- Recommended
Muzium Tawau
Small local museum introducing Tawau’s history, communities, and development. A practical first stop for context before exploring the town and surrounding district.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Kota Kinabalu to Tawau
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 07
- Cheapest price on Nov 07
- $20
- Average ticket price on Nov 07
- $22
- Fastest journey on Nov 07
- 11 h 8 m
- Average journey duration on Nov 07
- 11 h 8 m
- Buses on Nov 07
- 4
- Distance
- 278 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Kota Kinabalu to Tawau is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Kota Kinabalu to Tawau will cost around $22 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $20.
Fast buses
On Sat, Nov 07, we found 4 buses from Kota Kinabalu to Tawau, including 4 direct services.
On Sat, Nov 07 the direct buses cover the 278 km distance in an average of 11 h 8 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 11 h 8 m .
On Sat, Nov 07 the slowest buses will take 11 h 8 m 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.
12:00 PM 11h08 Kota Kinabalu 11:08 PM Tawau $20 1 One-way 0 transfers11:30 PM 11h08 Kota Kinabalu 10:38 AM Tawau $21 1 One-way 0 transfers12:00 AM 11h08 Kota Kinabalu 11:08 AM Tawau $21 1 One-way 0 transfers
11:30 AM 11h08 Kota Kinabalu 10:38 PM Tawau $26 1 One-way 0 transfers
11:30 AM 11h08 Kota Kinabalu 10:38 PM Tawau $26 1 One-way 0 transfers12:00 AM 11h08 Kota Kinabalu 11:08 AM Tawau $21 1 One-way 0 transfers12:00 PM 11h08 Kota Kinabalu 11:08 PM Tawau $20 1 One-way 0 transfers11:30 PM 11h08 Kota Kinabalu 10:38 AM Tawau $21 1 One-way 0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Kota Kinabalu to Tawau
MalaysiaMalaysia
Buses from Kota Kinabalu to Tawau run on average 7 times per day, taking around 11h 8m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $19 (€16) but you can travel from only $18 (€15) by flight.
There are 7 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 07:00, the last at 20:00. The fastest bus covers the 172 miles (278 km) distance in 11h 8m.
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $18 (€15)
Plan this route
Journey facts
- Distance172 miles (278 km)
- Average bus duration11h 8m
- Cheapest ticket price$19 (€16)
- Buses per day7
- Direct buses7
- Fastest bus11h 8m
- First bus7:00 AM
- Last bus8:00 PM
- Cheapest MonthDec
- Cheapest DayFri
- High SeasonJul - Sep
- Low SeasonJan - Mar
- Busiest DaySun
- Least Busy DaySun
- Best time to book1 day
Understand & plan this route
Explore this journey
Book with confidence
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $18 (€15)
Frequently asked questions about your Kota Kinabalu to Tawau trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Kota Kinabalu to Tawau.
Cheap bus tickets from Kota Kinabalu to Tawau can start from as little as $19 (€16) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Kota Kinabalu to Tawau is $20 (€17) ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The earliest bus from Kota Kinabalu to Tawau leaves at 7:00 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Kota Kinabalu to Tawau leaves at 8:00 PM.
Yes, there are 7 direct buses a day from Kota Kinabalu to Tawau with TungMa Express (Kota Kinabalu), Sairah Express, TransTedar Express, OPTISJAYA EXPRESS, Sabariah Express. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
Kota Kinabalu to Tawau Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Sairah Express | Departure Time 12:00AM | Arrival Time 11:08AM | Duration 11h08 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $21 |
Operator TungMa Express (Kota Kinabalu) | Departure Time 07:00AM | Arrival Time 06:08PM | Duration 11h08 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $20 |
Operator Sairah Express | Departure Time 07:30AM | Arrival Time 06:38PM | Duration 11h08 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $20 |
Operator Sabariah Express | Departure Time 11:30AM | Arrival Time 10:38PM | Duration 11h08 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $26 |
Operator OPTISJAYA EXPRESS | Departure Time 11:30AM | Arrival Time 10:38PM | Duration 11h08 | Departure days Thu, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $20 |
Operator Sairah Express | Departure Time 12:00PM | Arrival Time 11:08PM | Duration 11h08 | Departure days Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $20 |
Operator OPTISJAYA EXPRESS | Departure Time 07:30PM | Arrival Time 06:38AM | Duration 11h08 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $20 |
Operator TransTedar Express | Departure Time 07:30PM | Arrival Time 06:38AM | Duration 11h08 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $20 |
Operator Sabariah Express | Departure Time 07:30PM | Arrival Time 06:38AM | Duration 11h08 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $20 |
Operator Sairah Express | Departure Time 07:30PM | Arrival Time 06:38AM | Duration 11h08 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $20 |
Operator TungMa Express (Kota Kinabalu) | Departure Time 08:00PM | Arrival Time 07:08AM | Duration 11h08 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $20 |
Operator Sairah Express | Departure Time 11:30PM | Arrival Time 10:38AM | Duration 11h08 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $21 |
Live departures
Kota Kinabalu to Tawau bus times
The table below shows live departures for Kota Kinabalu to Tawau buses for today, Friday, November 6. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 11:30 AM Kota Kinabalu | 11h08 | 10:38 PM Tawau | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 12:00 PM Kota Kinabalu | 11h08 | 11:08 PM Tawau | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 11:30 PM Kota Kinabalu | 11h08 | 10:38 AM Tawau | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Saturday, November 7 | |||||
| 12:00 AM Kota Kinabalu | 11h08 | 11:08 AM Tawau | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Kota Kinabalu to Tawau buses with Omio?
