Pre-Trip & Arrival Planning: Siargao

Essential Preparations Timeline

A structured approach to your pre-trip planning ensures nothing is overlooked.

Planning Milestones

steps organized chronologically for your convenience.

-6 Months Prior

Passport & Visa

Check passport validity and apply for visas well in advance.

International Flights

Book flights to Manila or Cebu, main entry points.

Health & Insurance

Consult a doctor for vaccinations and buy travel insurance.

-2 Months Prior

Domestic Flights

Book flights to Siargao (Sayak Airport - IAO).

Accommodation & Itinerary

Reserve lodging and plan a rough itinerary.

Driving Permit

Secure an International Driving Permit for scooter rental.

-4 Weeks Prior

Packing & Essentials

Pack clothing, gear, power bank, universal adapter, reef-safe sunscreen.

Medications & Banking

Arrange prescriptions and inform your bank of travel plans.

Last-Minute Checks

Confirm bookings, download offline maps, gather document copies.

Home Preparation

Take these steps to secure your home before departure.

Pre-Departure Tasks

Notify family or friends of your itinerary and emergency contacts.
Arrange care for pets or plants if necessary.
Secure your home by locking all doors and windows.
Stop mail or newspaper deliveries to your residence.

Research & Initial Funds

Arm yourself with knowledge and prepare your finances.

Pre-Trip Research & Currency

Read up on local customs and etiquette for respectful interactions.
Research common tourist scams to avoid potential issues.
Check current travel advisories from your country's foreign affairs office.
Withdraw some local currency (Philippine Pesos) before arrival.

Arrival Checklist

These steps guide you through a smooth arrival in Siargao.

First Steps Upon Arrival

Clear Immigration.
Collect Luggage.
Purchase a local SIM card (Globe or Smart).
Withdraw local currency or exchange money.

Orientation Strategies

Get a local map (digital or physical) of General Luna.
Locate your accommodation on the map relative to Cloud 9.
Ask hotel staff for local tips and reliable transport.
Hotel staff are a good source of current information.

Initial Purchases & Transfers

Prioritize getting local currency for immediate needs.
Arrange your transfer to accommodation; shared vans are easiest.
Secure currency for your first meal.
ATMs are available but can be unreliable.

Quick Tip for Arrival

Refer to Section 4.1 for airport transfer options, or Section 4.3 for transfers from Dapa Port for detailed instructions.

Departure Preparation

Plan your departure for a stress-free exit from Siargao.

Souvenirs & Shipping

Purchase Timing
Buy souvenirs a day or two before departure to avoid last-minute rush.
Shipping Larger Items
If buying large items, inquire about shipping costs and procedures.
Shipping Considerations
Shipping from Siargao can be costly and time-consuming.

VAT & Timing

VAT Refund
The Philippines does not currently have a VAT refund scheme for tourists.
Airport Arrival Time
Arrive at Sayak Airport at least 1-1.5 hours before your domestic flight.
Ferry Departure Time
For ferries from Dapa Port, arrive 30-60 minutes prior to scheduled departure.

Return Journey Preparation

Confirmations

Confirm your return flight details and any onward travel plans.

Double-check flight times and gates before leaving your accommodation.

Luggage Restrictions

Pack according to airline luggage restrictions to avoid extra fees.

Consider potential weight from souvenirs and additional purchases.

Transfer Time

Allow ample time for transfers to the airport or port.

Account for potential traffic or unexpected delays on the island roads.

Travel Day Insight

A well-planned departure means a smooth transition to your next destination.

Departure Checklist Summary

Ensure all your final steps are covered before leaving the island.

Travel Document Check

Verify passport and visa for onward travel.
Confirm domestic and international flight details.
Have all boarding passes ready.
Double-check accommodation checkout times.

Final Island Tasks

Finalize souvenir purchases.
Ensure sufficient local currency for last-minute expenses.
Dispose of all trash properly.
Charge all electronic devices.

Emergency Contacts Review

Before leaving, ensure emergency contacts are accessible.

Numbers At Hand

National Emergency Hotline:911
Local Police:(Inquire locally)
Embassy/Consulate:(Your country's contact)
Accommodation Contact:(As provided)

Luggage & Packing Check

Check luggage weight to meet airline limits.
Ensure all personal belongings are packed.
Empty reusable water bottles before security.
Remove any waste from your bags.

Smooth Exit

Allow ample time for transfers to the airport or port, accounting for traffic.

Pre-Trip & Arrival Planning