Sandakan
A wildlife-rich coastal city where ancient rainforests, incredible animals, island adventures and Sabah's heritage come together.
THE PLACE BEHIND THE CARD
Why Sandakan?
This is one of Sabah's gateways to the wild. Surrounded by rainforest, mangroves and islands, Sandakan connects visitors to orangutans, sun bears, proboscis monkeys and some of Borneo's most remarkable natural landscapes.
Best for
Wildlife + Nature
Allow
2–3
days
Explore
Rainforest + Coast
Quest Layer
Coming Soon
DON'T LEAVE WITHOUT...
Five Sandakan discoveries
🦧
Meet the Orangutans
Walk along the wide sandy beach and enjoy Bachok's peaceful coastline.
🐻
Discover the Sun Bears
Get closer to the world's smallest bears and learn about their conservation.
Explore the Rainforest
Step into Borneo's ancient forests and discover incredible plants and wildlife.
🌿
Cruise the Kinabatangan
Explore the river by boat and keep watch for proboscis monkeys, elephants and other wildlife.
🛶
🏝️
Escape to the Islands
Discover beautiful islands, clear waters and marine life along Sandakan's coast.
Go wild in Sandakan
Don't just visit the attractions. Get into the rainforest, follow the rivers, meet the wildlife and discover why Sandakan is one of Borneo's great gateways to nature.
Find something not in your itinerary
Step away from the usual wildlife stops. Discover a quiet mangrove, local fishing village, hidden coastal view or lesser-known nature trail.
CONTINUE YOUR QUEST
Where next?
Explore more of Sabah
Return to Sabah and discover more cities, experiences, food and Penyu Picks.