- Must visit
Sabah State Museum
State museum complex covering Sabah history, ethnography, archaeology, and natural history. A strong introduction to the state before wider exploration.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Tawau to Kota Kinabalu
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 15
Cheapest price on Oct 15
$21
Average ticket price on Oct 15
$21
Fastest journey on Oct 15
11 h 8 m
Average journey duration on Oct 15
11 h 8 m
Buses on Oct 15
7
Distance
278 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Tawau to Kota Kinabalu is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Tawau to Kota Kinabalu will cost around $21 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $21.
Fast buses
On Thu, Oct 15, we found 7 buses from Tawau to Kota Kinabalu, including 7 direct services.
On Thu, Oct 15 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 Thu, Oct 15 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.
TUNG MA EXPRESS7:30 AM11h08Tawau (Bus Terminal Sri Indah)6:38 PMKota Kinabalu (Bus Terminal Inanam)$211One-way0 transfers- TUNG MA EXPRESS7:45 PM11h08Tawau (Bus Terminal Sri Indah)6:53 AMKota Kinabalu (Bus Terminal Inanam)$211One-way0 transfers
SABARIAH EXPRESS7:30 PM11h08Tawau (Bus Terminal Sri Indah)6:38 AMKota Kinabalu (Bus Terminal Inanam)$211One-way0 transfers
SAIRAH EXPRESS7:30 PM11h08Tawau (Bus Terminal Sri Indah)6:38 AMKota Kinabalu (Bus Terminal Inanam)$211One-way0 transfers- SAIRAH EXPRESS7:30 AM11h08Tawau (Bus Terminal Sri Indah)6:38 PMKota Kinabalu (Bus Terminal Inanam)$211One-way0 transfers
- TUNG MA EXPRESS7:30 AM11h08Tawau (Bus Terminal Sri Indah)6:38 PMKota Kinabalu (Bus Terminal Inanam)$211One-way0 transfers
- TUNG MA EXPRESS7:45 PM11h08Tawau (Bus Terminal Sri Indah)6:53 AMKota Kinabalu (Bus Terminal Inanam)$211One-way0 transfers
- SABARIAH EXPRESS7:30 PM11h08Tawau (Bus Terminal Sri Indah)6:38 AMKota Kinabalu (Bus Terminal Inanam)$211One-way0 transfers
- SAIRAH EXPRESS7:30 PM11h08Tawau (Bus Terminal Sri Indah)6:38 AMKota Kinabalu (Bus Terminal Inanam)$211One-way0 transfers
- SAIRAH EXPRESS7:30 AM11h08Tawau (Bus Terminal Sri Indah)6:38 PMKota Kinabalu (Bus Terminal Inanam)$211One-way0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Tawau to Kota Kinabalu
MalaysiaMalaysia
Buses from Tawau to Kota Kinabalu run on average 6 times per day, taking around 11h 8m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $19 (€16) but you can travel from only $17 (€14) by flight.
There are 6 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 $17 (€14)
Distance 172 miles (278 km) |
Average bus duration 11h 8m |
Cheapest ticket price $19 (€16) |
Buses per day 6 |
Direct buses 6 |
Fastest bus 11h 8m |
First bus 7:00 AM |
Last bus 8:00 PM |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Fri |
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $17 (€14)
Tawau to Kota Kinabalu Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Tung Ma Express | Departure Time 07:30AM | Arrival Time 06:38PM | Duration 11h08 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $21 |
Operator Sairah Express | Departure Time 07:30AM | Arrival Time 06:38PM | Duration 11h08 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $21 |
Operator TransTedar Express | Departure Time 07:30PM | Arrival Time 06:38AM | Duration 11h08 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $21 |
Operator Sabariah Express | Departure Time 07:30PM | Arrival Time 06:38AM | Duration 11h08 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $21 |
Operator Sairah Express | Departure Time 07:30PM | Arrival Time 06:38AM | Duration 11h08 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $21 |
Operator Tung Ma Express | Departure Time 07:45PM | Arrival Time 06:53AM | Duration 11h08 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $21 |
Operator OPTISJAYA EXPRESS | Departure Time 07:45PM | Arrival Time 06:53AM | Duration 11h08 | Departure days Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $21 |
Operator OPTISJAYA EXPRESS | Departure Time 08:00PM | Arrival Time 07:08AM | Duration 11h08 | Departure days Mon, Sun | Cheapest price $21 |
Live departures
Tawau to Kota Kinabalu bus times
The table below shows live departures for Tawau to Kota Kinabalu buses for today, Wednesday, October 14. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SABARIAH EXPRESS | 7:30 PM Tawau (Bus Terminal Sri Indah) | 11h08 | 6:38 AM Kota Kinabalu (Bus Terminal Inanam) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| SAIRAH EXPRESS | 7:30 PM Tawau (Bus Terminal Sri Indah) | 11h08 | 6:38 AM Kota Kinabalu (Bus Terminal Inanam) | 0 transfersDirect | |
 TRANSTEDAR EXPRESS | 7:30 PM Tawau (Bus Terminal Sri Indah) | 11h08 | 6:38 AM Kota Kinabalu (Bus Terminal Inanam) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| TUNG MA EXPRESS | 7:45 PM Tawau (Bus Terminal Sri Indah) | 11h08 | 6:53 AM Kota Kinabalu (Bus Terminal Inanam) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Thursday, October 15 | |||||
| SAIRAH EXPRESS | 7:30 AM Tawau (Bus Terminal Sri Indah) | 11h08 | 6:38 PM Kota Kinabalu (Bus Terminal Inanam) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| TUNG MA EXPRESS | 7:30 AM Tawau (Bus Terminal Sri Indah) | 11h08 | 6:38 PM Kota Kinabalu (Bus Terminal Inanam) | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Tawau to Kota Kinabalu buses with Omio?
