Siargao Airport Guide: Arrivals, Transfers & Insider Tips

Everything you need to know about arriving at Sayak Airport (IAO) and getting to your destination smoothly.

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Siargao Airport (officially Sayak Airport, IATA code: IAO) is your gateway to paradise. Unlike large international hubs, IAO is a small, charming provincial airport that handles the surge of surfers, tourists, and island-hoppers arriving daily. While its size adds to the island's charm, navigating your arrival can be chaotic if you aren't prepared. Here's everything you need to know to start your Siargao vacation smoothly.

Exterior shot of Siargao Airport (Sayak Airport) terminal building
Exterior shot of Siargao Airport (Sayak Airport) terminal building.
Image courtesy of Gina

Airlines Serving Siargao Airport

Three major airlines currently operate flights to Siargao:

  • Cebu Pacific — Daily flights from Manila, frequent flights from Cebu
  • Philippine Airlines (PAL) — Direct flights from Manila and Cebu
  • Sunlight Air — Boutique carrier with Manila routes

Pro Tip: Book early during peak season (October-May) as flights fill up quickly and prices surge. Consider flying on weekdays for better rates.

What to Expect Upon Arrival

Siargao Airport is refreshingly simple—but that simplicity comes with some quirks:

  • Walk from the plane — You'll walk across the tarmac to the terminal (bring sunglasses!)
  • Baggage claim — Expect 15-20 minutes for luggage to appear in a small carousel for baggage collection.
  • Environmental fee — Upon exiting, non-local visitors are required to pay an environmental fee. If you're a resident of Surigao del Norte province with valid ID, the fee is waived.
  • Small terminal — One exit leads directly to the pickup area filled with drivers
  • Limited facilities — Basic restrooms and a small store. ATMs are available but may run out of cash during peak periods.

Ground Transportation Options

Once you exit the terminal, you'll be greeted by a crowd of eager van and tricycle drivers. Here's what to expect:

Shared Vans to General Luna

  • Cost: ₱300-₱400 per person
  • Duration: 45 minutes to 1 hour
  • Pros: Affordable, meets other travelers
  • Cons: Waits until van is full, cramped with luggage, no control over stops

Private Van Hire

  • Cost: ₱1,500-₱2,500 (entire vehicle)
  • Duration: 40-50 minutes
  • Pros: Immediate departure, comfortable, can make stops
  • Cons: More expensive for solo travelers

Tricycle

  • Cost: ₱50-₱100 for short distances (Del Carmen)
  • Best For: Nearby destinations like Del Carmen (5-10 minutes away)
  • Note: Not recommended for General Luna—too far and uncomfortable with luggage

The "Del Carmen First" Strategy

🧠 Smart Traveler Insight: Most tourists rush straight to General Luna, enduring a 45+ minute cramped van ride after a long flight. But here's the local secret: Del Carmen is only 5-10 minutes from the airport.

Consider this smarter approach:

  1. Book your first 1-2 nights in Del Carmen — Settle in immediately after your flight with zero stress
  2. Visit Sugba Lagoon the next morning — You'll be first on the water while GL tourists are still in transit
  3. Explore the Mangrove Boardwalk — Right at the Del Carmen port, no extra travel needed
  4. Relax at Alegria Beach for a calm, family-friendly swim — Just 40 minutes from Del Carmen
  5. Explore Pacifico Beach on the north coast for surfing and pristine scenery — 40-45 minutes from Del Carmen
  6. Move to General Luna refreshed — After 1-2 days, you'll know the island and be ready for the surfing scene

🏠 Mariden Resort: Your Airport Neighbor

Mariden Resort is located just 5 minutes from Siargao Airport—closer than any General Luna accommodation. We offer:

  • Airport Pick-up — Hassle-free transfers arranged in advance
  • Late Arrival Friendly — Perfect if your flight lands in the late afternoon or evening
  • Early Check-in Available — Subject to availability, drop your bags and relax
  • Refreshing Pool — Wash off the travel dust immediately
  • Affordable Rates — Starting at just ₱1,500/night
Explore Our Rooms

Frequently Asked Questions

Shared vans cost ₱300-₱400 per person. Private vans range from ₱1,500-₱2,500 depending on the destination and your negotiation skills. Prices may be higher during peak season.

General Luna is approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour drive from Siargao Airport. In contrast, Del Carmen is only 5-10 minutes away—making it the ideal first-night destination.

Siargao Airport (IAO) is served by Cebu Pacific, Philippine Airlines (PAL), and Sunlight Air with flights primarily from Manila and Cebu.

Yes, but don't rely on it. ATMs frequently run out of cash, especially on weekends and during peak season. Bring enough cash for your first few days, or withdraw in Manila/Cebu before flying.

Yes! We recommend arranging your transfer before arrival. Contact us to arrange hassle-free airport pickup directly to Mariden Resort.

Related Guides

Del Carmen & North Siargao Attractions

Planning Your Trip