Top Sandakan How to Get Around

During this full day eco-tour, journey into the super-diverse Bornean rainforest near Sepilok, home to thousands of species of plants and animals. Visit three conservation centers in the area to learn how local people are fighting to preserve Borneo’s natural environment and return native fauna to their natural habitats. This private tour offers a chance to get up close with Borneo’s unique wildlife away from the crowds of a zoo or wildlife park.

Enjoy an evening on the water on this sunset cruise that includes dinner. The tour begins with tea at a local bed and breakfast. After a short break for games with the local village kids, board a boat to enjoy sunset at Pamaguan Island and watch fireflies in the mangrove forest. Later, have dinner back at the bed and breakfast.

This 3D2N journey to Kinabatangan is more than just a tour; it's an opportunity to see the oldest rainforest on Earth up close. Here, you will see a wild, pulsing heart that defies taming—a monument to the beauty and tenacity of nature—where hornbills cast shadows across crimson sunsets and pygmy elephants trumpet at dusk. Prepare to embark on a journey where ancient rainforests meet winding chocolate-brown rivers, and wildlife spectacles unfold around every bend. The Kinabatangan River in Malaysian Borneo isn’t just a destination, it’s a pulsating, living theatre of nature, offering one of Asia’s most concentrated wildlife experiences, a real world featured in David Attenborough’s documentaries experience.

Cruise the Kinabatangan River on a full-day tour from Sandakan, which is available as a shared excursion. Discover the natural wonders of the river as you cruise. Search for primates and birds on the banks of the Kinabatangan, pausing for an included dinner along the way.

Spend a day getting up close to some of Borneo’s incredible native wildlife on this must-see tour for animal lovers. Explore Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre for orphaned orangutans. Stroll down the boardwalk through the rainforest and see them feed from the platform. Visit Lab Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary to see these indigenous monkeys in their natural habitat, before going to the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre. That’s not all: other stops include a hilltop temple with panoramic views and the vibrant Sandakan Central Market.

Wildlife lovers won’t want to miss an overnight stay at the Tanjung Bulat Jungle Camp, with two days of wildlife-spotting activities. The camp is run by the local jungle-dwelling people and there’s a cap on visitor numbers, meaning you’ll have a quiet, intimate experience. Enjoy wildlife-watching cruises in the morning, afternoon, and evening, for the best chances of seeing a range of animals.

● Turtle Island Experience: Enjoy a scenic one-hour boat ride to Selingan Turtle Island, where you can relax on the beach, snorkel, or sunbathe. ● Turtle Conservation: Attend a turtle presentation, witness turtles laying eggs, and participate in the release of baby turtles into the sea. ● Wildlife Encounters: Visit the Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre to see orangutans in their natural habitat and learn about sun bears at the Sun Bear Conservation Centre.

● Lunch at Sepilok Jungle Resort: Begin the day with a delicious lunch amidst the lush surroundings of Sepilok Jungle Resort. ● Scenic Drive to Bilit: Travel overland to Bilit, a wildlife-rich area home to various primates like proboscis monkeys, orangutans, and macaques, as well as hornbills, kingfishers, crocodiles, and wild elephants. ● Arrival and Welcome Refreshments: Upon arrival in Bilit, enjoy afternoon tea with local snacks and a warm welcome. ● Nature Guide Briefing: Receive an informative briefing from a nature guide, introducing you to the area’s unique wildlife and habitats. ● Afternoon Kinabatangan River Cruise: Embark on a boat cruise along Sabah’s longest river, the Kinabatangan, and spot incredible wildlife, from vibrant bird species to playful primates, all from the comfort of the boat.

There’s more to Sandakan than just jungle adventures. Skip itinerary planning and check off the city’s signature sights in just half a day on this door-to-door private guided tour, complete with restaurant lunch. Discover Second World War history at the Australian War Memorial; immerse in Sandakan Central Market; see stilt houses at Sim-Sim Water Village; admire Puh Jih Shi Buddhist Temple; and visit the former home of author Agnes Keith.

