15 Top-Rated Sandakan Tours & Experiences

Sandakan offers a treasure trove of tours and experiences that reveal the best of Borneo’s wildlife and local culture. Whether you’re after an intimate jungle adventure, a wildlife safari, or a cultural city tour, Sandakan’s varied offerings won’t disappoint. One of our favorite picks is the Borneo Wildlife Tour 2 Days 1 Night at Tanjung Bulat Jungle Camp because it combines small-group intimacy, wildlife cruises, and authentic local interaction—all in the heart of the jungle. It’s perfect for nature lovers who want to see animals like orangutans and proboscis monkeys in their natural habitat. If you’re short on time, the 2D1N Sandakan Private Tour with Kinabatangan River Cruise offers a condensed but rewarding wildlife experience. For those fascinated by primates, the Full Day Orang Utan Sepilok, Proboscis Monkey, Sunbear, RDC tour provides a comprehensive day of animal encounters, including feeding sessions and forest walks.

Quick Overview

Sandakan has a wide range of wildlife-focused tours, from multi-day jungle expeditions like the 3 Days 2 Nights Tanjung Bulat Jungle Camp With Gomantong Cave to short city and wildlife tours such as the Half Day Sandakan City Tour. Many tours include river cruises, visits to rehabilitation centers, and community visits. For wildlife enthusiasts, the Kinabatangan River cruises consistently impress with sightings of orangutans, pygmy elephants, and hornbills. For those interested in conservation, tours that support local projects and environmental efforts are also available, like the 3-day Jungle Camp. And if cultural sights are more your style, there are city tours with visits to local temples, markets, and historic sites.

1. Borneo Wildlife Tour 2 Days 1 Night At Tanjung Bulat Jungle Camp Kinabatangan

At number 1, this wildlife overnight experience combines small-group intimacy with multiple cruises for optimal animal sightings. The tour includes dinner, breakfast, and accommodation at Tanjung Bulat Jungle Camp, run by local jungle dwellers. The camp’s limited visitor numbers ensure a quiet, authentic environment. During this tour, you’ll go on three wildlife cruises, increasing your chances to spot orangutans, crocodiles, and exotic birds. Guests praise the enthusiastic guides, with reviews highlighting the close encounters and night walks. The tour’s cost of $230, including meals and lodging, offers great value for wildlife lovers who want an immersive jungle experience. It’s perfect if you prefer a small-group, eco-friendly adventure with personalized attention. The only potential downside is the basic accommodations, but that’s part of the charm for true jungle aficionados.

Bottom Line: Best suited for wildlife enthusiasts wanting an authentic, small-group experience with plenty of animal sightings.

2. Borneo Wildlife Tour 3 Days 2 Nights At Tanjung Bulat Jungle Camp Kinabatangan

This extended wildlife tour offers more time and deeper immersion into Borneo’s rainforest — perfect for those wanting to go beyond the basics. Starting with a pickup from Sandakan or Sepilok, you spend three days at the Tanjung Bulat Jungle Camp with daily cruises, walks, and leisure time. The tour emphasizes conservation education, with proceeds supporting a tree planting project. Guides like Jaii bring passion and expertise, making each animal encounter memorable. Guests rave about seeing orangutans, proboscis monkeys, and experiencing raw jungle adventure. Meals, accommodation, and activities are included, making it cost-effective at $270. It’s ideal for dedicated wildlife lovers who want more time in nature and the chance to learn about conservation efforts.

Bottom Line: Great for wildlife fans seeking an immersive multi-day jungle experience with a focus on education and conservation.

3. Full Day Orang Utan Sepilok, Proboscis Monkey, Sunbear, RDC

At number 3, this full-day tour is a solid choice for travelers who want a comprehensive wildlife experience without staying overnight. It includes visits to the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary, and the Rainforest Discovery Centre. The highlight is watching orangutans being fed and seeing proboscis monkeys in the wild — both iconic Bornean species. The lunch at Borneo Sepilok Resort adds comfort, and the tour is praised for its knowledgeable guides and well-organized itinerary. Priced at $210, it’s an excellent value considering the number of wildlife encounters packed into just 8 hours. It’s perfect if you’re short on time but want to see a variety of animals in their natural habitat.

