How to Get from Davao to Cagayan de Oro
Davao to Cagayan de Oro by bus or private car: about $16 for the bus, about $206 for a private car, plus tips for the Bukidnon road.
Last updated: October 29, 2026
Contents
The road from Davao to Cagayan de Oro crosses the heart of Mindanao. It leaves the southern metropolis behind and climbs into the Bukidnon highlands, with pineapple plantations, rolling hills and cool mountain air before the descent to the river city of Cagayan de Oro.
Davao to Cagayan de Oro by Bus
The bus is the most common way to make the trip, and it runs through Maramag and Malaybalay. On booking platforms, the premium class bus costs about $16 (October 2026). The ride takes from about 5 hours 20 minutes, longer in practice.[1] Pack a light layer: the Bukidnon highlands are cool even when Davao is hot, and air-conditioned cabins get chilly.
Davao to Cagayan de Oro by Private Transfer
A private car is the flexible option for groups and heavy luggage, and you can stop for photos in the highlands. On booking platforms, private cars cost about $206 to $239 (October 2026), depending on whether you take a sedan, an MPV or a van, and the drive takes from about 6 hours.[1]
Comparing Your Options
| Mode | Price | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Bus (premium class) | About $16 (October 2026)[1] | From about 5h 20min[1] |
| Private car | About $206 to $239 (October 2026)[1] | From about 6h[1] |
Tips for Traveling from Davao to Cagayan de Oro
- Pack a sweater: The air cools noticeably as the road climbs through Bukidnon.
- Book ahead on weekends and holidays: Buses are the main way locals travel this corridor.
- Motion sickness: The road has many curves and changes in altitude. If you are prone to it, take medication and sit toward the front.
- Try the local snacks: Bukidnon is known for corn delicacies such as binaki and for fresh pineapple sold at roadside stops.
Timetable
| Flight Davao - Cagayan de Oro $ 57.79–70.46 1h | |
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| Bus Davao - Cagayan de Oro $ 16.06 5h 20m | |
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| Taxi Davao - Cagayan de Oro $ 205.67–239.07 6h | |
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Frequently Asked Questions
Use the booking tool on this page to compare the transport options currently available from Davao to Cagayan de Oro, including current prices and schedules.
The bus, which costs about $16 on booking platforms (October 2026).
The bus takes from about 5 hours 20 minutes, a private car from about 6 hours. In practice both depend on traffic and road conditions.
From about 5 to 6 hours, longer in rain or heavy traffic.
The Davao to Cagayan de Oro road is a major highway through Bukidnon with many curves and, in the highlands, fog. Travel in daylight if you can.
Buses stop at roadside terminals on the way. With a private car, you can ask the driver to stop wherever you like.
Book ahead on weekends and holidays so you get the departure you want.
Sources and background
Numbers in the text such as [1] refer to these sources.
- [1] 12Go: 12Go timetable Davao - Cagayan de Oro. Retrieved October 29, 2026.
Guide prices and journey times are indicative, not live quotes. A booked package may include transfers and waiting time as well as the main journey. Check the selected offer, pickup point and current conditions before booking.