We have great offers for daily, weekly and long term rentals in Kota Kinabalu. Find the cheapest prices online, for your future Car Rental in Kota Kinabalu in 4 quick easy steps. Book now at the lowest possible rates only with a small down payment and pay the rest when you pick up the car.

  • Customer benefits:
  • Quality & Expertise
  • Free amendments before rental start
  • Free cancellation up to 48h before rental
  • 24/7 customer service
  • Club Member Discount

Flexible Booking Process

No need for huge up-front costs. Search for the best deal for you in Kota Kinabalu and book it with only a small advance payment, you will pay the remaining amount during the car pickup time.

Free Extras & Cancellation

In case your plans change you can cancel or do minor modifications for free up to 48 hours before your rental starts. We will also include all special offers in Kota Kinabalu and surcharges from our partners on the final price.

Quality & Expertise

We constantly evaluate our partners in the level of service they provide in Kota Kinabalu so we can ensure the quality of service you will receive.


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Why rent a car in Kota Kinabalu?

Renting a car in Kota Kinabalu offers unparalleled flexibility to explore the city's diverse attractions and the surrounding natural beauty at your own pace. With a personal vehicle, you can easily access remote destinations, such as the serene beaches of Tanjung Aru or the lush landscapes of Kinabalu Park, without the constraints of public transportation schedules.

Additionally, having a car allows you to venture beyond the city limits to discover hidden gems like the cultural villages and wildlife parks scattered throughout Sabah. This convenience ensures a more personalized and immersive travel experience, enabling you to fully appreciate the rich cultural heritage and natural wonders of the region.

Car rental tips for Kota Kinabalu

  • Kota Kinabalu International Airport hosts several car rental agencies, allowing travelers to pick up a vehicle immediately upon arrival. Booking in advance is recommended to ensure availability, especially during peak tourist seasons.
  • While driving in Kota Kinabalu, be prepared for varying road conditions, including narrow streets and occasional potholes. Defensive driving is advisable, and always be mindful of local traffic rules and customs.
  • If you plan to visit popular destinations like Kinabalu Park or Poring Hot Springs, having a rental car provides the flexibility to travel at your own pace and explore off-the-beaten-path attractions along the way.
  • Be aware that some areas in and around Kota Kinabalu may have limited signage or GPS coverage. It's advisable to have a physical map or download offline maps to assist with navigation during your travels.

FAQs about renting a car in Kota Kinabalu

What is the recommended car type/category?

A compact or mid-sized car is ideal for navigating Kota Kinabalu's city streets and nearby attractions. If you plan to explore more rugged terrains or rural areas, consider renting an SUV for better comfort and handling.

What are the parking options?

Parking in Kota Kinabalu is generally accessible, with ample spaces available in shopping malls, hotels, and popular tourist spots. However, during peak hours, finding parking in the city center can be challenging, so it's advisable to plan accordingly.

What's the speed limit?

In Malaysia, the general speed limits are 110 km/h (68 mph) on highways, 90 km/h (56 mph) on federal and state roads, and 60 km/h (37 mph) in urban areas. Always adhere to posted speed limits and be cautious of local driving conditions.

Popular attractions

  • Kota Kinabalu City Mosque: Known as the 'Floating Mosque,' this stunning structure appears to float on a lagoon, especially during high tide. It can accommodate up to 12,000 worshippers and is a masterpiece of Islamic architecture.
  • Atkinson Clock Tower: Built in 1905, this is the oldest standing structure in Kota Kinabalu. Originally constructed in memory of Francis George Atkinson, the city's first district officer, it offers a glimpse into the city's colonial past.
  • Signal Hill Observatory Platform: Provides panoramic views of Kota Kinabalu, the nearby islands, and the South China Sea. It's an excellent spot for photography, especially during sunrise and sunset.
  • Tanjung Aru Beach: A popular spot to unwind, offering panoramic views of the South China Sea and nearby islands. The beachfront is dotted with cafes and eateries, making it ideal for relaxation and enjoying local cuisine.
  • Sabah State Museum: Offers a fascinating glimpse into Sabah's rich cultural heritage and natural world, showcasing archaeological artifacts, traditional clothing, and exhibits on the indigenous tribes of Sabah.

More places to visit

  • Kinabalu Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site located about a two-hour drive from Kota Kinabalu, home to Mount Kinabalu and diverse flora and fauna.
  • Poring Hot Springs: Located near Kinabalu Park, these natural hot springs are perfect for relaxation after a day of hiking.
  • Klias Wetlands: Situated approximately 125 km southwest of Kota Kinabalu, this area is known for its rich biodiversity, including the proboscis monkey.

Highly recommended by our customers

All Car Rental Brands in Kota Kinabalu

Experience the difference with rentals from trusted brands. We focus on quality and customer satisfaction, so you can enjoy every mile of your journey.

9.7 / 10

Europcar Car Rental

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9.39 / 10

Green Motion Car Rental

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6.5 / 10

AGTRAN Car Rental

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6.5 / 10

MKAZ Car Rental

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National Car Rental

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Alamo Car Rental

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SIXT Car Rental

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Enterprise Car Rental

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Budget Car Rental

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Hertz Car Rental

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Keddy Car Rental

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Thrifty Car Rental

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AVIS Car Rental

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Firefly Car Rental

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: This company has yet to receive any customer evaluations.

Find a car according to your needs


Small / Economy

You want a small, fuel-efficient vehicle for your trip? We provide a large range of options for you to select from. Save money while still getting a reliable vehicle!

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Hybrid / Electric

A hybrid car rental gives you the option to travel using different kinds of power, save energy, and cut down on emissions. Get where you need to go without constantly stopping for gas.

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Prestige Cars

Renting a luxury car gives you the chance to drive your dream car at an affordable price. This puts you in the driver’s seat of luxury cars from internationally renowned brands.

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Stationwagon / Minibus

You are on a family vacation or group outing? Our minibus and station wagons are perfect for the job. Minivans and 7-9 seaters are designed to provide a comfortable ride for everyone to enjoy.

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Kota Kinabalu: Most popular locations



The cheapest car rental deals


*Displayed prices are the best daily rates found by our customers during the last two weeks. (Subject to change)

Website advantages

  • Destinations in almost every city in the world.
  • Competitive prices from trusted car rental brands
  • Genuine customer evaluation scores for each brand
  • Multilingual website

Customer benefits

  • Free amendments before rental start
  • Free cancellation up to 48h before rental
  • 24/7 customer service
  • Club Member Discount

One ways are supported! You want to pick up your car and return it to a different location, we can do it!

No hidden fees with us! Select your preferences and see the total prices before booking! Any extra fees that may apply because of driver's age or late pick up time selection, will always be included on the total price.

No need for full payment! Book your car with just a small amount and give the rest upon pick up.