Bottom Line: Ideal for wildlife enthusiasts with limited time who want a full day of animal encounters and forest exploration.

4. Private Full Day Sepilok Orang Utan, Bornean Sun Bear and Rainforest Discovery Center Tour

This private day tour offers a personalized experience, tailored to your interests. It includes visits to Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre, and the Rainforest Discovery Centre. With the flexibility of a private guide, you’ll enjoy more customized timings and in-depth explanations of the flora and fauna. Guests love the private attention and the chance to skip the crowds. The tour takes about 7 to 8 hours and costs $125 per person, making it good value for a more intimate experience. Highlights include support for conservation projects and guided plant walks. The main downside is it’s slightly less comprehensive than multi-day options but perfect for those seeking a flexible, eco-focused day.

Bottom Line: Best for travelers wanting a personalized, eco-conscious tour with flexible scheduling.

5. Labuk Proboscis, Sepilok, Sun Bear, Sandakan City Tour & Lunch

Number 5 on our list is a combo tour that blends wildlife sightings with cultural and city highlights. It includes visits to Sepilok Orang Utan Centre, Labuk Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary, and Sandakan City sights such as the Puu Jih Shih Temple and market. With hotel pick-up and lunch, it’s convenient for travelers with limited time. Reviewers mention the friendly guides and variety of sights, making it a good choice for a half-day escape from the city. Price at $151.32 offers solid value for the diversity of experiences combined. It works well for those interested in both wildlife and local culture.

Bottom Line: Excellent for travelers who want a balanced mix of wildlife and city sights in a single day.

6. 3 Days 2 Nights Tanjung Bulat Jungle Camp With Gomantong Cave

This three-day jungle expedition promises an immersive adventure with meals, accommodation, and Gomantong Cave exploration included. Starting from Sandakan, you’ll visit wildlife-rich areas, participate in night walks, and explore the famous cave known for swiftlet nests. The tour emphasizes supporting local communities and learning about Borneo’s diverse wildlife. Guests are especially impressed with the intimate camp experience and animal sightings like orangutans, civets, and gibbons. The $338 price reflects the all-inclusive nature and depth of experience. It’s ideal for serious wildlife fans looking for a multi-day, eco-friendly journey.

Bottom Line: Best suited for those seeking a comprehensive, extended jungle adventure with a focus on local conservation.

7. 2D1N Sandakan Private Tour with Kinabatangan River Cruise

This private two-day tour combines city highlights with a river cruise through the Kinabatangan. Starting with airport pickup, you visit orangutan sanctuaries and then cruise along the famous river, with chances to spot proboscis monkeys and pygmy elephants. Guests appreciate the private guide, who enhances the experience with local insights. The $290 price makes it a cost-effective option for travelers wanting a personalized, flexible itinerary. It’s perfect if you prefer customized schedules and want to combine wildlife with city exploration.

Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want a personalized, two-day wildlife and city combo.

8. Day Trip Sepilok Orang Utan & Proboscis Monkey (Flight Excluded)

Number 8 offers a convenient full-day experience focusing on Sepilok Orang Utans and Proboscis Monkeys. It’s suitable for those with limited time, including lunch outside Sandakan. You’ll see orangutans feeding and enjoy close-up sightings at the labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary. Reviews highlight the efficient itinerary and knowledgeable guides. Priced at $176, it’s a good value for a packed day of wildlife viewing. This tour works well for families or first-time visitors wanting a comprehensive snapshot.

Bottom Line: Great for a full day of wildlife that’s easy to book and light on logistics.

9. Sepilok Orang Utan, Sun Bear & Sandakan Nature City Tour + Lunch

For those wanting a combination of wildlife and culture, this 8-hour tour hits the mark. It includes Sepilok’s orangutans, Sun Bear Center, and a city tour of Sandakan with stops at the market and Puu Jih Shih Temple. The reviews highlight the well-paced schedule and friendly guides. At $298.80, it offers a comprehensive experience for travelers interested in both nature and local sights. It’s perfect if you want a balanced day exploring both wildlife sanctuaries and cultural landmarks.

Bottom Line: Recommended for those seeking a full day blending wildlife and city highlights.

