Your Complete Travel Guide from Cebu to Butuan
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Are you planning to travel from Cebu to Butuan?
Travelling from Cebu to Butuan probably has one of the fastest and most convenient travel options and routes available when visiting the Timber City of the South!
There are only two options, but choosing either will surely provide you with a great experience and a less hassle journey.
Ready? Let’s dive into the best ways to get to Butuan from Cebu!
Best Ways To Travel: Cebu To Butuan By Plane
Best Option for Budget Travelers: Cebu To Butuan By Ferry
Best Ways To Travel From Cebu To Butuan
🛬 Cebu To Butuan By Plane
You can easily reach Butuan City in just over an hour when choosing a direct Cebu to Butuan flight!
Major airlines in the country offer regular domestic flights between these two places.
The most common way is to book a flight from Mactan-Cebu International Airport to Bancasi Airport in Butuan City.
From your hotel, you can get to Mactan-Cebu International Airport by taxi or any private transportation. You can also book a ride via Grab – the Philippines’ version of Uber.
After it is pretty straightforward. The time you land at Bancasi Airport, there are various transportation options you can choose from to make your way to your chosen accommodation.
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You can choose to ride a multi-cab for 12 pesos, which is the cheapest option. Riding a habal-habal or tricycle is another, but these are not ideal options, especially during wet seasons.
However, if you’re chosen accommodation is not along the highway, and convenience is your top priority, get yourself again a taxi.
The cost may vary depending on your hotel’s location and negotiation with your driver, but it definitely won’t exceed 200 pesos to go to a hotel in the city centre.
📢 Pro Tip: For a hassle-free arrival in the city, consider selecting a hotel that provides airport pick-up services.
If you want to maximize your vacation time and have lots of fun in the historic city of Butuan, you must consider searching for direct flights from Cebu to Butuan City as it only takes you 1 hour.
Make sure to check the schedules, rates, and requirements on the website of your chosen airline company.
🚢 Cebu To Butuan By Ferry
Alternatively, the Cebu to Butuan ferry provides a more exciting journey. This option is recommended if you’re not limited with time since the travel time is over 12 hours.
It is also ideal for budget travellers – ferry travel usually has a lower price than flying to Butuan.
If you choose this travel option, we recommend choosing 2Go Travels. You visit their website to check for schedules and ticket prices.
The best part is it also accepts online bookings too!
In some ferry packages, food may be included, so you won’t have to worry about meals during the journey.
Ferries have stores or stalls where you can purchase food and other items. Just be mindful that these onboard stores may be a bit more expensive than what you can find onshore
Head to Cebu City Pier 1 Terminal by taxi. Once at the terminal, find your assigned ferry and proceed to board it. Make sure to have your tickets ready for inspection.
Normally, ferry trips from Cebu to Butuan depart at 2 PM and are expected to reach the Nasipit Seaport Terminal at 12 AM.
You need to know that Butuan and its neighbouring municipalities don’t have the same transportation options as in Manila and Cebu, especially when arriving at midnight.
Unless your accommodation offers a pick-up service at the port (but you can hardly find one), you can choose to get to the city centre from Nasipit Port by taxi, though prices during this time are at their peak.
For budget travellers, 24/7 buses from Cagayan de Oro to Butuan are also available. It stops at Nasipit Integrated Bus Terminal, so you can hop in and wait until it arrives at Langihan Bus Terminal in Butuan City.
Once you’re there, it’s already easy to reach downtown Butuan. Tickets should be less than 100 pesos.
Things To Know Before Travelling From Cebu To Butuan
🤔 Where Is Butuan Located?
Located in the northeastern part of Mindanao, Philippines, Butuan City serves as the regional centre for the Caraga Administrative Region. It is bordered by the provinces of Agusan del Norte and Agusan del Sur.
With its location along the northeastern coast of Mindanao, Butuan City offers excellent accessibility by both land and air routes.
The city is well-connected through a network of roads and highways, making it easy for travellers to reach by land. It also has Bancasi Airport which ensures convenient air travel options for those coming from major parts of the country.
🤔 What Is The Distance From Cebu To Butuan?
The straight-line distance between Cebu and Butuan is approximately 260 kilometres (162 miles) for air travel.
If you’re travelling by ferry, the distance will be longer, usually around 851 kilometres (529 miles), depending on the specific ferry company and route.
🤔 How Long Is The Travel Time From Cebu To Butuan?
For direct flights, the travel time from Cebu to Butuan is 1 hour. On the other hand, the Cebu to Butuan ferry usually takes about 12 hours.
🤔 What Is The Cheapest Way To Get From Cebu To Butuan?
Ferry travel is the cheapest option from Cebu to Butuan, with more affordable tickets compared to flying. Keep in mind that airlines may offer budget-friendly promos for domestic flights too when you book in advance.
🤔 What Is The Fastest Way To Get From Cebu To Butuan?
Obviously, the fastest way to get from Cebu to Butuan is by taking the plane. The travel time for a direct flight from Mactan International Airport to Bancasi Aiport is only 1 hour.
Getting Back From Butuan To Cebu
The return trip from Butuan to Cebu is very similar to the journey from Cebu to Butuan.
When you take the plane, Butuan City to Cebu flights are only 1 hour when you book a nonstop flight. From your hotel, a taxi or your airport shuttle when applicable, can get you to Bancasi Airport for less than an hour.
If you want a cheaper option, you can also catch a multi-cab, particularly with Route 1 (R1) designation as it is the only multi-cab that can get you inside the Bancasi Airport in Butuan City. The fare is only 15 pesos if you’re from the centre.
The flight should get you to Mactan-Cebu International Airport where various transportation options are readily available wherever you’re heading to.
If you’re taking the ferry trip, the only thing you need to be aware of is getting to Nasipit Seaport Terminal from Butuan City.
For travellers, the most common options are to ride a Nasipit-Liner multi-cab or a taxi.
The first option only costs you less than 100 pesos, but it won’t get you directly to the port. You will need to transfer to a tricycle in this case.
If you have luggage, you can pay for the fares of the entire number of passengers on the tricycle, so that you can accommodate your stuff well.
Taxi obviously costs more, especially when you’re from Butuan City, but you can negotiate however you want. The price you’re paying for it is actually the fast and convenient travel to the port.
However you want to travel from Butuan to Cebu, don’t hesitate to ask questions from the drivers or any locals. People here are pretty helpful to tourists!
Best Tourist Spots In Butuan City
📍 Balangay Boat Building Site
Visit the Balanghai Boat Building Site in Butuan, where you can see a replica of the ancient balangay boat, “Masawa Hong Butuan”! It’s a serene place to relax by the Agusan River and take some photos.
The site is just a 10-minute tricycle ride from the city, so don’t miss out on exploring this Butuan City tourist spot!
📍 Guingona Park
Never skip the must-see landmark of Butuan – Guingona Park! This vibrant city square is a favourite place for hangouts and a great photo spot too!
Here you can try delicious Filipino street foods while witnessing the Shrine of the Philippine Flag in Mindanao.
You can also enjoy the lively events and trade fairs held here, and have lots of memorable and enjoyable travel experiences!
📍 Dagangdang Falls
This wonderful waterfall in Butuan is a serene and beautiful spot located in Brgy. Sumile. It’s accessible by taking a bus from Langihan Bus Terminal.
Once you’re there, you’ll have the chance to swim in cool waters, explore a captivating cave, and even enjoy a picnic. It’s indeed a thrilling adventure worth considering!
📍 Masao Beach
Masao Beach in Butuan City is a popular destination for its historical significance.
However, what makes it a go-to place in Butuan is the opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture and savour delicious food!
Enjoy beach activities such as engaging in karaoke singing and joining affordable boat tours!
