How to get from Manila to Siquijor

Beaches & Tropical · Nature & Outdoors · Philippines · Cebu · Dumaguete · Manila · Siquijor

From Manila’s busy capital to Siquijor’s mystical beaches, the journey usually combines a short domestic flight with a scenic ferry ride — this guide walks you through the fastest, easiest, and cheapest ways to get there.

At A Glance (Manila to Siquijor)

Mode Duration Best For
🛫 Flight via Dumaguete (MNL→DGT) + Ferry ~1.5h flight + ~30–60m transfer + 45–90m ferry Most travelers; fastest & simplest
🧷 Cost: Flight ~PHP 2,500–5,500 one-way + ferry ~PHP 350–600 + local transfers. Compare routes & tickets on 12Go (Dumaguete→Siquijor) or search flights on Booking.com Flights.
🛫 Flight via Cebu (MNL→CEB) + Ferry ~1.5h flight + 3.5–6h ferry (+ port transfers) More flight choices; combining with Cebu/Bohol
🧷 Cost: Flight ~PHP 2,000–5,000 + ferry ~PHP 1,200–2,000. Check Cebu→Siquijor boats on 12Go and Cebu tours/transfers on Klook Cebu transport.
⛵️ Flight via Bohol (MNL→TAG/Panglao) + Ferry ~1.5h flight + 10–20m port transfer + ~1.5–2.5h ferry Pairing Siquijor with Bohol’s Chocolate Hills
🧷 Cost: Flight ~PHP 2,000–4,500 + ferry ~PHP 800–1,500. See Bohol→Siquijor sailings on 12Go (Tagbilaran→Siquijor) or day-trip combos on Klook Bohol→Siquijor tour.
🚌 Long-Distance Bus/Ferry via Visayas ~24–36h total (route-dependent) Ultra-budget travelers, slow travel
🧷 Cost: ~PHP 2,500–4,500 all-in by bus + ferries. Compare Manila→Cebu options on 12Go (Manila→Cebu) then add a Cebu→Siquijor ferry.
🚁 Direct / One-Ticket Flight to Siquijor ~1.5–2.5h in the air (often via nearby hub) Those finding a good promo fare; minimal transfers
🧷 Cost: Promo fares can start around ~PHP 4,000–8,000 one-way. Check current Manila→“Siquijor Island” deals on Trip.com.

Which Option or Route Should You Choose?

How to Book and Practical Tips

  • Flights: Compare domestic fares (Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, Philippines AirAsia, Sunlight Air, etc.) using Booking.com Flights and Trip.com. Book early for weekends, holidays, and local festivals.
  • Ferries: For Dumaguete, Cebu, and Bohol connections, you can pre-book tickets and check schedules on 12Go (search your exact route) or buy at the pier a day before. For some routes (like Dumaguete→Siquijor), you can also use Klook’s OceanJet ferry ticket.
  • Airport & city transfers: In Manila, Dumaguete, Cebu, and Bohol you can simply use ride-hailing apps like Grab (widely available) or JoyRide/Angkas (motorbike options). For a pre-booked car with meet-and-greet, look at Welcome Pickups Manila airport transfers or arrange private drivers via GetTransfer Philippines.
  • Luggage storage in Manila: If you have a long layover before flying south, stash your bags at a city location near NAIA or downtown using Radical Storage Manila so you can explore freely between flights.
  • On-island transport in Siquijor: Many visitors rent scooters or motorbikes to circle the island. You can compare rental options on BikesBooking for Siquijor Island or arrange rentals via your guesthouse on arrival.
  • Where to stay: For a wide range of beach resorts and homestays in San Juan and beyond, check Booking.com Siquijor Island stays; book ahead in peak months (Dec–May, Holy Week, long weekends).
  • Weather & safety: Sea crossings can be delayed by strong winds or typhoons. Build a little buffer into your itinerary and always monitor local advisories before your ferry day.

