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Discover the tropical allure of Tawau, the gateway to Borneo's biodiverse wonders, dive into the marine paradise of Semporna, and explore the historical richness of Sandakan, where nature meets history.

Suggested Locations
1.Tawau
From Cocoa to Scenic Beauty
2.Semporna
Diver's Paradise
3.Sandakan
Place of Bornean Bliss
Washington
Tawau
8,675 mi
Plane
19h 16m
Tawau
- Trip Weather 27 °C - Trip Weather 27 °C - Trip Weather 27 °C
Discover Tawau
From Cocoa to Scenic Beauty
Tawau is a charming and bustling city situated in Sabah, Malaysia. Known for its abundance of seafood and palm oil exports, this city provides an authentic experience of the Malaysian lifestyle. Boasting of a myriad of attractions, such as the Tawau Hills Park and Shan Shui Golf Club, it's a fantastic place to immerse oneself in nature's beauty. The vibrant Tawau market is a paradise for food enthusiasts, offering a variety of local Malaysian delicacies.
Tawau
Semporna
54 mi
Plane
2h 36m
Semporna
- Trip Weather 27 °C - Trip Weather 27 °C - Trip Weather 27 °C
Discover Semporna
Diver's Paradise
Semporna is a vibrant town located in the Tawau Division of Sabah, on the island of Borneo. It is surrounded by an abundant marine life and is notably renowned for diving and snorkeling, especially at the nearby Sipadan island. The town is largely inhabited by the Bajau Laut, a tribe known for their seafaring skills. An annual regatta Lepa festival showcasing colorful traditional Bajau boats is one of the major cultural attractions.
Semporna
Sandakan
172 mi
Plane
5h 57m
Sandakan
- Trip Weather 28 °C - Trip Weather 28 °C - Trip Weather 27 °C
Discover Sandakan
Place of Bornean Bliss
Sandakan is a city located in the Malaysian state of Sabah, on the northeast coast of Borneo. Famous as the gateway for eco-tourism destinations, it offers rich history, exotic wildlife, and beautiful landscapes. Key highlights include Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre, and Sandakan Memorial Park remembering the city's history during World War II.
Sandakan
Washington
8,586 mi
Plane
19h 4m
Videos Malaysia
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Travel Tips

Currency: MYR Time Zone: Malaysia Standard Time (UTC +8:00) Language: Malay

Hello! It's fantastic to hear you're planning to explore Tawau, Semporna, and Sandakan. Here are some travel tips for your trip.

Best Time to Visit:
The best time to visit Tawau, Semporna, and Sandakan, which are all located in Sabah, Malaysia, is from March to October. This period generally experiences less rainfall and is perfect for outdoor activities.

Route and Accessibility:
Tawau is easily reached via Tawau Airport, which connects to other major cities in Malaysia. From Tawau, you can reach Semporna by a 90-minute drive. From Semporna, it's another 100km drive to Sandakan. Alternatively, you can use domestic flights to fly directly into Sandakan Airport.

Accommodation and Booking:
There is a range of accommodations available from luxury resorts, hostels to budget-friendly hotels in all three cities. It’s always good to make your booking well in advance, especially during the peak tourism season.

Clothing and Essentials:
Lightweight, breathable clothing is suitable for these destinations given the tropical weather. Don't forget to pack for outdoor activities, like swimming gear for Semporna's diving opportunities. A good sunscreen, insect repellent and a sturdy pair of shoes for walking are essential.

Health and Safety:
Prior to travelling, it is advisable to get a health check-up and have travel insurance. Practice good hygiene, drink filtered or bottled water, and eat well-cooked food to avoid health problems. For safety, always adhere to the advice of local authorities and trusted tour operators.

Local Etiquette and Respect:
Malaysians are generally polite and appreciate it when visitors follow suit. Avoid sensitive topics such as politics and religion. Dress modestly especially in rural areas and when visiting religious sites.