Getting Around the Philippines: Flights, Ferries and Vans

To get around the Philippines, fly between island groups (for example Manila to Palawan, or Palawan to Cebu), take fast ferries within a region (Cebu to Bohol, El Nido to Coron), and use vans, tricycles and ride-hailing apps on land. Plan one travel leg per day at most, and never schedule a ferry and an international flight on the same day.

The basic rule: fly far, sail near

The country is spread over more than 1,800 kilometres of sea. Distances that look short on a map often take a full day by boat and road, while a flight takes an hour. As a rough guide:

Times are typical in good conditions and change with traffic, weather and schedules.

Domestic flights

Philippine Airlines and the low-cost carriers Cebu Pacific and AirAsia Philippines connect the main hubs of Manila, Cebu and Clark with most tourist destinations. A few smaller airlines fly to places such as El Nido (Lio) and smaller islands.

• Baggage: the cheapest fares often include only a small cabin bag, commonly 7 kg. Add checked baggage when booking, as it is much more expensive at the airport.
• Delays are common, especially in the afternoon as delays build up. Morning flights are more reliable.
• Manila airport has several terminals; check which one your flight uses and allow plenty of time for traffic.
• Connections: if you book separate tickets, leave several hours between flights.

Ferries and boats

Fast craft

Enclosed, air-conditioned passenger boats run on popular short routes such as Cebu to Bohol, Cebu to Dumaguete and El Nido to Coron. They are comfortable and fairly punctual in good weather. Arrive about an hour before departure; expect terminal fees and ID checks. The Bohol day trip from Cebu by fast ferry is an easy introduction.

RoRo and slow ferries

Roll-on, roll-off ferries carry vehicles and passengers on shorter crossings and form part of the nautical highway linking islands by bus. Large overnight ferries also connect Manila with Visayas and Mindanao ports; they are cheap but slow.

Bangkas

The classic outrigger boats used for island hopping, short crossings and expeditions. They are open to the weather, so bring a dry bag. A multi-day trip such as the El Nido to Coron island expedition uses them to turn a transfer into an adventure, and day trips such as Honda Bay island hopping from Puerto Princesa use them for short hops.

Weather and the coast guard

When a typhoon or strong monsoon wind is forecast, the Philippine Coast Guard suspends sailings for small boats or all vessels in affected areas. This is most common from June to November. Build buffer days into any route that relies on boats.

On land

Vans and buses

Air-conditioned shared vans connect towns on long routes, such as Puerto Princesa to El Nido or Cebu City to the south. They are faster than buses but can be cramped, with luggage on the roof or in the back. Buses are cheaper and cover most of Luzon, Cebu and Mindanao; Manila has several terminals by direction.

Private car with driver

The most comfortable way to cover long distances or do a sightseeing day, and often reasonable when shared by a family. Most day tours include one.

Jeepneys

The iconic, colourful jeepneys run on fixed routes in cities and towns; the route is written on the side. They are very cheap but slow and crowded, and paying involves passing coins forward. Modern air-conditioned versions are gradually replacing older vehicles.

Tricycles

Motorbikes with a sidecar, the standard short-distance transport in towns and islands. Agree the fare before you get in. In Boracay they are electric.

Ride-hailing and taxis

Ride-hailing apps work well in Manila, Cebu and some other cities and avoid fare discussions. Metered taxis are also available; insist on the meter or use the airport's official taxi queue.

Scooter rental

Popular in El Nido, Siargao, Bohol and Siquijor. Wear a helmet, carry your licence (an international driving permit is advisable), and avoid riding at night or in heavy rain.

Planning tips

• One move per day. A flight plus a long transfer is already a full day.
• Open-jaw tickets (into Manila, out of Cebu, for example) avoid backtracking.
• Buffer day before international departures, especially if you rely on boats.
• Book flights early for Christmas, New Year and Holy Week; ferries can also sell out then.
• Keep your passport handy: it is needed for flights, many ferries and some permits.

Arrival formalities

As of 2026, travellers to the Philippines complete an online arrival registration before travelling; check the official government guidance before your trip, since requirements change. Entry rules, including visa-free stays, depend on your nationality.

Sample route connections

Three common two-week patterns, and how they connect:

• Palawan and Visayas: fly Manila to Puerto Princesa, van to El Nido, boat to Coron, fly Busuanga to Cebu, ferry to Bohol, fly home from Cebu.
• Visayas only: fly into Cebu, drive to Moalboal, ferry to Bohol, fly Bohol or Cebu to Caticlan for Boracay, fly home via Manila.
• Luzon and Palawan: Manila and Tagaytay by road, fly to Puerto Princesa, van to El Nido, fly out of El Nido (Lio) or back through Puerto Princesa.

In each case the long-distance links are flights, and the short regional hops are boats or road transfers. Check that the domestic flights you need actually operate on your dates before you fix the route, because some routes run only a few times a week or seasonally.

FAQ

What is the best way to travel between islands?

Fly between distant island groups and use fast ferries within regions. Boats are often more scenic, but flights save whole days.

Are ferries in the Philippines safe?

Established fast-craft operators on popular tourist routes are generally reliable in good weather. Sailings are suspended in bad weather, which is a safety feature. Avoid overcrowded boats.

Is it easy to travel without a tour?

Yes, but it takes time and patience. Tours and private transfers save effort on complex legs such as Puerto Princesa to El Nido.

Can I use ride-hailing apps?

In Manila, Cebu and some other cities, yes. On smaller islands, tricycles and vans are the norm.

How much luggage should I bring?

As little as possible. Domestic baggage rules are strict and small boats have limited space. A medium backpack or soft bag is ideal.