Sandakan: Orangutan, Sun Bear, Fireflies and Mangrove Cruise

Sandakan, a hidden gem in the heart of Borneo, beckons travelers to embark on an unforgettable journey. This one-day tour whisks you through a captivating world of endangered wildlife, lush mangrove forests, and culture. From the iconic Orangutans at Sepilok to the enchanting Bornean Sun Bears, each encounter promises to leave a lasting impression. As you cruise through the serene mangrove channels and witness the mesmerizing fireflies, the true essence of Borneo’s rich biodiversity unfolds before your eyes. Get ready to be captivated, for there’s more to discover in this remarkable destination.

Key Points

• A one-day tour in Sandakan, Borneo, highlighting visits to the Sepilok Orangutan Sanctuary, Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre, and a mangrove forest cruise.
• The tour provides opportunities for wildlife viewing, learning about conservation efforts, and immersing in the local fishing village culture.
• The tour price is €326.34 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and no upfront payment required.
• The tour includes hotel pickup, guided tours, local lunch, and a boat cruise, with a focus on educating visitors about Borneo’s biodiversity.
• Participants are advised to bring essential items such as a camera, insect repellent, and socks, and to respect local customs during the tour.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The tour from Sandakan costs €326.34 per person and features free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Travelers can reserve their spot without paying today. The tour lasts one day and includes pickup from any hotel in Sandakan.

Travelers can reserve their spot without paying today. The tour lasts one day and includes pickup from any hotel in Sandakan.

Highlights include visiting the Sepilok Orangutan Sanctuary, Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre, local village, and a mangrove forest cruise with firefly viewing.

The tour focuses on wildlife and conservation, offering cultural experiences and local meals.

Guests should bring a camera, insect repellent, and wear comfortable clothing, as the tour runs rain or shine.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins with pickup from the guest’s hotel in Sandakan, followed by a 1-hour drive to the Sepilok Orangutan Sanctuary.

At the sanctuary, guests enjoy two guided tours, each lasting 1.5 hours, to learn about orangutan care and rehabilitation.

Next, they visit the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre to discover the world’s smallest bear.

After a local lunch, the group explores a fisherman village, participating in village games and enjoying a tea break with the residents.

The tour continues with a 1.5-hour boat cruise through mangrove forests to view fireflies before a local dinner.

Wildlife and Conservation Focus

Discovering the world’s smallest bear takes center stage at the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre, where guests learn about the conservation efforts to protect this unique species.

Next, the tour visits the renowned Sepilok Orangutan Sanctuary, allowing visitors to observe the rehabilitation and care of these incredible primates.

Throughout the day, wildlife viewing opportunities abound, with the chance to spot an array of animals in their natural habitats.

The tour’s focus on conservation and education provides a deeper understanding of the importance of protecting Borneo’s incredible biodiversity for future generations.

Cultural Experience

While exploring the local fisherman village, guests have the opportunity to interact with the friendly residents and participate in traditional village games. This culture allows visitors to gain a deeper understanding of the local way of life.

Highlights include:

• Chatting with fishermen about their daily routines and challenges

• Trying your hand at simple fishing techniques

• Joining in on lively village games, like sepak takraw (kick volleyball)

• Sipping on refreshing local tea as you take in the peaceful riverside scenery

This cultural experience complements the wildlife encounters, providing a well-rounded tour of Sandakan’s natural and human landscapes.

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Pickup and Transportation

Your tour begins with convenient pickup from your hotel in Sandakan. A comfortable air-conditioned vehicle will whisk you away, allowing you to sit back and relax as you’re transported to the first destination. The journey takes approximately one hour, providing an opportunity to admire the scenic countryside along the way.

| Pickup Location | Pickup Time |

| — | — |

| Hotel in Sandakan | 8:00 AM |

| Sepilok Orangutan Sanctuary | 9:00 AM |

| Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre | 10:30 AM |

| Return to Sandakan | 6:00 PM |

The tour’s flexibility ensures you make the most of your day, with pickup and drop-off tailored to your needs. Sit back, enjoy the ride, and prepare to embark on an unforgettable wildlife adventure.

Dining Experiences

After exploring the natural wonders of the Sepilok Orangutan Sanctuary and the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre, the tour seamlessly transitions to the dining experiences.

Guests are treated to a local lunch at the Sepilok Jungle Resort, where they savor authentic flavors and enjoy the lush, tropical setting.

The culinary adventure continues with a delightful local dinner, allowing visitors to further engage with the region’s culinary heritage.

The dining experiences are designed to complement the overall cultural exploration, leaving travellers with a well-rounded understanding of Sabah’s vibrant gastronomy.

• Local lunch at Sepilok Jungle Resort

• Authentic flavors and tropical ambiance

• Local dinner highlighting regional cuisine

• Culinary exploration complements cultural experience

Preparation and Important Information

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience, travellers are encouraged to bring essential items like a camera, insect repellent, and socks. Smoking is not allowed, and departure times may vary due to traffic and hotel distance. Guests should wear comfortable clothing and shoes, bring sun protection, and carry a water bottle. Respect local customs at religious sites and be mindful of belongings in crowded areas. Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed, so patience is key. Expect walking in tropical weather, as the tour runs rain or shine.

| What to Bring | Not Allowed | Additional Tips |

|—————|————-|—————–|

| Camera | Smoking | Respect Customs |

| Insect Repellent | | Mindful of Belongings |

| Socks | | Prepare for Weather |

Booking and Cancellation Policy

The tour from Sandakan is priced at €326.34 per person and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The tour from Sandakan is priced at €326.34 per person and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Travelers can reserve their spot without payment, allowing them to book now and pay later.

The 1-day tour includes:

• Pickup from any hotel in Sandakan

• Flexible departure times to accommodate traffic and distance

• The option to wear comfortable clothing and bring necessary items like a camera and insect repellent

• Respect for local customs, especially at religious sites, and awareness of belongings in crowded areas

Wildlife sightings aren’t guaranteed, but patience is encouraged during this comprehensive tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can We Extend the Tour Duration if Needed?

Yes, the tour duration can be extended if needed. Guests can discuss this with the tour operator, who’ll accommodate any requests to extend the tour within reasonable limits, subject to availability.

Do We Need to Buy Entrance Tickets Separately?

No, the tour price includes all entrance fees and tickets. Guests don’t need to buy any additional tickets separately. The tour package covers access to all the sites and activities mentioned in the itinerary highlights.

Are There Any Age or Physical Restrictions for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have any age or physical restrictions. Participants of all ages and fitness levels are welcome, though the itinerary involves walking and hiking, so reasonable mobility is recommended.

Can We Request a Specific Language for the Guide?

Yes, you can request a specific language for the guide. The tour operator offers guided tours in multiple languages to accommodate the needs and preferences of their international guests.

Is There an Option to Customize the Tour Itinerary?

Customers can customize the tour itinerary upon request. The tour operator offers flexibility to adjust the schedule and activities based on individual preferences and interests. Additional fees may apply for customized arrangements.

The Sum Up

Set out on a captivating journey in Sandakan, where you’ll encounter the mesmerizing Orangutans and the world’s smallest bear. This one-day tour offers a scenic mangrove cruise, a cultural experience, and a focus on wildlife conservation, providing both educational insights and unforgettable encounters amidst Borneo’s stunning biodiversity. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn about the natural wonders of Sandakan.

You can check availability for your dates here: