Davao City to Mati City bus guide

The land route for taking a bus from Davao City to Mati City is handled via the Agusan-Davao Road (AH26) and the Benigno S. Aquino Jr. National Highway (Davao-Mati Road). The journey spans roughly 170 kilometers and is served by Bachelor Express and Land Car Incorporated.

Route overview and terminal information

Buses load passengers at the Davao City Overland Transport Terminal (DCOTT) in Ecoland and complete their journey at the Mati City Overland Transport Terminal.

• Average travel time: 4 to 5 hours.
• Operating hours: 3:00 AM to 7:00 PM daily. Buses leave every 30 to 45 minutes.
• Fares: Air-conditioned buses cost between P330 and P410. Discount rates apply for students, PWDs, and seniors.

Step-by-step bus route sequence

The bus follows a single continuous highway network, pulling briefly into municipal terminals along the way:

• DCOTT departure: Leaves Ecoland, Davao City, heading north.
• Davao del Norte coastal plain: Passes through Panabo and Carmen.
• Tagum City junction: The bus stops at the Tagum Overland Transport Integrated Terminal, then exits the Pan-Philippine Highway to merge onto the Davao-Mati Road.
• Davao de Oro / Oriental entry: Proceeds through the coastal towns of Maco, Mabini, and Pantukan.
• Davao Oriental lowlands: Travels through Banaybanay, Lupon, and Manikling.
• Badas Pass ascent: Navigates a mountain highway section overlooking Pujada Bay.
• Mati terminal arrival: Descends into downtown Mati and terminates at the city terminal.

Practical bus tips

• Best views: Sit on the right side of the bus when leaving Davao City for clearer views of the coastline as the road descends through the mountain pass.
• Baggage: Heavy items, large backpacks, or boxes go into the bus undercarriage cargo holds. Keep small valuables with you.
• No online booking: Tickets are purchased on-demand directly at the DCOTT boarding platform. Arrive 30 minutes before your preferred departure window.