This Route from Davao to the Timber City of the South (Philippines) Saves Time and Stress
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If you want to explore options other than arriving at Manila’s Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) or plan to visit Butuan after Davao, you’d really need to know the travel options available from Davao to Butuan.
While this way may not be common for everyone, it’s definitely worth knowing that it is possible. In fact, this route offers several convenient transportation options!
Additionally, the distance from Davao to Butuan is approximately 195 kilometres (121 miles).
We’ve listed here the four best ways to travel from Davao to Butuan, two well-known cities in the southern part of the Philippines.
Also, we’ve included helpful tips, and hotel and tourist spot recommendations to make sure you’re on the go when you embark on your journey!
Get ready to explore all of them, and find the best travel option that is right for you!
Best Choice: Davao to Butuan by Bus
Fastest Way: Davao to Butuan by Taxi
Flexible Option: Davao to Butuan by Car
4 Best Ways to Travel from Davao to Butuan
🚌 Davao to Butuan by Bus
📌 Davao City Overland Transport Terminal
⏳ 5 – 6 hours (Non-stop) | 8 Hours (Regular)
💸 ₱ 750 (Non-stop)
This travel option is the best choice when you’re considering heading to Butuan from Davao. And it also has the cheapest price!
Travelling via bus from Davao to Butuan takes you about 8 hours if you ride on ordinary buses.
But there are nonstop buses which are capable of getting you to Langihan Bus Terminal in Butuan City for 5 to 6 hours depending on traffic and weather conditions.
While taking the bus is not the fastest among the travel options, it offers a reliable and safe travel experience wherein you can witness the different places between the two cities!
The nonstop Davao to Butuan bus fare (airconditioned w/ individual charger port and entertainment screens) is around 750 pesos.
If you take the ordinary bus with (no aircon), the fare is much cheaper obviously.
In addition to that Davao to Butuan bus schedule (nonstop bus only) is 24/7! So, you can travel at whatever time you want!
Getting to Butuan by bus is pretty straightforward. Just catch a taxi going to Davao City Overland Transport Terminal.
Choose the Bachelor Express bus line (yellow ones), and you’re all set for your Butuan trip!
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🚕 Davao to Butuan by Taxi
If you don’t mind the cost of travel, Davao to Butuan by taxi will allow you to reach Butuan City and the tourist spots you wanna explore the fastest way!
You can also negotiate with the driver about the price before going on the trip. It’s usual in the Philippines, and most drivers are kind especially to tourists. Don’t forget to try that out!
The cost of riding a taxi from Davao to Butuan can vary, again, depending on you and the driver’s agreement.
But we suggest preparing around 4,500 to 5,000 pesos, and you should be able to reach Butuan downtown in 4 hours.
Riding a taxi, especially with a longer distance like Davao to Butuan, provides you with convenience and saves your energy for exploring Butuan!
🚗 Davao to Butuan by Car
Alternatively, you can travel from Davao to Butuan by car.
This is the most suggested way to travel between these two cities if you’re planning to drop by different towns and cities along the way!
Some travellers who like this option bring cars with them, but most opt to rent one from car rental companies, especially in big cities like Davao City, there are lots of them!
We suggest that you book your car ahead of time to ensure that it’s available by the time you pick it up, especially during peak travel periods when demand for rental cars is higher.
Don’t worry, most if not all car rentals in Davao City allow booking online.
Lastly, make sure you have a valid driver’s license and the documents needed too!
✈️ Davao to Butuan by Plane
Davao to Butuan flight is supposedly the fastest and most convenient way among the options available.
The travel time is expected to be less than an hour.
However, there are no airlines that offer direct flights from Davao International to Bancasi (Butuan) currently.
If you prefer to take a plane from Davao to Butuan, it is still possible. Many airlines offer connecting flights with travel times typically ranging from 5 hours or more.
Just choose the one that only has one stop.