TungMa Express (Kota Kinabalu) as well as Sairah Express, TransTedar Express, OPTISJAYA EXPRESS, Sabariah Express and more offer buses services from Kota Kinabalu to Tawau.
Omio is the only official third party seller for TungMa Express (Kota Kinabalu) tickets.
Why book with Omio vs TungMa Express (Kota Kinabalu)?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for TungMa Express (Kota Kinabalu), but also compare tickets for the likes of Sairah Express, TransTedar Express, OPTISJAYA EXPRESS or Sabariah Express to find the best option for your trip from Kota Kinabalu to Tawau.
- 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 TungMa Express (Kota Kinabalu) with all available travel options, which are bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Kota Kinabalu to Tawau.
Bus companies
Bus companies from Kota Kinabalu to Tawau
Buses from Kota Kinabalu to Tawau with TungMa Express (Kota Kinabalu), Sairah Express, and OPTISJAYA EXPRESS. Use the details below to compare onboard facilities.
Sairah Express
About
Established in 2016 in Malaysia, operates high-class express buses with modern interiors and air conditioning. The main office is located at TB 4425 Block C Sabindo Square, Tun Hamdan Street, Tawau, Sabah. The service includes wheelchair access with assistance available upon request. Luggage is included in the fare. Free onboard WiFi and USB plugs are provided. Seat reservations and onboard bathrooms ensure a comfortable journey. Pets and bikes are not allowed.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Sairah Express Duration
11h 8m
Cheapest Sairah Express Price
$19 (€16)
Sairah Express frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
Luggage included in fare; specific size/type not provided.
Amenities on board the bus
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
Accessibility
Wheelchair access available; assistance for boarding and alighting can be arranged upon request.
TransTedar Express
About
Established in 2005 in Malaysia, operates from Counter 13, Terminal Inanam Bus Station, Kota Kinabalu. The fleet includes sleeper coaches and various service classes (express, ordinary, second, and first class). Night buses are not available. Luggage is included in the fare. Additional luggage is not allowed. Free onboard WiFi and USB plugs are available. Pets and bikes are not permitted. Food options are offered onboard, with seat reservations and bathrooms available for a comfortable journey.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average TransTedar Express Duration
11h 8m
Cheapest TransTedar Express Price
$19 (€16)
TransTedar Express frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
Luggage included in fare; specific size/type not provided.
Amenities on board the bus
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
Sabariah Express
About
Established in 1995 in Malaysia, operates from Inanam Bus Terminal, Kota Kinabalu. The fleet consists of Executive VIP coaches with 32 to 41 spacious and clean seats. Night buses are not available. Luggage is included in the fare, with excess and bulky luggage allowed for an additional fee. Free onboard WiFi is available, but there are no USB plugs. Pets and bikes are not permitted. Food options are offered onboard, and seat reservations along with bathrooms ensure a comfortable journey.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Sabariah Express Duration
11h 8m
Cheapest Sabariah Express Price
$19 (€16)
Sabariah Express frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
Luggage included in fare; specific size/type not provided.
Additional luggage
Excess luggage and bulky luggage allowed for an additional fee
Amenities on board the bus
Seat reservation
Toilets
TungMa Express (Kota Kinabalu)
About
Established in 1993 in Malaysia, operates 44-seater double-deck express buses from Terminal Bus Sri Indah in Tawau. The service includes luggage included with bulky luggage incurring an extra charge. Excess luggage is allowed for an additional fee.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average TungMa Express (Kota Kinabalu) Duration
11h 8m
Cheapest TungMa Express (Kota Kinabalu) Price
$19 (€16)
TungMa Express (Kota Kinabalu) frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
Luggage included; bulky luggage may incur an extra charge.
