Sandakan — Orangutans, sun bears, and colonial heritage.
Sandakan was the capital of British North Borneo and is now Sabah's second most populous district after Kota Kinabalu. The Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre and the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre sit side by side at Sepilok, about 23 km from the city centre. Colonial heritage, waterfront seafood and access to the Kinabatangan River make it a strong east coast base.
Start here if you only have limited time in Sandakan. It's the experience most visitors remember long after the trip.
Activities in Sandakan
- Orangutan sanctuary
- Sun bear centre
- Sandakan heritage trail
- Turtle islands
- Seafood dining
- Island hopping — Speedboats whisk you between offshore islands with crystal-clear water, house reefs, and white sand beaches — usually a half-day trip from the local jetty.
Local Tips for Visiting Sandakan
- Plan at least one overnight stay. At about 335 km from KK, a day trip leaves little time to see what's here.
- Download offline maps before leaving KK in case mobile coverage drops on the road, and carry some cash for small shops, stalls and rural areas.
- Consider flying, since East Sabah towns have airports with flights from KK (check current carriers and schedules with the airlines). A short flight saves 6+ hours of driving and leaves you with energy to actually explore.
- Dress for the tropics — light moisture-wicking clothes, a packable rain jacket, and SPF50+ sunscreen are non-negotiable. Rain can arrive fast even in dry season.
Getting There from Kota Kinabalu
Sandakan is about 335 km by road from Kota Kinabalu.
- Express bus, LPKP maximum fare RM43.60
- Flights from KK to Sandakan Airport
Budget Guide
Prices in Sandakan change with the season and with demand. Check current rates on booking sites before you go, and confirm tour and transfer prices directly with the operator.
- Budget traveller — Guesthouses or budget hotels, hawker meals, shared transport or local buses.
- Mid-range — A comfortable hotel, sit-down restaurants, private transport or day tours.
- Comfort traveller — Better hotels or resorts, guided experiences, private transfers and dining at better restaurants.
Keep some cash for markets, small shops and transport.
Where to Stay in Sandakan
Room rates in Sandakan change with the season. Check current rates on booking sites before you go.
We may earn a small commission if you book through this link — it costs you nothing extra.
Book Tours and Tickets in Sandakan
- Sepilok Orangutan Centre half-day tour on Klook →
- Selingan Turtle Island 2D1N on Klook →
- Gomantong Caves & Kinabatangan River day trip on Klook →
Klook links are affiliate links — we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Prices and availability are set by the operators.
Nearby Districts to Combine With Sandakan
These districts are in the same region and pair well with a visit to Sandakan:
- Kinabatangan — Sabah's great river wildlife corridor (about 306 km from KK)
- Beluran — Untouched rainforest and off-grid river life
- Lahad Datu — Gateway to Danum Valley and Tabin (about 404 km from KK)
Best Time to Visit Sandakan
Best months: Apr, May, Jun — drier weather, better road conditions, and optimal visibility for outdoor activities.
Avoid if possible: Dec, Jan — higher chance of sustained rain that can affect road access and outdoor plans.
See the full month-by-month guide for Sandakan →
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best things to do in Sandakan?
The top activities in Sandakan include orangutan sanctuary, sun bear centre, sandakan heritage trail. Start with Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre — the district's standout attraction.
How do I get to Sandakan from Kota Kinabalu?
Sandakan is about 335 km by road from Kota Kinabalu. Express bus, LPKP maximum fare RM43.60. Flights from KK to Sandakan Airport.
How much does a trip to Sandakan cost?
Costs depend on the season, where you stay and which tours you book. Check current room rates on booking sites and confirm tour prices with the operator before you go. Carry some cash for markets and smaller shops.
Is Sandakan safe for tourists?
Take standard precautions in Sandakan: watch your belongings, avoid poorly lit areas at night, travel with a guide in remote areas, share your plans with someone, and check current official travel advisories before you go.