We don’t really recommend travelling by plane for ideal travellers with this route, since it usually takes the same travel time as taking the Davao to Butuan bus and other land trip options.
Sometimes even more, not to mention the expenses.
But then again, if this option suits your itinerary and you love and enjoy flying, go ahead!
Most of Davao to Butuan flights take you from Davao International Airport to NAIA first, before landing at Bancasi Airport in Butuan City.
Things to Know Before Travelling from Davao to Butuan
🤔 What is the Distance from Davao to Butuan?
The distance from Davao to Butuan is approximately 195 kilometres (121 miles).
🤔 What is the Cheapest Way to Get from Davao to Butuan?
The cheapest way to travel from Davao to Butuan is usually by taking a bus. Bus fares are generally more affordable than other options like flights or taxis.
🤔 What is the Fastest Way to Get from Davao to Butuan?
The fastest way to get from Davao to Butuan is by taxi or car. These options only take you 4 hours to reach Butuan downtown, depending on traffic conditions.
🤔 Is it safe to travel to Butuan City, Philippines?
Overall, it is considered a relatively safe place for tourists. However, it is always advisable to exercise caution, be aware of your surroundings, and follow local guidelines for a safe trip.
Getting Back from Butuan to Davao
Travelling from Butuan to Davao by connecting flight will take approximately 5 hours and 20 minutes. Keep in mind that the travel time may vary depending on the available routes and flight schedules.
You can book a connecting flight from Bancasi Airport in Butuan to Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) in Manila, and then from NAIA to Davao International Airport.
This type of flight arrangement is common and allows you to travel between Butuan and Davao with a layover in Manila.
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Other options are also available such as taxis which get you faster than flying. Taxis are available anywhere in Butuan City.
Just make sure to negotiate with the driver before heading off to Davao. Travel time by taxi typically takes 4 hours, if the road traffic is running smoothly.
Finally, the most common way is by taking the bus. Head to Langihan Bus Terminal in Butuan City, and look for Butuan to Davao City buses.
We suggest choosing a nonstop bus option for faster travel time and added convenience.
Top Tourist Spots in Butuan City
📍➤ Banza Church Ruins
This tourist spot in Butuan features the historical remains of an ancient church dating back to the Spanish colonial period. It serves as a testament to Butuan’s rich history and cultural heritage.
Banza Church Ruins are easily reachable from the city centre by tricycle, and there is no entrance fee required to visit the site!
📍➤ Delta Discovery Park
Delta Discovery Park offers various recreational activities, including zip-lining, water sports, and swimming pools. It’s a great place for adventure seekers and those looking for outdoor fun.
The park charges a 20-peso entrance fee and offers the chance to stay overnight in cottages or dormitories!
📍➤ Butuan National Museum
Butuan National Museum houses a collection of artefacts, relics, and cultural exhibits that showcase the history and culture of Butuan and the Caraga region.
Open from 9 AM to 4 PM, except Mondays.
📍➤ Balangay Shrine Museum
The Balangay Shrine Museum is dedicated to the ancient Balangay boats, which were traditional wooden boats used by early Filipinos for sea voyages and trade.
Witness these boats and other ancient items and learn how they are related to the Philippines’ history!
📍➤ Mount Mayapay
Mount Mayapay is the highest peak in Butuan City and offers a challenging hiking experience. Enjoy a summit that rewards hikers with a panoramic view of the city and surrounding landscapes!
Places to Stay in Butuan City
🛌🏻 Go Hotels Butuan
The budget hotel located beside Robinson’s Place Butuan is perfect for solo travellers, especially those who need easy access to malls and restaurants.
And the hotel is nearby public transportation terminals too!
It is situated along JC Aquino Avenue, just a 20-minute drive from the airport. You can enjoy free WiFi, parking, and breakfast at this place!
🛌🏻 Watergate Boutique Hotel
It’s a 4-star accommodation that provides a perfect stay with its restaurant and bar.
