Planning a trip to Siargao? Wondering if it’ll break the bank? You’re not alone! This guide breaks down the costs of a week-long adventure on the island, covering everything from flights and accommodations to food and activities. Let’s dive in and see how you can enjoy Siargao without emptying your wallet.
Getting to Siargao and Back
The first big expense is usually getting to Siargao. Most likely, you’ll be flying into Sayak Airport (IAO), also known as Siargao Airport, which is located in Del Carmen. How much this costs depends a lot on where you’re flying from and when you book. Flights from Manila or Cebu are the most common routes. Booking in advance, especially during peak season (like surfing season from August to November), is crucial for securing cheaper fares. Keep an eye out for promotions from airlines like Cebu Pacific or Philippine Airlines. You might find round-trip tickets from Manila for as low as PHP 5,000 (around $90 USD) if you’re lucky and book way ahead of time. However, expect to pay closer to PHP 8,000 – PHP 12,000 (about $145 – $220 USD) or even more during peak times.
Don’t forget to factor in the cost of getting from the airport to General Luna, the main tourist town. You have a few options: shared vans, private vans, or motorcycle taxis (habal-habal). Shared vans are the most budget-friendly option, typically costing around PHP 300-400 per person. Private vans offer more comfort and convenience, but they’ll set you back around PHP 2,000-PHP 3,000. Habal-habal is the cheapest for solo travelers, usually around PHP 200-PHP 300, but it’s not recommended if you have a lot of luggage.
Finding Your Home Away From Home: Accommodation Costs
Where you stay will significantly impact your budget. Siargao offers a range of accommodations, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious beachfront resorts. If you’re travelling solo or on a tight budget, hostels are your best bet. You can find dorm beds for as low as PHP 500 – PHP 800 ($9 – $15 USD) per night. These hostels often have social atmospheres, making it easy to meet other travelers.
For those wanting a bit more privacy and comfort, guesthouses and budget-friendly hotels are good options. Expect to pay around PHP 1,500 – PHP 3,000 ($27 – $55 USD) per night for a private room with basic amenities like air conditioning and a private bathroom. Many of these options are located within walking distance of restaurants and shops in General Luna. Websites like Agoda or Booking.com are great places to compare prices and read reviews.
If you’re looking for a more upscale experience, Siargao has plenty of resorts with prices ranging from PHP 5,000 ($90 USD) per night to upwards of PHP 15,000 ($270 USD) or more. These resorts often offer amenities like swimming pools, on-site restaurants, and spa services. Keep an eye out for deals, especially during the off-season (outside of the surfing season).
Food, Glorious Food: Eating on a Budget
Eating in Siargao doesn’t have to be expensive. The island offers a diverse culinary scene, from local eateries (carinderias) to international restaurants. To save money, embrace the local food! Carinderias serve delicious and affordable Filipino dishes like adobo, sinigang, and grilled fish. A meal at a carinderia can cost as little as PHP 100-PHP 200 ($2 – $4 USD). Siargao’s public market is another great place to find cheap eats and fresh produce.
There are also many mid-range restaurants serving both Filipino and international cuisine. Expect to pay around PHP 300 – PHP 600 ($5 – $11 USD) per meal at these types of establishments. Pizza, pasta, burgers, and smoothie bowls are popular options. Many restaurants offer happy hour deals on drinks, which can help save money on your bar tab.
If you’re craving something a bit more fancy, Siargao has several upscale restaurants with prices ranging from PHP 800 ($15 USD) per meal or more. These restaurants often specialize in seafood or international cuisine. While they may be pricier, they can offer a special dining experience.
Don’t forget about snacks and drinks! Bottled water costs around PHP 20-PHP 30, while local beers like San Miguel are usually around PHP 50-PHP 70. Fresh fruit shakes are a refreshing and affordable treat, typically costing around PHP 80-PHP 120.
Riding the Waves and Exploring the Island: Activity Costs
Siargao is famous for its surfing, but there’s so much more to do on the island! Surfing lessons are a must-try, even if you’re a beginner. A 2-hour surfing lesson with an instructor typically costs around PHP 800 – PHP 1,000 ($15 – $18 USD), including board rental. If you’re already a surfer, you can rent a board for around PHP 300 – PHP 500 ($5 – $9 USD) per day.
Beyond surfing, island hopping is another popular activity. The most common island hopping tours visit Daku Island, Naked Island, and Guyam Island. These tours usually cost around PHP 1,500 – PHP 2,000 ($27 – $36 USD) per boat, which can be split between a group of people. This price usually includes boat rental and entrance fees. However, you need to pay extra for food, drinks, and activities on each island.
Exploring the island by scooter is a great way to see the sights at your own pace. Scooter rentals typically cost around PHP 350 – PHP 500 ($6 – $9 USD) per day. Make sure you have a valid driver’s license and wear a helmet. Gasoline is relatively cheap, costing around PHP 50-PHP 60 per liter.
Other activities to consider include visiting the Magpupungko Rock Pools (entrance fee around PHP 50), Tayangban Cave Pool (around PHP 100-PHP 200 including guide tip), and the Maasin River (swing fee of about PHP 50). Entrance fees to environmental preservation areas may apply. Each of these comes with its own entrance fee, but none are exorbitant and contribute to local conservation efforts.