Additional luggage
Excess luggage and bulky luggage allowed for an additional fee
OPTISJAYA EXPRESS
About
Established in Malaysia, operates 30-seater single deck buses with fully air-conditioned, reclining seats and spacious leg space. The main bus station is Terminal Bersepadu Selatan (TBS). Luggage is not included, and no additional luggage is allowed. There is no onboard WiFi, USB plugs, pets or bikes permitted. Food options are unavailable, and there are no seat reservations or onboard bathrooms.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average OPTISJAYA EXPRESS Duration
11h 8m
Cheapest OPTISJAYA EXPRESS Price
$19 (€16)
OPTISJAYA EXPRESS frequency
1 a day
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Kota Kinabalu and Tawau
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
When taking a bus from Kota Kinabalu to Tawau, you can count on TungMa Express (Kota Kinabalu), Sairah Express, TransTedar Express, OPTISJAYA EXPRESS, Sabariah Express for the best way to get you to Tawau. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Kota Kinabalu and Tawau and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Kota Kinabalu to Tawau for bus company Sairah Express, TransTedar Express, Sabariah Express.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Kota Kinabalu to Tawau:
- Sairah Express
- Wheelchair access available
- assistance for boarding and alighting can be arranged upon request.
No, bikes are not allowed on board the bus from Kota Kinabalu to Tawau.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Kota Kinabalu to Tawau.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Kota Kinabalu to Tawau:
- TungMa Express (Kota Kinabalu)
- Luggage included
- bulky luggage may incur an extra charge.
- TransTedar Express
- Luggage included in fare
- specific size/type not provided.
- Sairah Express
- Luggage included in fare
- specific size/type not provided.
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Kota Kinabalu to Tawau:
- Sabariah Express
- Excess luggage and bulky luggage allowed for an additional fee
- TungMa Express (Kota Kinabalu)
- Excess luggage and bulky luggage allowed for an additional fee
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Kota Kinabalu to Tawau.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Kota Kinabalu to Tawau with the following bus company: Sairah Express, TransTedar Express, Sabariah Express
No, there are no USB plugs on board the bus from Kota Kinabalu to Tawau.
No, there is no WiFi on board the bus from Kota Kinabalu to Tawau.
Complete guide to Tawau
Things to do in Tawau
Discover the best of Tawau — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Tawau trip today.
- Recommended
Teck Guan Cocoa Museum
Visitor gallery and interpretation space linked to cocoa cultivation in Sabah. Worth a stop to learn about one of Tawau’s important agricultural industries.
Interpretation Centre, Tawau Hills Park
Science and nature center within Tawau Hills Park with displays on local geology, plants, and wildlife. Suitable for visitors wanting environmental context for the region.
- Must visit
Tawau Tanjung Market Park
Urban park known for giant rain trees, jogging paths, and sunset views over the bay. A favorite green escape close to town for walks and casual sightseeing.
- Must visit
Tawau Hills Park
Protected park of lowland rainforest, waterfalls, and trails outside town. Worth visiting for hiking, hot springs, and a fuller experience of Tawau’s natural setting.
- Recommended
Tawau Hill Park
Popular hill viewpoint reached by road and short walks. Visitors come for broad views of Tawau, cooler air, and a relaxed local atmosphere at sunrise or sunset.
Fish Noodles
Yellow egg noodles tossed in springy fish paste, often served dry or in broth. A Sabah Chinese staple strongly associated with Tawau and Sandakan.
- Gluten-free
Seafood Bee Hoon Soup
Rice vermicelli in a savory broth with fish slices, fish balls, or prawns. Popular in Tawau for its fresh seafood and light, comforting taste.
- Gluten-free
Yong Tau Foo
A Southern Chinese Hakka-style stuffed tofu dish with fish or pork paste. Common in Tawau's Hakka community and usually served fried or in broth.
Kedai Kopi Yee Fung
Popular local coffee shop known for fish noodles and Sabah-style breakfast. Casual, busy, and good for experiencing everyday Tawau eating.
Kam Leng Seafood Restaurant
Well-known seafood restaurant serving fresh fish, prawns, and shellfish in a relaxed setting. A reliable choice for Tawau's coastal specialties.
Ocean Seafood Restaurant
Casual seafood spot appreciated for fresh ingredients and straightforward preparation. Suitable for groups wanting fish, crab, and prawns.
