Carmen

Carmen, Cebu

How to Get to Carmen, Cebu from the Airport

Carmen is a growing destination in northern Cebu, known for the Cebu Safari & Adventure Park, quiet coastal resorts, and scenic countryside drives. It’s close enough for a day trip from Cebu City, but many travelers choose to stay overnight to explore at a slower pace.

Whether you're visiting with kids, escaping the city, or using Carmen as a stopover en route to the north, here’s how to get there from Mactan-Cebu International Airport.

Things to Do in Carmen

* Cebu Safari & Adventure Park – A massive safari park with tigers, giraffes, birds, and botanical gardens. Great for families and groups.

* Durano Eco Farm & Spring Resort – Natural pools surrounded by trees. Budget-friendly and relaxing.

* Carmen Seaside Resort – Swim, relax, and enjoy sea views with fewer crowds

* Try local delicacies at Carmen Public Market – Fresh fruits, dried fish, and Cebu-style snacks

* Motorbike or van trip to nearby towns – Easy day trips to Catmon, Sogod, or Danao

Distance: Around 40 km

Travel Time: 1.5 to 2.5 hours


mactan airport to carmen route

Route Overview:
Head north from the airport along the Central Nautical Highway, passing through Liloan and Compostela before reaching Carmen.

Book Mactan Airport to Carmen

Private Transfer vs Public Transport to Carmen

Not sure whether to book a private car or commute your way to Carmen? Here's a quick side-by-side look at the pros and cons of each option to help you decide.

PRIVATE TRANSFER

Pros

  • Direct, door-to-door ride from Cebu Airport to Carmen
  • Skip long bus rides and terminal lines
  • Clean, air-conditioned vehicle with local driver
  • Flexible pick-up times based on your arrival schedule
  • No need to carry luggage through terminals or transfers
  • More comfortable for seniors, kids, or large groups

Cons

  • Higher upfront cost compared to commuting
  • May require advance booking, especially during peak season
  • Not ideal for solo budget travelers

PUBLIC TRANSPORT (COMMUTING)

Pros

  • Budget-friendly fares
  • Buses and vans regularly pass through Carmen
  • Good for solo travelers or those on a tight budget

Cons

  • Need to travel to Cebu City first (heavy traffic especially during rush hour and rainy days)
  • Longer travel time 
  • Drop-offs are usually along the highway only
  • Buses can be full or slow, especially on weekends
  • Not ideal for large groups or heavy luggage
Book Mactan Airport to Carmen

How to Commute from Cebu Airport to Carmen

If you prefer to travel by public transport, here's how to reach Carmen:

  1. Take MyBus from Mactan-Cebu Airport to the North Bus Terminal (check their Facebook page for updated pricing)
  2. Ride a van or Ceres bus to Carmen: 
    • If going to the Safari, ask the driver to drop you near Cebu Safari junction (it's about 10 km up the mountain)
  3. Take a tricycle or motorbike to your exact destination. 

🕒 Total Travel Time: 2.5 to 3 hours depending on traffic, waiting times, and road conditions

⚠️ Public transport may be limited in the evening. Best to leave early if commuting.

>