Planning a trip to Sandakan can be as exciting as it is overwhelming—especially when it comes to deciding where to base yourself. This slice of Sabah, located on the northeastern coast of Borneo, offers something truly unique: three distinct travel experiences, all within a few hours of each other.
Each area, Sandakan Town, Sepilok, and Kinabatangan, offers its own vibe, pace, and access to different types of attractions. Sandakan Town is your modern, convenient hub; Sepilok is lush, family-friendly, and ideal for wildlife lovers; while Kinabatangan immerses you deep in Borneo’s natural wonders with unforgettable river safaris.
Whether you’re a solo traveler on a budget, a couple chasing once-in-a-lifetime jungle adventures, or a family seeking kid-friendly wildlife experiences—this guide breaks down the best places to stay in Sandakan for the comfort of your family and yourself.
Sandakan Town: For Urban Comfort and Accessibility
Sandakan Town offers the easiest and most practical base for travelers who prefer comfort, accessibility, and proximity to the essentials. It’s the closest to Sandakan Airport (about 15 minutes away), and well-connected by taxis, Grab rides, and local transport.
You’ll find a wide variety of accommodations—from budget hostels and mid-range hotels to luxurious waterfront stays. This makes Sandakan Town a favorite for:
- Business travelers who need internet, dining, and a central base
- Short-stay tourists using Sandakan as a gateway to Sepilok or Kinabatangan
- Solo travelers and digital nomads who prefer cafés, coworking spaces, and nightlife
🛎️ Added Benefits
Need a pharmacy? ATM? A place to buy a SIM card or snack at midnight? Sandakan Town has you covered. For travelers who want the convenience of the city without sacrificing access to Borneo’s natural attractions, this is a solid option.
And don’t miss out on the Sandakan Central Market—an amazing spot for breakfast or fresh fruit—and the evening stroll along Harbour Square for golden hour photography.
✅ Best For:
- First-time visitors
- Solo travelers
- Travelers with limited time
- Airport proximity
Top Hotels in Sandakan Town
- Elopura Hotel– A stylish, movie-themed hotel located in the heart of Sandakan Harbour Square, Sabah. Overlooking the scenic Sulu Sea.
Photo Credit: The Elopura Hotel
- Hotel Sandakan – Centrally located, mid-range prices, with easy access to food courts and markets.
Photo Credit: Agoda
- Sanbay Hotel – Budget-friendly option with clean, spacious rooms.
Photo Credit: Harikumaran Rames
What’s Nearby?
- Sandakan Harbour Square
- Central Market
- Agnes Keith House
- English Tea House
- Local seafood restaurants
Pros & Cons
Pros:
✔️ Central location
✔️ Near airport & ferry terminal
✔️ Modern amenities
Cons:
❌ Lacks jungle and wildlife experiences
❌ Busy town vibe
Sepilok: For Wildlife Lovers and Nature Escapes
If your trip to Borneo revolves around Orangutans, Sun Bears, and immersive rainforest experiences, look no further than Sepilok. This peaceful area, nestled just 30 minutes from Sandakan Town, is home to some of Sabah’s top conservation centers.
It’s perfect for families, nature photographers, or eco-conscious travelers who want to slow down and soak in the jungle without going fully off-grid. The atmosphere here is calming and serene. You wake up to the sound of birds, enjoy jungle boardwalks, and spend your days visiting conservation efforts that are leading global wildlife protection.
Educational & Ethical Travel
Sepilok is also a fantastic destination for educational travel. Every visit supports conservation, and most lodges work in close partnership with wildlife organizations—making it a great fit for responsible tourism.
While dining options are limited (most meals are at your resort), the quality of the experience more than makes up for it. And don’t forget to bring your camera—the close-up photos of Orangutans or Sun Bears will become lifelong memories.
✅ Best For:
- Families with children
- Animal lovers
- Eco-tourists
- Slow travelers
Top Places to Stay in Sepilok
- Sepilok Nature Resort – Wooden chalets by a tranquil lake, just a short walk from the Orangutans and Sun Bears.
Photo Credit: David The Explorer Hogan Jr.
- Borneo Sepilok Rainforest Resort – Mid-range, eco-conscious, and surrounded by greenery.
Photo Credit: David The Explorer Hogan Jr
- Paganakan Dii Tropical Retreat – Stylish, rustic jungle cabins with incredible views. Popular with backpackers and couples.
Photo Credit: James Crawford
Nearby Attractions
- Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre
- Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre
- Rainforest Discovery Centre (birdwatcher’s paradise!)
- Jungle night walks
Pros & Cons
Pros:
✔️ Immersive nature experience
✔️ Close to iconic wildlife centers
✔️ Family-friendly lodges
Cons:
❌ Limited dining options
❌ Not ideal for nightlife lovers
Kinabatangan River: For Jungle Safaris and Wildlife Cruises
If you’re looking for the real wild Borneo—the kind you see in documentaries—Kinabatangan River is where the magic happens. Located about 2.5 to 3 hours from Sandakan Town, this region is the heartbeat of Borneo’s wildlife tourism.
Kinabatangan is renowned for its rich biodiversity. Morning and evening river cruises offer sightings of:
- Proboscis monkeys lounging on branches
- Hornbills soaring through the canopy
- Crocodiles slipping silently into the water
- Bornean Pygmy Elephants (if you’re lucky!)
🧭 A Destination for Adventurers
This area is ideal for nature-loving couples, wildlife photographers, or curious adventurers who want to witness animals in their natural habitat—not behind glass or in sanctuaries.
Many of the lodges here are eco-lodges, built with sustainability in mind. While you may not get five-star luxury, you’ll gain an immersive experience that’s rare to find anywhere else. Because of its remoteness, it’s important to book packages in advance that include meals, transfers, and guided river cruises. This makes logistics easy and lets you focus on the main event: witnessing Borneo’s breathtaking biodiversity.
✅ Best For:
- Wildlife photographers
- Adventure seekers
- Birdwatchers
- Couples looking for an off-the-grid experience
Top Lodges in Kinabatangan
- Sukau Rainforest Lodge – Award-winning eco-lodge offering luxury amidst the jungle.
Photo Credit: Sukau Rainforest Lodge
- Bilit Adventure Lodge – Popular among mid-range travelers and groups. Great guided tours.
Photo Credit: Oneday6464
- Nature Lodge Kinabatangan – Budget-friendly with good river cruise options.
Photo Credit: Jaroslaw Jadwidzic
Wildlife You Might See
- Proboscis monkeys
- Hornbills
- Crocodiles
- Wild Orangutans
- Bornean Pygmy Elephants
Must-Do Experiences
- Morning & evening river cruises
- Night walks with naturalists
- Visits to local villages
- Jungle trekking (seasonal)
Pros & Cons
Pros:
✔️ Best for authentic wildlife sightings
✔️ Remote and serene
✔️ Eco-lodge experiences
Cons:
❌ Requires longer travel (2–3 hours from town)
❌ Basic facilities in budget lodges
❌ Internet connection is often weak
Accommodation Highlights: Sandakan Town vs. Sepilok vs. Kinabatangan
Sandakan Town – For Comfort & Accessibility
- Closest to Airport – Just 15 minutes away, great for short stays or early flights
- Wide Range of Hotels – From budget inns to upscale hotels like Four Points by Sheraton
- Abundant Dining Options – Local food courts, seafood spots, and modern cafés
- Excellent Internet Access – Perfect for digital nomads or business travelers
- Banking & ATMs – Easy access to money changers, pharmacies, and supermarkets
- Urban Experience – Great for travelers who want convenience and city comforts
Sepilok – For Wildlife & Family Escapes
- Home to Top Wildlife Centres – Orangutan & Sun Bear Centres just minutes away
- Ideal for Families – Educational, safe, and immersive jungle experience
- Peaceful Surroundings – Nestled in rainforest, perfect for nature lovers
- Eco-Lodges & Nature Resorts – Rustic yet comfortable options like Sepilok Nature Resort
- Walking Distance Attractions – Explore boardwalks and nearby rainforest trails
- Lodge-Based Dining – Limited restaurants, but most stays include meals
Kinabatangan River – For Jungle & Wildlife Lovers
- Borneo’s Wildlife Hotspot – Proboscis monkeys, pygmy elephants, crocodiles & more
- River Safari Adventures – Morning and evening cruises are a must
- Eco-Lodges & Homestays – Stay deep in the jungle with all-inclusive packages
- Digital Detox Friendly – Spotty internet but unforgettable experiences
- Remote Yet Rewarding – Takes 2.5–3 hours from town, but worth every minute
- Nature-Focused Itinerary – Great for slow travel, photography, and romantic escapes
Best Time to Visit Each Location in Sandakan
Timing your trip to Sandakan can greatly influence the quality of your travel experience—especially when it comes to wildlife sightings, river safaris, and overall comfort. Borneo has a tropical rainforest climate, which means it’s warm and humid year-round, with rainfall possible in any month. However, understanding the seasonal patterns can help you make the most of each destination: Sandakan Town, Sepilok, and Kinabatangan River.
