Makati City Metro Manila, Philippines Travel Guide
Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) (MNL) serves as the main international airport for Metro Manila, located 10-15 kilometers south of Makati. It has four terminals handling various airlines and flight types.
NAIA terminals offer ATMs, currency exchange, duty-free shops, restaurants, and airline lounges. Free Wi-Fi is available. SIM card kiosks are in arrival areas. A free shuttle bus connects the four terminals, but traffic can make transfers time-consuming.
December-February sees highest demand and prices, especially around holidays. Book well in advance.
March-May and November offer moderate prices and good availability. A balance of weather and cost.
June-October (wet season) means lowest prices and best deals on flights due to decreased demand.
Official airport taxis or coupon taxis offer metered or fixed rates.
Convenient app-based service with upfront fare display.
Dedicated routes to various spots in Metro Manila, including Makati.
Makati is directly served by the MRT-3, an elevated rail line along EDSA, with stations like Ayala. The LRT-1 and LRT-2 are accessible via transfers, connecting to other parts of Metro Manila for a wider reach.
Makati itself lacks a large central bus terminal for provincial routes. However, several terminals in nearby Pasay City provide extensive bus services to provinces north and south of Metro Manila.
To drive in the Philippines, an International Driving Permit (IDP) with your national driving license is useful. Driving in Metro Manila poses challenges due to heavy traffic and aggressive road behavior. Parking is often difficult and expensive in central Makati.
Main roads in central Makati are generally well-maintained, but conditions vary outside the business district. Traffic violations are common; be aware of motorcycles. Drive defensively if you choose to self-drive.
While Makati is inland, Manila's port serves as the main seaport for passenger ferries and cruise ships in Metro Manila. It is approximately a 30-45 minute drive from Makati, depending on traffic.
The Pasig River Ferry Service operates on the Pasig River, which borders northern Makati. It has an unique way to travel between certain points in Metro Manila, serving more as a scenic or alternative route rather than a direct, fast connection to central Makati.
Procedures are similar to airports. Present your passport, visa (if applicable), and completed arrival card.
Taxis, Grab, jeepneys, and buses are available outside Manila Port for connections to Makati.
The Pasig River Ferry is a scenic alternative, but not always the fastest for central Makati.
Most international airline tickets leaving from Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) now include the Passenger Service Charge (PSC), aka the terminal fee.
The departure process involves check-in, baggage drop, security screening, and for international flights, immigration clearance. These procedures can sometimes be lengthy.
Counters or self-service kiosks available for smooth check-in.
Duty-free shops, a range of restaurants, and cafes for last-minute needs.
Airline lounges, charging stations, and restrooms for comfort.
Always account for Metro Manila's heavy traffic when planning your travel time to the airport. Departing extra early is a wise plan to avoid missing your flight.