The place is accessible by tricycle and habal-habal, and they offer accommodations like cottages and private rooms for overnight guests.
📍 Magellan’s Anchorage
Magellan’s Anchorage in Butuan City is a historical landmark believed to be where Ferdinand Magellan’s fleet landed in 1521.
This amazing place allows you to see the Explorer’s memorial statue, discover the replica of his Spanish galleon, and learn about his significance in Philippine history.
Best of all, it’s a free attraction in Butuan!
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Best Hotels In Butuan City
🛌🏻 Go Hotels
Go Hotels Butuan is right next to Robinson’s Place Butuan, a popular mall with restaurants, making it ideal for solo travelers.
The hotel is located along JC Aquino Avenue, just a 20-minute drive from the airport. Plus, they offer free WiFi and parking to make your stay even smoother. And to top it off, breakfast is included!
What truly sets Go Hotels Butuan apart is its prime location. Public transportation terminals are situated right behind the building, allowing you to easily catch a ride to your next destination without venturing far.
🛌🏻 Dottie’s Place Hotel & Restaurant
If you’re looking for mid-range accommodation in Butuan, Dottie’s Place Hotel & Restaurant is a great choice!
This 3-star hotel offers a garden, terrace, and restaurant for its guests. Their air-conditioned rooms come with free WiFi and private bathrooms, and you can take advantage of the outdoor swimming pool too!
Free private parking is available, and they also offer a paid airport shuttle service. Daily breakfast with American, Asian, or halal options are also included.
They have hotel staff that are fluent in English available 24/7 at the front desk and can provide practical advice in the area.
Bancasi Airport is conveniently located just 4 km away from the place, nearer than the city centre.
🛌🏻 Almont Inland Resort
Located just a 15-minute drive from Bancasi Airport, Almont Inland Resort offers an outdoor swimming pool, complimentary Wi-Fi access, and a free 2-way airport shuttle.
The air-conditioned rooms feature a private balcony, flat-screen TV with cable channels, minibar, and en suite bathroom with hot and cold shower facilities and toiletries.
Enjoy international delights with their Manay Maling restaurant, which also offers room services!
Additional amenities include a business centre, relaxing massage services, and assistance with laundry and meeting spaces at the 24-hour reception. Free private parking spaces are also available.
Tips For Travelling From Cebu To Butuan
✈️ Transportation Options: As mentioned earlier, you can choose between flying and taking a ferry. Consider your budget, travel time, and preferences before deciding.
✅ Book in advance online: If you decide to fly (also applicable to travelling by ferry), it’s advisable to book your tickets in advance to get better deals and avoid last-minute price increases.
Schedule: Check the ferry or flight schedule beforehand to plan your trip and avoid any inconvenience.
🎒 Pack essentials: Don’t forget to bring items like travel documents, identification, comfortable clothing, necessary medications, and other personal items.
💸 Cash and payment: Carry enough cash, especially if you plan to visit remote areas where ATMs might not be available. Also, check if the places you’ll visit accept credit cards.
🌦️ Weather considerations: Be aware of the weather conditions during your travel dates.
Frequently Asked Questions: How To Travel From Cebu To Butuan
Wrapping Up: How To Travel From Cebu To Butuan
To travel from Cebu to Butuan, you can choose between flying or taking a ferry.
Flying is a faster option, usually taking around 1 hour, while the ferry journey takes about 12 hours but usually for a cheaper price.
Both options have their advantages, so consider your preferences and budget.
Share with us your thoughts on which way to travel from Cebu to Butuan you’d prefer!
Check Out These Recommended Articles:
- How to Travel from Manila to Butuan
- How to Travel from Gingoog to Butuan
- How to Travel from Davao to Butuan: The Ultimate Guide
- Your Ultimate Guide to Traveling from Cagayan De Oro to Butuan
- Best Ways From Surigao to Butuan: The Ultimate Travel Guide
- 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!
