Siargao Airport

Siargao Airport (IATA: IAO) sits in the municipality of Del Carmen, on the northern coast of Siargao Island in the Philippines. The airport, also known as Sayak Airport, serves as the main aerial gateway to the island, which is famous for its world-class surf breaks. The single runway stretches 1.4 kilometers, handling turboprop aircraft like ATR 72s from Cebu Pacific and Philippines AirAsia. In 2022, a new terminal building opened, replacing the old nipa hut structure. The airport is small but functional, with a car park that can fill up quickly during peak hours—especially Monday and Thursday afternoons, when arrivals from Cebu and Manila converge.

Getting There

Siargao Airport is located in Del Carmen, about 17 kilometers northwest of General Luna, the main tourist hub on the island. The drive takes 30 to 45 minutes by tricycle or van, depending on traffic. Tricycles are available outside the terminal; a standard fare to General Luna is around PHP 300–500 per person. Vans and private transfers can be arranged through hotels or at the airport desk, costing PHP 1,500–2,500 for a group. The road is paved all the way, though narrow in places. For those heading to other parts of the island—like Dapa or San Isidro—buses and shared jeepneys pass by the airport junction. Taxis are not common; pre-booked rides are the norm. The airport is also a short walk from the Del Carmen town proper, but luggage and heat make walking less practical.

Inside the Terminal

The terminal is a single-story building with a spacious check-in area. On arrival, passengers walk from the tarmac to a small baggage claim hall. The airport has a wheelchair-accessible entrance, accessible car park, and accessible toilets—making it one of the more disability-friendly airports in the region. Inside, there are basic amenities: a few benches, a toilet, and a small shop selling snacks and drinks. No airside restaurants or lounges exist. Security screening is straightforward, with one lane. The departure area has seating for about 100 people. Be prepared for minimal air conditioning; the terminal uses ceiling fans and open windows for ventilation. On-site services include a tourist information desk and a help counter for flight inquiries. During busy times, such as Monday at 2 PM or Thursday at 3 PM, the terminal can get crowded. Plan to arrive at least an hour before domestic flights.

Siargao Airport and Del Carmen

Del Carmen is the largest municipality on Siargao by land area, covering over 200 square kilometers of mangrove forests, tidal flats, and inland lagoons. The town itself feels tranquil compared to the bustle of General Luna. The highlight is the Del Carmen Mangrove River, a protected sanctuary where passengers can take boat tours through dense mangrove channels. The river is home to monitor lizards, kingfishers, and fireflies. The Del Carmen Tourism Office organizes environmental tours, including kayaking and paddleboarding. Nearby, the Tayangban Cave Pool offers a natural swimming hole surrounded by limestone formations. For surfers, the famous Cloud 9 break is a 25-minute tricycle ride south, but Del Carmen's own surf spots—like Cemetery and Tuason Point—are quieter. The airport's location makes Del Carmen a convenient base for exploring the island's northeast coast, including the Magpupungko Rock Pools and Sugba Lagoon. The town also hosts a weekly market selling fresh seafood and local produce. Culturally, Del Carmen is a mix of Cebuano and Surigaonon traditions, with fiestas celebrated in February. The airport expansion has boosted local tourism, but the area retains its relaxed, rural character.

Practical Information

The airport is open daily from around 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM, but schedule varies with flights. It is closed overnight. Contact the airport authority at +63 912 997 2777 for inquiries. The official website (visitdelcarmen.com/siargao-airport/) provides flight schedules and updates. There are no ATMs inside the terminal; bring enough cash for tricycle fares and snacks. The nearest ATM is in Del Carmen town, about 1 kilometer away. For food, the terminal shop sells bottled water and chips. Better options are available at cafes along the road to General Luna. A concrete tip: if you arrive during the busiest times (Monday 2 PM, Tuesday 3 PM, Wednesday 1 PM, Thursday 3 PM), expect a wait for baggage and transport. Pre-arrange a pickup with your accommodation to avoid the rush.