- Must visit
Sabah State Museum
State museum complex covering Sabah history, culture and natural heritage. A practical first stop for understanding the region beyond the city.
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The cheapest and fastest coaches from Sandakan to Kota Kinabalu
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 05 Nov
- Cheapest price on 05 Nov
- £13
- Average ticket price on 05 Nov
- £14
- Fastest journey on 05 Nov
- 5 h 59 m
- Average journey duration on 05 Nov
- 7 h
- Buses on 05 Nov
- 3
- Distance
- 222 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap coach ticket from Sandakan to Kota Kinabalu is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Sandakan to Kota Kinabalu will cost around £14 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap coach tickets today for only £13.
Fast coaches
On Thu 05 Nov, we found 3 buses from Sandakan to Kota Kinabalu, including 3 direct services.
These direct buses cover the 222 km distance in an average of 7 h but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 5 h 59 m .
The slowest buses will take 9 h and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
16:01 5h59 Sandakan 22:00 Kota Kinabalu £13 1 One-way 0 changes
12:00 9h00 Sandakan 21:00 Kota Kinabalu £14 1 One-way 0 changes
4:00 6h00 Sandakan 10:00 Kota Kinabalu £15 1 One-way 0 changes
16:01 5h59 Sandakan 22:00 Kota Kinabalu £13 1 One-way 0 changes4:00 6h00 Sandakan 10:00 Kota Kinabalu £15 1 One-way 0 changes12:00 9h00 Sandakan 21:00 Kota Kinabalu £14 1 One-way 0 changes
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Sandakan to Kota Kinabalu
MalaysiaMalaysia
Buses from Sandakan to Kota Kinabalu run on average 3 times per day, taking around 7h 21m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at £11 if you book in advance.
There are 3 coaches per day. The earliest coach runs at 00:01, the last at 20:00. The fastest coach covers the 222 km distance in 5h 59m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Distance 222 km |
Average bus duration 7h 21m |
Cheapest ticket price £11 |
Buses per day 3 |
Direct buses 3 |
Fastest bus 5h 59m |
First bus 0:01 |
Last bus 20:00 |
Cheapest Month Sept |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 1 day |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Frequently asked questions about your Sandakan to Kota Kinabalu trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Sandakan to Kota Kinabalu.
Cheap coach tickets from Sandakan to Kota Kinabalu can start from as little as £11 when you book in advance. The average coach ticket price for Sandakan to Kota Kinabalu is £12; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The earliest coach from Sandakan to Kota Kinabalu leaves at 0:01. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest coach from Sandakan to Kota Kinabalu leaves at 20:00.
Yes, there are 3 direct coaches a day from Sandakan to Kota Kinabalu with Sida Express, Amin Jaya, Sri Mutiara Luxury Express. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct coaches.
Live departures
Sandakan to Kota Kinabalu bus times
The table below shows live departures for Sandakan to Kota Kinabalu coaches for today, Tuesday 3 November. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated coach journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12:00 Sandakan | 9h00 | 21:00 Kota Kinabalu | 0 changesdirect | |
| 16:01 Sandakan | 5h59 | 22:00 Kota Kinabalu | 0 changesdirect | |
| Wednesday 4 November | |||||
| 4:00 Sandakan | 6h00 | 10:00 Kota Kinabalu | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Sandakan to Kota Kinabalu coaches with Omio?
Sida Express as well as Amin Jaya or Sri Mutiara Luxury Express offer coaches services from Sandakan to Kota Kinabalu.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Sandakan to Kota Kinabalu.
Why book with Omio vs Sida Express?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Sida Express, but also compare tickets for the likes of Amin Jaya or Sri Mutiara Luxury Express to find the best option for your trip from Sandakan to Kota Kinabalu.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Sida Express with all available travel options, which are bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Sandakan to Kota Kinabalu.
Why book with Omio over Checkmybus, Rome2rio or Trainline?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Amin Jaya or Sri Mutiara Luxury Express to find the best option for your trip from Sandakan to Kota Kinabalu.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Sandakan to Kota Kinabalu.