Awaken your primal spirit on a whirlwind journey into Sabah’s most biodiverse landscapes, where ancient rainforests teem with endemic wildlife and river currents carry whispers of adventure blends intimate wildlife encounters with immersive jungle rhythms with journey of Borneo's primordial jungles encapsulated in a whirlwind 1-night adventure that combines Sepilok's rehabilitated orangutans with the untamed spectacle of the Kinabatangan River. From locking eyes with an orphaned orangutan at Sepilok to tracing a pygmy elephant's footprint on Kinabatangan's banks, you'll feel the jungle's pulse long after you leave. As one traveler described, "That dusk river cruise — where proboscis monkeys leapt silhouetted against a tangerine sky — wasn't just a moment; it was a communion with wild Borneo.

● Diverse Wildlife: Explore a remarkable destination renowned for its rich biodiversity. ● Scenic River Cruises: Embark on river cruises to spot a variety of animals in their natural habitat. ● Lush Rainforest: Immerse yourself in the stunning natural beauty of the surrounding rainforest. ● Perfect for Nature Lovers: A unique experience designed for nature enthusiasts and adventurers alike. ● Unique Activities: Enjoy exciting activities such as night walks and tree planting (optional).

This 2D1N journey to Kinabatangan is a chance to experience the oldest rainforest on Earth up close, perfect for those who are short on time or prefer a brief visit. A sanctuary for Borneo’s iconic Big Five: proboscis monkeys, pygmy elephants, orangutans, crocodiles, and hornbills. Here find a vibrant, beating heart that embraces its wild spirit—a celebration of the beauty and resilience of nature where hornbills dance in the shadows of crimson sunsets and pygmy elephants call out at dusk. Get ready to set off on an adventure where lush rainforests greet you alongside meandering chocolate-brown rivers, and amazing wildlife experiences await at every turn. The Kinabatangan River in Malaysian Borneo is more than just a place to visit; it’s a vibrant, living showcase of nature, providing one of Asia’s richest wildlife experiences, just like those who were seen in David Attenborough’s documentaries.

Sandakan, the second-largest city in Borneo, is a spot where history, culture, and natural beauty all come together. This city used to be the administrative capital of British North Borneo, and it was a lively spot for international merchants back in the day. Now, it shows off its resilience and how much it has changed over time. Take a wonderful trip to Sandakan to see its deep beauty and strength. Stand where author Agnes Keith got her ideas, feel the solemn peace of a historic stone church that survived war, get a breathtaking view from a hilltop temple that looks out over the sea, then go to Sandakan War Memorial Park, a beautifully landscaped site that honours WWII heroes with emotional exhibits and peaceful places to think and much more. This private tour is all about soaking up the vibes of Sabah’s coolest coastal city, packed with unforgettable moments that you'll remember long after you head back home.

Explore the heart of Borneo on this immersive 3-day, 2-night adventure at Bilit Lodge. Experience thrilling river safaris at dawn and dusk, where you may spot pygmy elephants, proboscis monkeys, and diverse wildlife. Guided jungle treks reveal the rainforest's hidden secrets, while relaxing in comfortable chalet accommodations overlooking the Kinabatangan River. Enjoy full meals and free-flowing drinks as you unwind in nature’s embrace, making this tour perfect for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. - Three days and two nights at Bilit Adventure Lodge with full meal plans. - Enjoy river safaris and guided jungle walks to witness unique Borneo wildlife. - Pickup and drop-off included from Sandakan, Sepilok, or local hotels.

Wildlife lovers won’t want to miss three Borneo signatures: orangutans, sunbears, and proboscis monkeys. See them all in just a day on this small-group guided tour from Sandakan with lunch. Watch orangutans feeding at the Sandakan Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre; pop next door to the Bornean Sunbear Conservation Center; finish at the Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary. You arrange internal flights from Kota Kinabalu; your guide looks after the rest.

