Your complete, updated guide on flights, ferries, travel tips, and the most budget-friendly way to reach Siargao.
Siargao is one of the Philippines’ favorite islands — a paradise of surfing, palm roads, lagoons, and island vibes. Before booking your stay on SiargaoHotels.ph, here’s everything you need to know about how to get to Siargao from Manila, including flights, ferry routes, travel times, and the most budget-friendly ways to reach the island.
1. Fastest Option: Direct Flights from Manila to Siargao
If you’re asking how to get from Manila to Siargao, the quickest and simplest way is a direct flight.
- Travel time: ~2 to 2.5 hours
- Airlines: Cebu Pacific, Philippine Airlines (subject to schedule changes)
- Route: NAIA (Manila) → Sayak Airport (IAO), Siargao
When people search “how do I get from Manila to Siargao,” this is the most convenient answer.
Once you arrive at Sayak Airport, take a shared van or tricycle to General Luna — the center of tourism on the island.
2. Connecting Flights: Manila → Cebu / Clark → Siargao
If direct flights don’t fit your budget or schedule, another option for how to reach Siargao from Manila is to fly via Cebu or Clark.
Popular connecting routes:
- Manila → Cebu → Siargao
- Manila → Clark → Siargao
Total travel time: ~4–6 hours
These indirect flights can sometimes cost less than direct ones.
3. Ferry Route: Manila to Siargao via Surigao (Most Budget-Friendly Option)
If you’re looking for the most budget-friendly way to reach Siargao, the ferry + land route is your top choice.
Step-by-step: Most Budget-Friendly Way to Travel from Manila to Siargao
- Fly from Manila to Butuan or Surigao City
These flights are often significantly more affordable than direct Manila–Siargao flights. - From Butuan
- Take a van or bus to Surigao Port (approx. 2.5–3 hrs)
From Surigao City
- Head directly to Surigao Port.
- Take a ferry from Surigao Port to Siargao
- Boarding Location in Surigao City: Macapagal Port
- Arrival Location in Siargao: Dapa Port
- Schedule: Multiple daily departures: 6:00 AM, 10:00 AM, 1:00 PM, and 3:30 PM.
- Travel time: ~1 hour 30 minutes for fastcraft.
- Fare: Around ₱400–₱550, depending on class.
- From Dapa Port to General Luna
- You can ride the DATSCO Bus. It operates every day, providing convenient transport between Dapa and General Luna.
- Fare: DAPA to GL = Regular – Php 33 | Student / Senior/ PWD – Php 27
Why this is the most budget-friendly route
- Manila → Butuan flights are usually cheaper than Manila → Siargao
- Ferry fares are affordable
- Total expenses are lower even with land transfers
Backpackers and long-term travelers often choose this route to save money without sacrificing convenience.
4. Travel Time Comparison
| Route | Duration | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Direct Flight (Manila → Siargao) | 2–2.5 hrs | ⭐⭐⭐ Higher |
| Connecting Flight | 4–6 hrs | ⭐⭐ Mid-range |
| Manila → Butuan/Surigao → Ferry to Siargao | 8–12 hrs | ⭐ Most Budget-Friendly |
5. Getting From Siargao Airport or Port to Your Accommodation
Most visitors stay in General Luna, near Cloud 9, restaurants, surf shops, and tour operators.
Transport options:
- Shared vans (most comfortable)
- Tricycles (budget-friendly)
- Scooter rentals (best for exploring)
Many listings on SiargaoHotels.ph offer airport or port pickup—check with your hotel.
Tips for Traveling from Manila to Siargao
- Book early — flights fill up quickly, especially during surf season
- Bring cash — ATMs may run out during weekends/holidays
- Check weather — ferry routes sometimes adjust due to sea conditions
- Stay in General Luna for convenient access to tours and good food
- Travel light if you’re transferring through ferries and vans
Final Summary: How to Get to Siargao from Manila
- Fastest: Direct flight Manila → Siargao
- Flexible: Connecting flight via Cebu or Clark
- Most Budget-Friendly: Manila → Butuan or Surigao → Land transfer → Ferry → Siargao
This route offers the best savings while still being reliable for all types of travelers.
