Sandakan, located in the Sabah region of Borneo, is a vibrant city that offers a wealth of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy. Sandakan has something to offer everyone whether you’re interested in nature, wildlife, culture, or history.
One of the top attractions in Sandakan is the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Center. Here, visitors can observe these beautiful primates up close and learn about the center’s efforts to rehabilitate and release them back into the wild. Another popular activity in Sandakan is cruising along the Kinabatangan River to spot wildlife in action, including proboscis monkeys, crocodiles, and various birds. For those interested in history, Sandakan is also home to the Sandakan Memorial Park, commemorating the lives lost during World War II.
Top Things to Do in Sandakan
Sandakan is a beautiful city in Sabah, Malaysia, known for its rich history and diverse wildlife. There are plenty of things to do in Sandakan that cater to all travelers. Here are some top activities and attractions to check out during your visit.
Nature and Wildlife Experiences
Sandakan is home to various wildlife, making it a paradise for nature lovers. One of the top attractions is the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, where visitors can watch orangutans swinging from tree to tree and feeding on fruits. The Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre is another must-visit destination, where travelers can see sun bears up close and learn about conservation efforts.
The Rainforest Discovery Centre is a great place for bird enthusiasts to spot various birds, including hornbills and bristleheads. And for those interested in sea turtles, a trip to Selingan Turtle Island is a must. Visitors can witness the hatching of baby turtles and even participate in conservation efforts.
Historical Sites and Landmarks
Sandakan has a rich history, and several landmarks and sites tell the story of the city’s past. The Sandakan Memorial Park is a moving tribute to the prisoners of war who lost their lives during World War II. Another historical site is the Agnes Keith House, a museum once the home of American author Agnes Keith.
The Sandakan Heritage Trail is a self-guided tour that takes visitors through the city’s historic landmarks, including the St. Michael’s and All Angels Church and the Japanese Cemetery. And for a taste of local culture, the Sandakan Central Market is a great place to shop for souvenirs and sample local delicacies.
Activities and Tours
Sandakan offers plenty of activities and tours for adventurous travelers. For those interested in diving, the Lankayan Island Dive Resort is a great place to explore the underwater world. And for a unique experience, the Gomantong Caves are home to millions of bats, swiftlets, and the elusive red giant flying squirrel.
For a more relaxing experience, visitors can take a cruise down the Kinabatangan River to spot wildlife such as monkeys, crocodiles, and slow lorises. And for a chance to see some of Borneo’s most iconic animals, a trip to the Danum Valley Conservation Area is a must. Visitors can spot elephants, tarsiers, leopard cats, and civets in their natural habitat.
Sandakan is a destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in wildlife, history, or adventure, there are plenty of things to do and see during your visit.
Nature and Wildlife Experiences
Sandakan is a nature lover’s paradise, with plenty of opportunities to experience the local wildlife up close. Here are some of the top nature and wildlife experiences in Sandakan:
Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre
The Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in getting up close and personal with these amazing primates. Located just a short drive from Sandakan, the centre is home to several rescued orangutans undergoing rehabilitation before being released back into the wild. Visitors can watch the orangutans feed and play in their natural habitat from a viewing platform.
Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre
The Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre is another must-visit destination for wildlife enthusiasts. The centre is home to several rescued sun bears, the smallest bear species in the world. Visitors can watch the bears being fed and playing in their natural habitat from a viewing platform.
Kinabatangan River
The Kinabatangan River is the longest in Sabah and is home to various wildlife, including hornbills, crocodiles, flying squirrels, snakes, bats, and more. Visitors can take a river cruise to see the wildlife up close and personal, or kayak for a more active experience. The river is also home to the red giant flying squirrel, a rare and endangered species.
Gomantong Cave
The Gomantong Cave is a unique natural wonder home to millions of swiftlets and bats. Visitors can take a guided tour of the cave to see the birds and bats up close and learn about the history and ecology of the area. The cave is also home to several other animals, including the tarsier, colugos, leopard cat, and more.
