Boracay,
Palawan, Cebu, and Bohol, these are only some of the destinations in the
Philippines most tourists venture out to and can be found mostly in the Luzon
and Visayas region. Ever wondered what's waiting for you down south?
Located
off the northeastern part of Mindanao region lies this tear-drop shaped
paradise also known as Siargao. This small island is comprised of nine
municipalities namely Burgos, Dapa, Del Carmen, General Luna, Pilar, San
Benito, San Isidro, Santa Monica, and Socorro. There are also other smaller
islands around the mainland which are considered to be part of the Siargao
Group.
Now,
this little and unassuming island is known for having barreling waves that
attracts millions of visitors from all around the world. In fact, numerous
international competitions are held here in the past years! But Siargao is more
than just the waves; it's a virgin paradise that captured the heart of many
because of its simplicity and laidback aura.
Wanna
visit but not sure when? Well, the best time to visit Siargao is usually during
the months of March to November where the season is dry, perfect to go out and
explore other destinations on the island. However, if you'll be visiting the
island solely for surfing, then seasons won't matter at all. All-year-round,
Siargao's waves are strong especially from September to November!
If
you thought that Siargao is only enjoyed by surfers, then you got it all wrong!
Surfer or non-surfer below is your ideal guide when visiting the little
tropical paradise of Siargao!
Getting to Siargao
There
are two (2) ways of getting to Siargao:
BY AIR
Located
at the municipality of Del Carmen, Sayak Airport (IAO) also known as Siargao
airport is a small domestic airport serving the general area of Siargao.
Travel
time to Siargao from Clark (CRK) takes around 2 hours and 5 minutes fly time
with two (2) flights daily. To maximize your time, we recommended flying with
Philippines Airlines (PAL) with flight details:
VIA
PAL MNL-IAO 1015H – 1220H
VIA
PAL IAO-MNL 1635H – 1730H
The
earlier you arrive the more leisure time you around your accommodation. You can
even also have a quick stroll around the town and beach area, right? And
if you're into inter-island adventure, Sayak Airport is accessible with direct
flights from Cebu via Philippine Airlines daily.
Ready
to book? Check the flight availability here: Rakso Travel
Airline Ticket Reservation
BY SEA
Siargao
can also be reached via Roll-on, Roll-off (RoRo) Ferries. You can take a direct
flight via Philippine Airlines going to Surigao City, capital of Surigao Del
Norte then ride a multicab or tricycle going to the port. From there, hop on a
RoRo ferry where you'll be dropped off to Dapa Port of Siargao dock. Upon
arrival, you can take a tricycle or habal-habal ride going to General Luna
where most accommodations are. This option may be a little cheaper than taking
a direct flight Siargao Island but it's kinda tiring.
Recommended Hotel
Here
are our suggested hotels or resort to stay in to match your style.
Backpackers: Apsaras
Tribe Siargao
Family: Ocean 101 Beach Resort
Luxury: Siargao
Bleu Resort and Spa
Private: Nay Palad
Hideaway
Travel Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival
As
soon as you arrive at Sayak Airport, our friendly representative will pick you
up and transfer you to General Luna where your resort/hotel will be. Now that
it's your free time, you can idly rest at the comforts of your room and prepare
for tomorrow's adventure.
But
if you’re more of a free spirit and still got some energy after a long trip,
then go on food tripping in the town! Grab a healthy shake at Shaka Siargao,
munch on some grilled delights at Mama’s Grill, or enjoy a cozy dinner at
Harana Surf Resort and Restaurant.
Siargao is literally dark at night, but that
doesn’t mean that they got no night life. *winks* Just ask the locals which bar
is scheduled for the day and you free to go there!
Day 2: Trio
Island, the Better!
Most
of the time, you'll be visiting around 4-5 islands during your island hopping
tour, right? But here in Siargao, you only need three (3) to complete your day!
After
a short boat ride from General Luna, you'll be visiting Naked Island first. No, it's not what you think! This isn't a
skinny dipping island.
This sandbar-like island earned its name from not having
anything aside from sands - no huts, no trees, nothing. Only now it has a few
small bushes growing but it still won't give you shade. Thinking of getting a
nice tan? Then take your time in here!
Next
is to Daku Island, the largest of
the three islands. Here you can enjoy your lunch inside the lined up cottages
along the coast while admiring the tropical scenery.
Then
lastly head to Guyam Island, a
circular islet that'll make you feel like you're in a castaway setting! It has
two contrasting sides: one is the sandy part where you can go snorkeling while
the other one is a bit rocky and have some strong currents.
But
that's not all! After your island hopping tour, you'll be spending the rest of
your day at the world-famous Cloud 9. Interestingly enough, its name is the
same as a local chocolate snack in the Philippines. (We didn't make that one
up!)
Day 3: Enjoy Lagoons and Chase Tidal Pools
Your first day may be a blast, but trust us, Siargao has
more to offer!
Hours away from General Luna, check out one of the most
photographed places in the island – Sugba
Lagoon! This gem is like a labyrinth as it is comprised of several lagoons.
No need to worry about being lost 'cause the locals here have their way of
marking each place. Inside the main lagoon, you'll find a two-story pontoon
house, lush mountains still water perfect for paddle boarding or kayaking, and
a wooden diving board where you can take cool jump shots!
After, head to the fascinating Magpupungko Rock Pool. This natural wonder boasts tidal pools that
are best visited during low tide. If you're into cliff diving, then this place
is for you! Jump the way you like and you'll end up splashing down in crystal
clear waters!
On your way to Magpupungko Rock Pool, you'll pass the Top of
the Road and Maasin Coconut Palm Forest.
What's so special around here? This road is surrounded by over thousands of
coconut palm trees which is surely a sight to see!
Day 4: Departure
During your last day,
it’s wise that you just spend the rest of your time prepping for your
departure. You don’t want to ruin it with a hectic schedule by cramping tours
in it, right?
Just simply stay idly at
the resort/hotel, roam more around Siargao, try more restaurants, or do a
little souvenir shopping to take home a piece of Siargao’s crafts and
delicacies.
Surfer
or not, there's no reason not to include Siargao on your must-visit places
list. A four days vacation may not be enough but there are lots of ways for it
to be worth it. We hope our guide ease you’re planning process and gave you an
idea for the perfect travel!
***
Was our recommendation helpful enough? Let us know
by commenting below or send us an email at tours.ph@raksotravel.com. If
you'd rather talk to one of our travel representatives call us at +63 (2)
8651-9000.
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