If you are a Green Panther looking for a place to explore the nature in Borneo, consider Sandakan as your next destination. It is the second largest town in Sabah after the state capital, Kota Kinabalu. It was seized by a band of Scottish weapon smugglers led by William Clarke Cowie who named it Sandakan, “the seized place” in the Suluk Language. Soon enough, the place was renamed Kampung German (German Village) because a German army established its base there. When it was taken over by the British resident, William Pryer, it was renamed Elopura which means Beautiful City. In 1881, when the North Borneo Chartered Company took control of North Borneo, this town was renamed Sandakan again as it became the administrative centre of the region.
| Recommended Hotels in Sandakan, Sabah: |
| 1. Four Points by Sheraton Sandakan |
| Located in the city centre, one of the few hotels who offer comfortable stay. |
| Reserve through Agoda.com |
| 2. Sabah Hotel |
| Located in a middle of a rainforest, perfect for nature lover who loves serenity. |
| Reserve through Agoda.com |
| 3. ibis Styles Sandakan Waterfront |
| Good location and value for money. |
| Reserve through Agoda.com |
| 4. Nak Hotel |
| A hotel in the city centre with nice hotel design and wonderful seaview. |
| Reserve through Agoda.com |
| Browse all Hotels in Sandakan, Sabah >> |
Taking a flight seems to be the only option to get to Sandakan. From Kuala Lumpur, there are four flights per day, with the latest one departing KL at 5.25pm.
To avoid disappointment, be sure to arrange your transport and lodging earlier because moving around is rather inconvenient by public transportation.
Taxis here do not use meter so make sure you agree on a price with the taxi driver before asking him to start a journey.