🛫 Option #1 — Flight via Dumaguete + Ferry (Most Popular)

Fast overall Shortest sea leg Good value

  • Overview: Fly from Manila (NAIA) to Dumaguete–Sibulan Airport (DGT) (~1.5h). From the airport, it’s about 20–30 minutes by tricycle or car to Dumaguete Port, then a 45–90 minute ferry to Siquijor (Siquijor Pier or Larena Pier, depending on operator).
  • How to book (with price): One-way flights Manila→Dumaguete typically run around PHP 2,500–5,500 depending on season and baggage; compare fares on Booking.com Flights or Trip.com Manila→Dumaguete. Ferries Dumaguete→Siquijor are about PHP 350–600 per person for standard seats; check routes & times on 12Go Dumaguete→Siquijor or secure an OceanJet ticket via Klook.
  • Pros: Short ferry (better if you’re prone to seasickness); multiple daily sailings; compact and relaxed city for an overnight stop if needed.
  • Cons: Popular route that can sell out in peak season; ferry schedules still depend on weather and sea conditions.
  • Who it’s best for: First-time visitors, families, and anyone wanting the easiest Manila→Siquijor connection.
  • Extras: If you prefer more flexibility around Negros Oriental, you can look into local car hire around Dumaguete via Booking.com car rental (Dumaguete).

Step-by-step: Flight via Dumaguete

  1. Fly Manila→Dumaguete: Book a morning flight on your chosen airline using Booking.com Flights or Trip.com. Aim to arrive in Dumaguete before midday to have several ferry options.
  2. Airport to Dumaguete Port: On arrival at DGT, take a tricycle outside the terminal (budget option) or pre-book a private transfer or tour pickup from platforms like GetYourGuide Dumaguete airport transfers or similar private vans listed on Klook when available.
  3. Buy/confirm ferry ticket: Either show your e-ticket from 12Go or Klook’s OceanJet ticket, or head to the ticket booths at the port to purchase for the next sailing (go at least 1 hour before departure).
  4. Terminal fees & check-in: Pay the small terminal fee in cash (usually a few dozen pesos), fill out the passenger form, and wait in the departure area until boarding is called.
  5. Ferry to Siquijor: Sail to either Siquijor Pier (close to San Juan area) or Larena Pier (north of the island) depending on your chosen service.
  6. Onward to your hotel: Outside the pier you’ll find tricycles, vans, and sometimes motorbike rentals. Confirm the fare before hopping in, or have your accommodation arrange pickup in advance. You can also pre-book full-day island tours that include port pickup via GetYourGuide Siquijor tours or Klook Siquijor activities.

Getting to the main embarking points (Manila & Dumaguete)

  • Manila (NAIA terminals): From most city hotels, take a Grab car or a pre-booked transfer — for example via Welcome Pickups Manila airport transfer, GetTransfer Manila, or a private airport shuttle on Klook NAIA transfers.
  • Dumaguete Airport (DGT) to Port: Take a tricycle (budget) or a hotel-arranged car; travel time is roughly 20–30 minutes depending on traffic.
  • Ferry terminals in Siquijor: Confirm with your ticket whether you arrive at Siquijor Town Pier or Larena Pier. Most San Juan-area resorts offer pickup from either pier by prior arrangement.
  • Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🛫 Option #2 — Flight via Cebu + Ferry

Many flights Great for island-hopping Longer ferry

  • Overview: Fly from Manila to Cebu (Mactan–Cebu International Airport, CEB), then travel to the appropriate pier (usually Cebu City Pier 1 or 3) for a fast ferry to Siquijor or Larena. Some routes are direct, others might stop via Bohol.
  • How to book (with price): One-way flights MNL→CEB can be as low as PHP 2,000–5,000 on promo; compare on Booking.com Flights, Trip.com Manila→Cebu, or even 12Go flights Manila→Cebu. Fast ferries Cebu→Siquijor are commonly around PHP 1,200–2,000; check 12Go Cebu→Siquijor.
  • Pros: Tons of daily flights between Manila and Cebu; perfect if Cebu or Moalboal is already on your route.
  • Cons: Longer ferry time than Dumaguete; Cebu’s traffic can be heavy getting to/from the piers.
  • Who it’s best for: Travelers planning a multi-island Visayas trip with Cebu as a major stop.

