Things To Do
in Sandakan
Sandakan is a coastal city located in the state of Sabah, Malaysia, known for its rich history and cultural diversity. It is home to various historical sites, such as the Sandakan Heritage Trail and the War Memorial Park, highlighting the city's significance during World War II. The city is also a gateway to the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, where visitors can observe and learn about these endangered primates up close.
With its bustling markets, delicious seafood, and friendly locals, Sandakan offers a unique experience for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation.
- "Apa khabar?" - How are you?
- "Terima kasih" - Thank you
- "Sama-sama" - You're welcome
- "Selamat pagi" - Good morning
- "Tolong" - Please
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre where you can see orangutans in their natural habitat. After that, enjoy a nature walk in the surrounding rainforest.
Head to the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre to learn about these incredible creatures and their conservation efforts. Explore the scenic trails around the centre for a closer look at the wildlife.
Visit the stunning Sandakan Harbour Square for an evening stroll and some local street food. Enjoy the sunset views over the harbour while soaking in the local atmosphere.
Begin your morning at the Rainforest Discovery Centre for bird watching and the canopy walk. This is a perfect spot to appreciate the rich biodiversity of the area.
Explore the nearby Gomantong Caves, known for their bat populations and swiftlets. Discover the fascinating ecosystems within the caves and take a guided tour to learn about their significance.
Return to Sandakan and dine at a local seafood restaurant along the waterfront. Savor the flavors of the region while enjoying the evening breeze.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich biodiversity, including unique wildlife and nature reserves.
- Cultural diversity with a blend of indigenous, Chinese, and Malay influences.
- Historical significance with attractions like the Sandakan Memorial Park and Agnes Keith House.
- Beautiful natural landscapes, including stunning beaches and rainforest areas.
- Less commercialized compared to other tourist hotspots, offering a more authentic experience.
- Limited infrastructure and amenities compared to larger cities.
- Potential language barrier for non-Malay speakers.
- Some areas can be less developed, impacting access to certain services.
- Weather can be hot and humid, with a risk of heavy rain during monsoon seasons.
- Wildlife-related activities may involve risks, such as mosquito-borne diseases.
Best Activities in Sandakan
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Visit the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre to see orangutans in their natural habitat and learn about conservation efforts.
Take a river cruise along the Kinabatangan River to spot diverse wildlife including proboscis monkeys, pygmy elephants, and various bird species.
Explore Turtle Island Park and witness the nesting and hatching of turtles, providing an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts.
Tours
Uncover the best of Sandakan with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Sandakan
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers a panoramic view of Sandakan town and the sea.
Historical site with a hilltop location providing scenic views of Sandakan.
Located on a hill, providing stunning views of Sabah's coastline and surrounding areas.
Food in Sandakan
Sandakan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Grilled fish marinated in a blend of spices and wrapped in banana leaves. You can savor this dish at stalls along the waterfront or at Sim Sim Seafood restaurants.
Must-Try!
A fragrant rice dish cooked in coconut milk and pandan leaf, served with a spicy sambal, fried anchovies, peanuts, and a hard-boiled or fried egg. Look for this dish at local eateries and street food stalls.
A type of Malaysian sandwich made with a generous spread of kaya (coconut jam) between two slices of bread, often served with soft-boiled eggs. You can find it at traditional kopitiams or coffee shops.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Sandakan better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where you can find a variety of local delights, including fresh fruits, seafood, and street food such as satay, rojak, and laksa.
A seafood market where you can enjoy fresh seafood cooked in various styles at the adjacent eateries right by the sea.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Sandakan, it is customary to greet others, particularly elders, with a slight bow or nod and a warm smile. Handshakes are also common, but it's important to wait for a woman to extend her hand first as a sign of respect.
When visiting religious sites in Sandakan, it's important to dress modestly and remove your shoes before entering a mosque or temple. It's also respectful to refrain from loud conversations or disruptive behavior in these sacred spaces.
When dining in Sandakan, it's polite to wait for the host or the eldest person at the table to start eating before you begin. Additionally, it's customary to use your right hand for eating and to leave a little food on your plate to show that you are satisfied.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Sandakan with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Sandakan
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not widely practiced in Sandakan, Malaysia. However, in some upscale restaurants and hotels, a 10% service charge may be included in the bill. It is not customary to tip taxi drivers or service personnel.
Cash is widely used for transactions in Sandakan, especially in smaller shops and markets. However, credit and debit cards are accepted in larger establishments. It's advisable to carry sufficient cash when visiting smaller establishments or local markets.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Sandakan.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Sandakan is during the dry season, when there is less rainfall and more opportunities for outdoor activities such as wildlife viewing and jungle trekking. The weather is generally hot and humid, but the clear skies make it perfect for exploring the city and its surrounding nature reserves.
The wet season brings heavy rainfall and higher humidity levels, making it less ideal for outdoor activities. However, this time of year is good for experiencing the lush greenery of the rainforest and observing the thriving wildlife. Just be prepared for occasional downpours and plan indoor activities for the rainy days.
Sandakan at Night
Hiking in Sandakan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A group of islands known for their beautiful beaches and turtle conservation. Offers hiking trails through tropical rainforest and stunning sea views.
An area of protected rainforest that provides trails through lush greenery, allowing visitors to experience the diverse flora and fauna of Borneo.
A remarkable rainforest ecosystem with a network of trails for hiking, offering sightings of rare wildlife and ancient trees.
Known for its wetlands and mangrove forests, the area features hiking trails that offer a chance to spot proboscis monkeys and other wildlife.
Famous for its biodiversity, there are opportunities for guided hikes along the river and through nearby jungle areas.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Sandakan through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Sandakan by plane.
The main international airport serving Kota Kinabalu, the capital of Sabah, and is approximately 150 kilometers from Sandakan.
An airport located on Labuan Island, serving both domestic and international flights, located about 250 kilometers from Sandakan.
An airport serving Tawau, located approximately 280 kilometers from Sandakan, with connections to international destinations.
Located in Sarawak, Miri Airport serves both domestic and limited international flights and is about 400 kilometers from Sandakan.
The main airport in Brunei, around 490 kilometers from Sandakan, offering various international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant ethnic group in Sandakan, comprising a significant portion of the population.
Another major ethnic group in Sandakan, known for their cultural influence and presence in local commerce.
Includes various ethnic groups such as the Kadazan-Dusun and Bajau, contributing to the cultural diversity of the area.
A smaller but notable demographic that adds to the multicultural landscape of Sandakan.
Includes people from various other ethnicities and backgrounds, contributing to the overall diversity.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A widely popular sport in Sandakan, football is played in many local leagues and informal matches, drawing large crowds and fostering community spirit.
Badminton is a favorite pastime in Sandakan, with many facilities available for both recreational and competitive play.
Basketball has gained popularity among the youth in Sandakan, with numerous courts available for teams and casual players alike.
This traditional sport, similar to volleyball but played with a rattan ball, is quite popular in Sandakan and often features in local competitions.
Running events and marathons are frequently organized in Sandakan, encouraging healthy lifestyles and community participation.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Sandakan.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While many local dishes feature seafood and meats, you can find vegetarian and vegan options at some restaurants and by requesting modifications to dishes at eateries accommodating dietary preferences.
Traditional Malaysian cuisine heavily features rice as a staple, offering naturally gluten-free options. However, it's advisable for those with gluten intolerance to communicate their dietary needs clearly when dining out.