General Weather Overview
The dry season typically runs from March to October, with June to August being the sunniest months. This is the peak travel period for wildlife tourism, especially along the Kinabatangan River and in Sepilok. The wet season, from November to February, brings heavier rainfall, though not necessarily all day—it often comes in short bursts. These months are quieter, with fewer tourists, which can be a plus for budget-conscious travelers.
Best Time to Visit Sandakan Town
You can visit Sandakan Town comfortably year-round, as it’s an urban area not heavily impacted by weather-related activities. Most attractions—such as the Central Market, Agnes Keith House, or English Tea House—are indoors or semi-sheltered, so rain won’t spoil your plans. However, if you want to pair your town stay with excursions to the islands or coastal areas, the dry months of April to September offer clearer skies and better photo opportunities.
Best Time to Visit Sepilok
Sepilok is best visited during the dry season, particularly April to October, when the trails around the Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre and Rainforest Discovery Centre are easier to navigate. Mornings tend to be cooler and drier, which is ideal since wildlife feeding times (especially for orangutans) usually happen before noon.
If you’re into birdwatching, try planning your trip between May and August—this is prime time for spotting Bornean endemics. However, visiting during the shoulder months (March or November) can also be a great idea if you want fewer crowds but decent weather.
Best Time to Visit Kinabatangan River
Kinabatangan is all about river-based wildlife viewing, and the dry season from March to October is the best time to catch animals near the riverbanks. As the water level drops, animals congregate closer to the river, increasing your chances of spotting Proboscis Monkeys, Hornbills, and even Pygmy Elephants.
Sunrise and sunset cruises are more comfortable without the rain, and jungle trekking (available in some lodges) is safer and more pleasant. However, some wildlife enthusiasts purposely visit during the early wet season— November or February— when the forest is lush and teeming with activity, even though it’s more humid and muddy.
What to Wear & Bring
What to Wear:
- Light, breathable clothing
- Long-sleeved shirts for jungle walks
- Comfortable walking shoes or hiking sandals
- Rain poncho (especially in Sepilok & Kinabatangan)
What to Bring:
- Insect repellent
- Reusable water bottle
- Sunscreen & hat
- Binoculars for wildlife
- Small daypack
- Waterproof bag for electronics
Important Travel Notes
Before finalizing your accommodation and itinerary, there are a few essential things to keep in mind to ensure your Sandakan trip runs smoothly. These tips are especially helpful for first-time visitors to Borneo and those planning to explore multiple regions—Sandakan Town, Sepilok, and Kinabatangan River.
Plan Your Transfers in Advance
While Sandakan Town is easy to navigate and well-connected by ride-hailing apps like Grab, transfers to Sepilok and Kinabatangan require a bit more planning. Many lodges in Kinabatangan have fixed transfer schedules, and some include them only in packaged stays.
Make sure to check with your lodge before arrival and confirm pickup times and meeting points. It’s also wise to group your accommodations and tours through the same provider to avoid logistical hiccups.
Limited Access to Cash & ATMs
Keep in mind that ATMs and money changers are only available in Sandakan Town. Once you’re in Sepilok or Kinabatangan, cash facilities are extremely limited, and most jungle lodges do not accept credit cards. Bring enough cash for incidental purchases, souvenirs, and tipping your guides or boatmen.
Expect Some Rain, Even in Dry Season
Although the dry season is more favorable for travel, short bursts of rain are common year-round in Sabah. Waterproof your belongings, especially electronics, and bring a light rain poncho or umbrella if you’re heading into the jungle. Lodge-provided safaris and treks usually continue in light rain—some say the forest feels even more magical during a drizzle.
Eco-Lodging = Basic but Comfortable
If you’re staying in Kinabatangan or deep Sepilok lodges, expect eco-conscious but rustic accommodations. Lodges are built with sustainability in mind—solar power, minimal plastic usage, and limited Wi-Fi. This is part of the charm, but it also means adjusting expectations: bring personal toiletries, a flashlight, and a sense of adventure.
