Passing through Francisco B. Reyes Airport? A layover in Busuanga is more doable than you might think. The city is only about 80 minutes from the airport, and with a bit of planning you can stretch your legs, grab a real meal, and see something new before your next flight.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
Before heading into Busuanga, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for Philippines vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Busuanga is roughly 80 minutes from USU via Shared Vans/Shuttle. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in PHP. Avoid exchanging money at the airport if you can — city-center ATMs usually give you a better deal.
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
You have two main options for getting from Francisco B. Reyes Airport into town:
- Shared Vans/Shuttle: About 80 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 100 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Busuanga:
Transport to the city and back runs about $5 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $7 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $22 USD total.
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
Two recommendations for your time in Busuanga:
Start with City Center Walk. It’s the kind of area you can wander through at your own pace. Then, if time allows, make your way to Local Market. It’s a good place to browse local goods and soak up the atmosphere.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at USU, check out Airport Lounge or Duty Free Shopping to keep yourself occupied.
Eating Well on a Busuanga Layover
For food in Busuanga, local travelers recommend Local Restaurant. If you have time for a second stop, Popular Eatery is another popular pick.
Back at USU, Airport Cafe is the go-to. Terminal Restaurant rounds out your in-terminal options.
What to Do With Your Bags
Specific locker facilities at USU aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Busuanga itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at USU for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Busuanga or use ride-hailing apps, having mobile data is much more convenient. Consider setting up an eSIM through a provider like Airalo or Holafly before your trip — it takes a few minutes and saves you from hunting for SIM card kiosks.
Resting at the Airport
Long overnight layover? Your options at USU include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Philippines also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
Whether you spend your layover in Busuanga exploring the streets or relaxing at USU, the key is to make the time feel worthwhile. A quick city visit can turn a tedious wait into the highlight of a long travel day.
Just keep your boarding pass handy and leave plenty of time to get back. Happy travels.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.