How to get from Kuala Lumpur to Kota Kinabalu

Kota Kinabalu, the vibrant capital of Sabah, Malaysian Borneo, is known for its stunning sunsets, Mount Kinabalu, and rich cultural heritage. Located 1,625 km (1,010 miles) east of Kuala Lumpur, Kota Kinabalu is accessible by flight or ferry + bus. 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 Kuala Lumpur to Kota Kinabalu:

• By Flight: The fastest and most convenient option.
• By Ferry + Bus: A longer and more adventurous alternative.

Let’s explore each option in detail to help you choose the best way to travel from Kuala Lumpur to Kota Kinabalu.

Timetable

By Flight: The Fastest and Most Convenient Option

Taking a direct flight from Kuala Lumpur to Kota Kinabalu is the quickest and easiest way to travel.

Key Details:

• Departure Airport: Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA or KLIA2).
• Arrival Airport: Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI).
• Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes.
• Price: 150–600 MYR (~$32–$130 USD), depending on airline and booking time.
• Airlines:
  • Malaysia Airlines (full-service, complimentary baggage and meals).
  • AirAsia (budget airline, additional baggage fees).
  • Malindo Air (full-service, includes baggage and in-flight entertainment).
• Flight Frequency: Over 20 daily flights from early morning to late evening.

Airport Transfers in Kota Kinabalu:

• From Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI) to City Center:
  • By Taxi/Grab: 15–20 minutes, 30–50 MYR ($7–$11 USD).
  • By Airport Bus: 30 minutes, 5 MYR ($1 USD).

Pros:

• Fastest travel time (~2.5 hours).
• Multiple flights available throughout the day.
• Comfortable and convenient.

Cons:

• More expensive than bus + ferry combination.
• 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 Ferry + Bus: A Longer and More Adventurous Alternative

For travelers who prefer a scenic and adventurous route, taking a ferry from Peninsular Malaysia to Borneo combined with a bus to Kota Kinabalu is an option, though it takes much longer.

Step 1: Take a Bus from Kuala Lumpur to Johor Bahru

• Departure Point: TBS (Terminal Bersepadu Selatan), Kuala Lumpur.
• Arrival Point: Larkin Sentral Bus Terminal, Johor Bahru.
• Duration: 4 to 5 hours, depending on traffic.
• Price: 30–60 MYR (~$7–$13 USD).
• Bus Operators:
  • KKKL Express.
  • Causeway Link.
• Departure Frequency: Every 30 minutes from morning to evening.

Step 2: Take a Ferry from Johor Bahru to Kota Kinabalu via Brunei

• Route: Johor Bahru → Brunei → Kota Kinabalu.
• Duration: ~30 hours, including overnight ferry and transfers.
• Price: 400–800 MYR (~$85–$170 USD).
• Ferry Operators:
  • Brunei Darussalam Ferry Services.
  • Labu Express Ferry.
• Departure Frequency: Limited departures per week.

Step 3: Take a Bus from Brunei to Kota Kinabalu

• Departure Point: Serasa Ferry Terminal, Brunei.
• Arrival Point: Kota Kinabalu City Center.
• Duration: 8 to 10 hours, including immigration checks.
• Price: 100–150 MYR (~$22–$33 USD).

Total Duration: 40 to 45 hours.

Total Price: 530–1,010 MYR (~$110–$215 USD).

Pros:

• Scenic sea views and unique travel experience.
• No baggage restrictions compared to budget flights.

Cons:

• Takes significantly longer (~40+ hours).
• Limited ferry schedules.
• Requires multiple transfers.

Booking Tip:

For better comfort, choose an overnight cabin on the ferry. Use our online search form to check ferry schedules and book your ticket.

Final Tips for Traveling from Kuala Lumpur to Kota Kinabalu

• Best Option for Speed & Comfort: Flight (~2.5 hours, from 150 MYR).
• Best Option for Adventure & Scenic Views: Ferry + Bus (~40 hours, from 530 MYR).
• Book Early for Peak Season: Flights and ferries sell out quickly during holidays and festival periods.
• Visa Requirements: Since Brunei is a transit point, check visa requirements for your nationality if taking the ferry route.