Sandakan Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Sandakan with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the top attractions, hiking and biking routes, food and drink scene, local culture, and more.


Introduction to Sandakan

Sandakan is a picturesque city located in Sabah, Malaysia. Situated on the eastern coast of Borneo Island, this historic town is renowned for its ecotourism destinations. It is a melting pot of various cultures, from the indigenous tribes to the Malay, Chinese, and Indian communities.

Whether you are looking for adventure, history, or cultural experiences, Sandakan has something for everyone. In this travel guide, we will take a comprehensive tour of the city, covering everything from the top attractions to the best hiking and biking routes, the local food and drink scene, and more.

List of Places to Visit in Sandakan

Sandakan is home to a variety of cultural and natural attractions. Here are the top places to visit in the city:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Sandakan Memorial Park is a tribute to the WW2 heroes.

  • Agnes Keith House: a century-old colonial mansion converted into a charming museum to honor the famous American writer and her husbands’ story in pre-war Borneo.

  • Puu Jih Shih Temple is one of the most prominent Chinese temples in the city.

Natural Attractions of Sandakan: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, to observe the rehabilitation of these intelligent mammals and see them play and feed from the nearby platforms and the nearby Sun Bear Center, which is part of the holiday in the city.

  • The Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary, where visitors can observe the monkeys’ behavior and habits.

  • Kinabatangan River and the Gomantong Caves for a unique experience with nature.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Sandakan

Sandakan has fantastic options for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Here are some of the best routes to explore:

  • Bukit Timgas Hill Trek: A 45-minute hike up to the peak through tropical forest with fantastic views of the city.

  • Puh Jih Shih Temple Trek: A 30-minute trail to the temple on a hilltop with stunning scenery.

Best Things to Do in Sandakan: Activities and Tours

Besides the top attractions in the city, Sandakan has many activities and tours to make your trip more memorable. Here are the most recommended ones:

  • Visit the Sandakan Central Market for shopping and trying out local foods.

  • Take a boat out to the Berhala Island, which is famous for its beaches and snorkeling spots.

  • Go scuba diving with the Sipadan Island Scuba Diving Tour.

Week-Long Itinerary for Sandakan

To get the most out of your vacation in Sandakan, we recommend a week-long itinerary to explore the top attractions and activities. Here is a sample itinerary:

Day Activities
Day 1 Visit the Sandakan Memorial Park, Agnes Keith Museum, and Puu Jih Shih Temple.
Day 2 Head to Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre and Sun Bear Center.
Day 3 Explore the Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary and Kinabatangan River.
Day 4 Go for the Puh Jih Shih Temple trek and stroll around the Sandakan Central Market.
Day 5 Take a boat tour to Berhala Island for beach and snorkeling.
Day 6 Go for scuba diving with Sipadan Island Scuba Diving Tour.
Day 7 Visit Gomantong Caves and look for rare bird species.

Food and Drink Scene of Sandakan

The food and drink scene in Sandakan is abundant with unique flavors and influences from various cultures. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Ngiu Chap: A beef noodle soup dish served with different toppings depending on the vendor you choose.

  • Hinava: A traditional dish of marinated raw fish with lime juice and spices.

  • Kampung Servay: Famous restaurant serving seafood and local delicacies.

Local Beverages

  • Teh Tarik: A hot tea mixed with sugar and condensed milk, poured from one cup to another to create a frothy texture.

  • Milo Ais: An iced-cold cocoa drink.

Where to Stay in Sandakan: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Sandakan offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxurious hotels to budget-friendly hostels. Here are some recommendations:

  • Four Points by Sheraton Sandakan: A high-end hotel overlooking the Sulu Sea.

  • Nak Hotel Sandakan: A budget-friendly option in the center of the city.

What to Buy in Sandakan: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Sandakan has a thriving market where you can find a variety of souvenirs and local products to bring back home as reminders of your trip. Here are some suggestions:

  • Local handicrafts such as baskets made of rattan and other natural materials.

  • Batik fabric and clothes.

  • Fresh seafood such as fish maws and fish bladders for culinary purposes.

Local Culture and Customs of Sandakan

One of the things that make Sandakan unique is its diverse culture and customs. Here are some useful tips to keep in mind when interacting with the locals:

  • Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.

  • Always remove your footwear before entering a mosque or temple.

Best Time to Visit Sandakan

The best time to visit Sandakan is from March to October, when the weather is dry and pleasant. Avoid visiting during the rainy season from November to February.

Do’s and Don’ts of Sandakan

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience in Sandakan, follow these do’s and don’ts.

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.

  • Carry cash as not all shops accept credit cards.

Don’t:

  • Litter public places.

  • Drink water from the tap without boiling or filtering it first.

Safety and Health

Sandakan is a relatively safe city for tourists, but it is recommended to take some precautions. Here are some tips:

Safety in Sandakan

  • Avoid carrying large sums of cash on you.

  • Be vigilant in crowded places like markets and bus stations.

Health in Sandakan

  • Drink bottled water and avoid consuming food from street vendors.

  • Apply mosquito repellent and wear protective clothing to prevent dengue fever and other diseases.

Getting to Sandakan: Transportation Options and Logistics

Sandakan is well-connected to other major cities in Malaysia via air, land, and sea. Here are some transportation options to consider:

Airports Near Sandakan

  • Sandakan Airport: Serves international and domestic flights.

Bus Stations Near Sandakan

  • Sandakan Bus Terminal: Offers bus services to other major destinations in Sabah.

Other Options

  • Taxis, Grab services, and car rentals are also available in the city.

How to Get Around in Sandakan

The most convenient and popular transportation option in Sandakan is by taxi or Grab services. You can also rent a car or motorbike to explore the city at your leisure.

Where to Go Next from Sandakan: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Sandakan is an excellent base for exploring neighboring attractions and destinations. Here are some suggestions:

  • Check out the Danum Valley Conservation Area for a unique wildlife experience.

  • Visit Kota Kinabalu City for more cultural and scenic attractions.

Conclusion

Sandakan offers a perfect blend of cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, and natural destinations. With this comprehensive guide, you can plan your trip and enjoy the best of what this city has to offer. Follow our recommendations, and you will undoubtedly have a memorable vacation in Sandakan.

Timber ships at Bandar Leila (left), Kampung Lai Fu Kim (middle), Leila Complex (right) and abandoned Happy Cinema (at the very right side, partly covered by trees), seen from Puu Jih Shih Temple Timber ships at Bandar Leila (left), Kampung Lai Fu Kim (middle), Leila Complex (right) and abandoned Happy Cinema (at the very right side, partly covered by trees), seen from Puu Jih Shih Temple