Step-by-step: Flight via Cebu

  1. Book MNL→CEB: Use Booking.com Flights or Trip.com to find a morning flight giving you enough time to reach an afternoon ferry.
  2. Arrive at Mactan–Cebu International Airport: From here, take a taxi or Grab into Cebu City (45–90 minutes depending on traffic). You can also look at pre-booked rides via GetTransfer Cebu or Klook’s transport options in Cebu City.
  3. Head to the correct pier: Most fast ferries to Siquijor use Cebu City’s main passenger piers (Pier 1/3). Allow extra time for traffic and check-in.
  4. Buy or claim ferry ticket: If you booked via 12Go, follow their voucher instructions. Otherwise buy tickets at the pier for your desired departure.
  5. Ferry to Siquijor: Enjoy the scenic 3.5–6h ride through the Visayas; bring motion-sickness meds if you’re sensitive to choppy seas.
  6. Arrive and transfer to accommodation: Grab a tricycle, van, or pre-arranged resort transfer at Siquijor or Larena pier.

Getting to the main embarking points (Cebu)

  • Cebu Airport to City Piers: Metered taxis and Grab cars are available curbside; travel time is usually 45–90 minutes. Agree on “meter on” before getting in if you use a regular taxi.
  • Cebu City Piers: Most ferries depart Pier 1 or 3; confirm your pier and gate on the ticket or operator’s website. Arrive at least 1 hour before departure.
  • Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

⛵️ Option #3 — Flight via Bohol (Tagbilaran/Panglao) + Ferry

Great combo trip Moderate sea leg Flexible

  • Overview: Fly from Manila to Panglao International Airport (TAG) in Bohol, explore Panglao or the Chocolate Hills, then take a fast ferry from Tagbilaran to Siquijor.
  • How to book (with price): One-way flights MNL→TAG are often PHP 2,000–4,500. Use Booking.com Flights or Trip.com Manila→Bohol to compare. Ferries from Tagbilaran→Siquijor run around PHP 800–1,500; see current sailings on 12Go (Tagbilaran→Siquijor).
  • Pros: Perfect if Bohol is already a major stop; pleasant ferry duration; easy to fit into a 7–10 day Central Visayas itinerary.
  • Cons: Slightly more steps than Dumaguete; ferry schedules might not align perfectly with flight times.
  • Who it’s best for: Travelers keen on Bohol’s countryside, tarsiers, and island tours plus a few nights in Siquijor.

Step-by-step: Flight via Bohol

  1. Book MNL→TAG: Reserve a flight to Panglao International Airport using Booking.com Flights or Trip.com.
  2. Transfer to Tagbilaran Port: From Panglao, take a taxi, Grab (when available), or van transfer to Tagbilaran Port (about 30–45 minutes). Many accommodations can arrange this for you.
  3. Book the ferry: Check Tagbilaran→Siquijor ferries on 12Go; purchase tickets online or at the pier.
  4. Board & sail: Arrive early for check-in and terminal fees, then enjoy the roughly 1.5–2.5h crossing to Siquijor.
  5. Transfer to your resort: Grab a tricycle, multicab, or pre-booked van at the pier, especially if you’re headed to San Juan.

Getting to the main embarking points (Bohol)

  • Panglao Airport (TAG) to Tagbilaran Port: Arrange a hotel transfer, Grab (if available), or private car charter.
  • Tagbilaran Port: Arrive at least 1 hour before sailing; keep some pesos handy for terminal and environmental fees.
  • Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚁 Option #4 — Direct / One-Ticket Flight to Siquijor (When Available)

Minimal transfers Time-saving Limited schedules

  • Overview: From time to time, boutique airlines and new routes offer through-flights from Manila to Siquijor (or to nearby hubs with the Siquijor leg on the same ticket). This can reduce your trip to a single booking with guaranteed connections.
  • How to book (with price): Look up “Siquijor Island” as your destination on Trip.com. Promo one-way fares can hover around PHP 4,000–8,000, but availability and frequency vary.
  • Pros: Single check-in; less stress about ferry cancellations; ideal if you’re short on time or traveling with kids.
  • Cons: Not always available on your dates; fewer daily departures; can be more expensive than mixing flight + ferry yourself.
  • Who it’s best for: Travelers who value convenience over flexibility and want to minimize the open-water portion of the trip.

Step-by-step: Direct / One-Ticket Flight

  1. Search routes: On Trip.com, set Manila (MNL) as origin and “Siquijor Island” as destination; filter by duration and number of stops.
  2. Check baggage and connection rules: Confirm that all legs are on the same ticket so your baggage is checked through when possible.
  3. Plan backup options: Because such routes are limited, it’s smart to know your closest alternative (often via Dumaguete) in case of schedule changes.
  4. Fly to Siquijor: Enjoy the direct arrival; on landing, take a tricycle or resort pick-up to your accommodation.

