The Ultimate EDSA Carousel Guide: Routes, Stops, and Fares

Getting around Metro Manila is possible through various transportation modes. You can drive in your private vehicle, take a public utility vehicle (PUV), or book a ride with a transport network vehicle service (TNVS). You can even bike to your school or office if you’re up for it.

Whatever means of transportation you use, you’ll most likely traverse Epifanio de los Santos Avenue or EDSA to get from one destination to another. The stretch of EDSA connects several municipalities within the metro, which is why. Although very accessible, the EDSA transportation route can be time-consuming due to the high volume of vehicles traveling along this major thoroughfare daily. 

Fortunately, there’s a convenient way to explore Metro Manila while beating its traffic, thanks to the EDSA Carousel bus. This public transport system is ideal if you don’t have a car or if it’s affected by Manila’s number coding system.

Whether you’re heading north or south, you’ll need all the tips and tricks to make your EDSA Carousel bus ride as smooth sailing as possible.

The EDSA Carousel is a bus rapid transit (BRT) system that operates along Metro Manila’s busiest road, providing a faster and more organized alternative to traditional buses. It operates daily—with 24/7 service on some stretches—and serves millions of commuters with 23 designated stops from PITX to Monumento. Fares range from ₱15 to ₱75.50, depending on distance. 

New plans aim to expand routes, integrate digital payments, introduce eco-friendly buses, and privatize operations to improve service. With over 80 bus operators and rising ridership, the EDSA Carousel makes daily Metro Manila commutes more efficient and reliable.

The EDSA Carousel, also known as the EDSA Busway, is an efficient bus rapid transit (BRT) that traverses Metro Manila’s streets. It has designated carousel bus stops strategically placed along the route to minimize stopovers along the busy highway.

A dedicated lane separates the EDSA Busway from regular traffic. Its primary purpose is to provide a faster and more efficient means of transportation, allowing commuters and motorists to avoid the traffic congestion that usually spans from Pasay to Quezon City.

The dedicated lane is used by over 80 bus operators and over 700 accredited public utility buses, catering to the commuting public. The Department of Transportation (DOTr) and the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) oversee the EDSA Carousel line in Metro Manila.

Ultimately, the EDSA Carousel offers a smooth ride for passengers in various metropolitan areas.

The EDSA Carousel kicked off in June 2020 at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic to ease the woes of Metro Manila’s commuters and drivers. The bus system aimed to alleviate the strain on the limited train capacity caused by transport restrictions during the pandemic. It also provided a lifeline for those who needed to go out, including frontline workers and essential personnel. 

At the time, the program introduced free rides but eventually transitioned to paid fares in January 2023 because of budget constraints. 

With the EDSA Carousel in operation, the country has revamped transportation options to make travel smoother and more accessible for everyone.

Since its launch in 2020, the EDSA Carousel has become a primary mode of transportation in Metro Manila. From January to March 2025, it carried over 15.9 million passengers, representing a 36% increase from the same period in 2024. 

Each day, around 317 buses run along the route. A trip from Monumento to PITX now takes only 45 minutes to an hour. 

Managing the EDSA Carousel line falls under the jurisdiction of the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), although there are also third parties that play a role in determining schedules and fares.

The EDSA Carousel runs daily, with most buses operating from 4 AM to 11 PM along the PITX to Monumento (MCU) route. However, a 24-hour service is available on the Taft to Monumento stretch. Between 11 PM and 4 AM, buses run on a limited schedule from Heritage Hotel/MRT Taft (Pasay Rotonda) to Monumento. Exact schedules may vary slightly depending on the bus operator.

For a successful implementation and utilization of this new transportation system, here’s your comprehensive guide to the EDSA carousel route.

If you commute daily, the innovative BRT system can help you navigate key areas of the metro. Here are all the essential details of the EDSA Carousel routes covering Metro Manila.

EDSA Carousel Northbound

Nowadays, traveling to the southern reaches of Metro Manila is faster and easier if you know the routes and stops of the EDSA Carousel.

• Monumento, Caloocan (Median)
• Bagong Barrio, Caloocan (Median)
• Balintawak, Quezon City (Median)
• Kaingin Road, Quezon City (Median)
• Roosevelt, Quezon City (Median)
• North Avenue, Quezon City (Median)
• Quezon Avenue, Quezon City (Median)
• Mega Q-Mart, Quezon City (Median)
• Main Avenue, Quezon City (Median)
• Santolan, Quezon City (Median)
• Ortigas, Mandaluyong (Median)
• Guadalupe, Makati (Median)
• Buendia, Makati (Median)
• One Ayala Terminal, Makati (Median)
• Tramo, Pasay (Median)
• Taft Avenue, Pasay (Median)
• Roxas Boulevard, Pasay (Median)
• SM Mall of Asia (MOA), Pasay (Curbside)
• Macapagal – Bradco Avenue, Parañaque (Curbside)
• City of Dreams, Parañaque (Curbside)
• Ayala Malls Manila Bay, Parañaque (Curbside)
• PITX, Parañaque (Terminal)

Nowadays, traveling to the southern reaches of Metro Manila is faster and easier if you know the routes and stops of the EDSA Carousel.

