Want to visit a tropical paradise and wondering how to go from Manila to Siquijor? We can help!
Imagine stepping off the boat onto the enchanting island of Siquijor, the Philippines’ hidden gem. You’re immediately greeted by the island’s undeniable charm, from the pristine white sandy beaches to the lush, rolling hills that stretch as far as the eye can see. The air is fresh with a hint of sea salt, and you can hear the gentle lapping of waves against the shore. You know you’ve found a slice of paradise.
Now, picture yourself exploring the island’s rich culture and history. You’re visiting the century-old balete tree, known to locals as enchanted, and feeling a chill of excitement. Later, you’re savoring the unique flavors of local cuisine, a delightful blend of traditional Filipino and fresh seafood. As the sun sets, you’re relaxing by the beach, the sky painted in hues of pink and orange. Visiting Siquijor isn’t just a trip, it’s an unforgettable experience.
While it’s not far from Manila to Siquijor, this journey can seem complicated – at least until you take it step-by-step. It’s actually quite straightforward with many people taking this trip every day.
Below, I break down exactly how to get to Siquijor from Manila so you know exactly what you need to do, when, whether you are looking for a Manila to Siquijor bus or a Manila to Siquijor flight. This way, you will be in paradise as quick as possible!
I also describe the reverse journey from Siquijor to Manila.
Map: Manila To Siquijor
The direct distance from Manila to Siquijor is approximately 644 kilometers.
Traveling from Manila to Siquijor typically requires either two flights via Cebu or a flight to Dumaguete, followed by a ferry ride. The journey can take anywhere from 5 to 10 hours, depending on your chosen flights and ferry schedules.
BEST OPTION: How To Go To Siquijor From Manila
The fastest way to travel from Manila to Siquijor is by taking a direct flight to Dumaguete, then a fast ferry to Siquijor or taking two flights via Cebu.
There is also the option to ride a bus to Dumaguete and then take a slow ferry to Siquijor.
Here’s a summary of your options:
| Mode of transport | Duration | Best For? | Book |
| Flights | 6+ hours | People who like the easiest and quickest option | Book here |
| Flight + Ferry | 6+ hours | People who like a quick, flexible and cost effective option | Flight – Book here Ferry – Book here |
| Bus + Ferry | 29+ hours | People who want to travel overland | Bus – Book here Ferry – Book here |
| ❤️ BEST OPTION FOR… | |
| ⚡️Fastest Option | Flights via Cebu |
| 🤑Cheapest Option | Flight to Dumaguete + Ferry to Siquijor |
Note that the cheapest option can vary depending on the time of year and when you book. All three options can be cheaper at different times although generally, flying from Manila to Dumaguete and then taking a ferry to Siquijor is cheapest.
Option 1: Manila To Siquijor Flights
To travel from Manila to Siquijor by air, there are no direct flights. You’ll have to make a stopover in Cebu.
The total travel time, including layovers, from take off in Manila is approximately 4-7 hours. This can vary depending on your chosen flight and the duration of the layover.
Several airlines fly between Manila and Cebu, including Philippine Airlines, AirAsia and Cebu Pacific. There are many flights per day as this is a popular route.
However, only Sunlight Air fly from Cebu onto Siquijor.
As for the cost, a one-way ticket typically costs from 3,800 PHP, depending on the time of booking and the season. It’s advisable to book in advance to secure the best rates.
Getting to Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Manila is relatively easy. It’s well-connected by public transport, including buses, taxis, and ride-sharing services. The airport also has ample parking if you prefer to drive.
This journey is straightforward with a single layover. With careful planning, your travel experience should be smooth and hassle-free.
Click here to see the prices for your dates.
Option 2: Manila To Dumaguete Flight + Ferry To Siquijor
Another option is to take a direct flight to Dumaguete, a ten minute tricycle ride to Dumaguete Port and then take a one hour ferry to Siquijor.
