In the Malaysian state of Sabah, on the northeastern tip of Borneo, sits the quaint seaside town of Sandakan. Sandakan is a famous travel destination for adventure seekers, history fans, and nature lovers for its rich past, wildlife conservation initiatives, and close proximity to natural treasures. 

Sandakan Overview

Formerly known as Elopura, is the second largest city of Sabah 

Transportation around Sandakan 

• Bus 

• Taxi 

• Car

Currency: RM (Ringgit Malaysia) 

Location

Northeast coast of Borneo

Postal code: 90000 to 90999

The Climate of Sandakan

• Summer : May to June

• Monsoon : January

• Winter : December to February 

Best Time to Visit Sandakan

• Winter is the peak season for tourists. A minimum of 4 days iteration is required to explore Sandakan. 

Sandakan is Best Known for

• Fresh and delicious seafood

• Nature and wildlife 

Top 10 Things to Do in Sandakan

1. Rehabilitation Centre for Orangutan, Sepilok

• Description: The Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, one of Sandakan's most well-known attractions, was founded in 1964 with the goal of rehabilitating orphaned and displaced orangutans.

• What to Expect: You may observe these amazing animals as they hang from trees and dine in specific parts of their native environment.

2. Rainforest Discovery Center (RDC)

• Description: Located near the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, the Rainforest Discovery Centre offers tourists an opportunity to experience Borneo's magnificent jungles.

• What to Expect: The RDC is a birdwatcher's and nature lover's dream come true, complete with a canopy walkway, natural trails, and birdwatching towers. You'll also have the chance to view numerous flora and fauna, including the uncommon Bornean bristlehead bird.

3. Turtle Islands Park

• Description: Turtle Islands Park is located 40 km north of Sandakan and comprises three islands: Selingan, Gulisan, and Bakkungan Kechil. The conservation of sea turtles is well-known on these islands.

• What to Expect: During the night, visitors to Turtle Islands Park can see hawksbill and green turtles coming ashore to lay their eggs. Additionally, the park contains a hatchery where visitors can see the releasing of young turtles into the ocean.

Click to >>Book tickets for Turtle Island

4. Sandakan Memorial Park

• Description: The Sandakan Memorial Park commemorates the prisoners of war (POWs) who died during the Sandakan Death Marches of World War II.

• What to Expect: With memorials, strolling routes, and information boards detailing the horrific events of WWII, the park serves as a historical site as well as a space for introspection. It’s a quiet and tranquil spot to pay homage to those who lost their lives.

5.  Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary

• Description: The famous and critically endangered proboscis monkeys, distinguished by their enormous noses and potbellies, call this refuge, which is roughly 38 kilometers from Sandakan, home.

• What to Expect: During feeding periods guests can get up close and personal with proboscis monkeys at the sanctuary. Other fauna such as silver leaf monkeys and hornbills can also be sighted.

6. Agnes Keith House

• Description: American novelist Agnes Newton Keith, well-known for her works about life in North Borneo (now Sabah), previously called the Agnes Keith House, a museum, home.

• What to Expect: The house, now refurbished as a museum, offers a glimpse into Sandakan life during the colonial era. It contains historical relics, Agnes Keith's personal effects, and displays detailing Sandakan's past during the British colonial era.

7. Kinabatangan River Cruise 

• Description: One of Sabah's best locations for wildlife viewing is the Kinabatangan River, which is roughly two hours from Sandakan. Proboscis monkeys, pygmy elephants, and unusual birds all call it home.

What to Expect: River excursions give a fantastic chance to view wildlife in their natural habitat. There are excursions available in the morning and evening, and along the riverbank, guests can frequently spot hornbills, monkeys, and crocodiles.

8. Puu Jih Shih Buddhist Temple

• Description: This lovely Chinese Buddhist temple is perched on a hill and provides breathtaking views of Sandakan Bay.

• What to Expect: The temple has spacious Buddha sculptures, calm gardens, and elaborate architecture. It's a great location for photography and provides a serene setting for reflection.

9. Sandakan Heritage Trail

• Description: Visitors can explore some of the town's most historically significant locations on this self-guided walking tour.

• What to Expect: The path boasts a number of sites, including the Goddess of Mercy Temple, the Agnes Keith House, the Sandakan War Memorial, and the 100 Steps. It's a fantastic opportunity to learn about Sandakan history and culture at your own speed.

10. Sandakan Wet Market

• Description: Locals purchase and sell fresh vegetables, seafood, and other daily necessities at this market, which offers a glimpse into the way of life in the area.

• What to Expect: A vibrant hub of activity, the market is a terrific place to sample regional specialties including grilled seafood, noodles, and fresh fruit. There are a few tiny restaurants on the upper floor of the market that provide tasty and reasonably priced food.

How to Reach Sandakan

From Kota Kinabalu 

• Via Car : 6 hour 19 minutes (324 km) drive 

• Via Bus : 7 hours 33 minutes journey 

• Via air : Flight from Kota Kinabalu and vice versa at only 1 hour 5 minutes

Why To Book Things to Do in Sandakan from redBus?

Sandakan is one of the top tourist destinations for people interested in wildlife and the natural world. It is a true gem that offers a plethora of unique experiences. Booking the tickets directly at the counter might be difficult and time-consuming. In certain circumstances, you might even pay extra. When you book from redBus, you get instant confirmation. You can book tickets from anywhere online from the redBus website or app, eliminating the need to physically visit the counter. Make sure you don't miss the latest deals and offers on redBus, and pay less than what you would at the counter.