Sairah Express as well as Tung Ma Express, TransTedar Express, Sabariah Express, OPTISJAYA EXPRESS and more offer buses services from Tawau to Kota Kinabalu.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Tawau to Kota Kinabalu.
Why book with Omio vs Sairah Express?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Sairah Express, but also compare tickets for the likes of Tung Ma Express, TransTedar Express, Sabariah Express or OPTISJAYA EXPRESS to find the best option for your trip from Tawau 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 Sairah Express with all available travel options, which are bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Tawau to Kota Kinabalu.
Why book with Omio over Checkmybus, Trainline or Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Tung Ma Express, TransTedar Express, Sabariah Express or OPTISJAYA EXPRESS to find the best option for your trip from Tawau 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 Tawau to Kota Kinabalu.
Bus providers: Tung Ma Express, Sairah Express, TransTedar Express, OPTISJAYA EXPRESS, Sabariah Express from Tawau to Kota KinabaluYou can travel by bus between Tawau to Kota Kinabalu with Tung Ma Express, Sairah Express, TransTedar Express, OPTISJAYA EXPRESS, Sabariah Express for as low as $17 (€14). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
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.
Tung Ma Express
About
Established in 1993 in Malaysia, operates from Terminal Bus Sri Indah with 44-seater double-deck express buses featuring air conditioning, TV sets, reclining seats, spacious legroom, and seat belts. Luggage is included in the fare with excess and bulky luggage allowed for an additional fee. Onboard facilities include free WiFi, USB plugs, food options, seat reservations, and onboard bathrooms. Pets and bikes are not permitted.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Tung Ma Express Duration
11h 8m
Cheapest Tung Ma Express Price
$19 (€16)
Tung Ma Express frequency
2 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
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
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
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
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 Heritage Village
Open-air section of the state museum with traditional houses from Sabah communities. It offers cultural context and photogenic architecture in one stop.
- Recommended
Sabah Art Gallery
Contemporary gallery featuring rotating exhibitions and local artists. A useful stop for visitors interested in Sabah’s current visual arts scene.
- Must visit
Kota Kinabalu Waterfront
Waterfront promenade with sea views, offshore island panoramas, and sunset watching. A classic walking area for an easy introduction to the city.
- Must visit
Signal Hill Observatory Platform
Elevated lookout above downtown with broad city and bay views. Best visited near sunset for a quick scenic stop and photos.
- Must visit
Tanjung Aru Beach
Popular urban beach and park area for sunsets, walking, and sea breezes. A relaxed local favorite close to the city center.
Ngiu Chap
Sabah’s iconic noodles in springy egg noodles with char siu, roast pork and greens. A local breakfast staple reflecting Chinese-Sabahan food culture.
Ngiu Chap
Beef noodle soup with mixed cuts, brisket and offal in a rich herbal broth. Deeply associated with Kota Kinabalu kopitiam dining.
- Gluten-free
Hinava
Fresh raw fish marinated with lime, chili, ginger and shallots. A classic Kadazan-Dusun and coastal Sabah dish prized for its clean, bright flavor.
Tepi Laut at Shangri-La Rasa Ria
Refined dining room in Shangri-La Rasa Ria focusing on regional Malaysian tasting menus and Sabah ingredients in an elegant resort setting.
Welcome Seafood Restaurant
Popular casual seafood restaurant known for fresh live tanks, Sabah-style crab and prawns. Busy, family-friendly setting near the city center.
Yii Siang Hainan Ngiu Chap
Well-known local chain for fish noodles and seafood soup. Casual, efficient and ideal for trying a Kota Kinabalu everyday favorite.
Malaysian ringgit (RM)
Budget-friendly versus many regional cities: low-cost eats, modest hotel rates, and cheap taxis and buses keep daily spend down.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- RM8-15 for street food or simple local meals.
- Mid-range
- RM25-50 per person for a casual restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- RM120+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- RM10-15 for a coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is not expected. Restaurants may add 6% SST and 10% service charge. Round up or leave RM2-5 for good service; taxi tips are optional.
FAQs: Bus from Tawau to Kota Kinabalu
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Tawau to Kota Kinabalu 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 Kota Kinabalu, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Tawau to Kota Kinabalu can start from as little as $19 (€16) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Tawau to Kota Kinabalu is $21 (€17) ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by bus from Tawau to Kota Kinabalu is 11h 8m to travel the 172 miles (278 km) long journey. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest bus from Tawau to Kota Kinabalu leaves at 7:00 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Tawau to Kota Kinabalu leaves at 8:00 PM.
Yes, there are 6 direct buses a day from Tawau to Kota Kinabalu with Sairah Express, Tung Ma Express, TransTedar Express, Sabariah Express, OPTISJAYA EXPRESS. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Tawau to Kota Kinabalu, you can count on Sairah Express, Tung Ma Express, TransTedar Express, Sabariah Express, OPTISJAYA EXPRESS for the best way to get you to Kota Kinabalu. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Tawau and Kota Kinabalu and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
When departing from Tawau , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Tawau (Bus Terminal Sri Indah) . When arriving in Kota Kinabalu , you can end your journey in bus stations like Kota Kinabalu (Bus Terminal Inanam), Ranau, Ranau, Kundasang, Telupid, Sandakan, Jalan Checkpoint, Sandakan, Kinabatangan, Lahad Datu .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Tawau (Bus Terminal Sri Indah), which is located around 7 miles (12 km) away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Kota Kinabalu (Bus Terminal Inanam), located 4 away from the city centre.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Tawau and Kota Kinabalu including taking a bus and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Tawau to Kota Kinabalu:
- Sairah Express
- Wheelchair access available
- assistance for boarding and alighting can be arranged upon request.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Tawau to Kota Kinabalu for bus company Sairah Express, Tung Ma Express, TransTedar Express, Sabariah Express.
No, bikes are not allowed on board the bus from Tawau to Kota Kinabalu.
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.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Tawau to Kota Kinabalu.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Tawau to Kota Kinabalu:
- TransTedar Express
- Luggage included in fare
- specific size/type not provided.
- Sairah Express
- Luggage included in fare
- specific size/type not provided.
- Tung Ma Express
- Luggage included in fare
- specific size/type not provided.
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Tawau to Kota Kinabalu:
- Sabariah Express
- Excess luggage and bulky luggage allowed for an additional fee
- Tung Ma Express
- Excess luggage and bulky luggage allowed for an additional fee
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Tawau to Kota Kinabalu.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Tawau to Kota Kinabalu with the following bus company: Sairah Express, Tung Ma Express, TransTedar Express, Sabariah Express
No, there are no USB plugs on board the bus from Tawau to Kota Kinabalu.
No, there is no WiFi on board the bus from Tawau to Kota Kinabalu.
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 Kota Kinabalu, travelers should be cautious of petty theft, especially in crowded markets and public transport areas. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers who do not use meters and tour operators offering overpriced or fake tours. It is advisable to use reputable transportation services and confirm prices beforehand. Additionally, travelers should avoid isolated areas at night and be mindful of personal belongings to ensure safety.
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.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Tawau to Kota Kinabalu
Most Tawau to Kota Kinabalu buses use the Tawau (Terminal Bus Sri Indah) to Kota Kinabalu (Terminal Inanam) station pair. Use this guide to compare Tawau and Kota Kinabalu bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Tawau
Arrival bus stations in Kota Kinabalu
Which Tawau station do buses to Kota Kinabalu leave from?
Buses from Tawau to Kota Kinabalu leave from Tawau (Terminal Bus Sri Indah). The station is 8 miles (13 km) from Tawau city centre at Jalan Tawau Lama, 91000 Tawau, Sabah, Malaysia.
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.
Which Kota Kinabalu station do buses from Tawau arrive at?
Buses from Tawau to Kota Kinabalu most often arrive at Kota Kinabalu (Terminal Inanam). Some services arrive at Ranau, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Kota Kinabalu arrival station.
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.
More options for your journey from Tawau to Kota Kinabalu
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Kota Kinabalu and Tawau
Most popular bus connections to Kota Kinabalu
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