This can be more cost effective than option 1 and can also take a similar length of time. It also gives you more options on the time of day that you travel.
First, you need to get to Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Manila. It’s accessible by taxi or public transportation.
From there, you’ll take a flight to Dumaguete. This takes about 1.5 hours and there are multiple flights a day on Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airlines/PAL Express. Flights cost from about 2,300 PHP.
Click here to see latest timetables and prices.
Next, you’ll transfer in Dumaguete. The port is located in the city center, so it’s easy to reach. It’s about a ten minute taxi drive from the airport.
From Dumaguete, you’ll take a ferry to Siquijor. OceanJet operates a fast ferry which takes about an hour and costs 512 PHP. Montenegro Lines also operate on this route taking about 1.5 hours and costing 381 PHP. There are departures throughout the day.
Click here to see the latest timetables and prices now.
Note that there is also a terminal fee to pay.
Option 3: Bus From Manila To Dumaguete + Ferry To Siquijor
If you leave it too late to get a good flight price or you just love traveling overland, you can also take a Ro-Ro (roll-on roll-off) bus from Manila to Dumaguete and then a ferry across to Siquijor.
This is time consuming and can actually cost more than the options above. Note that bus prices do not include your ferry tickets along the way.
To begin your journey from Manila to Siquijor, you’ll need to make your way to the Cubao bus terminal. It is easily accessible from different parts of Manila via taxi, jeepney, or the LRT/MRT.
The first leg of your journey will be a bus ride to Dumaguete City.
Ceres Liner offer trips to Dumaguete once or twice a day. Buses will take ferries along the way. The journey takes approximately 26 hours, depending on traffic and sea conditions.
Click here to see the latest timetables and prices now.
Once you reach Dumaguete, you’ll need to take a ferry to Siquijor. The Dumaguete port is about a 10-minute tricycle ride from the Ceres bus terminal, making the transition easy.
The ferry ride to Siquijor takes about an hour on OceanJet or you can take the slower (but cheaper) Montenegro Lines ferries which take about 1.5 hours. Tickets start at 381 PHP. Ferries run regularly.
Click here to see the latest timetables and prices now.
Note that there is also a terminal fee to pay at Dumaguete Port
In summary, while there are no direct bus services from Manila to Siquijor, the combination of bus and ferry makes the journey feasible. The terminals and ports are easy to navigate.
This is a long journey though and the bus is not that comfortable. I would fly to either Dumaguete or Siquijor if your budget allows it.
Siquijor To Manila
Traveling Siquijor Manila is similar to traveling from Manila to Siquijor island, you just need to reverse the directions above.
Commencing your journey from the enchanting island of Siquijor, you have three main options to reach Manila: by air or by air and sea or by sea and bus.
If you prefer speed and convenience, flying is your best bet. However, there are no direct flights from Siquijor to Manila. You will need to fly via Cebu.
See schedules and prices here.
If flights are expensive for your dates, you may want to consider taking a ferry to Dumaguete and then flying back to Manila on a direct flight from there. This is usually cheaper and still quite fast.
Click here for latest ferry prices and schedules.
Alternatively, if you’re not in a rush and wish to enjoy the scenic route, taking a ferry to Dumaguete and then a bus onto Manila is an option.
The bus itself will take you on multiple ferries and takes about 26 hours.
Click here for the latest bus timetable and price.
Final Words
Traveling from Manila to Siquijor has never been simpler. By following the directions provided above, you can experience a seamless journey. The quickest and most convenient method is to fly, offering you a hassle-free and time-efficient option. This will allow you to maximize your time exploring the enchanting island of Siquijor.
However, if budget is a key consideration for you, opting for buses and ferries may be more suitable. While these options may take a lot longer, they will definitely be an adventure.
Click here to see the latest timetables and prices now.
I hope you found this guide to how to travel from Manila to Siquijor useful. You can find our complete travel guide to Manila here.
