- Must visit
Agnes Keith House
Former home of Agnes Keith with period displays on colonial-era life, local history, and the writer's time in Sandakan.
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Tawau to Sandakan Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Sida Express | Departure Time 12:00AM | Arrival Time 06:21AM | Duration 6h21 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price €15 |
Compare prices and tickets Tawau to Sandakan by flight or bus
Compare flight and bus prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
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Why should you book Tawau to Sandakan buses with Omio?
Sida Express operates all buses services from Tawau to Sandakan.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Tawau to Sandakan.
Why book with Omio vs Sida Express?
- 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 flight and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Tawau to Sandakan.
Why book with Omio over Checkmybus, Rome2rio or Trainline?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including flight and bus to find the ideal travel option from Tawau to Sandakan.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Tawau to Sandakan
MalaysiaMalaysia
Buses from Tawau to Sandakan run on average 1 times per day, taking around 6h 21m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at €11 if you book in advance.
There are 1 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 07:30, the last at 10:00. The fastest bus covers the 111 miles (180 km) distance in 6h 21m.
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 111 miles (180 km) |
Average bus duration 6h 21m |
Cheapest ticket price €11 |
Buses per day 1 |
Direct buses 1 |
Fastest bus 6h 21m |
First bus 7:30 AM |
Last bus 10:00 AM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
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
Bus providers: Sida Express from Tawau to SandakanYou can travel by bus between Tawau to Sandakan with Sida 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
6h 21m
Cheapest Sida Express Price
€11
Sida Express frequency
1 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
Complete guide to Sandakan
Things to do in Sandakan
Discover the best of Sandakan — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Sandakan trip today.
- Must visit
Rainforest Discovery Centre
Nature park with a canopy walk, botanical displays, birdwatching, and well-kept forest trails near Sepilok.
- Recommended
Sandakan Heritage Museum
Small heritage museum in a restored house presenting Sandakan's prewar port history and multicultural community.
- Must visit
Rainforest Discovery Centre
Nature park with a canopy walk, botanical displays, birdwatching, and well-kept forest trails near Sepilok.
- Recommended
Agnes Keith House and Heritage Trail Area
Historic hill area known for restored colonial houses, old stairways, and trails linking key heritage sites and viewpoints.
- Recommended
Sandakan Waterfront
Central waterfront area for sunsets, harbor views, and an easy walk near shops, jetties, and local city life.
Butter Prawns
Fresh Sabah prawns stir-fried in a thick sweet-savory butter sauce with curry leaves. A Sandakan seafood favorite thanks to the town's access to excellent shellfish.
Steamed Fresh Fish
Live grouper, snapper or pomfret simply steamed with ginger and soy, highlighting Sandakan's very fresh catch from the Sulu Sea and local seafood culture.
- Gluten-free
Grilled Tiger Prawns
Tiger prawns grilled or cooked with garlic, chili or butter. Sandakan is especially known in Sabah for large, sweet prawns landed nearby.
Balin Roofgarden Bistro & Bar
Well-known hilltop restaurant in a heritage-style house serving Malaysian and Western dishes with harbor views and a calm garden atmosphere.
English Tea House & Restaurant
Casual seafood restaurant known for fresh prawns, fish and crab dishes. Popular for hearty local-style cooking in a relaxed setting.
Sim Sim Seafood Restaurant
Rooftop dining spot with sunset views, seafood, grilled dishes and drinks. A lively option for dinner with a more polished atmosphere.
Malaysian ringgit (RM)
Budget-friendly for Malaysia; rooms, local meals, and taxis usually cost less than in Kuala Lumpur or Kota Kinabalu.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- RM 8-15 for street food or simple local meals.
- Mid-range
- RM 20-40 per person for a casual restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- RM 60+ per person at hotel or upscale venues.
- Coffee
- RM 8-15 for a coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is not expected. Restaurants may add a service charge. Round up small change for taxis or cafes, or leave 5-10% for very good service.
JKNS
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- Unknown
- Day pass
- None
To the city center
Sandakan Airport, Sandakan -> Sandakan Town Centre, Sandakan
- Distance
- 14 km
- Travel time
- 20 min
- Public bus fare and pass information was not clearly published on official Sandakan operator or authority pages I could verify; check locally with Sandakan Municipal Council.
- Sabah State Railway ticket sales are cash at station counters on the day of travel, according to the official railway passenger page.
FAQs: Bus from Tawau to Sandakan
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Tawau to Sandakan 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 Sandakan, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Tawau to Sandakan can start from as little as €11 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Tawau to Sandakan is €11 ; 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 Sandakan is 6h 21m to travel the 111 miles (180 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 Sandakan leaves at 7:30 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Tawau to Sandakan leaves at 10:00 AM.
Yes, there are 1 direct buses a day from Tawau to Sandakan with Sida Express. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Tawau to Sandakan, you can count on Sida Express for the best way to get you to Sandakan. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Tawau and Sandakan and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
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 Sandakan, located 2 away from the city centre.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Tawau and Sandakan including taking a flight and bus.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Tawau to Sandakan for bus company Sida Express.
No, the bus from Tawau to Sandakan has no accessibility options.
No, bikes are not allowed on board the bus from Tawau to Sandakan.
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 Sandakan.
No, luggage for the bus from Tawau to Sandakan needs to be booked in addition.
No, there are no additional luggage options for the bus from Tawau to Sandakan.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Tawau to Sandakan.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Tawau to Sandakan with the following bus company: Sida Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Tawau to Sandakan with the following bus company: Sida Express.
No, there is no WiFi on board the bus from Tawau to Sandakan.
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 Sandakan, travelers should be cautious of petty theft and keep an eye on their belongings, especially in crowded areas and markets. Avoid accepting unsolicited offers for tours or transportation to prevent scams. It's advisable to use licensed operators for boat trips and wildlife tours. Travelers should also be aware of local wildlife and follow safety guidelines when visiting natural attractions.
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 Sandakan
Most Tawau to Sandakan buses use the Tawau (Terminal Bus Sri Indah) to Sandakan station pair. Use this guide to compare Tawau and Sandakan 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 Sandakan
Which Tawau station do buses to Sandakan leave from?
Buses from Tawau to Sandakan 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 Sandakan station do buses from Tawau arrive at?
Buses from Tawau to Sandakan arrive at Sandakan. Sandakan is 1 miles (3 km) from Sandakan city centre.
SandakanJalan Pelabuhan, Sandakan, Sabah, Malaysia
City-centre transport
Getting to Sandakan from Sandakan city centre
Sandakan is 2 km from Sandakan city centre. Public transport options include:
BusLocal city buses and intercity buses
Sandakan bus station facilities and services
Sandakan has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Local food stalls and small restaurants nearby
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are aTM machines available inside terminal.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Sandakan.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Sandakan: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Sandakan: Wheelchair accessible.
Most popular bus connections from Tawau
More options for your journey from Tawau to Sandakan
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Sandakan and Tawau
Most popular bus connections to Sandakan
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