A coastal city with a marina, buildings, and a well-maintained park.

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Tonight
8 Aug - 9 Aug
Tomorrow
9 Aug - 10 Aug
Next weekend
14 Aug - 16 Aug
In two weeks
21 Aug - 23 Aug

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Our top choices for Sandakan hotels

1. Tanini Sepilok (Formerly Nature Lodge Sepilok)

Tanini Sepilok (Formerly Nature Lodge Sepilok)
Sandakan
Malaysia
Danielle
Rp1.136.768
Rp1.271.459 total
includes taxes & fees
7 Sept - 8 Sept
Tanini Sepilok (Formerly Nature Lodge Sepilok)

2. Paganakan Dii Tropical Retreat

Paganakan Dii Tropical Retreat
Sandakan
United Kingdom
Rajesh
Rp271.415
Rp336.878 total
includes taxes & fees
1 Sept - 2 Sept
Paganakan Dii Tropical Retreat

3. Sepilok Jungle Resort

Sepilok Jungle Resort
Sandakan
United States
Linda
Rp630.303
Rp787.507 total
includes taxes & fees
27 Aug - 28 Aug
Sepilok Jungle Resort

4. Gloria Swiss Hotel & Apartment Sandakan

Gloria Swiss Hotel & Apartment Sandakan
Sandakan
Malaysia
aaron chong en
Rp500.540
Rp634.387 total
includes taxes & fees
1 Sept - 2 Sept
Gloria Swiss Hotel & Apartment Sandakan

5. Ormond Sandakan

Ormond Sandakan
Sandakan
United Kingdom
Shannon
Rp1.437.573
Rp1.596.329 total
includes taxes & fees
1 Sept - 2 Sept
Ormond Sandakan

6. Hotel Meliden

Hotel Meliden
Sandakan
United States
Shoab
Rp550.512
Rp638.319 total
includes taxes & fees
11 Aug - 12 Aug
Hotel Meliden

7. Livingston Hotel

Livingston Hotel
Sandakan
Australia
Wai Yee
Rp1.001.054
Rp1.224.993 total
includes taxes & fees
9 Aug - 10 Aug
Livingston Hotel

8. Sabah Hotel Sandakan

Sabah Hotel Sandakan
Sandakan
Malaysia
Vincent
Rp1.577.413
Rp1.861.363 total
includes taxes & fees
6 Sept - 7 Sept
Sabah Hotel Sandakan

9. The Pavilion Hotel

The Pavilion Hotel
Sandakan
Malaysia
Felicia
Rp542.693
Rp640.376 total
includes taxes & fees
22 Aug - 23 Aug
The Pavilion Hotel

10. The Grand Hotel 2 Sandakan

The Grand Hotel 2 Sandakan
Sandakan
United States
Grant
Rp446.728
Rp526.216 total
includes taxes & fees
9 Aug - 10 Aug
The Grand Hotel 2 Sandakan

11. Hotel Lutana

Hotel Lutana
Sandakan
Canada
Apollonia
Rp212.391
Rp273.132 total
includes taxes & fees
12 Aug - 13 Aug
Hotel Lutana

12. Trival Property Homestay

Trival Property Homestay
Sandakan
Rp1.093.761
Rp1.225.012 total
includes taxes & fees
13 Aug - 14 Aug
Trival Property Homestay

13. My Dream Hotel

My Dream Hotel
Sandakan
Malaysia
Chung Fai
Rp352.395
Rp416.066 total
includes taxes & fees
22 Aug - 23 Aug
My Dream Hotel

14. Hello Kitty Signature Suite

Hello Kitty Signature Suite
Sandakan
Malaysia
Zoe
Rp880.552
Rp1.082.801 total
includes taxes & fees
22 Aug - 23 Aug
Hello Kitty Signature Suite

15. The Elopura Hotel

The Elopura Hotel
Sandakan
United States
Jeremiah
Rp692.667
Rp817.595 total
includes taxes & fees
21 Aug - 22 Aug
The Elopura Hotel

16. THE HOTEL

THE HOTEL
Sandakan
Australia
Tapos
Rp382.817
Rp457.192 total
includes taxes & fees
14 Aug - 15 Aug
THE HOTEL

17. Hotel O Hotel Ramai

Hotel O Hotel Ramai
Sandakan
Rp245.878
Rp309.316 total
includes taxes & fees
10 Aug - 11 Aug
Hotel O Hotel Ramai

18. Hotel O Ramai

Hotel O Ramai
Sandakan
Rp204.043
Rp264.213 total
includes taxes & fees
10 Aug - 11 Aug
Hotel O Ramai

19. Hotel O London

Hotel O London
Sandakan
Australia
Michelle
Rp253.884
Rp355.997 total
includes taxes & fees
9 Aug - 10 Aug
Hotel O London

20. Sanbay Hotel

Sanbay Hotel
Sandakan
United States
Kristy
Rp398.006
Rp513.398 total
includes taxes & fees
12 Aug - 13 Aug
Sanbay Hotel
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Stay near popular Sandakan attractions

An orangutan hanging from a tree branch in a dense forest.

Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre

9.2/10 (91 reviews)
At this pioneering orangutan sanctuary, watch rescued primates develop skills for returning to the wild. Attend the 10AM or 3PM feeding sessions for your best chance to see these magnificent creatures up close.
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An orangutan in a dense green forest.

Rainforest Discovery Centre

9.0/10 (45 reviews)
Walk among Borneo's rainforest canopy on elevated walkways, spotting rare wildlife from unique vantage points. Early morning offers the best chance to see colourful hornbills and red leaf monkeys in their natural habitat.
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Sandakan Harbour Mall

7.2/10 (51 reviews)
Harbour Mall Sandakan features five floors of international brands and local boutiques in Sandakan's largest shopping centre. Explore the vibrant food court for authentic regional flavours between shopping trips.
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Turtle Islands Park

8.6/10 (11 reviews)
Witness the miracle of nature at one of Southeast Asia's most significant turtle nesting sites. After dusk, observe green and hawksbill turtles laying eggs and help release hatchlings into the sea.
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Borneo Sun Bear Conservation Centre

9.2/10 (50 reviews)
Watch the world's smallest bear species climb trees and forage in a natural forest setting. The elevated boardwalks offer intimate viewing of rescued sun bears during their most active morning hours.
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Sandakan Rainforest Park

9.0/10 (10 reviews)
Explore the great outdoors at Sandakan Rainforest Park, a lovely green space in Sandakan. While you're here, you can savour the top-notch restaurants.
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Kinabatangan Jungle Camp

10.0/10 (1 review)
Nestled along the wildlife-rich Kinabatangan River, this jungle camp offered front-row access to Borneo's biodiversity. Visitors enjoyed guided cruises to spot orangutans and pygmy elephants in their natural habitat.
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Agnes Keith House

8.8/10 (24 reviews)
This colonial-era home of American author Agnes Newton Keith showcases her life and literary legacy in British North Borneo. Explore period rooms and enjoy panoramic views of Sandakan Bay from its hilltop setting.
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Learn more about Sandakan

Begin your day at Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, where you'll see these endangered primates swing through the trees during feeding times. Explore the Australian War Memorial and Agnes Keith House before taking a boat to spot proboscis monkeys in the mangroves of Kinabatangan River.

See all hotels in Sandakan
A coastal city with a marina, buildings, and a well-maintained park.

Top Sandakan Hotel Reviews

Livingston Hotel

Livingston Hotel

10/10 Excellent
"Parking is secure and convenient. Staff are very helpful. Air conditioning is excellent. Clean room. Breakfast is good. "
Wai Yee 4-night trip
Posted 3 weeks ago
Livingston Hotel
Hotel Meliden

Hotel Meliden

10/10 Excellent
"Clean room, easy access for budget travel"
Shoab 1-night trip
Posted 1 month ago
Hotel Meliden
Sepilok Jungle Resort

Sepilok Jungle Resort

10/10 Excellent
"Great location, staff very helpful"
Mark 2-night trip
Posted 1 month ago
Sepilok Jungle Resort
Gloria Swiss Hotel & Apartment Sandakan

Gloria Swiss Hotel & Apartment Sandakan

10/10 Excellent
"Excellent reception, friendly staff, very clean and spacious room. Loved the layout of the room. Great to have AC. Took awhile to cool the room off. Street vendors with food nearby. Grocery store across the way. Great pop-up breakfast place down the block."
Cecilia 1-night trip
Posted 2 months ago
Gloria Swiss Hotel & Apartment Sandakan
The Elopura Hotel

The Elopura Hotel

10/10 Excellent
"Very friendly and helpful staff, great facilities (restaurant), clean and comfortable room."
Imogen 1-night trip
Posted 2 months ago
The Elopura Hotel
Sanbay Hotel

