Dive deep into the heart of Borneo with our comprehensive Sandakan Full Day Tour. Starting with a convenient pick-up from your hotel or the airport in Sandakan, we’ll first visit the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre. Here, you’ll register and proceed to the Outdoor Nursery to observe the younger orangutans up close. A guided walk along the boardwalk leads to the Feeding Platform where you can watch these fascinating primates and explore the lush lowland rainforest. Next, a short walk takes you to the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre, where you can observe the world’s smallest bears in their natural habitat. After soaking in these wildlife experiences, enjoy a relaxing lunch before venturing into the historical and cultural depths of Sandakan on an afternoon city tour. Our city tour includes stops at the poignant Sandakan Memorial Park, the radiant Puu Jih Shih Buddhist Temple with its breathtaking views, the historic St. Michael’s Church, and the bustling Central Market. Delve into the colonial history at the Agnes Keith Museum and finish with a refreshing stop at the English Tea House, offering another stunning vista of Sandakan. The day concludes with a transfer back to your hotel or the Sandakan airport.
Highlights
Get up close with orangutans and sun bears at dedicated conservation centers, deepening your understanding of Borneo’s unique biodiversity.
Enjoy exceptional views of Sandakan Bay and the surrounding natural beauty from elevated points like the Buddhist temple and the English Tea House.
Learn about colonial life in Borneo through the lives of Agnes and Harry Keith at the Agnes Keith Museum.
Experience the local culture with tours of important religious sites and bustling markets, showcasing the diversity of Sandakan.
Explore Sandakan’s rich history with visits to Sandakan Memorial Park and other significant sites, offering a glimpse into its past.
What to Expect
Prepare to be enthralled as you delve into the heart of Borneo’s lush rainforests and encounter its most iconic inhabitants. Your adventure begins at the renowned Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, where you’ll witness these majestic creatures swinging through the trees in their natural habitat. Marvel at their intelligence and grace as they go about their daily routines. Next, delve into the fascinating world of the Sun Bears at the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre, where you’ll learn about efforts to protect these endangered animals. After a delicious lunch, immerse yourself in the rich biodiversity of Sandakan with a guided city tour. Explore its vibrant markets, historic landmarks, and serene landscapes, gaining insight into the region’s cultural and ecological significance. With knowledgeable guides and unforgettable experiences, our tour promises a day filled with discovery, wonder, and conservation awareness.
Things to Note
Weather: Bring Raincoat (wet season Nov-Feb)
Dress Code: good walking shoes, socks, comfortable cotton T-shirt with long or short pant
Accessibility: Park entrance fees
Operating Hours
operating hour activities
08:30 hrs (STW Office, City Hotels in Sandakan) 08:45 hrs (Sabah Hotel), 09:15 hrs (Sepilok Jungle Resort)
Description / Important Notes
Departures:
0800 hrs (City Hotels in Sandakan)
0900 hrs (Sepilok Jungle Resort)
Itinerary:
Pick up from your hotel or airport in Sandakan, then drive to the Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre.
After registration, we visit to Outdoor Nursery, for a closer look of the younger orangutans.
Then, follow a guided boardwalk that will lead you to the Feeding Platform, a chance for you to explore the lowland rainforest trees.
Witness the feeding of orang utans. Following Sepilok, enjoy a leisurely walk to the nearby Sun Bear Conservation Centre to witness the world’s smallest bear in its natural environment before heading to lunch.
In the afternoon, continue with the Sandakan City Tour.
Explore the Sandakan Memorial Park, situated adjacent to the original Sandakan Prisoner of War (POW) Camp, commemorating the sacrifices of Australian and British soldiers during 1942-1945. Visit the Puu Jih Shih Buddhist Temple, offering a magnificent view of Sandakan Bay and the Town Centre from its steep hilltop location.
Proceed to one of the oldest churches in Sabah, St. Michael’s Church, and then to the
Central Market to witness the sale of local produce and fresh seafood.
Explore the Agnes Keith Museum to learn about life in colonial days, with insights into the lives of Agnes and Harry Keith. Harry, the first conservator of the Forestry Department in Sabah, and Agnes, the renowned author of Land Below The Wind, Three Came Home, and White Man Returns. Conclude your tour with a stop at the nearby English Tea House for another spectacular view of Sandakan Nature City.
Following the tours, we’ll transfer you back to Sandakan airport or your hotel.