Overall, Sandakan is a great destination for anyone interested in nature and wildlife. Whether you want to see orangutans, sun bears, river wildlife, or cave-dwelling creatures, there is something for everyone.
Historical Sites and Landmarks
Sandakan is a city with a rich history and culture. Visitors to Sandakan can explore various historical sites and landmarks that offer a glimpse into the city’s past.
Sandakan Memorial Park
The Sandakan Memorial Park is a moving tribute to the Australian soldiers who died during the Second World War. The park is located on the former Sandakan Prisoner of War Campsite, where over 2,400 Australian and British prisoners were held captive by the Japanese. The park features a museum that displays photographs and artifacts from the war, a memorial garden, and a peaceful reflection pond.
Agnes Keith House
Image Credit: fpyap / InstagramAgnes Keith House is a colonial house once the home of American author Agnes Newton Keith. The house has been restored and now serves as a museum that showcases the life and work of Keith. Visitors can explore the house and its gardens and learn about Keith’s experiences living in Sandakan during the British colonial era.
Sim Sim Water Village
Sim Sim Water Village is a unique community built on stilts over the water. Visitors can stroll through the village and see how the locals live. The village is home to several seafood restaurants that serve fresh seafood caught by the village’s fishermen.
Sam Sing Kung Temple
Sam Sing Kung Temple was a Chinese temple built in the late 19th century. The temple is dedicated to worshiping the sea goddess Mazu and is an important cultural landmark in Sandakan. Visitors can admire the intricate carvings and decorations in the temple’s interior.
Puu Jih Shih Buddhist Temple
Puu Jih Shih Buddhist Temple is a hilltop temple that offers panoramic views of Sandakan Bay. The temple is adorned with colorful statues and decorations and is a peaceful and tranquil place to visit. Visitors can climb the stairs to the top of the temple and enjoy the views.
Sandakan is a city that is steeped in history and culture. Visitors can explore historical sites and landmarks that glimpse the city’s past. Whether it’s the Sandakan Memorial Park, Agnes Keith House, Sim Sim Water Village, Sam Sing Kung Temple, or Puu Jih Shih Buddhist Temple, there’s something for everyone to discover in Sandakan.
Activities and Tours
Sandakan offers a variety of activities and tours for tourists to enjoy, ranging from nature and wildlife tours to cultural and heritage tours. Here are some of the top tours and activities that visitors can experience in Sandakan:
Turtle Island
Image Credit: sabahtourismjpn / InstagramTurtle Island is a popular destination for wildlife admirers and photographers alike. Located in the Sulu Sea, this island is known for its crystal-clear waters and conservation efforts to protect sea turtles. Visitors can witness the turtles laying their eggs and even participate in a sea turtle conservation project. Tours to Turtle Island are available through Adventure Alternative Borneo and can be booked in advance.
Sandakan Heritage Trail
For those interested in the history and culture of Sandakan, the Sandakan Heritage Trail is a must-see. This self-guided tour takes visitors through the Chinese community of Sandakan, also known as “Little Hong Kong.” The trail includes stops at historic sites such as St. Michael’s and All Angels Church and the Agnes Keith House. Visitors can take photos and learn about the city’s rich history and heritage.
Dermakot Forest Reserve
Located about 80km from Sandakan, the Dermakot Forest Reserve is a great destination for nature lovers. The reserve is home to wildlife, including orangutans, gibbons, and pygmy elephants. Visitors can take guided tours through the reserve to see these animals in their natural habitat. Tours can be booked through Kitabaran and Adventure Alternative Borneo.
Selingan Turtle Island
Selingan Turtle Island is another popular destination for sea turtle conservation. Located about 40km from Sandakan, visitors can witness the turtles laying their eggs and even see baby turtles hatching. Tours to Selingan Turtle Island are available through Adventure Alternative Borneo and can be booked in advance.
Overall, tours and activities in Sandakan vary in popularity and price. It is recommended to book tours in advance to ensure availability. Visitors can also explore nearby attractions like Tawau Hills Park for outdoor adventures.