Sanbay Hotel

8/10 Good
"The hotel is very dated and could do with a spruce up. However, the room was a good space, with a comfortable bed, kettle and fridge. There was a large supermarket behind and it was 20 minutes walk into Sandakan shops."
Mark 3-night trip
Posted 7 months ago
Sanbay Hotel
Hotel Lutana

Hotel Lutana

8/10 Good
"Fantastic"
George 1-night trip
Posted 9 months ago
Hotel Lutana

More cheap stays in Sandakan

Hotel Lutana

Hotel Lutana

LOT 1 BLOCK J BANDAR RAMAI RAMAI Sandakan Sabah
Rp212.391
Rp273.132 total
12 Aug - 13 Aug
includes taxes & fees
8/10 Very good! (3 reviews)
Hotel Lutana
Paganakan Dii Tropical Retreat

Paganakan Dii Tropical Retreat

Mile 14, Jalan Labuk Sandakan Sabah
Rp271.415
Rp336.878 total
1 Sept - 2 Sept
includes taxes & fees
Paganakan Dii Tropical Retreat
THE HOTEL

THE HOTEL

BANDAR Sandakan Sabah
Rp382.817
Rp457.192 total
14 Aug - 15 Aug
includes taxes & fees
THE HOTEL
Hotel Meliden

Hotel Meliden

One Avenue, Batu 6, Jalan Utara Sandakan Sabah
Rp550.512
Rp638.319 total
11 Aug - 12 Aug
includes taxes & fees
8.2/10 Very good! (10 reviews)
Hotel Meliden
Sepilok Jungle Resort

Sepilok Jungle Resort

Jalan Rambutan, Mile 14 Sepilok Sandakan Sabah
Rp630.303
Rp787.507 total
27 Aug - 28 Aug
includes taxes & fees
7.6/10 Good! (240 reviews)
Sepilok Jungle Resort
Tanini Sepilok (Formerly Nature Lodge Sepilok)

Tanini Sepilok (Formerly Nature Lodge Sepilok)

Jalan Sepilok Sandakan
Rp1.136.768
Rp1.271.459 total
7 Sept - 8 Sept
includes taxes & fees
8.6/10 Excellent! (81 reviews)
Tanini Sepilok (Formerly Nature Lodge Sepilok)

Hotels in Sandakan with star rating

Find out more about Sandakan

Top reasons to visit Sandakan

  • Stunning Nature Reserves: Sandakan is home to incredible nature reserves, offering unique wildlife experiences and breathtaking landscapes.
  • Rich Cultural Heritage: Explore the Sandakan Heritage Trail and visit historic sites that reflect the area's diverse cultural background.
  • Beautiful Beaches: Relax on picturesque beaches, perfect for unwinding and enjoying the tropical surroundings.
  • Adventure Activities: Engage in outdoor adventures with Amazing Borneo tours, ideal for thrill-seekers.
  • Vibrant Shopping Scene: Discover the bustling Harbour Mall and local markets, showcasing Sandakan's lively atmosphere.

Find great hotels in Sandakan

Sandakan, Sabah offers a diverse selection of accommodations, from charming lodges to modern hotels, catering to both business travellers and adventure seekers. With its stunning natural landscapes and rich wildlife, you’ll find hotels in Sandakan that provide the perfect base for exploring the area’s unique attractions. Whether you’re looking for a nature-themed retreat or a convenient city stay, Sandakan hotels ensure a memorable experience for all visitors.

  • Sabah Hotel Sandakan: A distinguished 4-star hotel, Sabah Hotel Sandakan is ideal for travellers seeking a blend of comfort and convenience. Rated 8.6 out of 10, this property caters to both families and business guests alike. Families will appreciate the thoughtful amenities for children, including a dedicated children's pool and complimentary cribs. The hotel's ambience is enhanced by its welcoming service and well-appointed rooms, making it a suitable retreat after a day of exploring the vibrant surroundings of Sandakan.
  • Livingston Hotel: Offering a 3.5-star experience, Livingston Hotel provides a relaxed atmosphere with well-rounded dining options. Guests can enjoy daily meals at the on-site restaurant, and breakfast is available for a nominal fee. The entertainment facilities include various television options, ensuring guests remain entertained during their stay. Located conveniently in Sandakan, this hotel is perfect for those looking to explore local attractions while enjoying a comfortable lodging experience.
  • Sepilok Jungle Resort: As a budget-friendly option, Sepilok Jungle Resort embraces the natural beauty surrounding Sandakan. This resort features a variety of dining choices, including a coffee shop, and offers English breakfast for guests. Outdoor enthusiasts will delight in the proximity to hiking and biking trails, as well as fishing opportunities nearby. The resort's rustic charm is complemented by essential amenities like mosquito nets and televisions, providing a practical yet immersive experience in the heart of nature.