Guests can enjoy additional amenities, such as an outdoor swimming pool, a spa and wellness centre, and the convenience of an airport shuttle service!
🛌🏻 Butuan Grand Palace Hotel
A prestigious 5-star hotel in Butuan, offering pleasant rooms with terraces. It has a central location near the city centre and two major shopping malls.
The hotel is known by tourists for its breakfast which serves a variety of Asian and American dishes.
Tips for Travelling from Davao to Butuan
🚌 Mode of Transportation: Consider your budget, time constraints, and preferences when choosing your mode of transportation.
🎫 Book in Advance: If you opt for a flight or want to secure a rental car, it’s best to book in advance to get better deals and ensure availability, especially during peak travel seasons.
🎒 Pack Essentials: Bring essential items like travel adapters, chargers, snacks, and water to stay comfortable during the journey.
⏸️ Plan Breaks: If you choose a long journey through a land trip, plan rest breaks to stretch your legs and take short breaks from driving or sitting.
✅ Stay Updated: Check for any travel advisories or updates on transportation schedules and routes before your trip.
Wrapping Up: How to Travel from Davao to Butuan
To travel from Davao to Butuan, you can choose between flights, buses, or driving.
Other land travel options like taxis and cars are the fastest way to get there while taking the bus is a budget-friendly choice. Connecting flights are also available if you prefer to travel by plane.
While I’ve mentioned some pros and cons throughout this post, the key to choosing the ideal travel option for you is still you! Let us know which one you prefer in the comments!
🧭 Travel Resources for Your Butuan Trip
Planning a visit to Butuan in Northern Mindanao? Here are trusted resources to book flights, hotels, tours, and everything you’ll need for a smooth trip.
How to Get to Butuan– Book direct ferries to Nasipit Seaport or flights to Bancasi Airport (BXU) from Manila or Cebu with Cebu Pacific, Philippine Airlines, or Sunlight Air through 12Go.
Where to Book Your Stay – Find city hotels, budget inns, or family-friendly stays near the airport using Booking.com, Agoda, Airbnb, or Vrbo for long-term or group rentals.
Getting Around the City – Use Rentalcars.com or Discovercars.com for self-drive car rentals, hail tricycles or multicabs for short rides, or hire private vans and drivers through your hotel for day trips around Agusan del Norte.
Book Tours and Activities – Discover museums, waterfalls, and nearby beaches with guided experiences from Klook, Viator, or GetYourGuide, or ask local tourism offices for accredited guides.
Stay Connected – Stay online with an Airalo eSIM, rent a pocket WiFi in Klook for group travel, or pick up a local Smart or Globe SIM at the airport or malls in the city center.
Cash, ATMs, and Payments – Butuan has plenty of ATMs in malls and banks, but always carry cash for small shops, tricycle fares, and local eateries outside the city center.
Travel Insurance – Get covered for flight delays, road trips, or emergency medical needs with SafetyWing, HeyMondo, or World Nomads.
Check Out These Recommended Articles:
- How to Travel from Manila to Butuan
- How to Travel from Gingoog to Butuan
- Your Complete Travel Guide from Cebu to Butuan
- Your Ultimate Guide to Traveling from Cagayan De Oro to Butuan
- Best Ways From Surigao to Butuan: The Ultimate Travel Guide
- Rent A Car In Butuan City: Everything You Need To Know
- 23 Best Butuan City Tourist Spots: Your Ultimate Guide to Unlock Butuan’s Treasures
About the Author
Hello there! I’m Mitch, the main writer of Philippine Hidden Gems! I’m a random Filipino who’s already explored many parts of the Philippines, especially the regions of Central Visayas, Northern Mindanao, and Caraga, where I was born and raised.
Apart from my goal to find more hidden gems in my country and share my discoveries with you, I also enjoy reading and writing, discovering new food, and coffee!
Join me as I show you the beauty of my homeland and why the Philippines should be your next destination!