Bus providers: Sida Express, Amin Jaya, Sri Mutiara Luxury Express from Sandakan to Kota KinabaluYou can travel by bus between Sandakan to Kota Kinabalu with Sida Express, Amin Jaya, Sri Mutiara Luxury Express for as low as £11. When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
Sida Express
About
Established in 2000 in Indonesia, operates from Terminal Inanam, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah. The fleet includes single and double deck buses with 30 to 45 seats, as well as sleeper coaches. Night buses are not available. Luggage is included without specific size details. Additional luggage is not allowed. Free onboard WiFi and USB plugs are available. Pets are not permitted, but bikes are welcome. Food options are offered onboard, and seat reservations and bathrooms ensure a comfortable journey.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Sida Express Duration
9h 0m
Cheapest Sida Express Price
£11
Sida Express frequency
5 a day
Luggage included
No specific luggage size and type information provided.
Amenities on board the bus
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Amin Jaya
About
Amin Jaya Enterprise, established in 2017, is a bus operator based in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia. The company offers efficient and reliable bus services connecting major cities and towns in Sabah, including Lahad Datu, Kunak, and Semporna. Operating from the Inanam Bus Station Terminal, Amin Jaya Enterprise utilizes well-maintained, air-conditioned single-deck express buses with comfortable 2+2 seating arrangements, accommodating up to 43 passengers. Passengers can enjoy onboard amenities such as television entertainment during their journeys. Committed to safety and passenger comfort, Amin Jaya Enterprise ensures regular maintenance and employs professional drivers for a secure travel experience.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Amin Jaya Duration
6h 0m
Cheapest Amin Jaya Price
£11
Amin Jaya frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
One piece of standard luggage is included.
Additional luggage
Additional luggage may be allowed for an extra fee.
Luggage storage
Luggage is stored in the undercarriage compartment.
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies vary by ticket type and time before departure.
Refund
A full refund is provided if the bus service is canceled by the operator.
Pregnant on board
Pregnant passengers are allowed, but it is recommended to consult a doctor for long journeys.
Unaccompagned minor
Unaccompanied minors are not authorized to travel.
Amenities on board the bus
Toilets
Sri Mutiara Luxury Express
About
Sri Mutiara Luxury Express is a premier bus service provider in Southeast Asia, offering comfortable and reliable travel options across Malaysia and Singapore. Established in 1992, the company operates a fleet of modern buses equipped with amenities such as ergonomic reclining seats, onboard Wi-Fi, and USB charging ports. Sri Mutiara Luxury Express serves various routes, including the popular Kota Bharu to Singapore, ensuring a seamless journey for both domestic and cross-border travelers. With a commitment to passenger comfort and safety, the company continues to set new standards in the express bus industry.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Sri Mutiara Luxury Express Duration
5h 59m
Cheapest Sri Mutiara Luxury Express Price
£11
Sri Mutiara Luxury Express frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One standard piece of luggage is included per passenger.
Additional luggage
Additional luggage is not permitted.
Luggage storage
Luggage is stored in the undercarriage compartment of the bus.
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies vary; please refer to your ticket terms and conditions.
Refund
A full refund is provided if the bus service is canceled by the operator.
Pregnant on board
Pregnant passengers are allowed; it is advisable to consult a doctor for long journeys.
Unaccompagned minor
Unaccompanied minors are not authorized to travel.
Amenities on board the bus
Toilets
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Sandakan and Kota Kinabalu
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
When taking a coach from Sandakan to Kota Kinabalu, you can count on Sida Express, Amin Jaya, Sri Mutiara Luxury Express for the best way to get you to Kota Kinabalu. You can also check all possible coach companies who offer a service between Sandakan and Kota Kinabalu and compare the amenities they offer before buying a coach ticket.
No, the coach from Sandakan to Kota Kinabalu has no accessibility options.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the coach from Sandakan to Kota Kinabalu for coach company Sida Express, Amin Jaya, Sri Mutiara Luxury Express.
Whether you can cancel your coach ticket from Sandakan to Kota Kinabalu depends on the coach companies:
- Amin Jaya
- Cancellation policies vary by ticket type and time before departure.
- Sri Mutiara Luxury Express
- Cancellation policies vary
- please refer to your ticket terms and conditions.
No, bikes are not allowed on board the coach from Sandakan to Kota Kinabalu.
No, there is no food available to purchase on board the coach from Sandakan to Kota Kinabalu.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a coach ticket from Sandakan to Kota Kinabalu:
- Amin Jaya
- One piece of standard luggage is included.
- Sri Mutiara Luxury Express
- One standard piece of luggage is included per passenger.
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a coach ticket from Sandakan to Kota Kinabalu:
- Amin Jaya
- Additional luggage may be allowed for an extra fee.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the coach from Sandakan to Kota Kinabalu.
You can reserve your seat on the coach from Sandakan to Kota Kinabalu with the following coach company: Sida Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the coach from Sandakan to Kota Kinabalu with the following coach company: Sida Express.
No, there is no WiFi on board the coach from Sandakan to Kota Kinabalu.
Complete guide to Kota Kinabalu
Things to do in Kota Kinabalu
Discover the best of Kota Kinabalu — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Kota Kinabalu trip today.
- Recommended
Sabah Art Gallery
Local heritage gallery inside Wisma Budaya with cultural displays and artworks. Useful for a quick introduction to Sabah traditions and craft.
Marine Aquarium and Museum UMS
Compact museum with interactive science displays suitable for families. Visit for hands-on exhibits and an easy indoor break from the heat.
- Must visit
Kota Kinabalu Waterfront
Popular waterfront promenade with sea views, boats and sunset scenes. A classic evening walk for breezes, people-watching and city atmosphere.
- Must visit
Signal Hill Observatory Platform
Rooftop viewpoint and signal hill area overlooking the city and islands. A quick, rewarding stop for panoramic views, especially near sunset.
- Recommended
Tanjung Aru Perdana Park
Seafront park and jogging area beside the city centre. Visit for sunset views, open lawns and a relaxed local atmosphere near the water.
- Gluten-free
Hinava
Fresh marinated raw fish in lime juice with chilli, ginger and shallots. A Sabah coastal staple prized for its bright, clean flavours.
Ngiu Chap Mee / Tuaran Mee
Springy egg noodles tossed with barbecued char siu, roast pork or seafood. A beloved Sabah hawker dish with Chinese local roots.
Ngiu Chap
Beef noodle soup with mixed cuts, broth and noodles, commonly eaten for breakfast or lunch in Kota Kinabalu and across Sabah.
Ferdinand's
Refined dining restaurant serving contemporary dishes with Bornean ingredients and polished service in an elegant hotel setting.
Welcome Seafood Restaurant
Casual local restaurant known for fresh seafood, especially butter prawns and fish dishes, in a lively city setting.
Gayang Seafood Restaurant
Popular waterfront venue for grilled seafood, shellfish and local-style sharing plates with sunset views and a relaxed atmosphere.
Malaysian ringgit (RM)
Budget-friendly by Malaysian standards for travellers: affordable hotels, low-cost local meals and cheap e-hailing, though islands and upscale stays cost more.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- RM10-RM20 for street food or simple cafés.
- Mid-range
- RM25-RM50 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- RM80+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- RM8-RM15 for a coffee.
Tipping culture
Tipping is not expected. Some restaurants add a service charge. Round up small café bills, and for taxis or e-hailing, rounding up the fare is appreciated but optional.
FAQs: Sandakan to Kota Kinabalu coach
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Sandakan to Kota Kinabalu by coach. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest coach, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Kota Kinabalu, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Sandakan and Kota Kinabalu including taking a coach and flight.
Tickets are often cheaper when booked early. Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money. Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options. Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
More options for your journey from Sandakan to Kota Kinabalu
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Kota Kinabalu and Sandakan
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