Where to stay in and around Sandakan

Sandakan, a charming city in Sabah, Malaysia, offers a delightful blend of family-friendly activities and outdoor adventures. Explore the vibrant Sandakan Town and enjoy the bustling Harbour Mall, where friendly locals create a warm atmosphere. Don't miss the hidden gems nearby, which provide a relaxing escape into the tropical surroundings. Whether you're seeking cultural experiences or a tranquil retreat, Sandakan promises an unforgettable vacation filled with unique discoveries.

  • Sepilok: Nestled within the Sandakan region, Sepilok is a charming village known for its lush greenery and diverse wildlife. The area experiences a steady flow of visitors year-round, with peak seasons from March to April and July. This village is ideal for families and adventure seekers looking for outdoor experiences. Visitors can indulge in spa treatments, enjoy camping, or explore nearby shopping centres. Notable attractions include natural hot springs, pristine beaches, and breathtaking lookouts that offer splendid views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Kota Kinabatangan: Located approximately 40km from Sandakan, Kota Kinabatangan is a vibrant city that draws both adventure enthusiasts and families throughout the year. The city sees its highest visitor numbers in April and from July to August. Kota Kinabatangan offers an array of activities, including camping and relaxing at local spas, as well as shopping opportunities. Nature lovers will appreciate the proximity to various national parks and state parks, which are perfect for exploration and wildlife spotting, making it a must-visit destination for those eager to experience the natural beauty of Sabah.
  • Kampung Dandulit: Situated in the Sandakan area, Kampung Dandulit is a quaint village that offers a unique cultural experience for visitors. The flow of tourists tends to remain consistent, with peaks occurring in March and July to August. While it may not be as bustling as other destinations, it is rich in history, featuring historic sites and traditional houses that showcase the local heritage. Kampung Dandulit is perfect for those seeking to immerse themselves in the culture and history of the region, providing an authentic glimpse into the life of the local community.

Things to do in Sandakan

Shopping

In Sandakan, visit the Sandakan Harbour Mall, a modern shopping venue with various retail shops and eateries. If you're up for a drive, head to the Plaza Sabah, located about 24km away, where you can find more shopping options and local delights.

Recreation

In Sandakan, the Borneo Nature Lodge offers rejuvenating wellness packages amidst lush rainforest, combining spa treatments with guided nature walks. At the Sabah Hotel, indulge in holistic therapies while enjoying views of the tranquil gardens, providing a serene escape from the bustling city life.

Adventure

In Sandakan, explore the vibrant Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, where you can observe orangutans in their natural habitat. Venture to the stunning Kinabatangan River for wildlife spotting, including proboscis monkeys and pygmy elephants, while enjoying a river cruise through lush rainforest landscapes.

Nightlife

Experience Sandakan's vibrant nightlife at the lively Harbour Square, where you can enjoy local delicacies and music. For a more relaxed vibe, visit the Sandakan Waterfront, perfect for a stroll along the promenade, or unwind at a local bar for refreshing drinks and friendly conversation.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Sandakan

To save money on your trip to Sandakan, visit during the off-peak months of February and November to December for lower accommodation rates. Utilise public transport like buses or simply walk to explore the area. Take advantage of free attractions such as Sandakan Memorial Park. When booking, aim for a stay one month in advance or look for last-minute deals on Expedia, especially on Saturdays for the best rates. Combining your hotel, flights, and activities into a package can also yield significant savings.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Sandakan are February and November to December, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Sandakan is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Sandakan is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay in Sandakan is Monday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and ideal hotel type. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your Sandakan hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Sandakan

Sandakan offers a delightful blend of family-friendly activities, outdoor adventures, and cultural experiences. Key attractions include nature reserves, beautiful islands, and historic churches, perfect for those seeking scenery and heritage. Don’t miss the Sandakan Heritage Trail, and consider visiting the Sandakan Memorial Park. For accommodation, explore the best and top hotels that cater to various needs, ensuring a memorable stay in this vibrant city.

  • Rainforest Discovery Centre: Explore this captivating reserve nestled within Sandakan, where the vibrant flora and fauna create a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Visitors can stroll along well-maintained trails and enjoy canopy walks that offer breathtaking views of the lush rainforest.
  • Pulau Selingan: This picturesque island features stunning beaches and a relaxed outdoor vibe, ideal for sunbathing and swimming. It's also a crucial nesting site for turtles, providing a unique opportunity to witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
  • Sandakan Rainforest Park: Immerse yourself in this eco-friendly park, showcasing diverse plant species and wildlife. With scenic trails, it provides a serene escape into nature, perfect for hiking and appreciating the beauty of the rainforest.