Getting Around the Island: Transportation Expenses
Besides renting a scooter, there are other ways to get around Siargao. Habal-habals (motorcycle taxis) are a common and affordable option for short distances. Negotiate the fare before you hop on. Tricycles are also available, but they’re less common than habal-habals. You can also hire a van with a driver for the day, which is a good option if you’re traveling with a group. Expect to pay around PHP 2,500 – PHP 3,500 ($45 – $65 USD) for a full day van rental.
Miscellaneous Costs: The Unexpected Expenses
It’s always a good idea to factor in some extra money for unexpected expenses. These could include things like souvenirs, laundry, sunscreen, insect repellent, or medical supplies. Don’t forget to budget for tips, especially for good service. SIM cards are a must for travelers. A local SIM with data can be purchased for around PHP 300-PHP 500.
Sample Budget Breakdown for a Week in Siargao (Per Person)
Here’s a sample budget breakdown for a week in Siargao, based on different travel styles:
Budget Backpacker (PHP 15,000 – PHP 20,000 / $270 – $360 USD):
- Accommodation: PHP 500-PHP 800/night (hostel dorm) = PHP 3,500 – PHP 5,600
- Food: PHP 500/day (local eateries) = PHP 3,500
- Activities: PHP 3,000 (surfing lesson, island hopping split with a group)
- Transportation: PHP 2,000 (habal-habal, occasional scooter rental for a day)
- Miscellaneous: PHP 3,000
Mid-Range Traveler (PHP 25,000 – PHP 35,000 / $450 – $630 USD):
- Accommodation: PHP 1,500-PHP 3,000/night (guesthouse/budget hotel) = PHP 10,500 – PHP 21,000
- Food: PHP 1,000/day (mix of local and mid-range restaurants) = PHP 7,000
- Activities: PHP 5,000 (surfing lesson, island hopping, scooter rental for several days)
- Transportation: PHP 2,000 (scooter rental, occasional habal-habal)
- Miscellaneous: PHP 5,000
Luxury Traveler (PHP 40,000+ / $720+ USD):
- Accommodation: PHP 5,000+/night (resort) = PHP 35,000+
- Food: PHP 1,500+/day (restaurants, fancy dinners) = PHP 10,500+
- Activities: PHP 10,000+ (private surf lessons, private island hopping tours)
- Transportation: PHP 3,000+ (private van, occasional habal-habal)
- Miscellaneous: PHP 5,000+
Important Notes:
- These are just estimates, and your actual expenses may vary.
- Prices can fluctuate depending on the season and availability.
- Factor in the cost of flights and travel insurance.
Tips for Saving Money in Siargao
Want to stretch your budget even further? Here are some tips for saving money in Siargao:
Travel during the off-season. Prices for accommodation and activities tend to be lower during the rainy season (June-September).
Eat at local carinderias. You’ll get delicious and affordable meals.
Rent a scooter for longer periods. Daily rates are often cheaper when you rent for a week or more.
Share transportation costs with other travelers. Split the cost of island hopping tours or van rentals.
Take advantage of free activities. There are plenty of things to do in Siargao that don’t cost money, like swimming, sunbathing, and exploring the beaches.
Bring your own water bottle and refill it. This will save you money on bottled water and help reduce plastic waste.
Haggle politely when shopping. It’s common to negotiate prices at local markets.
Be mindful of your spending. Keep track of your expenses and avoid unnecessary purchases.
Safety Tips for Siargao
Siargao is generally a safe place for tourists, but it’s always important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions. Here are some safety tips:
Protect your belongings. Be especially careful with your valuables in crowded areas. Don’t leave your phone or wallet unattended.
Be aware of scams. Be wary of people who approach you offering unsolicited services or deals.
Stay hydrated. The tropical climate can be dehydrating, so drink plenty of water.
Wear sunscreen and insect repellent. Protect yourself from the sun and mosquitoes.
Be careful when swimming and surfing. Be aware of currents and waves. Don’t swim alone.
Respect the local culture. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites. Be mindful of local customs and traditions.
Get travel insurance. Make sure your travel insurance covers medical expenses, theft, and other emergencies.
FAQ Section
What is the best time to visit Siargao?
The best time to visit Siargao depends on what you’re looking for. The surfing season is from August to November, with the best waves typically in September and October. The dry season is from March to May, with sunny skies and calm seas. The shoulder months (February and December) can also be good times to visit, with pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
Do I need a visa to visit the Philippines?
Many nationalities can enter the Philippines visa-free for a certain period of time. For example, citizens of the United States, Canada, Australia, and most European countries can stay for up to 30 days without a visa. However, it’s always best to check the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs website for the latest visa requirements.
Is English widely spoken in Siargao?
Yes, English is widely spoken in Siargao, especially in tourist areas. You’ll have no problem communicating with locals in English.
What currency is used in the Philippines?
The currency used in the Philippines is the Philippine Peso (PHP). Credit cards are accepted at some hotels and restaurants, but it’s always a good idea to have cash on hand, especially when visiting smaller establishments or local markets. ATMs are available in General Luna.
Is it safe to drink the tap water in Siargao?
It’s not recommended to drink the tap water in Siargao. Stick to bottled water or purified water.
What should I pack for a trip to Siargao?
Pack light, comfortable clothing, swimwear, sunscreen, insect repellent, a hat, sunglasses, and a good pair of walking shoes. Don’t forget your camera!
References
Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs
Agoda.com
Booking.com
Ready to book your Siargao adventure? Don’t wait! Now that you have a clear idea of the costs, start planning your trip today. Compare flight prices, browse accommodations, and get ready to experience the beauty of Siargao without breaking the bank. Your island escape awaits!