Malaysian ringgit (RM)
Budget-friendly versus many Malaysian beach gateways. Local meals, basic hotels, and short taxi rides are generally inexpensive for tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- RM8-RM15 for street food or simple local meals.
- Mid-range
- RM20-RM45 per person for a casual restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- RM80+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- RM6-RM12 for coffee or a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is not expected. Service charge may be added in restaurants. Round up small taxi fares, and leave small change at cafes only for good service.
MPT e-Services
Official public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- Unknown
- Day pass
- None
To the city center
Tawau Airport -> Sabindo Square, Tawau
- Distance
- 31 km
- Travel time
- 30 min
- Tawau has no verified official urban bus or rail fare source for a standard city ticket, so confirm current local minibus fares on site.
- Official airport bus service appears to have ceased; from Tawau Airport, the practical official option is the airport taxi counter.
Plan your visit to Tawau
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Tawau.
The currency used in Malaysia is the Malaysian Ringgit (MYR). Travelers often find it convenient to use cards for most transactions, especially in urban areas, but carrying some cash is advisable for smaller vendors and rural locations where card acceptance may be limited.
In Tawau, travelers should be cautious of petty theft and pickpocketing, especially in crowded markets and public transport areas. It is advisable to avoid unlicensed taxi services and always agree on fares beforehand to prevent overcharging. Travelers should also be wary of unofficial tour operators offering deals that seem too good to be true, as these can sometimes lead to subpar experiences or safety risks. Staying in well-reviewed accommodations and using reputable transportation options helps ensure a safer visit.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
FAQs: Bus from Kota Kinabalu to Tawau
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Kota Kinabalu to Tawau by bus. 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 bus, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Tawau, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Kota Kinabalu and Tawau including taking a bus 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.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Kota Kinabalu to Tawau
Most Kota Kinabalu to Tawau buses use the Kota Kinabalu (Terminal Inanam) to Tawau (Terminal Bus Sri Indah) station pair. Use this guide to compare Kota Kinabalu and Tawau bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Kota Kinabalu
Arrival bus stations in Tawau
Which Kota Kinabalu station do buses to Tawau leave from?
Buses from Kota Kinabalu to Tawau leave from Kota Kinabalu (Terminal Inanam). The station is 2 miles (4 km) from Kota Kinabalu city centre at Jalan Bantayan, Inanam, 88857 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia.
Kota Kinabalu (Terminal Inanam)Jalan Bantayan, Inanam, 88857 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
City-centre transport
Getting to Kota Kinabalu (Terminal Inanam) from Kota Kinabalu city centre
Kota Kinabalu (Terminal Inanam) is 4 km from Kota Kinabalu city centre. Public transport options include:
BusCity buses and intercity buses
Kota Kinabalu (Terminal Inanam) bus station facilities and services
Kota Kinabalu (Terminal Inanam) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Food stalls and small restaurants available within terminal
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi available. ATMs are aTM machines available in terminal.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Kota Kinabalu (Terminal Inanam).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Kota Kinabalu (Terminal Inanam): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Kota Kinabalu (Terminal Inanam): Wheelchair accessible.
Which Tawau station do buses from Kota Kinabalu arrive at?
Buses from Kota Kinabalu to Tawau arrive at Tawau (Terminal Bus Sri Indah). Tawau (Terminal Bus Sri Indah) is 8 miles (13 km) from Tawau city centre.
Tawau (Terminal Bus Sri Indah)Jalan Tawau Lama, 91000 Tawau, Sabah, Malaysia
City-centre transport
Getting to Tawau (Terminal Bus Sri Indah) from Tawau city centre
Tawau (Terminal Bus Sri Indah) is 12 km from Tawau city centre. Public transport options include:
BusLocal city buses and intercity buses
Tawau (Terminal Bus Sri Indah) bus station facilities and services
Tawau (Terminal Bus Sri Indah) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Local food stalls and small restaurants inside terminal
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi available. ATMs are aTM machines available inside terminal.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Tawau (Terminal Bus Sri Indah).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Tawau (Terminal Bus Sri Indah): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Tawau (Terminal Bus Sri Indah): Basic ramps available.
Bus stations for Kota Kinabalu to Tawau
Check bus stations information for Kota Kinabalu and Tawau, including where buses depart and arrive on this route.
Passengers board the bus most frequently from Kota Kinabalu (Terminal Inanam), which is located around 2 miles (4 km) away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Tawau (Terminal Bus Sri Indah), located 13 away from the city centre.
Most popular bus connections from Kota Kinabalu
Most popular buses to and from Tawau and Kota Kinabalu
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