10. Sandakan: 3 Day Sukau Rainforest Wildlife Journey and Cruises

Number 10 is a luxurious 3-day rainforest adventure on the Kinabatangan River. The tour features river cruises, wildlife spotting, night walks, and riverbank activities at the Bilit Adventure Lodge. Guests praise the high-quality guides and abundance of wildlife sightings, including elephants and orangutans. The $181.93 price offers excellent value considering the length and depth of experience. It’s best suited for serious wildlife enthusiasts looking for an extended, immersive journey with comfortable accommodation.

Bottom Line: For travelers wanting a comprehensive, multi-day wildlife trip with a focus on luxury and comfort.

11. Private Tour: Half Day Sandakan City Tour Including Local Lunch

Number 11 provides a relaxed half-day tour of Sandakan’s key cultural sights. It includes visits to war memorials, stilt houses, and a local market, with an authentic Malaysian lunch. The reviews commend the friendly guides and flexible itinerary. At $60, it’s affordable and perfect for those with limited time who want an authentic taste of the city. Suitable for families or first-timers wanting a quick overview.

Bottom Line: Ideal for a short, relaxing city tour with local flavor.

12. Sandakan: 2D1N Sukau Rainforest Wildlife Journey and Cruises

This shorter 2-day version of the rainforest journey offers a focused wildlife experience with river cruises and animal sightings. Tourists appreciate the easy logistics and compact schedule, making it suitable for those on a tight timeline. The $150.27 price is quite reasonable for a two-day, wildlife-rich experience.

Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers craving a brief but impactful rainforest adventure.

13. Sepilok Orang Utan & Bornean Sun Bear Centre with Sandakan City Tour with Lunch

Number 13 is a full-day blend of wildlife encounters and city sightseeing. It features visits to Sepilok, Sun Bear Centre, and the Sandakan City Market, along with a local lunch. Reviewers mention the knowledgeable guides and well-paced schedule. At $190.79, it offers a balanced and convenient experience for those wanting a mix of nature and culture.

Bottom Line: Well-suited for travelers who want an all-in-one day exploring wildlife and local life.

14. Mangrove Cruise with Fireflies Tour Including Dinner from Sandakan

This evening cruise combines a sunset boat ride, firefly viewing, and seafood dinner. It’s a romantic and relaxing way to see the mangrove ecosystem. The $64.11 price makes it an affordable, atmospheric experience, especially appreciated for the fireflies. Guests describe it as beautiful and peaceful, perfect for a low-key, scenic evening.

Bottom Line: Best for couples or those seeking a calm, nature-focused evening.

15. Sandakan: 2 Days 1 Night Bilit, Kinabatangan River Wildlife

Our final pick offers a two-day stay at Bilit with river cruises, night walks, and wildlife sightings. The $353 cost includes meals, accommodation, and activities. Guests highlight the guided tours, the chance to see pygmy elephants, and elephant crossings during cruises. It’s perfect for those wanting a deep, eco-focused getaway with comfortable lodging.

Bottom Line: Excellent for wildlife enthusiasts seeking a multi-day, immersive experience in a comfortable setting.

How to Choose Your Perfect Tour

Choosing the right tour depends on your interests, budget, and available time. For wildlife aficionados, the multi-day jungle camps or extended river journeys (Bilit Jungle Camp) offer more animals and deeper immersion. If your schedule is tight, a full-day wildlife tour like the Sepilok Orang Utan & Proboscis Monkey might suit you better. For a blend of wildlife and city sights, the Sandakan City Tour provides a balanced experience. Consider whether you want a private, small-group, or larger group tour—each has its advantages.

Timing is also key. The best wildlife sightings often occur during early morning or dusk cruises, so check the itineraries to maximize your chances. Book early, especially for popular multi-day tours, as spots fill quickly.

Final Thoughts

Sandakan offers a diverse selection of tours that cater to wildlife lovers, culture seekers, and adventure travelers alike. If you’re after a deep jungle experience, the 3-day jungle camp or extended river journeys are hard to beat. For those wanting a quick but rich wildlife fix, the full-day tours deliver plenty of animal encounters in just a few hours.

For first-time visitors, combining a city tour with a wildlife experience can make your trip well-rounded. Remember to book early to secure your spot, especially during peak seasons. No matter your choice, Sandakan’s tours promise authentic encounters with Borneo’s incredible wildlife and local culture.