Sandakan

Malaysia
2 hotels 7 flights 8 activities 💎 78/100 gem E 32/100

Hotels in Sandakan

Live prices from booking platforms. Updated 1 month ago.

Hotel Map — Sandakan

Approximate hotel locations. Click a pin for details.

Flights to Sandakan

7 routes available

KUL Kuala Lumpur
SDK Sandakan
AK AK 5h 40m
JHB Johor Bharu
SDK Sandakan
AK AK
SIN Singapore
SDK Sandakan
MH MH 21h 50m
BKK Bangkok
SDK Sandakan
AK AK 33h 15m
DPS Denpasar (Bali)
SDK Sandakan
OD OD 29h 55m
XIY XIY
SDK Sandakan
MU MU 65h 10m
HYD Hyderabad
SDK Sandakan
AK AK 39h 55m
Best Time to Fly
Cheapest flight price by month (USD). Based on available data.
Jan Feb Mar $211 Apr $308 May $105 Best Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

Things to Do in Sandakan

Tours, experiences & attractions

Restaurants in Sandakan

🍴

Discover dining in Sandakan

Browse restaurants, cafes and local food spots

🚗 Rent a Car in Sandakan

Compare cars from top agencies · Free cancellation on most bookings

Search All Cars →
🔍
Search 500+ car rental options in Sandakan
Compare prices from Hertz, Avis, Budget, local agencies & more · Instant confirmation
Find My Car →

Weather & Best Time to Visit

🌦️
26°C
Drizzle in Sandakan right now
💧 95% humidity 💨 2 km/h

Best time to visit

Jan
Jan
Feb
Feb
Mar
Mar
Apr
Apr
May
May
Jun
Jun
Jul
Jul
Aug
Aug
Sep
Sep
Oct
Oct
Nov
Nov
Dec
Dec
Ideal Acceptable Avoid Snow / Winter High season

Budget Guide — Sandakan

Typical traveller costs based on live booking prices · All figures in USD

Budget Destination
Backpacker
$45
per day
Mid-range
$76
per day
Comfortable
$108
per day
🏨
Budget hotel/night
$28
🏩
Mid-range hotel/night
$39
Upscale hotel/night
$66
🍜
Street food / local meal
$4
🍽️
Restaurant meal
$9
🏨
Hotels available
55+

Estimates based on 55 live hotel listings · Updated May 2026

Browse Hotels in Sandakan →

Travel Essentials

Safety, connectivity and getting around Sandakan

🛡️
Travel Safety
Level 2 — Caution
Exercise Increased Caution
Check travel.state.gov →
Internet Speed
Good · ~84 Mbps
Avg fixed broadband (Speedtest Global Index)
🚌
Getting Around
Grab AirAsia Ride
Bus LRT/MRT (KL) Taxi
💱
Local Currency (MYR)
$1 USD ≈ 3.95 MYR
Budget day: ~178 MYR · Mid: ~300 MYR

About Sandakan

Sandakan, a charming port city in Sabah, Malaysia, is an unmissable destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The iconic Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre is a standout attraction, where visitors can witness orphaned orangutans learn to survive in the wild. The unique 'Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre' is another must-visit, offering an up-close experience with these elusive creatures. The best time to visit Sandakan is during the dry season from May to September, when the weather is warm and sunny. For first-timers, it's essential to book a guided tour to the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, as the centre's guided tours provide valuable insights into orangutan conservation and behaviour, making the experience even more memorable.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to visit Sandakan?

Budget travellers can explore Sandakan for around $45/day, covering basic accommodation (from $28/night) and street meals (from $4 each). Mid-range travellers should budget $76/day with comfortable hotels from $39/night. Upscale stays start at $66/night. All figures in USD based on 55+ live listings.

How many hotels are in Sandakan?

JustCheckin lists 2+ accommodation options in Sandakan, from guesthouses at $28/night to luxury resorts. Use the filters above to sort by price, rating, or amenities like free WiFi, breakfast, or a pool.

Is Sandakan safe to visit?

The US State Department rates Malaysia as Level 2: "Exercise Increased Caution." Be alert, especially at night and in crowded areas. Always check travel.state.gov for the latest advisory before your trip.

How do I get around Sandakan?

Ride-hailing apps available: Grab, AirAsia Ride. Local transport includes: Bus, LRT/MRT (KL), Taxi.

💬

Community Verdict

Could not load community reports.
✈️

Be the first to report on this city!

reports so far — share yours!

Rate this destination

Nearest Airports

Serving Sandakan

SDK
Sandakan Airport
Medium Airport
Guide →
🛂
Visa & Entry Requirements
Check if you need a visa to visit Sandakan, Malaysia. Requirements vary by nationality.
Check Visa Requirements →

Destinations Near Sandakan

Explore cities within easy reach

🛡️
Travel Smart
Don't Travel Without Insurance

Medical emergencies abroad can cost $50,000+. SafetyWing covers you from just $56/month — pay as you go, cancel anytime.

Get Covered from $56/mo →
SafetyWing · Used by 100,000+ travellers
✨ Jiai — Travel AI Open Full →
Hi! I'm **Jiai**. Ask me about hotels, flights, activities or budgets for any destination.
✈️

You're on a roll!

Enter your email for unlimited Jiai access + personalised travel deals.

No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.