Sandakan, known for its Orangutan Rehabilitation Center, Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre, and stunning wildlife, is a must-visit destination in Sabah, Malaysian Borneo. Located 325 km (202 miles) northeast of Kota Kinabalu, Sandakan is accessible by flight, bus, or car. This guide covers all available travel options, including travel times, costs, and tips for convenience. Don’t forget, you can easily book your tickets through our online search form at the top of the page.
Overview of Travel Options
Here are the main ways to get from Kota Kinabalu to Sandakan:
- By Flight: The fastest and most convenient option.
- By Bus: The most budget-friendly choice.
- By Car: The most flexible but expensive choice.
Let’s explore each option in detail to help you choose the best way to travel from Kota Kinabalu to Sandakan.
Timetable
| Flight Sabah - Sabah RM 73.60–365.99 45m – 1d 11h 59m | |
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| Bus Sabah - Sabah RM 47.30 7h 25m | |
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| Taxi Kota Kinabalu - Sandakan RM 962.63–3,002.63 6h – 6h 10m | |
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By Flight: The Fastest and Most Convenient Option
Taking a direct flight from Kota Kinabalu to Sandakan is the quickest and easiest way to travel.
Key Details:
- Departure Airport: Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI).
- Arrival Airport: Sandakan Airport (SDK).
- Duration: 45 minutes (excluding airport transfers).
- Price: 120–350 MYR (~$25–$75 USD), depending on airline and booking time.
- Airlines:
- Malaysia Airlines (full-service, complimentary baggage).
- AirAsia (budget airline, additional baggage fees).
- Flight Frequency: 4–6 daily flights from morning to evening.
Airport Transfers in Sandakan:
- From Sandakan Airport to City Center:
- By Taxi/Grab: 20–30 minutes,
30–50 MYR ($7–$11 USD). - By Local Bus: 30–45 minutes,
5 MYR ($1 USD), but less frequent.
- By Taxi/Grab: 20–30 minutes,
Pros:
- Fastest travel time (~45 minutes).
- Multiple flights available throughout the day.
- Comfortable and convenient.
Cons:
- More expensive than buses.
- Checked baggage fees apply on budget airlines.
Booking Tip:
For lower fares, book flights at least 2–4 weeks in advance. Use our online search form to compare flight options and secure your tickets.
By Bus: The Most Budget-Friendly Choice
For budget-conscious travelers, taking a direct bus from Kota Kinabalu to Sandakan is the cheapest way to travel, though it takes longer than a flight.
Key Details:
- Departure Point: Inanam Bus Terminal, Kota Kinabalu.
- Arrival Point: Sandakan Bus Terminal (Near the City Center).
- Duration: 6 to 8 hours, depending on traffic and rest stops.
- Price: 50–80 MYR (~$11–$18 USD), depending on bus type.
- Bus Operators:
- Borneo Express.
- Tung Ma Express.
- Bas Ekspres Sabah.
- Bus Types:
- Standard Bus (Basic seating, A/C).
- VIP Bus (Larger seats, reclining seats, more legroom).
- Departure Frequency: 4–6 departures per day from morning to evening.
Pros:
- Cheapest travel option (~50 MYR for standard buses).
- Direct travel without transfers.
- Scenic views of the Borneo countryside.
Cons:
- Takes significantly longer than flying (~6+ hours).
- Limited onboard amenities.
- Road conditions can be bumpy.
Booking Tip:
For better comfort, book a VIP Bus with more legroom. Use our online search form to check bus schedules and book your ticket.
By Car: The Most Flexible but Expensive Choice
For travelers who prefer privacy and flexibility, renting a car from Kota Kinabalu to Sandakan is an option, especially if you want to stop at scenic spots along the way.
Key Details:
- Route: Kota Kinabalu → Sandakan via Route A4 and A5.
- Distance: 325 km (202 miles).
- Duration: 5.5 to 7 hours, depending on stops and road conditions.
- Fuel Cost:
100 MYR ($22 USD). - Car Rental Price: 150–300 MYR per day (~$33–$65 USD).
- Rental Car Companies:
- Hertz.
- Avis.
- Local car rental agencies.
Recommended Stops Along the Way:
- Mount Kinabalu Viewpoint – Stunning views of Southeast Asia’s tallest peak.
- Poring Hot Springs – Relaxing hot springs in Ranau (~30-minute detour).
- Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre – Near Sandakan, a must-visit for wildlife lovers.
Pros:
- Most flexible option—stop at attractions along the way.
- Comfortable for groups and families.
Cons:
- More expensive than buses.
- Long driving hours (5+ hours).
- Road conditions can be challenging in some areas.
Booking Tip:
For ease of navigation, rent a car with GPS or use Google Maps. Use our online search form to compare rental car prices.
Final Tips for Traveling from Kota Kinabalu to Sandakan
- Best Option for Speed & Comfort: Flight (~45 minutes, from 120 MYR).
- Best Option for Budget Travelers: Bus (~50 MYR, 6+ hours).
- Best Option for Flexibility & Scenic Stops: Rental Car (~150 MYR, 5+ hours, fuel included).
- Book Early for Peak Season: Flights, buses, and rental cars sell out quickly during holidays and festival periods.
- Motion Sickness Alert: The bus journey can be winding, so bring motion sickness tablets if necessary.
