What to expect when visiting Cebu
Cebu is a highly urbanized city in the Philippines’ Visayas region. Often, it is the gateway to the province’s world-famous gems — diving in Malapascua, sardine run in Moalboal, canyoneering in Alegria, and swimming with whale sharks (butanding) in Oslob.
But if you have at least an extra day, it wouldn’t be a bad idea to spend it here. Cebu City played a huge role in the country’s history. You can learn all about it with a visit to Magellan’s Cross and Fort San Pedro. In for a food trip? You will find the best lechon (the Philippines’ iconic roasted pig) in Cebu City!
3 ways to get from Oslob to Cebu
There are three ways to travel the distance of 120 km (75 miles) from Oslob to Cebu: by bus (4 hours), van (4 hours) and taxi (3.5 hours). The journey takes between 3h30m - 4h and the quickest way is by taxi. The lowest priced tickets start from 160 PHP ($2.80) for the bus.Where to stay in Cebu?
Still looking for accommodation? Don't forget to check out our favourite places to stay in Cebu at the bottom of this page.
Oslob to Cebu by Bus
Ceres Bus and Sunrays are the 2 main bus operators for the Oslob to Cebu route. Their buses are available 24 hours a day, but there may be fewer buses at night. Hail a bus with a signboard that says “Cebu City.”
A bus ticket costs 160 PHP ($2.80) for non-aircon buses and 270 PHP ($4.80) for air-conditioned buses.
The journey takes around 4 hours, depending on the number of stops the bus makes to pick up and drop off passengers.
Departure and arrival station
You can hail a bus anywhere along the main road – Natalio Bacalso Ave. – in Oslob town centre.
All buses park at South Bus Terminal in Cebu City centre.
Oslob to Cebu by Van
Vans also ply the Oslob to Cebu route. Like the bus, rates start from 160 PHP ($2.80) for the 4-hour journey.
It’s worth noting that these vans don’t provide a lot of legroom and usually don’t depart until they are full. It will be an uncomfortable ride for tall passengers, especially if you’re carrying a lot of luggage.
Also, as most people prefer taking the bus, some van drivers choose not to depart at all if they don’t have enough passengers.
Departure and arrival station
You can find the public vans at Oslob town centre, usually near St. Joseph Parish Church.
Vans park at GT Express Terminal, located within the perimeters of SM City Cebu.
Take a van with Klook*
There is also an option to book a shared van transfer with Klook. This is more expensive at 850 PHP ($15.00) one-way, but you can save a few dollars if you book a return trip.
The van departs from Oslob Whale Shark Watching Center at 11:30 AM. It drops you off at SM City Cebu, from where you can hop on a taxi to your hotel or transfer to a bus bound for Cebu Airport.
*UPDATE: The last time we checked (July 2022), Klook operations for vans from Oslob to Cebu are unavailable. Please check the link provided above to see if anything has changed.
Oslob to Cebu by Taxi
As Oslob has become a popular place to swim with whale sharks, there are now many taxis available. We recommend taking a taxi from Oslob to Cebu especially if you’re heading straight to Mactan-Cebu Int’l Airport.
With a private transfer, you won’t have to worry about unnecessary stops. You will arrive at your destination in around 3.5 hours.
Rates for a 3-seater sedan from Oslob to Cebu start from 3,900 PHP ($69.00) with BookAway, which offers comfortable cars with trusted drivers.
You can also just hire a regular taxi in Oslob. Drivers don’t use the metre for long-distance trips like this so you’ll have to agree on a price beforehand.
For reference, a taxi ride from Oslob to Cebu costs between 3,000 PHP ($53.00) and 3,500 PHP ($62.00).
Our favourite places to stay in Cebu
Whilst we wouldn’t recommend spending too long in Cebu City, there might be a night or two where you need to relax and recover from a long journey. We’ve selected the perfect places for you to do just that.
Our favourite stays in Cebu are great value for money, comfortable and run by amazing staff. Check them out below!
Seda Central Bloc Cebu - Treating Yourself
Area: Cebu City centre — approx. 10-minute drive to Cebu City business area and Ayala Centre Cebu Mall
If you want to spend your time in Cebu surrounded by ultimate comfort, then Seda Central Bloc is where you need to book. The rooftop pool and bar offer spectacular views of the city. You have to come watch the sunset here!
The rooms are sleek and modern, containing anything you could possibly need. Every morning you can visit their gym after enjoying the delicious complimentary breakfast.
- Rooftop bar and swimming pool
- On-site gym
- Sleek and elegant design
- Delicious breakfast included
Double rooms start from $50 per night
Goldberry Suites and Hotel - Mid Range
Area: Cebu City centre — approx. 5-minute drive to Cebu City business area and Ayala Centre Cebu Mall
Goldberry Suites is another spot in Cebu where you can’t complain about the price tag. The rooms are elegantly designed with small touches that make them feel that little bit more luxurious.
The staff are extremely helpful, especially the security guard who will always put a smile on your face.
- Helpful and friendly staff
- Great showers
- Elegant rooms
- Good location
Double rooms cost $30-$50 per night
Felix Residences - Budget Friendly
Area: Mandaue City centre — approx. 15-minute drive to main Cebu City centre
Felix Residences is exceptional value for money. The standard of everything is much higher than you’d expect for the price tag. The rooms are comfortable, clean and modern, with the beds being the highlight of most people’s stay here. You’ll sleep like a baby!
The staff are great, offering a service that makes you feel well looked after from the get go.
- Very comfortable beds
- Clean and modern rooms
- Great staff
- Amazing value for money
Double rooms cost $15-$30 per night
Frequently Asked Questions about Oslob to Cebu
What is the distance from Oslob to Cebu?
The distance from Oslob to Cebu is 120 km (75 miles).
What is the fastest way to get from Oslob to Cebu?
The fastest way to get from Oslob to Cebu is by taxi and takes 3.5 hours.
What is the cheapest way to get from Oslob to Cebu?
The cheapest way to get from Oslob to Cebu is by bus with ticket costs starting from 160 PHP ($2.80).
Rounding it up
We hope this guide was helpful in planning how to get from Oslob to Cebu. If there's anything else you're wondering about, drop us a comment and we'll do our best to answer you within a few days.
PS: If you've recently travelled this route, share your experience with fellow travellers and help us improve this post. Thanks for helping out our travel community!
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Ela is a storyteller, content producer, solo traveller and a mermaid-in-training. When she’s not in front of her laptop, you will find her barefoot and living her best tan on some island in the Philippines… Or exploring the depths of its seas as a budding freediver. An island girl at heart, she’ll be happy anywhere there is sea, sand, sun and coffee.
Abby is a writer who finds joy in mountains, beaches, and road trips. She considers her solo backpacking trip to the rice terraces of Bontoc one of the most fulfilling moments in her life. She’s loyal to the islands of her home country, the Philippines, but Thailand’s beaches also have a special place in her heart.
