Sandakan: 7 Must-see Local Spots Private Tour

4.6(6 reviews)
SandakanMalaysia
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Overview

  • Duration:6 hours 0 minutes
  • Travelers:1 - 6 guests
  • Tour Type:Private tour
  • Language:English
  • Start from:Sandakan, Airport, Sepilok Area
  • End at:Sandakan, Airport, Sepilok Area
  • Payments:Pay Advance
  • Cancellation:72 Hours in Advance
Sandakan, the second-biggest city in Borneo, is a place where history, culture, and nature feel together. This city was once the go-to place for the British North Borneo administration and was buzzing with worldwide merchants back in the day. Now, it really shows how tough it is and all the ways it’s evolved over time. Take a wonderful trip to Sandakan to see its deep beauty and strength. Stand where author Agnes Keith got her ideas, feel the solemn peace of a historic stone church that survived war, get a breathtaking view from a hilltop temple that looks out over the sea, then go to Sandakan War Memorial Park, a beautifully landscaped site that honours WWII heroes with emotional exhibits and peaceful places to think and much more. This private city tour focuses on soaking up with amazing memories that will stay with you long after you return home.

Highlights

  • Hop on a private ride and explore out the stories and sounds with six interesting highlights.
  • Explore the Sandakan Memorial Park, a World War II historical landmark.
  • Plenty of free time to explore for this tour as it is private.
  • Explore Puu Jih Shih Temple, a stunning panoramic of Sandakan with viewpoint.
  • A guide, admission ticket, transfer, and air-conditioned vehicle are included.

Includes/Excludes

  • Hotel pickup and drop-off round trip
  • six tour highlights as per itinerary
  • Personalised itinerary
  • Local lunch
  • Entrance fees
  • English-speaking guide
  • All local taxes

Itinerary

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Starting location:

Start your day with a full-day, small-group private tour of Sandakan's beauty from your Sandakan or Sepilok hotel. Drive along scenic roads to learn about British North Borneo and find hidden gems for a city highlight.

Death Marches Park

Your first stop is the Sandakan Memorial Park, built on the old camp grounds. It is a touching tribute to the prisoners who died during the Sandakan Death Marches and the wartime march to Ranau.

Puh Jih Syh Temple

Next visit Puh Jih Syh Temple, a hilltop temple overlooking the bay with intricate, vibrant architecture. The temple's details and city and sea views are enhanced by the smell of burning incense.

St Michael's and All Angels Church

Then explore St Michael's and All Angels Church, a striking stone building that commemorates Sandakan's resilience during the British North Borneo era and is now a sacred monument.

Agnes Keith House

Afterward to Agnes Keith House, the restored home of the American author. Learn about colonial life in 1930s North Borneo and gain insights into early life. The museum is named after Agnes Newton Keith, an American author celebrated for her three autobiographical accounts of life in British North Borneo.

Floating Village

Proceed to Sandakan Water Village, the Sea Garden's Floating Village with settlement of hundreds of charming wooden stilt houses has a century-old history. Experience the local lifestyle and dine in a floating restaurant with stunning views and the ocean scent.

Central Market

Lastly end at Sandakan Central Market near the waterfront with local products and culinary delights, where locals purchase daily necessities ranging from rare foods to clothing, accessories, plants, and delicious local food with our guide explore through the market.

Finish at:

A complimentary local lunch and a tailored itinerary can be arranged, followed by a transfer back to your hotel or the airport to end the trip.

Cancellation policy

You can cancel up to 72 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.

Customer reviews

Di – Australia
Di – Australia
On August 2, 2026

our Driver Harresun was fantastic. nothing was too much trouble for him and he was flexible to our requests. he was a very safe driver, friendly and helpful. he made our day so much better! highly recommend Harresun from Wadi Rum Fire Camp.

Scott Kelly – United States
Scott Kelly – United States
On July 23, 2026

TThis a great introduction to the highlight of the city. it's very diverse and very interesting I would advise that you do abit of homework before arriving. It will make the tour more fullfillimg fulfilling

Michael – Australia
Michael – Australia
On July 19, 2026

We had a really good day with Sufri, who was an excellent driver and guide. His communication was excellent and he met us at the hotel on time. His knowledge of the sites was really good, he was informative and very helpful. He allowed us plenty of time to walk through each site without feeling rushed. He also arranged for us to eat at a vegetarian restaurant that also served vegan options for lunch. Great tour and great guide.

Paula – United Kingdom
Paula – United Kingdom
On July 19, 2026

Sufri was our guide. He was absolutely brilliant. Great driver a lot of knowledge and a great family man. We didn't want to go to 2 places as we had already been. Sufri took us to the crocodile farm which was interesting and fun, we then went on to do the rest of our tour. The war memorial was touching and interesting. Our lunch was at MOMO amazing food and coffee. After lunch we went back to our hotel. Would highly recommend this trip.

Daniel – Switzerland
Daniel – Switzerland
On June 16, 2026

Thanks Sufri for this nice day and taking me to these beautiful spots.

from150 $ 120 $ /group
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Frequently asked questions

What should i know before booking?

This tour package is all about your own personal adventure! It fits right into your schedule, letting you enjoy a completely personalised experience all on your own. Everything is customised and can be personalised to fit your vibe; it doesn't have to follow the same itinerary as the product.

Can the highlight and tour be personalised?

Absolutely! As long as the highlight is within six and includes a city tour, we can set that up. Just chat with us ahead of time since it's on a first-come, first-served basis.

Does the tour include pickup and drop-off?

We can set up the pick-up and drop-off at Wisma Khoo, Sandakan Airport, or any hotel in the Sepilok area for free. All of this is included, of course!

Is the tour starting time flexible?

Absolutely! All tour start times can be flexible and private, whether prefer morning or evening.

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