Tucked away on the east coast of Sabah, Sandakan is often overlooked in favor of its bigger cousins like Kota Kinabalu. But for those in the know, Sandakan is a raw, real, and unforgettable destination filled with ancient rainforests, rare wildlife, colonial architecture, and powerful war-time history.
In 2025, Sandakan is emerging as Borneo’s top eco-tourism hotspot—ideal for families, wildlife lovers, solo adventurers, and photographers. From orangutan sanctuaries to island-hopping and cultural trails, this guide will help you uncover the best that Sandakan has to offer aka your ultimate Sandakan travel Guide.
Photo Credit: MalaysiaKini
Top Things to Do in Sandakan
Let’s kick things off with the best-of-the-best. Here are the top 10 attractions you shouldn’t miss in Sandakan:
- Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre
- Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre
- Kinabatangan River Cruise
- Turtle Island (Selingan)
- Gomantong Caves
- Agnes Keith House
- Sim Sim Water Village
- Rainforest Discovery Centre
- Puu Jih Shih Buddhist Temple
- Sandakan Memorial Park
Each of these experiences gives you a unique slice of Borneo—from endangered species to cultural landmarks.
Wildlife Encounters: Orangutans, Sun Bears & More
One of the highlights of any Sandakan travel guide is the chance to witness Borneo’s rare and endangered wildlife up close. Sandakan is a world-renowned conservation hub, home to several wildlife sanctuaries that offer safe, ethical viewing experiences.
Meet the Orangutans at Sepilok
The Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre is a sanctuary like no other. Founded in 1964, it was the first official orangutan rehabilitation project in the world. Here, orphaned and injured orangutans are rehabilitated and gradually reintroduced into the wild. Visitors can watch them during scheduled feeding times (10 AM and 3 PM) as they swing through the trees and play in the surrounding forest.
The viewing platform and boardwalk allow for close observation without disturbing their natural behavior. Sepilok is an essential stop in any comprehensive Sandakan travel guide—it’s educational, emotional, and unforgettable.
Discover the Sun Bears of Borneo
Right next door to Sepilok is the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre (BSBCC), the only facility in the world dedicated to the smallest bear species. Known for their distinctive golden chest patch and playful demeanor, sun bears are threatened by poaching and habitat loss.
At BSBCC, you’ll learn about the importance of conservation and the challenges these animals face. Elevated walkways let you observe the bears foraging and relaxing in their forest enclosure. If you’re passionate about wildlife, this is one of the most authentic and ethical experiences you’ll find in Sabah.
Best Wildlife & Nature Tours
Any Sandakan travel guide would be incomplete without highlighting its incredible eco-tours and jungle experiences. With biodiversity rivaling that of the Amazon, the region offers adventures you’ll talk about for years.
Kinabatangan River Safari
The Kinabatangan River, the longest river in Sabah, is famed for its rich and diverse wildlife population. River safaris take you deep into the jungle to spot proboscis monkeys, pygmy elephants, hornbills, crocodiles, and even wild orangutans.
Morning and late afternoon cruises are especially productive for sightings. Most travelers choose to stay overnight in eco-lodges for a fully immersive rainforest experience. The sounds of the jungle at night, combined with guided treks and boat rides, make this a top highlight in our Sandakan travel guide.
Photo Credit: Thorsten
Turtle Island Park (Selingan)
An overnight trip to Turtle Island (Selingan) is a magical experience. Located about 40 km from Sandakan, this marine park is a nesting site for endangered green and hawksbill turtles.
At night, you can witness turtles laying eggs under the guidance of rangers. In the morning, there’s the heartwarming sight of hatchlings being released into the sea. Due to conservation regulations, visitor numbers are limited, so booking early is essential.
Gomantong Cave
The Gomantong Cave, located within the larger Kinabatangan area, is not for the faint of heart—but it is an extraordinary experience. Famous for the harvesting of edible bird nests and home to thousands of bats and insects, this cave plays a crucial role in the local ecosystem.
