Top Sandakan How to Get Around in 2026

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Embark on a Kinabatangan River's with a guided jungle walks, sunrise or sunset boat rides that reveal the rainforest's wonders. Glide through lush jungles in search of proboscis monkeys, orangutans, and who knows, maybe even the Borneo Big 5! Stay in a local homestay, eat home-cooked meals, and gain insight into village life through perhaps a warm interactions with your hosts. Your journey helps local families, preserves village customs, feeds your hosts, and prioritises wildlife over trees, this is about exploring Borneo's untamed side, chasing the real, and having an authentic, raw, and wild experience. - A three-day, two-night journey staying at a riverside - Guided wildlife river cruises at dawn and dusk for optimal sightings - Supporting local efforts through home-cooked meals made with ingredients - Engage in jungle trekking experiences and optional night walks for an extended wildlife experience

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.

Learn about the challenges facing Malaysia's iconic species on a full-day small-group wildlife tour from Sandakan. Visit the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre and the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre, both of which provide home for orphaned and injured animals, and get insights into the importance of protecting habitats. Between locations, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.

● 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.

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.

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.

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.

Experience the best of Sabah’s wildlife and rainforest in one unforgettable journey. This tour combines two of Sandakan’s top nature attractions — the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre and the Rainforest Discovery Centre (RDC) — offering the perfect balance of conservation, adventure, and scenic exploration. Begin your visit at Sepilok, where you’ll observe rescued orangutans in a semi-wild environment during their feeding session a heartwarming glimpse into vital conservation efforts. Continue to the Rainforest Discovery Centre, where you can walk along canopy walkways above the jungle, enjoy scenic rainforest views, and spot unique wildlife and bird species. Perfect for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts, this tour offers a memorable and well-paced introduction to Borneo’s rich biodiversity. Book now to discover the wild beauty of Sandakan and create lasting memories in the heart of Sabah’s rainforest.

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

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.

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.

Embark into the heart of Borneo's breathtaking wilderness with a captivating 4-day tour. Begin at the Sepilok Rehabilitation Centre, learning about conservation efforts while enjoying the natural beauty of the forest, visit orangutan and sunbeams. Ascend the Rainforest Discovery Centre's suspension bridges for stunning views and birdwatching opportunities, including rare species, go guided into the bornean trees. Discover the marvels of the Gomantong Caves, set sail on scenic river cruises during the enchanting golden hour, search out the magnificent big 5 of Borneo, and go deeper into the complex ecosystem alongside a naturalist guide. Enclose your journey with a final sunrise cruise, soaking in the vivid sights and sounds of Borneo’s abundant wildlife.

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.

Tanjung Bulat Jungle Camp itself located in a very secluded area far from any lodges,villages even city. Guest will be able to experience the real privilege being in the borneo rainforest.

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

Experience the captivating wildlife of the Kinabatangan River on a 2-day safari from Sandakan. Journey into the Bornean rainforest for a jungle walk at the Rainforest Discovery Centre, where you'll traverse elevated walkways and observe unique flora and fauna. Enjoy boat cruises along the river, spotting fascinating wildlife such as orangutans, hornbills, and proboscis monkeys. As night falls, embark on an enchanting night cruise to discover the secrets of nocturnal creatures in their natural habitat. This adventure includes an overnight stay in Sandakan in high end hotel or resort for a truly immersive experience in Borneo's wilderness. - Discover the diverse wildlife of Borneo on a guided safari - Walk the canopy at the Rainforest Discovery Centre for stunning views - Spot unique wildlife on river cruises, including orangutans and pygmy elephants - Overnight stay in Sandakan included for a complete wilderness experience

Pick up from your respective hotel. Drive to Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre. After Sepilok, take a leisure walk to the nearby Sun Bear Conservation Centre. After tours, we depart to SJR for lunch. After lunch, visit to Sepilok Orang Utan Center for the second feeding. Late afternoon, we transfer to a fisherman village. Upon arrival at the village, have a simple tea break. Houses are built on stilts and it is very interesting to walk around the village. Very often, kids will be having their play time at this hour and please feel free to join them in some of the interesting village games. After that, proceed to a boat cruise to learn more about the mangrove forests and a chance to plant trees in the area. As it gets darker, we will be able to see the fire flies lighting up the trees around us. The program will end with a dinner. After dinner, transfer back to your hotel. End of services.