Sandakan – Wildlife & Heritage on Sabah’s Northeast Coast
Sandakan combines rich wildlife encounters with deep historical roots, making it one of Sabah’s most rewarding destinations.
Sandakan, the jewel of Sabah’s northeast coast, is the second largest town after Kota Kinabalu. Known as Little Hong Kong in its early days, Sandakan was once a bustling trading hub. Though it was destroyed during World War II, today the town thrives again – offering visitors a more authentic, less commercialized experience of Borneo.
Gateway to Wildlife Adventures
Sandakan is world-renowned as a base for wildlife and conservation experiences. Just 26 km from town, the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre and the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre provide unforgettable encounters with two of Borneo’s most iconic species. A short trip away, Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary lets visitors observe these unique primates in their natural mangrove habitat.
The nearby Kinabatangan River is another highlight – one of Asia’s richest wildlife corridors. On a river cruise you may see crocodiles, hornbills, kingfishers, proboscis monkeys, orangutans, and with luck, even the rare Bornean pygmy elephant.
Islands & Marine Treasures
Off the coast, Sandakan is the starting point for trips to Lankayan Island, a small coral atoll known for white beaches, diving, shipwrecks, and turtle sightings. Another must-see is Turtle Islands Park – comprising Selingan, Bakungan Kecil and Gulisan – where visitors can witness mother turtles nesting and the release of hatchlings into the sea.
Heritage & History
Beyond nature, Sandakan is steeped in history. The Sandakan Heritage Trail connects landmarks such as St. Michael’s and All Angels Church, Sabah’s oldest stone church, and the Agnes Keith House, which preserves the legacy of the famous American writer and her family life in colonial Borneo.
The Sandakan War Memorial, located on the former site of a WWII prisoner-of-war camp, honours the lives of Australian and British soldiers who perished. Each year on Anzac Day, people gather here to remember this tragic chapter of history.
Lankayan Island Sabah – Diving, Snorkeling & Turtle Watching
Discover Lankayan Island, the jewel of the Sulu Sea. Enjoy diving, snorkeling, turtle encounters and serene island relaxation in Sabah’s SIMCA marine reserve.
Sepilok Nature Resort – Stay Amidst Borneo’s Rainforest
Stay at Sepilok Nature Resort, a lakeside rainforest lodge in Sandakan. Steps from the Orangutan and Sun Bear Centres, with chalets, dining and wildlife at your doorstep.
Sepilok Forest Edge Resort – Rainforest Lodge in Sabah
Stay at Sepilok Forest Edge Resort & bond with the nature. A great comfort beyond the beautiful lush landscape & explore the orang utan sanctuary nearby.
Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre Sabah – Visit & Support
Meet the world’s smallest bears at the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre in Sepilok. Learn, observe and support conservation of this endangered species.
Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre Sabah – Visit & Support
Visit the Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre in Sabah. See orphaned orangutans, learn about rescue and rehabilitation, and support vital conservation work.
Rainforest Discovery Centre Sabah – Canopy Walk & Birds
Explore the Rainforest Discovery Centre in Sepilok, Sabah – canopy walkways, orchid gardens, jungle trails and over 300 bird species.
Selingan Turtle Island Sabah – Borneo Turtle Experience
Visit Selingan Turtle Island in Sabah. Stay overnight on Borneo’s turtle island, watch nesting turtles, and join the release of hatchlings into the sea.
Kinabatangan River – Sabah’s Wildlife Corridor
Cruise along Sabah’s longest river and spot proboscis monkeys, pygmy elephants, crocodiles, and hornbills in their natural habitat. A haven for birdwatching and unforgettable wildlife encounters.
Deramakot Forest Reserve Sabah – Wildlife Adventure
Deramakot Forest Reserve in Sabah is a hidden gem for wildlife observation. Explore pristine rainforest, spot rare species, and enjoy true wilderness adventure.
Imbak Canyon Sabah – Jungle Trekking & Wildlife Tours
Explore Imbak Canyon in Sabah, a pristine rainforest between Danum Valley and Maliau Basin. Trek jungle trails, spot wildlife and discover waterfalls.