Best time to go to Sandakan

The best time to visit Sandakan is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. May is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with frequent rain. February is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with moderate rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January79.0°F (26.1°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
February78.8°F (26.0°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
March79.7°F (26.5°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
April80.8°F (27.1°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
May81.7°F (27.6°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
June81.1°F (27.3°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
July80.6°F (27.0°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudySlightly HighSlightly High
August80.8°F (27.1°C)Frequent RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
September80.6°F (27.0°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
October80.4°F (26.9°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
November80.2°F (26.8°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
December79.9°F (26.6°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low

The nearest major airports for your trip to Sandakan

Flying into Sandakan, Sabah, Malaysia, is convenient with three major airports nearby. Sandakan Airport (SDK) is situated 10km from the city, with excellent accommodation options like the 4-star Sabah Hotel Sandakan, 8km away, and the 3.5-star Livingston Hotel and The Mark's Lodge, both 5km from SDK. Transportation services from these hotels include on-request airport shuttles. Tawau Airport (TWU) is 169km away, with the 3-star Indah Inn located 13km from TWU. Lahad Datu Airport (LDU) is 93km from Sandakan, with nearby hotels including Tabin Wildlife Resort, The Executive Hotel, and Maya Hotel, all within 1.6km of LDU.

Frequently asked questions

What's the best place to stay in Sandakan?
Based on our traveller data, Ormond Sandakan is one of the top choices for your stay. This hotel offers 3 restaurants and an outdoor pool. Other good options for your visit include Sabah Hotel Sandakan and Paganakan Dii Tropical Retreat. See all available top hotels, or vacation rentals in Sandakan.
What are some of the best holiday rentals that Sandakan has to offer?
Sandakan Hill Terrace 3: This highly rated holiday home rental in Sandakan is equipped with a terrace, air conditioning and laundry facilities to help you feel comfortable during your stay. It has 4 bedrooms, as well as a kitchenette with a full-sized fridge, a stovetop and a microwave, so that you can cook with friends or family. See all vacation rentals in Sandakan.
If I need to cancel my hotel reservation in Sandakan, will I receive a refund?
Yes! The majority of hotel room reservations are refundable provided that you cancel prior to the hotel's cancellation deadline, which is usually within 24-48 hours of your check-in date. If you have a non-refundable reservation, you might be able to still cancel and be given a refund within a 24-hour period of booking. Filter your search by fully refundable to find flexible hotel deals in Sandakan.
What's the best budget-friendly hotel in Sandakan?
Based on our traveller reviews, Sandakan Backpackers Hostel is a top choice for a less expensive stay. View all budget hotels in Sandakan.
What's the best family accommodation in Sandakan?
Sabah Hotel Sandakan is a hotel with a children's pool and 3 restaurants, and it's a top choice on Expedia for families. 2 Inn 1 Boutique Hotel & Spa is another good choice for your child-friendly holiday. Also, attractions such as Borneo Sun Bear Conservation Centre and Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre are fun for children of all ages. Find more child-friendly accommodations in Sandakan.
What are some accommodation options with pools in Sandakan?
Sepilok Jungle Resort is a top resort with a children's pool, an outdoor pool and free WiFi. View all hotels with pools in Sandakan.
What's it like staying in Sandakan?
Visitors to Sandakan will definitely enjoy the rainforests, seaside and temples. Welcoming and walkable, this city also attracts tourists with its local tours. In Sandakan, there are 71 hotels and other accommodation options to choose from. Find out more about Sandakan.
What is there to see in Sandakan?
Attractions such as Borneo Sun Bear Conservation Centre, Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre and Kinabatangan Jungle Camp are fun for children of all ages. Landmarks like Agnes Keith House, Sandakan Memorial Park and Japanese Cemetery might be worth a visit. The rainforest and forests highlight the natural beauty with places to discover including Sandakan Rainforest Park, Rainforest Discovery Centre and Turtle Islands Park. Take a look at what more there is to see and do in Expedia's Sandakan guide.
What's the seasonal weather like in Sandakan?
The hottest months are usually May and June, with an average temperature of 27°C, while the coldest months are February and January, with an average of 26°C. The snowiest months in Sandakan are April, May, August and July, with each month seeing an average of 211 cm of snowfall.

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