MileHacker Logo
Getting There & Away

Getting There & Away

North Luzon, Philippines

Air Travel

Major Airports

Loakan Airport (BAG) is Baguio's local airport. It has a short runway and often experiences visibility issues due to fog, leading to frequent flight cancellations or diversions. Commercial flights remain limited and inconsistent. Most travelers arrive at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL) in Manila, about 250 km (155 miles) south, or Clark International Airport (CRK) in Angeles City, Pampanga, about 150 km (93 miles) south.

Flight Information

  • Major international airlines serve MNL/CRK.
  • No consistent commercial flights to Loakan Airport (BAG) as of late 2023.
  • Flight prices to MNL/CRK peak during major holidays.

Airport Facilities & Transfers

MNL has four terminals with currency exchange, ATMs, duty-free shops, restaurants, lounges, and hotels. Free shuttle buses connect the terminals. CRK is a modern single-terminal airport with similar amenities. Consider services like Dollar Flight Club for deals or Skyscanner for comparisons.

Transfer Options to Baguio

  • From MNL to Baguio (4-7 hours): Buses (Victory Liner, Genesis Transport, JoyBus) from Manila's terminals.
  • Private Car/Taxi: More expensive, typically PHP 4,000 - 7,000+.
  • From CRK to Baguio (3-5 hours): Buses (Genesis Transport, Victory Liner, JoyBus) from Clark Airport or Dau Bus Terminal.

Taxi/Private Transfer

These services are available for hire from both MNL and CRK.

Bus Travel

The most common and economical option from major hubs.

Booking in Advance

Book bus tickets in advance, especially during peak travel periods.

Air Travel Tips

From Manila MNL

  • JoyBus offers "deluxe" and "premiere" services with comfortable seats and amenities.
  • Some premium buses feature personal entertainment systems and onboard restrooms.
  • Road travel from Manila to Baguio generally takes 4-7 hours depending on traffic.
  • Private transfers offer direct service but carry a higher cost.

From Clark CRK

  • Direct bus routes from Clark Airport or the nearby Dau Bus Terminal are available.
  • JoyBus also presents premium services directly from CRK to Baguio.
  • Travel time from Clark to Baguio is typically shorter, around 3-5 hours.
  • CRK serves as an alternative international gateway, useful for budget airlines.

Travel Considerations

Airport Choice

MNL is the main gateway; CRK offers a good alternative for certain routes and budget carriers.

Land Transport Dominance

Buses are the main mode of connection to Baguio from major cities.

Booking Ahead

Especially during peak seasons, secure your bus tickets in advance.

Land Transportation

Long-Distance Buses

Buses feature as the most popular and efficient way to reach Baguio. This is not applicable for Baguio's border crossing information. Baguio is an inland city within the Philippines. All travel within the country remains domestic.

Major Bus Companies

  • Victory Liner: Most extensive network, regular and deluxe services from Manila (Pasay, Cubao, Sampaloc/Kamias).
  • Genesis Transport: Regular and premium (JoyBus) services from Cubao, Pasay, and Clark Airport.
  • Book tickets at bus terminals or online via respective websites or third-party booking platforms.

Self-Driving Considerations

Baguio has accessibility via well-maintained expressways (NLEX, SCTEX, TPLEX) from Manila. These connect to three main access roads: Kennon Road, Marcos Highway (Agoo-Baguio Road), and Naguilian Road (Baguio-Bauang Road). Consider DiscoverCars.com for rental options.

Driving Notes

  • You need a valid Philippine driver's license or an International Driving Permit (IDP) with your national license.
  • Driving in Baguio's steep, narrow, and often congested roads can be challenging. Fog can also reduce visibility.
  • Kennon Road is scenic but prone to closures during heavy rains or landslides. Marcos Highway is generally safer.

