Iconic Wildlife Of Sabah, Borneo

Three ecosystems, one extraordinary wildlife destination

Sandakan sits at the center of a truly unique wildlife region. Within a relatively small region, ancient rainforest, protected river wetlands, and pristine coral islands come together to create ideal habitats for Sabah’s most remarkable species. Orangutans and sun bears inhabit the forest canopy, while proboscis monkeys and Borneo pygmy elephants gather along the rivers of the Kinabatangan. Saltwater crocodiles patrol these same waterways, and just offshore, sea turtles return to Sabah’s islands to nest. This rare convergence of ecosystems makes Sandakan one of the premier destinations in Borneo to encounter wildlife in its natural environment, all within a single, well-connected region.