Come at dusk for a spectacular exodus of bats swarming out into the jungle—an eerie yet fascinating natural spectacle.
Photo Credit: Rachel’s Ruminations
Cultural & Historical Gems
Sandakan isn’t just about nature; it also tells a deep story of colonial history, wartime resilience, and religious harmony. Including a cultural component in this Sandakan travel guide enriches your understanding of the region’s soul.
Sandakan City Heritage Trail
This self-guided walking tour takes you past 10 culturally and historically significant sites. You’ll visit:
- Agnes Keith’s House, where the American author lived and wrote about colonial life
- St. Michael’s and All Angels Church, built with stone shipped from Hong Kong
- Sam Sing Kung Temple, one of the oldest Chinese temples in Sabah
- The Jamek Mosque and the Goddess of Mercy Temple, representing Islamic and Buddhist faiths
Each stop unveils a layer of Sandakan’s multicultural identity. Grab a trail map and take your time—you’ll see why Sandakan’s nickname used to be “Little Hong Kong.”
Photo Credit: Jelajah Sandakan
Sandakan Memorial Park
This peaceful yet somber site marks the beginning of the infamous WWII Death Marches. The beautifully maintained park includes memorials, historical information boards, and forest walking paths. It’s a powerful reminder of the resilience of those who suffered and an essential addition to this Sandakan travel guide.
Photo Credit: Maureen Cathers
Best for Families: Activities Kids Will Love
Planning a trip with kids? Sandakan offers a wealth of family-friendly activities that are both educational and fun. This makes it one of the best destinations in Borneo for eco-conscious families.
- Sepilok Orangutan Centre and Sun Bear Centre are perfect for introducing kids to wildlife conservation.
- At the Rainforest Discovery Centre (RDC), children can explore canopy walkways, attend nature talks, and enjoy interactive exhibits.
- A visit to Turtle Island turns into a bedtime story come true as kids witness baby turtles making their first journey to the sea.
- The Kinabatangan River Cruise offers safe and exciting animal spotting from the comfort of a boat.
- Wrap up your days with a seafood dinner at the Sim Sim Water Village, where kids can walk along wooden bridges and see how the locals live.
This Sandakan travel guide proves that family adventures in the wild can be safe, exciting, and incredibly rewarding.
What to Do on Rainy Days in Sandakan
Sabah’s tropical weather means occasional rain showers, but that doesn’t mean your trip has to stop. In fact, rainy days in Sandakan can lead to unexpected cultural discoveries and indoor adventures.
- Visit the Agnes Keith House to explore colonial life in Borneo.
- Drop by the Sandakan Heritage Museum for historical context and a break from the rain.
- Spend a quiet afternoon at local coffee shops, like San Da Gen Kopitiam, sampling UFO tarts and locally brewed coffee.
- Book a cooking class or join a guided food tour.
- Explore temples like the Sam Sing Kung Temple or the Puu Jih Shih Temple, which still offer panoramic views even in cloudy weather.
This guide recommends packing a poncho and staying flexible—many attractions are still enjoyable in light rain.
Local Food Guide: What & Where to Eat
No Sandakan travel would be complete without diving into its local cuisine. Sandakan is a food haven, blending Chinese, Malay, and Indigenous influences into unforgettable flavors.
Must-Try Local Dishes
- Sandakan Dry Noodles – springy noodles tossed with soy sauce and minced meat
- UFO Tart – a custard tart with a sponge cake “UFO” top, unique to Sandakan
- Seafood Bak Kut Teh – a herbal broth with fresh fish or prawns
- Grilled Stingray and Sambal Squid – commonly found at night markets
- Coconut pudding or Cendol – for a sweet, cooling dessert
Best Places to Eat
- Sim Sim Water Village (Bridge No. 7) for fresh seafood
- New Tropical Garden Steamboat for group meals
- Trattoria Cucina Italiana (surprise—Sandakan has great Italian too!)
