Sandakan’s top city tours pack a powerful punch of wildlife and cultural experiences. The standout offerings center around three main attractions: the Sepilok Orangutan Centre, where you’ll observe young orangutans learning survival skills; the Sun Bear Conservation Centre, home to the world’s smallest bears; and the city’s vibrant temples and markets.
I especially love the orangutan tours for their intimate morning feeding sessions, and the flexible private city tours that let you set your own pace.
The proboscis monkey encounters, usually combined with village visits, offer excellent value and unique wildlife viewing.
Let’s explore the best tour options in detail.
Good To Know
- The Sandakan City Cultural Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of local attractions, culture, and cuisine for an immersive experience.
- The Private Sandakan City Tour provides personalized attention from an English-speaking guide and flexibility to adjust the itinerary.
- The Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary Tour combines visits to Sepilok and Bornean Sun Bear Centre, offering a diverse wildlife experience.
- The Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre Tour provides an educational opportunity to learn about the conservation efforts for the rare Bornean sun bear.
- The Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Center Tour allows visitors to witness the integration efforts for young orangutans back into the wild.
Sepilok Orang Utan & Bornean Sun Bear Centre With Sandakan City Tour With Lunch
Your full-day tour from Sandakan starts with a visit to the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Center. Here, you’ll witness the remarkable efforts to integrate young primates back into the wild.
Next, you’ll head to the Bornean Sun Bear Center, where you’ll learn about conservation efforts for this rare species.
The tour also includes a visit to a Buddhist temple and the Sandakan Market, where you can learn about the local culture.
Lunch at a nearby restaurant is included, ensuring you’re well-fed throughout the day.
Your round-trip hotel transfers, entrance fees, and sales and service tax are all covered. However, you’ll need to pay any optional fees, such as camera or video charges at the parks.
The tour operates daily from 8 AM to 4 PM, with a maximum group size of 40 travelers. Accessibility is provided for wheelchairs and strollers, but infants must sit on laps.
Non-refundable pricing starts at $190.79 per person, subject to group size.
Read our full review: Sepilok Orang Utan & Bornean Sun Bear Centre With Sandakan City Tour With Lunch Review
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Sepilok Orang Utan, Sun Bear & Sandakan Nature City Tour + Lunch
Set out on a captivating day filled with immersive wildlife experiences during the Sepilok Orang Utan, Sun Bear & Sandakan Nature City Tour + Lunch. This tour from Asni Tours & Travel (M) Sdn Bhd takes you to the renowned Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre and Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre.
You’ll witness nursery viewing and feeding sessions, as well as explore the Labuk Bay Proboscis Sanctuary.
The tour is priced from $263.41 per person and includes hotel pick-up, an air-conditioned vehicle, and an English-speaking guide. Lunch is also provided.
Note that a 30% surcharge applies during super peak/festive seasons, and an additional $15 per person charge for hotels outside the 1km Sandakan city center radius.
The experience features a well-planned itinerary, allowing for less crowded afternoon visits and great photo opportunities.
Travelers have praised the comfortable transport and informative guide. Minimum group size is 4 people, and the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible but stroller-friendly.
Read our full review: Sepilok Orang Utan, Sun Bear & Sandakan Nature City Tour + Lunch Review
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Private Tour: Half Day Sandakan City Tour Including Local Lunch
Uncover the vibrant heart of Sandakan on this private half-day city tour. Priced from $51.29 per person, this experience showcases the city’s top attractions, led by an English-speaking guide.
Hop aboard an air-conditioned car or minivan for round-trip transportation, then dive into Sandakan’s rich history and culture.
Highlights include the poignant Sandakan Memorial Park, a site of World War II significance. You’ll also visit other must-see sights, with the flexibility to adjust the itinerary based on your group’s preferences.
Savor a local lunch as part of the tour, and enjoy the personalized attention of your private guide.
With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 from 6 reviews, this tour is an excellent choice for first-time visitors seeking an overview of Sandakan.
The only potential drawbacks are occasional issues with the guide’s English proficiency and concerns that the experience didn’t fully meet expectations for a private tour.
Read our full review: Private Tour: Half Day Sandakan City Tour Including Local Lunch Review
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Labuk Proboscis, Sepilok, Sun Bear, Sandakan City Tour & Lunch
Venture into the heart of Borneo’s enchanting wildlife with this comprehensive tour showcasing Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary, and Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre.
You’ll have the chance to witness the majestic orangutans, the unique proboscis monkeys, and the adorable sun bears in their natural habitats.
The tour also includes a visit to a hilltop temple for panoramic views and exploration of the bustling Sandakan Central Market.
Enjoy a delicious local lunch and take advantage of family-friendly discounts.
With a maximum group size of 15, or the option for a private tour, you’ll receive personalized attention from your knowledgeable guide.
Convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as accessibility features, ensure a seamless experience.
Backed by over 23 positive reviews, this tour is a must-do for anyone seeking an immersive wildlife encounter in Sandakan.
Don’t miss this opportunity to create lasting memories in the heart of Borneo.
Read our full review: Labuk Proboscis, Sepilok, Sun Bear, Sandakan City Tour & Lunch Review
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The Sum Up
Sandakan offers a variety of city tours that allow you to explore the Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre, Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre, and the city itself. These tours typically include lunch and provide an opportunity to learn about the local wildlife and culture. Whether you’re interested in nature or sightseeing, Sandakan has a tour that’ll suit your needs.