Local Transportation in Sabah: A Guide to Easing Your Travel and Tourism Experience

Local Transportation in Sabah: A Guide to Easing Your Travel and Tourism Experience

Sabah, known for its natural beauty and vibrant culture, is a top destination for travelers. However, navigating the state’s varied landscapes requires understanding the local transportation system. Whether you’re a first-timer or a returning visitor, having knowledge of the available transport options will significantly enhance your travel experience. This blog outlines the key modes of transport within Sabah, with estimated costs and information on operators to help you plan better.

1. Buses and Minibuses: Affordable Public Transport

Public buses and minibuses are a common mode of transport in major cities like Kota Kinabalu (KK), Sandakan, and Tawau. The state has long-distance buses connecting major towns, and minibuses provide shorter intra-city routes.

• Cost: RM1.50 – RM3.00 for minibuses (depending on distance) within KK. For longer distances, such as KK to Sandakan or Tawau, the fare can range from RM50 to RM80.
• Major Operators:
  • North Borneo Express: Offers services from KK to Sandakan, Lahad Datu, and Tawau.
  • Inanam Bus Terminal: The main hub for long-distance buses within Sabah.

2. Taxis: Convenient but Costlier Option

Taxis are a reliable and faster mode of transport, especially for short distances within cities. However, Sabah taxis do not typically use meters, so fare negotiation is necessary before you start your journey.

• Cost: RM10 – RM20 for short trips around KK. Trips between KK and the airport are around RM30 – RM40.
• Tips: Always ask for the fare upfront to avoid being overcharged. Alternatively, use ride-hailing apps for more transparent pricing.

3. Ride-Hailing Services: Grab and Maxim

Grab is the dominant ride-hailing app in Sabah, offering a convenient alternative to taxis. The pricing is transparent, and the service is available in major urban areas like Kota Kinabalu, Sandakan, and Tawau. Maxim is another ride-hailing service that operates in some parts of Sabah.

• Cost: RM5 – RM25 for short trips (depending on distance). Airport transfers with Grab cost around RM25 – RM35.
• Major Operators:
  • Grab Malaysia
  • Maxim Ride-Hailing

4. Car Rental: Best for Road Trips and Flexibility

Renting a car is ideal for those who prefer flexibility and want to explore rural areas like Mount Kinabalu, Tip of Borneo, or Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre. Various car rental services are available in Kota Kinabalu and major airports.

• Cost: RM150 – RM300 per day depending on the car type and rental period.
• Major Operators:
  • Sabah Rent A Car: Offers airport pick-up and drop-off.
  • KK Rent A Car: Provides vehicles for city and long-distance travel.

5. Motorbike Rentals: Affordable and Convenient

For budget travelers, renting a motorbike is a cost-effective way to navigate through towns or explore scenic routes in rural areas.

• Cost: RM30 – RM80 per day.
• Major Operators:
  • Go Go Sabah Bike Rental
  • Kota Kinabalu Motorbike Rental

6. Ferries: For Island Hopping Adventures

Ferries connect the mainland with popular islands such as Pulau Manukan, Pulau Gaya, and Pulau Sipadan. This mode of transport is essential for those planning island-hopping adventures in Sabah.

• Cost: RM23 – RM50 for a round trip (depending on the island destination).
• Major Operators:
  • Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal in Kota Kinabalu serves as the main departure point for ferries to nearby islands.

7. Domestic and International Flights

Sabah has five main airports with Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI) being the busiest and the gateway for both domestic and international flights. Tawau Airport and Sandakan Airport handle domestic flights, while Lahad Datu Airport and Kudat Airport serve smaller regions.

• Major Airlines:
  • Malaysia Airlines
  • AirAsia
  • Malindo Air
  Domestic flights to Semporna (the gateway to Pulau Sipadan) and Lahad Datu can be an excellent time-saver.

Estimated Travel Costs

• Bus fare (long-distance): RM50 – RM80 per trip.
• Taxi/Ride-hailing (city travel): RM5 – RM30 per trip.
• Car rental: RM150 – RM300 per day.
• Motorbike rental: RM30 – RM80 per day.
• Ferry to islands: RM23 – RM50 per round trip.

Travel Tips for Sabah Visitors

• Book early: During peak tourist seasons, bus and ferry seats can fill up quickly. It’s best to book your tickets in advance.
• Use ride-hailing apps: For cost transparency, use Grab or Maxim instead of hailing taxis on the street.
• Negotiate taxi fares: If you’re using a traditional taxi, always agree on the price before starting the journey.
• Car rental for rural travel: If you plan to visit remote areas, renting a car is the best way to enjoy your journey comfortably.

Conclusion

Having access to the right transportation information will not only ease your travel but also help you save time and money. From affordable buses and taxis to convenient car rentals and ferries, Sabah offers a range of options to suit every traveler’s needs. Make sure to plan your transportation ahead of time, especially if you’re visiting during peak seasons, and enjoy your exploration of Sabah’s stunning landscapes and vibrant culture!