Getting Around: Sandakan

Public Transport & Taxis

Sandakan does not have a metro or tram system. Local buses/minivans (Vans) serve as the main form of public transport within the city. These are privately operated vehicles following fixed routes. They present inexpensive travel but can be crowded and lack fixed schedules. Vans generally operate from early morning (around 6-7 AM) until early evening (around 6-7 PM). Fares are paid in cash directly to the driver or conductor, typically RM 2-5 depending on distance.

Licensed taxis are typically red and white or blue and white. You can hail them on the street, find them at taxi stands, or book by phone. Fares are usually negotiated before the journey. Meters are rare. Short rides within the city might cost RM 10-25.

Public Transport & Taxi Tips

Vans: Ask locals for route guidance. Expect slower journeys. Not wheelchair accessible.
Taxis: Agree on fare before starting. Cash payment only.
Central Market area and downtown are informal hubs for vans.
Vans operate generally from 6-7 AM to 6-7 PM; frequency varies by time of day.

Local Vans

Inexpensive, cash-only public transport on fixed routes within the city.

Licensed Taxis

Hailable on street or at stands; fares negotiated before journey.

Grab Ride-Sharing

The dominant ride-sharing app; reliable, transparent pricing, convenient booking.

Rental Options

Car Rental

Requires a valid national driving license and International Driving Permit (IDP).
Major international companies (Hertz, Avis) and local companies at airport and city.
Pre-booking online is recommended during peak season.

Other Rentals & Road Rules

Motorcycle/scooter rentals are less common and generally not recommended for inexperienced riders.
No widespread bicycle sharing; some hotels or tour operators may present rentals.
Driving is on the left. Major roads are generally good; rural roads can vary. GPS navigation is highly recommended.

Road & Rental Safety

IDP Required

International Driving Permit alongside national license.

Left-Hand Drive

Vehicles drive on the left side of the road.

Rural Road Caution

Some rural roads may be unpaved or less maintained.

Night Driving

Avoid long-distance driving at night due to poor lighting.

Walking & Cycling

Explore Sandakan's pedestrian-friendly areas on foot or by bicycle where appropriate. The city center, especially the waterfront area (Harbour Square) and the Sandakan Heritage Trail, are walkable.

Walking Routes

The Sandakan Heritage Trail covers historical sites like Agnes Keith House and St. Michael's Church.
Self-guided walks are easy with a map.
Some local tour operators may present guided walking tours of the city's historical sites.
Walking offers opportunities for street photography and local observations.

Cycling

Dedicated bicycle infrastructure is limited.
Cycling on main roads can challenge due to traffic.
Safer cycling is more suitable for leisure within parks (e.g., Rainforest Discovery Centre) or quieter suburban areas.
Accessibility infrastructure is limited, public transport is not accessible for mobility needs.

Specialized Transportation

No hop-on-hop-off services operate.
Tour operators present private mini-buses or vans for organized tours.
Accessible transport can challenge; private transfers are recommended for mobility needs.

No regular boat taxi services for general transportation.
No cable cars, funiculars, or unique local transport like tuk-tuks.
Generally, no specific "no-go" areas within tourist parts of Sandakan during the day.

Getting Around Summary

Efficiency

Grab is often the most efficient option for in-city travel.

Exploration

Car rentals facilitate independent exploration of wider areas.

Local Feel

Local vans and walking offer a more immersed experience.

Practical Navigation

Effective navigation in Sandakan combines modern apps with local knowledge and traditional transport methods.

Ride-Sharing Efficiency

Download the Grab app and link a payment method before arrival.
Grab is generally safer due to driver tracking and transparent pricing.
Utilize designated Grab pick-up points at the airport and bus terminal.
Cash payment option is available if you prefer not to link a card.

Taxi & Van Usage

For taxis, agree on the fare with the driver before starting your journey.
Taxis and local vans operate on a cash-only basis.
Ask hotel staff or locals for guidance on minivan routes and stops.
Be aware that local vans may not follow exact schedules and can challenge travelers with mobility issues.

Exploring Independently

Car Rental Benefits

Greater flexibility for exploring destinations outside the city, like Kinabatangan or Sepilok, at your own pace.

DiscoverCars.com for options.

Driving Conditions

Main roads are generally well-maintained, but rural roads can be less predictable. Driving on the left side is standard.

Use GPS for navigation.

Parking Availability

Parking is generally available in the city center and at attractions, though busy areas may have limited spots.

Consider paid street parking.

On Foot & Bicycle

Walking Insights

The Sandakan city center and waterfront area are pedestrian-friendly.
Follow the Sandakan Heritage Trail for a self-guided historical walk.
Exercise normal caution in less-populated areas, especially at night.

Cycling Notes

Dedicated bicycle infrastructure is limited on main roads.
Cycling on main roads can challenge due to traffic.
Safer cycling is more suitable for leisure within parks (e.g., Rainforest Discovery Centre) or quiet suburban areas.

Transport Warnings

Public vans are generally not wheelchair accessible.
Motorcycle rentals are not recommended for inexperienced riders due to traffic.
Avoid long-distance driving at night, especially on rural roads, due to poor lighting and potential hazards.
Always agree on taxi fares before starting your journey to prevent disputes.

Be cautious of animals (monkeys, wild pigs) crossing roads, especially in rural areas.
Potholes can be present on less-traveled or rural roads; drive carefully.
Traffic congestion can occur in Sandakan city center during peak hours.
Be wary of scams, though they are not as prevalent as in some other tourist destinations.

Accessibility & Specialized Transport

Sandakan's infrastructure for accessibility can be limited. Specialized transport caters mostly to specific tours and activities.

Mobility Needs

Accessibility infrastructure is limited in Sandakan.
Public transport (vans) are not wheelchair accessible.
Newer hotels and major attractions might present some ramps or elevators.
Pre-arranged private transfers are recommended for travelers with mobility needs.

Tour & Water Transport

No hop-on-hop-off services operate. Tour operators present private mini-buses for organized tours.
No regular boat taxi services for general transportation; boat transport mainly serves specific tours.
No cable cars, funiculars, or unique local transport like tuk-tuks.
The local "vans" serve a similar purpose to shared taxis/minibuses in other regions.

Integrated Travel Strategy

Mix & Match

Combine Grab for urban convenience with private transfers for remote destinations.

Grab for daily city rides.
Private transfers for lodges.
Consider car rental for flexible exploration.

Local Flavor

Experience local culture through walks and minivans in the city center.

Walk the Heritage Trail.
Utilize local minivans for short trips.
Discover local eateries on foot.

Preparedness

Keep contact numbers and app functionality ready for any transport needs.

Emergency numbers handy.
Offline maps downloaded.
Grab app installed and ready.

Navigational Safeguards

Road Safety Tips

Stay vigilant for motorcycles weaving through traffic.
Be cautious of potholes, especially on less-traveled roads.
Watch for wildlife crossing rural roads.

General Security Advice

Remain aware of your surroundings, specifically in crowded tourist areas.
Secure valuables against petty crime.
Avoid displaying expensive items prominently.

Final Transport Insight

For seamless travel, consider pre-arranging transport for airport transfers and major tours, relying on Grab for spontaneous city exploration.

Embrace the adventure of local minivans for an authentic, budget-friendly experience, with a flexible schedule in mind.

Getting Around Sandakan