- Local Warungs and Food Courts for cheap and authentic eats
Food is culture here—and Sandakan will win you over with both.
Most Instagrammable Spots in Sandakan
Looking for that perfect shot for your feed? Sandakan delivers some seriously photogenic locations. Here’s where to go:
- Puu Jih Shih Buddhist Temple – sweeping views of Sandakan Bay from its hilltop perch
- Agnes Keith House – colonial charm surrounded by lush gardens
- Sepilok Orangutan Centre – emotional moments with rescued orangutans
- Turtle Island Hatchling Release – catch the sunrise and those precious turtle steps
- Sim Sim Water Village – colorful wooden homes on stilts
- Rainforest Discovery Centre Canopy Walk – walk among treetops for epic jungle shots
Include these on your Sandakan travel bucket list and bring home more than just memories.
Where to Stay in Sandakan: Town, Sepilok, or Kinabatangan?
Sandakan has a wide range of accommodation options to suit all types of travelers.
Here’s how to choose your base:
Sandakan Town
- Best for: City vibes, foodies, budget travelers
- Perks: Close to the harbor, night markets, and local restaurants
- Options: Four Points by Sheraton, Hotel Sandakan
Sepilok
- Best for: Nature lovers and families
- Perks: Walking distance to wildlife centers
- Options: Sepilok Nature Resort, Paganakan Dii Tropical Retreat
Kinabatangan River
- Best for: Wildlife immersion, adventure seekers
- Perks: Riverside lodges, jungle cruises, all-inclusive packages
- Options: Sukau Rainforest Lodge, Borneo Nature Lodge
For the most enriching Sandakan travel experience, consider splitting your stay across two areas.
Best Time to Visit Sandakan for Wildlife & Weather
One of the most common questions we get from travelers is: When is the best time to visit Sandakan? The answer depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for—but don’t worry, this Sandakan travel guide breaks it down clearly so you can plan with confidence.
Dry Season: March to October (Best for Wildlife & Outdoor Activities)
If you’re coming for wildlife encounters, jungle trekking, and island hopping, the dry season is your best bet. From March to October, Sandakan sees less rainfall, clearer skies, and more predictable conditions for river cruises, nature walks, and visits to Sepilok or Turtle Island.
This is also the peak season for eco-tourism, with higher chances of spotting orangutans, proboscis monkeys, and even pygmy elephants along the Kinabatangan River. Guided tours run frequently, and conditions for photography—especially around sunrise and sunset—are optimal.
Turtle nesting at Selingan Turtle Island peaks between July and October, making these months ideal for witnessing both egg-laying and hatchling releases. Be sure to book early, as spots fill fast during these periods.
Why it’s great: Best wildlife visibility, stunning sunsets, outdoor adventures.
What to consider: Higher accommodation rates, busier lodges and tour slots.
Wet Season: November to February (Lush Landscapes & Fewer Crowds)
Don’t dismiss the rainy season—in fact, for some travelers, it’s an opportunity. The forests are at their greenest and most vibrant, the crowds are thinner, and there are often off-season discounts on hotels and tours.
Rain showers are typically short but intense, with dry spells in between, especially in the morning. This makes it possible to still enjoy activities like heritage walks, food tours, and short visits to Sepilok or the Rainforest Discovery Centre.
You may encounter muddy trails or the occasional cancelled boat cruise during heavy rains, but on the plus side, you’ll get more intimate, less touristy experiences—and a chance to support eco-lodges during their quiet season.
Why it’s great: Lower prices, lush scenery, peaceful atmosphere
What to consider: Rain may disrupt longer outdoor activities
Our Local Advice
If this Sandakan travel guide had to choose one best time for first-time visitors, it would be July or August. These months offer the full spectrum of experiences—turtles, clear weather, vibrant festivals, and jungle wildlife in abundance.
