Getting There & Away: Boracay

Air Travel to Boracay

Major Airports & Airlines

Boracay has two main gateway airports on Panay Island. Both necessitate an onward transfer.

Airport Details

Godofredo P. Ramos Airport (MPH): Caticlan Airport, closest to Boracay.
Kalibo International Airport (KLO): 1.5-2 hour drive from Caticlan Jetty Port.
Airlines: Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, AirAsia Philippines. Dollar Flight Club or Skyscanner for deals.

Flights & Price Variations

Direct international flights to Kalibo are limited. Most travelers connect via Manila (MNL) or Cebu (CEB).

Timing & Cost

Peak Season (Dec-May): Flights are most expensive and book fastest.
Low Season (Jul-Oct): Prices drop significantly.
Airport Facilities: Caticlan (MPH) is small; Kalibo (KLO) is larger with more amenities.

Caticlan MPH Transfer

A short tricycle ride to Caticlan Jetty Port, then a 10-15 min ferry to Boracay. Total travel time: 30-60 minutes.

Kalibo KLO Transfer

A 1.5-2 hour bus/van ride to Caticlan Jetty Port, then a ferry. Total travel time: 2.5-3.5 hours.

Integrated Transfers

Tour operators like Southwest Tours offer seamless land-sea-land transfers directly to your Boracay hotel, including fees.

Departure Information

Exit Fees & Procedures

Terminal Fees: Often included in airfare. Pay at airport if not.
Environmental & Tourist Fees: Typically paid upon arrival at Caticlan Jetty Port.
Caticlan (MPH) Departure: Arrive at Caticlan Jetty Port 1 hour before flight. Airport 1-1.5 hours before domestic flight.
Kalibo (KLO) Departure: Allow 2.5-3 hours for transfer. Airport 2-3 hours before international, 1.5-2 hours before domestic.

Airport Facilities

Caticlan (MPH) & Kalibo (KLO): Basic waiting areas and restrooms.
Food Stalls: Limited options at both airports. Kalibo has more due to its size.
Integrated Transfers: These simplify the departure process by coordinating all segments from your hotel to the airport.

Land Transportation on Panay Island

Bus & Van Options

Ceres Liner buses and vans connect Kalibo to Caticlan Jetty Port. These are useful for exploring beyond Boracay on Panay Island.

Self-Driving

Not recommended for Boracay. Limited car rentals on Panay. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is necessary for driving on Panay. DiscoverCars.com for rentals.

Road Conditions

Boracay's main roads are paved. Panay highways are generally paved, but provincial roads can be rough.

Sea Arrivals to Boracay

Ferry Services

Sea travel is an integral part of reaching Boracay.

Ferry Types

Inter-island Ferries: Main sea transport from Caticlan Jetty Port to Cagban Jetty Port (Boracay).
Roro (Roll-on/Roll-off) Ferries: Connect Caticlan with Mindoro (e.g., Roxas, Mindoro Oriental).
Cruise Ports: Boracay does not have a deep-water cruise port. Ships anchor offshore; passengers are tendered.

Sea Travel Procedures

Immigration procedures apply for international arrivals. For domestic arrivals, no immigration procedures are needed.

Arrival & Connections

Immigration: Standard procedures upon disembarkation for international arrivals.
Land Connections: Tricycles and e-trikes are readily available at Cagban Jetty Port to take you to your accommodation.
River Transportation: Not relevant for Boracay.

Walking Friendly

The island's compact nature makes walking enjoyable. White Beach Path and main road sidewalks are pedestrian-friendly.

Cycling

Bicycle rentals are available. Exercise caution on main roads due to tricycle and e-trike traffic.

No-Go Areas

No designated "no-go" areas. Exercise general caution, especially on busy roads or unlit side streets at night.

Rental Options on Boracay

Motorcycle & Scooter Rentals

Motorcycle and scooter rentals are sometimes available from local vendors.

Important Cautions

Caution is strongly advised. Roads can be narrow and crowded.
Drivers might not possess proper licenses or insurance.
Renting presents a higher risk for tourists despite local use.

Car & Bicycle Rentals

Car rentals are not practical on Boracay. Bicycle rentals are available from various shops.

Rental Notes

Car rentals are not available or practical on Boracay Island.
Bicycle rentals are available from shops near Station 2.
Understand local driving laws if you plan to drive on Panay.

Specialized Transportation

Island Hopping Boats

Main specialized transport for visiting nearby islands, secluded beaches, and snorkeling spots. Join group tours or charter a private boat.

Boat Taxis

Small boats chartered for short transfers between beaches (e.g., White Beach to Diniwid Beach) or specific points around the island.

Paraw Sailboats

Traditional outrigger sailboats available for sunset cruises or short beach-to-beach rides. An unique and relaxing way to experience the coastline.

Accessibility Information

Boracay's infrastructure poses challenges for travelers with mobility needs. Sandy beaches, reliance on tricycles, and stairs in many establishments limit accessibility. Some newer resorts may offer better features. Contact accommodations directly for specifics.

Getting There & Away