City in Sabah, Malaysia
Getting around Sandakan
How to get around Sandakan
Taxis and buses link the town, airport and Sepilok. Wildlife trips need a pre-booked tour or lodge transfer.
Ways to get around Sandakan
| Option | Fare | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Local bus to Sepilok | About RM3–5 | From Sandakan bus terminal; check the last service |
| Taxi | About RM10–40 | Fixed fares; to Sepilok about RM30–45 |
| Grab | About RM10–20 | Limited drivers; check availability |
Ride-hailing apps in Sandakan
A 5 km ride costs about RM10–20 ($2.4–4.9).
| App | Notes |
|---|---|
| Grab | Few drivers; use taxis if no cars appear |
- Taxis use fixed fares and often refuse meters; agree before getting in. Lodges arrange pickup for river tours.
Arriving in Sandakan
Sandakan Airport (SDK)
Taxi to town about RM30, 20 min; to Sepilok about RM30–40, 30 min; flights from KK and KL.
Driving and onward travel
- Driving: on the left. Visitors can drive on an English-language licence; otherwise carry an IDP. Scooters need a motorcycle-class licence.
- Onward travel in Malaysia: KTM's ETS electric trains link KL with Ipoh and Butterworth (for Penang); express buses go everywhere; cheap flights reach Penang, Langkawi and Borneo.
Quick answers
Is there Uber in Sandakan?
No. Use Grab instead.
What's the best way to get around Sandakan?
Taxis and buses link the town, airport and Sepilok. Wildlife trips need a pre-booked tour or lodge transfer.
How do I get from the airport to Sandakan?
Taxi to town about RM30, 20 min; to Sepilok about RM30–40, 30 min; flights from KK and KL.
Is Sandakan walkable?
Walkable center.
More about Sandakan
Going to Sandakan solo?
SoloSquare is where travelers, nomads and locals in Sandakan meet up for small plans: coffee, dinners, walks and day trips. Join one, or start your own in a minute.
Sources
Fares are typical 2026 prices; check the operator for today's fares. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.