Road Conditions & Safety

Expressways remain generally excellent. These are toll roads. Access roads to Baguio maintain quality but call for careful driving due to curves and inclines. Kennon Road is especially scenic but carries a higher risk of rockfalls and landslides during the wet season. Within Baguio, roads experience congestion, especially during peak season. Steep inclines and declines are common.

Driving Advice

  • Defensive driving is advisable, especially on winding mountain roads.
  • Be mindful of reduced visibility due to fog, common in Baguio.
  • Check road conditions before travel, especially during monsoon season.

Sea/River Arrivals & Departure

This section is not applicable to Baguio for sea/river arrivals. Baguio is a landlocked city, situated in the Cordillera Central mountain range. There are no direct sea or river arrivals. Travelers arriving by sea, like a ferry to Manila or a cruise to Manila or coastal Luzon, would then proceed to Baguio via land transportation.

Departure Information

  • No separate departure tax is collected at Philippine international airports; it is typically included in the airline ticket price.
  • For international flights, arrive at MNL or CRK at least 3 hours before departure.
  • For bus departures from Baguio, arrive at the terminal at least 30-60 minutes before departure.

Departure Checklist

  • Verify flight schedule before heading to the airport.
  • Confirm bus departure times, especially during peak seasons.
  • Ensure all luggage is within airline or bus company limits.
  • Keep passport and boarding pass easily accessible.
  • Consider traffic conditions, especially when traveling from Baguio to Manila/Clark airports.
  • Have cash for any last-minute terminal fees or snacks.

Sea/River Arrivals & 4.4 Departure

Sea/River Travel Not Applicable

This section is not applicable to Baguio. Baguio is a landlocked city, situated in the Cordillera Central mountain range. There are no direct sea or river arrivals. Travelers arriving by sea, like a ferry to Manila or a cruise to Manila or coastal Luzon, would then proceed to Baguio via land transportation.

Alternative Transport

  • Land transport via bus or private car comes as the only option to Baguio after sea arrival.
  • Baguio's location inland means no coastal or riverine access.
  • There are no boat taxis or water transportation services to Baguio.

Departure Information

Plan your departure from Baguio carefully. This leads to a smooth journey. No separate departure tax is collected at Philippine international airports. It is usually included in the airline ticket price. For international flights, travelers arrive at MNL or CRK at least 3 hours before departure.

Departure Timing

  • For bus departures from Baguio, arrive at the terminal at least 30-60 minutes before departure.
  • Buses may depart on time or with slight delays, notably during peak seasons.
  • Baguio bus terminals feature basic waiting areas, ticket counters, food stalls, and restrooms.

Airport Facilities

MNL/CRK airports offer check-in counters, security screening, retail, and lounges.

Book Bus Tickets Early

Book your bus tickets in advance during peak travel periods to secure your seat.

Streamlined Departure

Arrive at your departure point with ample time for a smooth process.

Summary of Transportation

Local Transport

Buses are the main mode of transport for reaching Baguio from various points in Luzon. For local trips, combining jeepney rides for short distances with taxis for convenience balances cost and speed.

Within Baguio

  • Jeepneys are the backbone of Baguio's public transport system, offering an economical option.
  • Taxis and ride-sharing services (Grab) are widely available for quick trips and comfort.

Considerations for Drivers

Renting a vehicle for extensive travel or independence is an option. However, driving in Baguio's steep, narrow, and often congested roads can be challenging. Parking is also a significant issue, especially in the city center.

Driving Notes

  • Kennon Road is prone to closures during heavy rains or landslides.
  • A local driver may be a better option for those unfamiliar with local driving conditions.
  • Motorcycle and scooter rentals are less common compared to coastal areas.

Other Transport Methods

Bicycle Rentals

Available at Burnham Park for recreational use within the park. No city-wide sharing programs exist.

Tour Buses

Local tour operators offer fixed-route tour packages or chartered vans/buses for groups.

Accessibility

Accessibility infrastructure in Baguio remains limited due to uneven sidewalks and steep slopes.