Car Rental in Sabah | Book at Unbeatable Prices

1. What is the cost of renting a car in Sabah?

The cost of renting a car in Sabah varies depending on the make and model of the car as well as the duration of the lease. On average, you can expect to pay between RM100 to RM300 per day. For more comprehensive pricing, consider visiting rental car company websites.

2. Which car model is most rented in Sabah?

Compact and economy cars, such as the Proton Saga or Perodua Myvi, are usually the most demanded in Sabah due to their fuel efficiency and ease of maneuverability, especially in Sabah's city areas.

3. Where are the most popular places to rent a car in Sabah?

Most people tend to rent cars from agencies located at the major airports in Sabah like the Kota Kinabalu International Airport or Sandakan Airport.

4. Is there a 24-hour pick-up and drop-off service?

Yes, many car rental companies in Sabah offer 24-hour pick-up and drop-off services, although it's always best to confirm this with the individual company.

5. Is there a minimum rental period?

Typically, car rental companies in Sabah require a minimum rental period of one day.

6. What's the minimum required age for car rental in Sabah?

Most car rental companies in Sabah require drivers to be at least 23 years of age.

7. What kind of documents do I need to rent or drive a car in Sabah?

Valid documents such as an International Driving Permit (IDP), valid local driving license, and personal identification like a passport are required to rent a car in Sabah.

8. What is the best time of the year to visit Sabah by car?

Generally, the best time to visit Sabah by car is during the dry season from May to September, when the roads are in good condition and the weather is favorable for sightseeing.

9. What are the main airports in Sabah?

The main airports in Sabah are Kota Kinabalu International Airport and Sandakan Airport.

10. Can I pick up the car in a city in Sabah and return it in another city?

Yes, most car rental companies offer the flexibility of picking up the car in one location and dropping it off at another. However, this could incur additional fees.

1. Kota Kinabalu: The capital of Sabah, known for its bustling markets, modern boardwalk, and nearby tropical islands.
2. Sandakan: Historic city known as a gateway for tourism and for its orangutan rehabilitation centre.
3. Tawau: A coastal town with a renowned seafood scene and a vibrant agricultural economy.
4. Putatan: Grown from a small village to a significant suburb, a hub for car manufacturing and sales in Sabah.
5. Keningau: Known for its traditional wooden shops and beautiful surrounding scenery.
6. Lahad Datu: A town offering natural beauty, being gateway to many natural reserves and wildlife adventures.
7. Semporna: Tourist hotspot due to its close proximity to diving sites and tropical islands.

1. Kota Kinabalu - Sandakan: Covering a distance of 319 kilometers in about 5 hours, this route mostly follows the AH150 highway. The road condition is generally good, with scenic views of mountain ranges.
2. Kota Kinabalu - Tawau: This route spans about 533 kilometers and takes approximately 7 hours to drive, predominantly on the AH150 highway. The road conditions may vary, caution for occasional rough patches.
3. Kota Kinabalu - Lahad Datu: Approximately 7 hours drive across 420 kilometers, through the AH150 highway, this route offers picturesque views of the countryside.
4. Kota Kinabalu - Kudat: A shorter route of 190 kilometers, requiring around 3 hours of driving via AH150 and Route Kota Marudu-Kudat. The roads are in good condition accompanied by striking coastal scenes.
5. Kota Kinabalu - Sipadan: Approximately 8 hours drive for 530 kilometers via AH150, passing through lush forest areas. The road condition is mostly good, but occasional rough patches can be found.
6. Kota Kinabalu - Sepilok: Covering a distance of 342 kilometers in about 5 hours via AH150 highway. The route has good road conditions with splendid views of palm oil plantations.
7. Kota Kinabalu - Mount Kinabalu: This 88-kilometer drive takes around 2 hours via AH150, providing an awe-inspiring view of Sabah's iconic mountain. Be aware of the abrupt change in altitude.

1. Which side of the road should I drive on in Sabah?

The legal type of driving in Sabah, as in the rest of Malaysia, is left-hand driving. You should always drive on the left side of the road.

