pygmy elephant, the saltwater crocodile, and an amazing array of birdlife. Plus, one’s can spot all eight hornbill species too! Still, the river’s beauty is kind of overshadowed by some conservation issues, since oil palm plantations have chopped up a lot of the nearby forest, serving as a reminder for travellers about the tricky balance between growth and keeping things intact. The preservation of Borneo’s core for future generations is made possible with every reservation for a river cruise or eco-tour, which in turn supports local conservation initiatives.
The months of March through October, when the weather is dry, are ideal for visiting the Kinabatangan since that’s when the animals gather along the riverbanks, which are gradually drying up. Cruises in the wee hours of the morning and late afternoon are the most popular because they provide unique opportunities to see the jungle at its most nocturnal and enchanting. No matter the time of day, the Kinabatangan River provides an unforgettable experience as glide over foggy waters at daybreak or witness hornbills soar against a blazing sunset. It’s not just a journey, it’s a front-row seat to nature’s most stunning shows. This is where Borneo’s wild heart really comes alive.
Visit the Gomantong Caves
Gomantong Cave, nestled in the Gomantong Forest Reserve just 30 kilometres from the Kinabatangan River, is one of Borneo’s coolest natural gems. This huge limestone cave system is famous for being a “living ecosystem” where around 300,000 wrinkle-lipped free-tailed bats and tonnes of swiftlets hang out. Guests can enter the main hall of “Simud Hitam” (Black Cave) by an elevated walkway. At nightfall, they can see the spectacular daily departure of millions of bats, which is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The cave is home to an age-old and precious trade: collecting those tasty edible bird’s nests. Gomantong Cave is definitely not a place for those who are easily frightened or have sensitive noses. The floor is packed with layers of guano from ages past, giving off a strong, funky smell and hosting a bustling crowd of cockroaches and other critters—hence the nickname “Cockroach Cave.” Although it may be frightening, this harsh reality is a genuine component of this ancient, undeveloped environment. Travellers should dress for the weather, wear closed-toe shoes, pack a mask, and be prepared for an up-close and personal experience with the untamed side of Borneo. Check out the cave in the early morning or late afternoon for the best vibes and to catch the bat exodus!
Hike in Rainforest Discovery Centre
Walking onto the famous canopy walkway at the Rainforest Discovery Centre in Sabah feels like diving straight into the jungle vibe, 25 meters up in the air. The Hornbill Tower offers breathtaking views from its lofty vantage point, where visitors have the opportunity to observe more than 300 bird species, including colourful hornbills. The guided night walk offers a unique experience that reveals the forest’s nocturnal side, where travellers may encounter flying squirrels, sluggish lorises, and tarsiers. The center has a cool Plant Discovery Garden packed with orchids and pitcher plants, plus the ancient Sepilok Giant tree, which is around 800 years old. The RDC’s exhibition hall is super simple but totally engaging, making it a fun and easy way for everyone to dive into rainforest ecology, no matter their age.
Recommended: From the Sun Bear Centre, it’s just a fifteen-minute walk to the Rainforest Discovery Centre. The park is open daily from 8 am to 5 pm, and at 6:30 pm, night walks begin. Entrance fees are really budget-friendly, and every ringgit goes a long way in helping to protect the forest.
Explore the Sandakan Heritage Trail
St. Michael’s and All Angels Church, located in the middle of historic Sandakan, is a witness to the past. So, this cool place was crafted by New Zealand architect B.W. Mountfort. They used ironwood, brick, and stone — with some materials sourced from nearby Buli Sim Sim, and the white stone for the windows and doors was shipped all the way from Hong Kong. It’s pretty amazing that the church came through WWII mostly unscathed, standing out as one of the rare stone buildings still around in Sabah. Check out the stunning stained glass windows, like the “Window of Remembrance” and “Friendship Windows,” gifted by the families of Australian POWs.
Located close by is Agnes Keith House, the beautifully restored mansion of the renowned American writer of Land Below the Wind. Set on a hill with a killer view of the bay, this two-storey wooden house totally vibes with the 1930s colonial era, featuring vintage photos and cool wartime collectibles.
The last stop is the hilltop Chinese Buddhist temple of Puu Gih Jih, which offers breathtaking sunset views across Sandakan Bay and a trek to the top is well worth it.
Get Hands-On at the Sandakan Central Market
Sandakan Central Market, or Pasar Umum Sandakan, is the lively hub of the city and a must-see for anyone wanting to soak up the genuine vibe of everyday life in Sandakan. This huge three-story market is a wild sensory adventure, kicking off on the ground floor where all the excitement happens. Check it out—there’s a fantastic mix of fresh seafood, and vendors are showcasing colourful stacks of exotic tropical fruits like durian, mangosteen, and rambutan, all next to veggies, dried goods, and some local coffee.
The top level features a “Hanging Market” (Pasar Gantung) filled with clothing, handicrafts, and cool souvenirs. The second floor is a total foodie haven, divided into two cool spots: a Halal food court and a Chinese food court, both serving up some of the city’s tastiest local dishes, like the must-try Kueh Teow Noodle with crispy deep-fried pork. The market is open every day from about 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM, but it is most lively in the early morning when fisherman return and the freshest catch of the day comes.
Spot Proboscis Monkeys at Labuk Bay
Just an hour’s drive from Sandakan, this sanctuary is tucked away in an oil palm estate and promises a fun encounter with the quirky, long-nosed proboscis monkey. Check out the action during the feeding times at 9:30 AM, 11:30 AM, 2:30 PM, and 4:30 PM! For the coolest close-up views, swing by Platform B when it’s feeding time. Getting to Labuk Bay might be a bit bumpy, but spotting those quirky leaf-eating monkeys hanging out with silvered langurs and hornbills totally makes it worth the trip!
Tree Planting & Fighting Deforestation – Give Back to the Jungle
The Kinabatangan River is one of Borneo’s wildest treasures, but its rainforest has taken a beating over the years. Palm oil plantations have pushed the jungle into shrinking corridors, leaving wildlife with less room to roam. The good news? Travelers can actually help fix it. Along the Kinabatangan, local conservation groups run tree‑planting projects that let visitors trade a few hours of sweat for a lifetime of meaning. Wading into muddy riverbanks or forest clearings, a person plunges a young sapling into the earth—native dipterocarp, fruit tree, or riverside species that holds the soil together. It’s hot, dirty work, and absolutely worth it. Each rooted tree becomes a future home for orangutans, proboscis monkeys, pygmy elephants, and hornbills. Some projects also involve nursery work, seed collection, or even wildlife monitoring alongside rangers. No special skills required—just a willingness to get the hands dirty and leave the jungle better than it was found. For travelers seeking more than a postcard, planting a tree along the Kinabatangan turns a visit into a gift that keeps growing.
How to Stay Safe
Sandakan is generally a safe city for tourists, with low rates of serious crime, but like any destination, it requires some common sense. Most safety issues involve petty theft, so it’s wise to keep valuables secure and be aware of surroundings in crowded areas like the central market or bus terminals. To ensure a safe trip, carry only the cash needed, use ATMs in well-lit areas, and avoid walking alone in poorly lit or deserted streets at night. Be cautious of overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited tours, as these can sometimes be a front for scams. For getting around, use trusted ride-hailing services like Grab, especially at night. When on river cruises or island-hopping trips, always use licensed operators and wear life jackets. Government travel advisories have noted a risk of kidnapping in the coastal areas of eastern Sabah, including the waters around Sandakan, so it’s best to stay informed of local advice and avoid remote coastal areas after dark.
Plan Trip
A usual getaway to Sandakan spans about 3 to 4 days, which is just the right amount of time to check out the city’s key historical spots and make a visit to Sepilok. The Kinabatangan River Safari and Turtle Islands Park both require a minimum of five days of planning. Lots of travellers like to set up shop in the city center because it’s super convenient for hitting the waterfront, checking out the markets, and enjoying the nightlife. Staying at the Sepilok region is a great choice for people who are primarily interested in wildlife because it puts close to the sun bear and orangutan centers as well as the river for excursions into the bush.
Itinerary Ideas
4 Days, 3 Nights
Day 1:
Get to Sandakan and go to the hotel. Take a chill afternoon wandering the heritage trail, checking out St. Michael’s Church, Agnes Keith House, and Puu Jih Shih Temple. Wrap up night with some fresh seafood by the water.
Day 2:
Start the morning by checking out the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre and the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre. After that, check out the Rainforest Discovery Centre or swing by Sandakan Memorial Park before the sun goes down.
Day 3:
Head over to Labuk Bay to chill with the proboscis monkeys, then wander around the Sandakan Central Market for some local vibes. In the evening, swing by Sim Sim Water Village for a chill sunset and some dinner right over the water.
Day 4:
Go back with a chill breakfast before making way to the airport. Swing by the Sandakan Mosque is perfect for one last look at the city.
For a wildlife-focused trip (5 Days, 4 Nights): Add a 2-day, 1-night Kinabatangan River safari to the itinerary, typically from Day 3 onwards. This will include river cruises at dusk and dawn for the best wildlife viewing, with overnight accommodation in a jungle lodge.
How Can We Help
You dream of wild Borneo. We’ll help make it happen from fully planned adventures to last-minute ideas, we’re here to help shape a trip that feels right for you. Example tour can seen here.
