Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, Sandakan
Sandakan, located on Sabah’s east coast, is a destination rich in history, wildlife, and cultural heritage, making it a unique stop for travelers. Known for its proximity to nature reserves and cultural landmarks, Sandakan offers an unforgettable mix of experiences, from witnessing endangered wildlife up close to exploring historical sites.
This guide lists the top 10 activities and destinations in Sandakan, complete with essential details, so you can make the most out of your visit.
1. Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre
- Description: A world-renowned sanctuary for orphaned and rescued orangutans.
- Location: Sepilok, Sandakan
- Contact: +60 89-531180
- Social Media: Facebook, Instagram
- Getting There: 30-minute drive from Sandakan Airport, easily accessible by taxi or shuttle.
2. Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre
- Description: A center dedicated to protecting the endangered Bornean sun bear.
- Location: Sepilok, Sandakan (next to the Orangutan Centre)
- Contact: +60 89-534491
- Social Media: Facebook, Instagram
- Getting There: 30-minute drive from Sandakan Airport; combine this visit with the Sepilok Orangutan Centre.
3. Sandakan Memorial Park
- Description: This park commemorates Allied prisoners who perished in the Sandakan Death Marches during WWII.
- Location: Taman Rimba, Mile 8, Jalan Labuk, Sandakan
- Contact: +60 89-245977
- Social Media: Facebook
- Getting There: 15 minutes by car from Sandakan town; easily accessible by taxi.
4. Puu Jih Shih Buddhist Temple
- Description: A beautiful hillside temple with panoramic views of Sandakan Bay.
- Location: Tanah Merah, Sandakan
- Contact: N/A
- Getting There: 10-minute drive from Sandakan city center; available via car rental or taxi.
5. Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary
- Description: Observe Sabah’s iconic proboscis monkeys in a natural habitat.
- Location: Labuk Bay, Sandakan
- Contact: +60 89-672133
- Social Media: Facebook, Instagram
- Getting There: 45 minutes by car from Sandakan town; guided tours are recommended.
6. Agnes Keith House and Museum
- Description: A historical house museum dedicated to American writer Agnes Newton Keith.
- Location: Jalan Istana, Sandakan
- Contact: +60 89-221140
- Social Media: Facebook
- Getting There: 5 minutes by taxi from the town center or by foot.
7. Sandakan Crocodile Farm
- Description: One of Malaysia’s oldest crocodile farms, home to hundreds of crocodiles and other wildlife.
- Location: Mile 8, Jalan Labuk, Sandakan
- Contact: +60 89-672133
- Social Media: Facebook
- Getting There: 15 minutes from the town center by car or taxi.
8. Rainforest Discovery Centre (RDC)
- Description: Educational exhibits and canopy walks within the Kabili-Sepilok Forest Reserve.
- Location: Sepilok, Sandakan
- Contact: +60 89-533780
- Social Media: Facebook
- Getting There: 30-minute drive from Sandakan; combine with a visit to the Sepilok centers.
9. St. Michael’s and All Angels Church
- Description: Sabah’s oldest stone church, an architectural marvel from the colonial period.
- Location: Jalan Puncak, Sandakan
- Contact: +60 89-222012
- Getting There: 10 minutes from Sandakan town by taxi or car rental.
10. Selingan Turtle Island
- Description: A beautiful island known for turtle conservation, where you can watch turtles lay eggs.
- Location: Turtle Islands Park, off Sandakan coast
- Contact: +60 89-212719
- Getting There: Accessible via a 1-hour boat ride from Sandakan Jetty; prior arrangements with a tour operator are necessary.
Planning a trip to Sandakan? Make sure to explore these fantastic spots! We’d love to hear your thoughts—what are you most excited to try? Share this blog with friends and fellow travelers, leave a comment below with your favorite spots, and don’t forget to save it for future reference. Follow us on social media for more Sabah travel tips!
Q&A
Q: Are there any public transportation options available to reach Sandakan’s main attractions, or do I need to rent a car?
A: Yes, Sandakan offers several public transportation options to help you reach popular attractions. Minibuses, taxis, and even ride-sharing services operate within Sandakan, but renting a car can be more convenient for accessing remote spots like Sepilok and the Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary. If you’re looking for a cost-effective option, the bus is suitable, but a car rental provides more flexibility in your schedule.