2. What is the speed limit in Sabah?

The speed limit is typically 80 km/h on highways, 60 km/h on state roads, and 50 km/h in residential areas, unless otherwise posted. It is required to comply with these speed limits at all times.

3. Will I encounter speed cameras in Sabah?

Yes, there are speed cameras in Sabah. Failure to respect the speed limit can result in a fine.

4. Do I need an international driving license to drive in Sabah?

If you have a valid driver's license from your home country and it's in English, you can use it to drive in Sabah for up to 90 days. However, if it's not in English, you would need an International Driving Permit (IDP).

5. Are there any specific driving rules in Sabah I should be aware of?

Just like in the rest of Malaysia, seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers. Also, honking at night is considered illegal and offensive.

6. Where can I find gas stations in Sabah?

There are plenty of petrol stations in Sabah’s major towns and along the Pan Borneo Highway. However, if you plan to travel off the beaten track, it’s recommended to refuel whenever possible.

7. What do I do if I encounter a police checkpoint in Sabah?

Police checkpoints are not uncommon in Sabah, especially at night. If signalled to pull over, do so and provide your driving license and car registration documents.

8. Are there any toll roads in Sabah?

No, there are no toll highways in Sabah.

9. Are the roads well maintained in Sabah?

Most of the roads in the city and major highways in Sabah are well maintained. But off the beaten tracks, some roads can be narrow and winding with potholes.

10. What do I do in case of a car breakdown or accident in Sabah?

In case of a car breakdown, call your car rental agency for help. In case of an accident, you should call the police immediately and do not move your car until they arrive.

11. Is it safe to drive in Sabah at night?

Driving at night in the city is generally safe in Sabah. However, the remote areas may not have adequate street lighting, so extra caution is advised.

12. Are there parking facilities readily available in Sabah?

Yes, most hotels, shopping malls and attractions in Sabah have parking facilities.

13. Can I use mobile applications for navigation in Sabah?

Yes, applications like Google Maps and Waze are quite accurate for navigating roads in Sabah.

14. Are there any restrictions for female drivers in Sabah?

No, there are no restrictions for female drivers. Both men and women have the same driving rights in Sabah.

15. What type of car is suitable for driving in Sabah?

A compact car is sufficient for city driving in Sabah. However, a 4WD or SUV is recommended for off-road driving or for visiting remote areas.

1. Mount Kinabalu: Majestic mountain peak offering breath-taking summit views, a must-try for mountain lovers.
2. Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre: Iconic wildlife attraction offering close encounters with orangutans.
3. Sipadan Island: Renowned for its vibrant underwater ecosystem, making it a diver’s paradise.
4. Poring Hot Springs: Relax in sulphurous hot springs after a day of exploring.
5. Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park: Ideal for a day trip of snorkeling and beach activities.
6. Manukan Island: Known for the crystal-clear water and rich marine life, a popular spot for snorkeling and scuba diving.
7. Kinabatangan River: Home to diverse range of wildlife, offering unforgettable safari cruises
8. Rainforest Discovery Centre: Learn about the unique biodiversity of Borneo’s rainforests while walking along canopy walkways.

1. Kota Kinabalu to Mount Kinabalu: A 90 km drive from the capital to the highest peak in Malaysia, breathtaking views and cool climate included.
2. Tuaran to Kudat: Travel over 200 km through traditional villages, paddy fields and coconut plantations along the north coastline.
3. Sandakan to Sukau: This 78 km route offers a chance to explore the ‘Corridor of Life', which conserves Sabah's unique wildlife habitats.
4. Beaufort to Tenom: A 90 km thrilling stretch through the deep tropical rainforest of Sabah, ideal for nature enthusiasts.
5. Kota Kinabalu to Tip of Borneo: The 215 km route takes you to the northernmost point of Borneo, passing through picture-perfect beaches and traditional fishing villages.
6. Kinabalu Park to Poring Hot Spring: A short but rewarding 40 km trip through the dense rainforest that ends with a relaxing soak in the hot springs.
7. Sepilok to Labuk Bay: Drive 38 km to witness Proboscis monkeys in their natural habitat at Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary.