Top Sandakan Tours, Sightseeing & Cruises

Discover the heart of Borneo's wild jungle at Bilit Lodge, where you'll spend three days and two nights on exhilarating river safaris at dawn and dusk to see untamed wildlife, possibility of orangutans, proboscis monkeys, and pygmy elephants, go on guided night walks to learn about the rainforest's nocturnal secrets, all while returning to the comfort of a private chalet situated on the Kinabatangan River for an unforgettable experience that combines thrilling adventures with the tranquil jungle. As night descends, find yourselves enveloped by the symphony of the rainforest, looking from their private balcony into the embrace of nature's splendour.

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.

The island of Borneo is home to rugged scenery and an abundance of wildlife. Join a small group and head to Tanjung Bulat Jungle Camp for a 3-day excursion focused on wildlife. Spend your days on drives, walks, and boat cruises for the best chances of seeing wildlife. Some species you may encounter include monkeys, langurs, crocodiles, and civets.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Explore the remarkable biodiversity of the Kinabatangan River on this immersive adventure. Stay at a lodge with a selection of dormitory options, offering flexibility and comfort for different travel styles. Begin with a scenic golden hour river cruise that introduces to the rich wildlife, followed by dinner. The next day brings a serene sunrise cruise, where may spot proboscis monkeys, elephants birds in this opportunity to see a big 5 adventure in a budget dormitory. - Discover the abundant wildlife of Kinabatangan River on multiple cruises - Enjoy a dinner and a thrilling cruise experience - Spot unique wildlife like proboscis monkeys, elephants and bornean creatures - Optional golden cruise hour available for this adventure

Experience Borneo’s wild nature on this 2-day tour of Sandakan. In the company of a guide, travel from the airport to Sepilok, where you can admire orangutans in their natural habitat. After a hearty lunch, head to the countryside and take a cruise on Kinabatangan River. Spend a night at a rustic lodge.

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.

● 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.

Join us for a day filled with adventure as we explore ancient caves and enjoy the beautiful riverbanks where nature shines. Gaze up at the impressive gomantong cave, where countless swiftlets make their homes and treasured nests are collected in a time-honored tradition. Then embark on a journey from the depths of the earth to the lively surroundings of Malaysia’s second-longest river. The legendary Kinabatangan awaits, offering one of the planet’s most accessible and rich wildlife viewings. As the afternoon sun casts a golden glow, you’ll glide silently along the tea-colored water on our expertly guided river cruise. Keep your eyes peeled for all wildlife. With every bend in the river, a new surprise await. Our knowledgeable local guides are enthusiastic storytellers, and we take care of all the details, from cozy transportation and tasty local meals to your safety, so you can fully enjoy the experience without any concerns, whether on a private or shared tour.

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.

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.

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.

Experience the Kinabatangan rainforest on this 2-day, 1-night community-led tour. This local community-managed experience takes you to a peaceful riverside where diverse species flourishes amidst beautiful foliage and conservation efforts while providing opportunities for chance to spot wildlife along the rivers, away from crowds. When book this tour, you’re not just scoping out nature—you’re also lending a hand to protect it! It's a mix of education, conservation, and wildlife adventure all rolled into one. Life here has its own rhythm: simple, straightforward and completely raw. Instead of a luxurious lodge, It's a jungle tour where everyone helps and protects the rainforest for future generations. - Experience into the real jungle vibe and help out with local conservation efforts - Take in river cruises and jungle strolls with local guides - Witness incredible wildlife inside the jungle or river - Get involved in community-driven conservation projects

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.

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.

Enjoy a picturesque river cruise to Pamaguan Island for an evening of natural beauty and local culture. Watch a spectacular sunset from a breathtaking location and then relax on a cruise with a simple hi-tea of local baked pastries. Engage with the community through a village stroll, experience traditional crab traps if any, and spot diverse wildlife along the riverbank. As darkness dawns, watch the enchanting fireflies light up the sky while returning to jetty with dinner inclusive. - Scenic river cruise to Pamaguan Island with sunset viewpoint - Traditional crab trap demonstration and local village exploration - Enjoy a relaxing hi-tea with local cakes during the cruise - Experience a magical firefly and blue tear cruise after dinner

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.

Venture into the heart of Borneo's lush rainforest on a 3-day wildlife and birdwatching adventure along the Kinabatangan River. Begin with a sunset cruise to spot Proboscis monkeys and other wildlife birds, followed by an early morning birding expedition. Over the next few days, enjoy guided rainforest walks, and explore hidden waterways while looking for Borneo’s rich wildlife, including Kingfishers, fish eagles and Hornbills overhead if any. Experience local with hearty meals that showcase Bornean flavors, and optional night excursions for nocturnal wildlife spotting. - 3-day immersive wildlife experience in Borneo’s rainforest - Guided birds river safaris and rainforest hikes with guides - Comfortable lodging with meals included - Ideal for nature lovers and birdwatching enthusiasts, with opportunities to see the “Big Five” of Borneo

Discover the beauty of Kinabatangan River with a unique 3-day, 2-safari at a community-run eco camp either jungle lodge or homestay. Connect with the locals and lend a hand to their eco-friendly projects while soaking up the beauty of nature all around you. Participate in guided jungle walks, river cruises, and cultural insights that preserve the heritage of the orang sungai. Your visit directly contributes to community projects and essential conservation work, making this an impactful and meaningful adventure. Life here has its own vibe, straightforward and totally unfiltered, this jungle initiative isn’t about luxury. everyone pitches in and genuinely cares about keeping the rainforest safe. - Stay overnight at a community-run eco camp in a protected forest reserve - Enjoy guided jungle walks and wildlife river cruises with local guides - Participate in cultural preservation activities - Support sustainable tourism and community-led conservation efforts

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.