Connectivity Varies Greatly
In Sandakan Town, internet and phone signals are reliable. In Sepilok, Wi-Fi is moderate but functional. In Kinabatangan, however, connectivity is often limited or completely unavailable—a perfect excuse for a digital detox. Let friends and family know in advance if you’ll be offline for a few days.
Pack Smart for Multi-Zone Travel
If you plan to stay in all three locations, pack for urban, jungle, and river conditions. Comfortable walking shoes, breathable clothing, insect repellent, and a dry bag are essentials. Some lodges offer laundry services—just ask at reception.
Stay in Touch with Your Hosts
Communication is key. If your flight is delayed or plans change, be sure to notify your hotel or tour operator. Many properties in Sepilok and Kinabatangan operate with small teams and tight schedules, especially for transfers or meals.
Additional Tips for Booking Accommodation
Before you start on booking for accommodations, make sure to follow these tips:
- Research each hotel booking platforms.
- With a hotel booking platform set in mind, use it or direct hotel websites for promos.
- Read traveler reviews for insight on food quality and staff service.
- Email the accommodation to ask about transfer options from the airport or Sandakan Town.
Final Thoughts: Where Should You Stay?
When planning your stay in Sandakan, your decision ultimately depends on the kind of experience you want to have in Borneo. If you prefer convenience, city comforts, and easy access to restaurants, transport, and heritage sites, then Sandakan Town is the most practical choice. It’s especially ideal for short stays or if you’re arriving late or departing early via the airport.
On the other hand, if you’re a nature lover seeking ethical wildlife encounters without straying too far from civilization, Sepilok is a serene escape surrounded by rainforest and perfect for families, slow travelers, and first-timers looking for an educational, immersive experience.
And for those craving deeper adventure and raw connection with Borneo’s wilderness, nothing beats the Kinabatangan River. With its tranquil river lodges, unforgettable wildlife sightings, and eco-friendly lodgings, it’s the go-to destination for photographers, couples, and adventurers.
In fact, many travelers find the perfect balance by combining all three in a single itinerary—spending a night in town, a couple of nights in Sepilok for animal encounters, and rounding out the trip with two or more nights deep in Kinabatangan for river cruises and jungle treks.
No matter which base you choose, Sandakan offers something genuinely special: the chance to witness nature, culture, and comfort intersect in one of the most biodiverse corners of Malaysia.
Going on a Trip? Explore These Next:
If you’re ready to start planning your Borneo adventure, let us help you make the most of your time in Sandakan. From river safaris to cultural stops, our curated tours are designed for travelers who want a seamless, meaningful experience—whether you’re flying solo, traveling with family, or enjoying a romantic escape.
Here are some helpful next steps and travel ideas to build your dream itinerary:
This all-in-one package includes Sepilok, Kinabatangan River, and cultural attractions—perfect for first-time visitors and families who want a balanced, stress-free itinerary.
Witness turtle nesting on Selingan Island, visit the Sun Bear Centre, and explore Sepilok. Ideal for nature lovers and couples seeking a rare, serene wildlife moment.
Experience Borneo’s wildlife up close with river safaris, forest walks, and comfortable lodge stays along the Kinabatangan River.
Whether you’re booking a single night or a full itinerary, we’re here to ensure your Sandakan experience is safe, smooth, and unforgettable.
FAQs (Best Places to Stay in Sandakan)
Can I visit all three areas in one trip?
Yes! Many itineraries include a night in Sandakan Town, 1–2 nights in Sepilok, and 2–3 nights in Kinabatangan.
Are there Halal food options in these areas?
Sandakan Town has many Halal restaurants. In Sepilok and Kinabatangan, most lodges cater to Halal requirements—check when booking.
Which area offers the most immersive wildlife experience in Sandakan?
If you’re looking for structured, educational wildlife encounters, Sepilok is a great choice—it’s home to renowned rehabilitation centres for Orangutans and Sun Bears, perfect for visitors who prefer accessible trails and guided learning.
But if you’re after raw, unpredictable wildlife sightings in their natural habitats, Kinabatangan River offers the thrill of jungle cruises and real-time encounters with Proboscis Monkeys, Hornbills, and even Pygmy Elephants.
Each offers something unique—choose based on your comfort level and sense of adventure.
