Sandakan
Malaysia · Sabah · 5 m
Description
Sandakan is a historic coastal city in the Malaysian state of Sabah on Borneo and is widely regarded as the region's premier gateway to wildlife and nature. The city is best known for the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre, and the biodiverse Kinabatangan River, where visitors can spot proboscis monkeys, Bornean pygmy elephants, hornbills, and a remarkable variety of other wildlife. Sandakan combines its colonial heritage, lush tropical rainforest, and relaxed waterfront atmosphere with vibrant markets and an outstanding culinary scene, especially renowned for its fresh seafood. As the main gateway to Sabah's most important wildlife reserves and protected areas, Sandakan is one of Borneo's most rewarding destinations and an ideal base for unforgettable ecotourism experiences.
Length of stay
Recommended length of stay: 2 to 5 days (optimal 3 days)
Travel season
Best time to visit: June – August
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Highlights
- Kinabatangan River wildlife cruise(Day trip)
- Turtle Islands (Selingan) (July - October)(Day trip)
- Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre(Day trip)
- Sandakan Memorial Park
- Rainforest Discovery Centre(Day trip)
- Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre(Day trip)
- Gomantong Caves(Day trip)
- Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary(Day trip)
- Sandakan Heritage Trail
- Agnes Keith House
- Puu Jih Shih Buddhist Temple
- Sandakan Central Market
- St. Michael's and All Angels Church
- Sandakan Rainforest Park
- Berhala Island(Day trip)
- Sandakan Bay sunset
Getting there
- Airports:
- SDK
- Seaport:
- Reachable by ship or ferry