Getting There & Away: Siargao

Air Travel to Siargao

Airport & Airlines

Siargao Airport (Sayak Airport - IAO) in Del Carmen serves as the main air access point for the island.

Flight Information

Airlines: Philippine Airlines (PAL Express), Cebu Pacific, Sunlight Air.
Typical Routes: Manila (MNL), Cebu (CEB), Davao (DVO).
No direct international flights. Connect via MNL, CEB, or DVO.

Flight Planning

Consider flight availability and price changes when booking your travel to Siargao.

Seasonal & Pricing

Flight frequency rises during peak surf season (Jul-Nov) and holidays.
Prices increase significantly during peak times and major public holidays.

Flight Deals

Find affordable airfares with Dollar Flight Club.

Global Search

Compare flights from various airlines using Skyscanner.

Car Rental Search

Explore car rental options via DiscoverCars.com for mainland Mindanao.

Airport Transfers

Sayak Airport IAO

Small domestic airport with basic facilities.
Limited shops and no extensive restaurants.
Arrive 1-1.5 hours before domestic flight.
Airport terminal fees for domestic flights are typically included in airfare.

Transfer Options to General Luna

Shared Van: Most common, cost-effective (₱300-₱500 per person).
Tricycle/Habal-habal: Less common for airport transfers due to distance.
Vans meet arriving flights directly to General Luna.
General Luna is approximately 30-45 minutes from the airport.

Land Transportation Insights

Border Crossings

Not applicable. Siargao is an island entirely within the Philippines. No international land borders exist.

Train Services

Siargao does not have any train services. Train transport is not available on or to the island.

Long-Distance Buses

Not for direct island travel. Buses operate to Surigao City on mainland Mindanao, a ferry jump-off point.

Sea & River Arrivals

Ferry Services to Dapa Port

Ferries offer an alternative way to reach Siargao, specifically from mainland Mindanao (Surigao City).

Ferry Details

Main Route: Surigao City (Mindanao) to Dapa Port (Siargao).
Types: Fast crafts (1.5-2 hrs) and RORO (Roll-on/Roll-off) ferries (3-4 hrs).
Multiple daily departures for both types during daylight hours.

Connections from Dapa Port

Upon arrival at Dapa Port, local transport options are readily available to take you to your accommodation.

Post-Ferry Transport

Tricycles, habal-habals (motorcycle taxis), and shared vans await.
These transport options take you to General Luna or other towns.
General Luna is approximately a 30-45 minute ride from Dapa Port.

Self-Driving on Mainland

Requirements & Conditions

International Driving Permit (IDP) with home country license.
Main roads are generally good; remote roads can be unpaved or muddy.
Driving habits can be erratic; watch for pedestrians, motorcycles, animals.

Departure Procedures

Prepare for your departure from Siargao with these guidelines to ensure a smooth exit.

Timing & Facilities

Sayak Airport: Arrive 1-1.5 hours before domestic flight. Small counters, queues.
Dapa Port: Arrive 30-60 minutes before scheduled ferry departure.
Airport/Port have very basic waiting areas, limited shops/stalls.

Important Travel Notes

No specific exit fees from Sayak Airport.
Flight prices change based on season and holidays.
Contact airlines for latest baggage rules and fees.

Power outages can occur; plan for device charging.
Monitor weather for sea travel conditions, especially rough seas.
Carry emergency contact details for assistance.

Departure Preparation

Air Travel Departure

Departing from Sayak Airport (IAO) is straightforward, but its small size means early arrival is wise.

Airport Protocol

Arrive at Sayak Airport 1 to 1.5 hours before domestic flight.
Check-in counters are small; queues can form during busy periods.
Terminal fees are typically included in your airfare.

Ferry Departure Dapa Port

For sea travel, Dapa Port serves as the main exit point for ferries bound for Surigao City.

Port Procedures

Arrive at Dapa Port 30-60 minutes before scheduled departure.
Time allows for ticket purchase (if not pre-booked) and boarding.
Security checks and passenger manifest verification occur for domestic travel.

Baggage Considerations

Adhere to airline baggage limits to avoid excess fees.

Weather Monitoring

Check forecasts, especially during typhoon season, for sea travel.

Connecting Flights

Allow ample layover time for seamless international connections.

Safety & Security on Departure

Personal Safety

Your safety during departure is a top concern. Stay vigilant and secure your personal items.

Vigilance

Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas.
Avoid displaying large amounts of cash or valuables.
Be mindful of your surroundings, especially at night or in isolated areas.

Secure Your Items

Properly securing your luggage and personal items minimizes the risk of theft.

Luggage Security

Use locks on your luggage.
Keep important documents and electronics in your carry-on.
Utilize a money belt or secure inner pockets for cash and cards.

Departure Checklist

Documents

Passport, boarding pass, any necessary visa confirmations.

Valuables

Wallet, phone, camera, and all essential electronics.

Packing

Ensure all items are packed securely and within weight limits.

Final Checks

Double-check your flight or ferry schedule one last time. Confirm your transport to the airport or port, and account for potential traffic.

Getting There & Away