That said, Sandakan is a year-round destination. Even in the wet season, you can find meaningful experiences that go beyond perfect weather—like connecting with locals, immersing yourself in culture, or enjoying quiet mornings surrounded by rainforest mist.
So whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a nature photographer, or a laid-back explorer, knowing when to go helps you get the most out of your adventure—and that’s exactly what this Sandakan travel guide is here for.
Sandakan for Solo Travelers: Safe, Affordable, and Fulfilling
For solo travelers, Sandakan is one of the most underrated destinations in Malaysia. It’s safe, relatively easy to get around, and packed with budget-friendly eco adventures.
- Choose Sepilok for a peaceful jungle retreat.
- Stay in hostels or budget hotels in town.
- Join group tours to Kinabatangan or Turtle Island to meet fellow travelers.
- Try a guided walking tour along the heritage trail for easy social interaction.
- Don’t miss local cafés like Balin Rooftop, great for journaling or chatting with locals.
This Sandakan travel guide gives solo travelers everything they need—safety, depth, and discovery.
Getting There & Getting Around
- By Air: 45-minute flight from Kota Kinabalu
- By Road: 5-6 hour scenic drive (can hire private transport or self-drive using Milas Travel car rental service)
- Local Transport: Grab (e-hailing), taxis, and shuttles available to Sepilok and cruise departure points
Travel Tips & Etiquette
- Bring mosquito repellent and eco-friendly sunscreen
- Respect wildlife—no feeding or flash photography
- Dress modestly in town areas and temples
- Always carry small cash; some remote lodges don’t accept cards
Final Thoughts: Why Sandakan Should Be on Your 2025 Bucket List
Sandakan is Sabah’s best-kept secret—and 2025 is the perfect time to discover it.
Whether you’re here for wildlife, heritage, family bonding, food exploration, or a deep connection with nature, this underrated gem offers something rare: authenticity without crowds.
So if you’re looking for a destination that blends adventure with meaning, culture with nature, and comfort with raw discovery, this Sandakan travel guide has made the case.
Let your next great journey begin here.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Sandakan Travel Guide
1. What is the best time to visit Sandakan for wildlife experiences?
The best time to visit Sandakan for wildlife is during the dry season from March to October, when the weather is more predictable and animals are more active. This period is ideal for Kinabatangan River cruises, orangutan sightings at Sepilok, and turtle nesting at Selingan Island.
2. How many days should I spend in Sandakan?
Most travelers spend 3 to 5 days in Sandakan, which is enough time to explore Sepilok, cruise the Kinabatangan River, visit Gomantong Caves, and enjoy a day trip to Turtle Island. For a slower pace or deeper eco-experiences, consider staying longer.
3. Is Sandakan safe for solo travelers?
Yes, Sandakan is generally safe for solo travelers, including women. The town is welcoming, laid-back, and easy to navigate. Many tours offer group departures, and solo visitors often stay in Sepilok or eco-lodges along the Kinabatangan for added comfort and community.
4. What should I pack for a trip to Sandakan?
When visiting Sandakan, pack light, breathable clothing a rain poncho, insect repellent, sunscreen, binoculars, and sturdy walking shoes. Don’t forget a reusable water bottle and power bank—especially for nature and wildlife tours.
Plan Your Sandakan Eco Adventure with Us
Whether you’re planning a short wildlife escape or a longer journey into Borneo’s rainforest heart, we’d love to help you experience the best of Sandakan—your way.
Browse our carefully crafted tours at milas.travel, or if you’re unsure where to start, just reach out. We’re locals who know the area well and can help you build an itinerary that fits your travel style—no pressure, just honest advice and real experiences.
📩 Need a custom itinerary? Contact us—we’ll design one just for you.
5D4N Ultimate Sandakan Experience Tour
Experience the best of Sandakan in 5 days and 4 nights, featuring orangutans at Sepilok, sun bears, a Kinabatangan River wildlife cruise, sea turtles on Selingan Island, and a city and cultural tour of Sandakan.