Getting to the main embarking points (Manila)

🚌 Option #5 — Long-Distance Bus/Ferry via Visayas (Cheapest, Most Adventurous)

Low budget Scenic & slow Long travel time

  • Overview: Travel by a combination of overnight ferry or bus + RORO ship from Manila to Cebu or Dumaguete, then continue by another ferry to Siquijor. This can take 24–36 hours but allows you to see more of the islands and potentially save on flights.
  • How to book (with price): Check Manila→Cebu travel options (ferries, bus+ferry combos, and flights) on 12Go (Manila→Cebu). Overnight ferries often cost roughly PHP 2,000–3,500 depending on cabin class; onward Cebu/Dumaguete→Siquijor ferries add another PHP 800–1,500 or so.
  • Pros: Can be the cheapest way if you book basic accommodations; you experience true “slow travel” through the Visayas; no baggage limitations typical of budget airlines.
  • Cons: Long, tiring journeys; more moving parts (transfers between piers and bus terminals); sea conditions can delay RORO crossings.
  • Who it’s best for: Backpackers, overlanders, and those with flexible schedules who enjoy the journey as much as the destination.

Step-by-step: Bus/Ferry via Cebu (example)

  1. Manila to Cebu: Book an overnight ferry from Manila to Cebu City using 12Go ferries Manila→Cebu, or choose a RORO bus+ferry combination if available.
  2. Cebu port arrival: In Cebu City, disembark and transfer to the pier serving Siquijor-bound ferries (often Pier 1 or 3). You might need to spend a night in Cebu if schedules don’t line up; find a hotel via Booking.com.
  3. Cebu to Siquijor: Take a fast ferry to Siquijor or Larena, booking via 12Go Cebu→Siquijor.
  4. Alternative via Dumaguete: Some travelers ride buses down Cebu Island (e.g., to Liloan) then cross to Negros and continue to Dumaguete before catching a Dumaguete→Siquijor ferry, but this is even more time-consuming.

Getting to the main embarking points (Manila piers)

  • Manila ports: Major ferries depart from North Harbor / Pier 4 or 15 (varies). Always double-check your exact terminal, as Manila has several piers.
  • Getting there: Use Grab, a metered taxi, or pre-booked car from platforms like GetTransfer Manila or Welcome Pickups, then walk to the ferry company’s check-in counters.
  • Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

FAQ (Manila to Siquijor)

Do I need to book my ferry to Siquijor in advance?
Most of the year, you can sometimes buy tickets on the day at the port, but advance booking is strongly recommended on weekends, Philippine holidays, and during peak season (December–May). Platforms like 12Go and Klook OceanJet tickets let you secure seats ahead of time.

Is it better to route via Dumaguete, Cebu, or Bohol?
If your main goal is simply to reach Siquijor, Dumaguete is usually the most straightforward, with short flights and quick ferries. Cebu works best if you also want to visit Cebu Island or Moalboal, while Bohol is ideal for combining Siquijor with the Chocolate Hills and Panglao beaches. Check your travel dates and look for the most convenient combination of flight times and ferry schedules.

How many days do I need in Siquijor?
A good minimum is 2–3 full days: one for a full island or jeepney tour (falls, balete tree, beaches), one for beach time and sunsets, and possibly another for excursions like Apo Island snorkeling. If you love quiet islands and scooter adventures, consider staying 4–5 days.

Is Siquijor safe for solo travelers?
Yes, Siquijor is generally considered one of the safer and more laid-back islands in the Philippines. As always, follow standard travel precautions: keep valuables secure, avoid unlit roads at night, and check local guidance on weather and sea conditions before boarding boats.

What’s the best way to get around Siquijor?
Most visitors rent a scooter or motorbike and circle the coastal ring road. If you don’t ride, hire a tricycle or join an island tour through your accommodation or platforms like GetYourGuide and Klook’s Siquijor island tours.

Related posts:

  1. How to get from Cebu to Dumaguete
  2. How to get from Cebu to Surigao
  3. How to get from Cebu to Bohol
  4. How to get from Coron to Manila