Prepare to embark on a journey where ancient rainforests meet winding chocolate-brown rivers, and wildlife spectacles unfold around every bend. The Kinabatangan River in Malaysian Borneo isn’t just a destination, it’s a pulsating, living theatre of nature, offering one of Asia’s most concentrated wildlife experiences. A symphony of life at dawn on the River. Imagine gliding through the jungle as it descends in an ethereal evening. Experience something unique as you cruise through Kinabatangan in search of wildlife includes Borneo’s endemic hornbills, monkey, elephant along the way, get excited unlike other, this kinabatangan is an absolute marvel—go now, before any more of it is lost”

Sepilok Orang-Utan Rehabilitation Centre where orphaned and injured Orang-Utan brought to Sepilok to be rehabilitated to return and fend for themselves back to the wild. Witness the feeding of Orang-Utan from a platform in the forest. Watch the 25 minutes scheduled video documentary show. Proceed to Borneo Sun Bear Conservation Centre (BSCC) and witness the effort to provide for the care, rehabilitation and release of orphaned and captive sun bears, as well as address the lack of knowledge and awareness of this little-known bear both in Malaysia and internationally. Proceed drive for about 45 minutes to Labuk Bay the mangrove forest covers about 400 acres for Proboscis sanctuary. Proceed to the observation area where visitors will have the delight of having a reasonably close and magnificent sight of these elusive monkeys which is one the most peculiar animal in the world and endemic to Borneo.

This tour offers a one of a kind experience at Borneo Nature Lodge 2 combined with guided wildlife exploration along the Sukau (Kinabatangan) River, one of Sabah's most biodiverse areas. Travelers can enjoy guided river cruises led by knowledgeable local guides, spotting proboscis, hornbills, orangutans and other native wildlife in their natural habitat. Guests also have the freedom to explore the lodge surroundings on their own through nature walks or relax by the river, making the experience both immersive and flexible. This tour provides memorable encounters with Borneo's unique ecosystem, insider knowledge from local experts and a peaceful rainforest retreat away from crowds.

Experience the wonder of Orangutans in their natural habitat and enjoy visiting some of the top attractions in Sepilok Sandakan with this delightful day tour. After visiting the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre and watching a feeding and care center through the lush green trees, heading to bornean sunbear under government protection, continue to Rainforest Discovery Centre and walk from above treetops, known as birdwatcher's paradise especially pittas and hornbill or simply appreciate the incredible biodiversity with opportunity for short jungle trekking at the forest at own. After head out to explore sandakan town, with stop at a local restaurant for lunch or rest at own expense. Some of the great additional experiences include visiting local Market, exploring the Sim-Sim Water Village, and checking out the Puh Jih Syh Buddhist Temple, along with the church, Sandakan War Memorial among other, all with your friendly local guide then return back to sandakan at the end.

Our tours are thoughtfully designed to blend iconic landmarks with hidden gems, guided by passionate local experts who bring each destination to life. We focus on small-group experiences, immersive cultural encounters, and seamless logistics, ensuring every journey is personal, enriching, and unforgettable from start to finish.

Get a closer look at two of Southeast Asia’s most endangered species, the orangutan and sun bear, on this full-day tour from Sandakan. First, stop at the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Center where orphaned and young primates are slowly integrated back into the wild. Then, visit the Bornean Sun Bear Center to learn about the strong conservation efforts to protect this rare species.

Experience the wildlife and history of Sabah, Malaysia, on this all-day excursion. After a convenient hotel pickup, visit the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Center, honor POWs at Sandakan Memorial Park, catch spectacular views at Puu Jih Shih temple, pick up some seafood and produce at Central Market, explore Sabah history at Agnes Keith Museum, and enjoy a drink at English Tea House.

Learn all about Borneo’s diverse wildlife when you book this private tour at Tanjung Bulat Jungle Camp. This is a small group tour, so you’ll keep costs down but still have an intimate experience. Meals, accommodation, and all of your activities are taken care of in the price, so you won’t have to pay upfront. Just enjoy this immersive jungle experience.