Sandakan — Orangutans, sun bears, and colonial heritage.
Sandakan was once the capital of British North Borneo and today stands as Sabah's second-largest city and premier wildlife destination. The world-famous Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre is here, along with the Sun Bear Conservation Centre and the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre. Sandakan's colonial heritage, waterfront seafood, and proximity to the Kinabatangan River make it a complete Borneo 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 390 km from KK, rushing this as a day trip means missing the best of what's here.
- Consider flying — AirAsia and MASwings serve East Sabah airports. 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 approximately 390 km from Kota Kinabalu.
- Flight 45min / Bus 6hrs
Budget Guide
Here's a rough breakdown of what to budget for a trip to Sandakan:
- Budget traveller (RM110–RM160/day) — Guesthouse or budget hotel from RM80/night, hawker meals at RM8–15/dish, shared transport or local buses.
- Mid-range (RM290–RM390/day) — Comfortable hotel around RM240/night, sit-down restaurants, private transport or day tours included.
- Comfort traveller (RM450+/day) — Quality accommodation from RM400/night, guided experiences, private transfers, and dining at better restaurants.
Most mid-range establishments accept card payment, but keep some cash for markets and transport.
Where to Stay in Sandakan
Accommodation in Sandakan ranges from RM80 to RM400 per night, covering budget guesthouses through to comfortable hotels. Internet connectivity is generally good in this district.
Nearby Districts to Combine With Sandakan
These districts are in the same region and pair well with a visit to Sandakan:
- Kinabatangan — Borneo's most biodiverse river safari (450 km from KK)
- Beluran — Untouched rainforest and off-grid river life (370 km from KK)
- Lahad Datu — Gateway to Danum Valley and Maliau Basin (480 km from KK)
Best Time to Visit Sandakan
Best months: Mar, Apr, May, Jul, Aug — drier weather, better road conditions, and optimal visibility for outdoor activities.
Avoid if possible: Nov, Dec — 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 390 km from Kota Kinabalu. Flight 45min / Bus 6hrs
How much does a trip to Sandakan cost?
Budget travellers can find accommodation from RM80/night. Mid-range stays typically run RM240–RM400/night. Add RM50–150/person/day for meals, local transport, and activities.
Is Sandakan safe for tourists?
Yes — Sandakan is considered a high-safety destination. Standard precautions apply: watch your belongings, avoid poorly lit areas at night, and check current advisories before travel.