• Monumento, Caloocan (Median)
• Bagong Barrio, Caloocan (Median)
• Balintawak, Quezon City (Median)
• Kaingin Road, Quezon City (Median)
• Roosevelt, Quezon City (Median)
• North Avenue, Quezon City (Median)
• Quezon Avenue, Quezon City (Median)
• Mega Q-Mart, Quezon City (Median)
• Main Avenue, Quezon City (Median)
• Santolan, Quezon City (Median)
• Ortigas, Mandaluyong (Median)
• Guadalupe, Makati (Median)
• Buendia, Makati (Median)
• One Ayala Terminal, Makati (Median)
• Tramo, Pasay (Median)
• Taft Avenue, Pasay (Median)
• Roxas Boulevard, Pasay (Median)
• SM Mall of Asia (MOA), Pasay (Curbside)
• Macapagal – Bradco Avenue, Parañaque (Curbside)
• City of Dreams, Parañaque (Curbside)
• Ayala Malls Manila Bay, Parañaque (Curbside)
• PITX, Parañaque (Terminal)

The EDSA Carousel runs 24/7, enabling commuters to have around-the-clock access to one of Metro Manila’s major roads.

Despite its non-stop operations, bus frequency varies significantly at different times of day. During regular hours, you can expect to wait only a few minutes for the next bus to arrive. However, between 1 AM and 4 AM, expect longer gaps between trips, as fewer buses are on the road and some operators reduce service.

Most carousel bus stops are located within or near MRT-3 stations. While the MRT itself stops operating late at night, these stations stay open to provide continuous connectivity along EDSA for commuters.

If you plan to travel during off-peak hours, it’s best to budget extra time or consider alternative options in case of delays. Also, check updated schedules posted at stops or refer to verified sources online.

The EDSA Carousel operates on a fare system for both southbound and northbound rides.

Disclaimer: Please note that the rates listed below reflect the fare matrix at the time of writing and are subject to change based on updated LTFRB mandates.

EDSA Carousel Northbound

There are 19 stops on the northbound route. The minimum fare is ₱15 for the first 4 kilometers. A whole trip from PITX to MCU (Monumento) now costs ₱75.50. 

Source

EDSA Carousel Southbound

The southbound route has 21 stops, running from MCU (Monumento) to PITX. Fares also start at ₱15 and go up based on distance. The longest ride—MCU to PITX—costs ₱75.50. See the table below for the entire fare matrix of EDSA Carousel Southbound.

The EDSA Bus Carousel is evolving to serve more commuters. Here’s what’s in the pipeline:

• Infrastructure plans
  The DOTr plans to extend the carousel’s routes to Valenzuela, NAIA, and other key destinations. The long-term goal is to integrate full bus rapid transit (BRT) across Metro Manila to enhance reach and efficiency.
• Changes in light of the EDSA rehabilitation plan
  Despite the planned EDSA road rehabilitation, the EDSA Carousel will remain operational. The DOTr, MMDA, and DPWH are reassessing the project timeline to avoid significant traffic disruptions and protect the commuting public.
• Digital integration
  A new automated fare collection system (AFCS) aims to support QR payments and upgrade Beep cards. Plans include real-time bus tracking and potential integration of a fare system with MRT/LRT lines for a seamless commuter experience.
• Sustainability goals
  The government is exploring the transition to electric and hybrid bus fleets to reduce emissions and support its green transportation goals. Supporting infrastructure, including footbridges and surveillance systems, has already been implemented to enhance safety and commuter flow.
• Public-private partnerships (PPP)
  The DOTr plans to privatize the EDSA Carousel’s operations through a public bidding process. The private partner will be responsible for bus operations, maintenance, station upgrades, and the development of future routes.

These upgrades are expected to cut travel times, improve comfort, and make commutes more reliable. With enhanced service quality and system integration, the EDSA Bus Carousel will continue to play a pivotal role in Metro Manila’s transportation future.

1. Is the EDSA Carousel free?

The EDSA Carousel is no longer free of charge. Due to budget constraints, it transitioned to a paid fare system in January 2023, ending the “Libreng Sakay” program that offered free rides when it launched in June 2020.

2. Can I bring pets on an EDSA Carousel bus?

Pets on diapers can ride the EDSA Carousel bus.

3. Can I use a Beep card on the EDSA Carousel?

Certainly! You can use your Beep cards on the EDSA Carousel for a convenient and efficient experience.

4. How is the EDSA Carousel different from regular buses?

The EDSA Carousel has a dedicated bus rapid transit (BRT) system along the EDSA Busway. This exclusive lane ensures faster, more organized travel than traditional buses holed up in traffic. Plus, EDSA Carousel buses typically offer modern amenities to make your commute more comfortable.

5. Are there specific stops, or can I hail anywhere along EDSA?

The EDSA Carousel follows specific stops along the EDSA Busway. You cannot board or alight a bus outside the designated locations.

6. What time is the EDSA Carousel cut-off?

The EDSA Carousel now follows a 24-hour operation, but the availability of buses may vary, especially after regular working hours.

7. Does the EDSA carousel offer discounts?

Students, senior citizens, and persons with disabilities (PWDs) can enjoy at least a 20% discount on the regular fare. The fare reduction is typically ₱12 instead of the usual ₱15 and is applicable daily, including Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays.

The EDSA Carousel, also known as the EDSA Busway, presents a game-changing solution for commuters in Metro Manila by facilitating faster and more efficient travel along the bustling highway. With dedicated lanes and streamlined operations, the system can alleviate the challenges of city congestion, making transportation smoother and more convenient for everyone.

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