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Writer's pictureJared Delbo

How to Plan a DIY Land Tour in Siargao this 2023.. If you're from Dumaguete

Updated: Nov 9, 2023

Siargao is a beautiful island in the Philippines known for its surfing waves and laid-back atmosphere. There are many things to see and do on the island, and you can easily explore it on your own with a DIY land tour.




Here are the steps on What to do in Siargao Island:


1. Plan your itinerary. Decide how many days you want to spend in Siargao and what you want to see and do. Some of the popular tourist spots on the island includes Cloud 9, Sapa sa Maasin River, and the Magpupungko Rock Pools.


We contact one of the good surfing instructors in Siargao, his name is JanJan; his contact number is +63-910-710-43834,


And an agency called WOW SIARGAO TRAVEL AND TOURS & A Siargao tour guide by the name of Aj Rob. To book our one day island hoping. The packages includes drone shots, lunch at Daku Island, snorkels and 3 island hops.




2. Book your accommodation. There are many different types of accommodation available in Siargao, from budget hostels to luxurious resorts. Choose a place to stay that is convenient for your activities and budget.

For us we book our 3 night stay at this resort in General Luna called Patrick's on the beach. I think its the most budget wise resort in the heart of the central town of Siargao. It's a great option for budget-minded travelers who want to be close to the action.



3. Rent a motorbike or Tourist Cab. These are the best ways to get around Siargao Island. Motorbikes are more fuel-efficient and give you more freedom, but they can be dangerous if you are not used to driving and not familiar with the places. Tourist cabs on the other hand are a good option if you are traveling with a group or if you do not want to drive under the heat of the sun.


We met a good tourist cab along the way (his name is Rito Conado), which he offer us 1500 -2000 pesos good for 5 persons. Other tourist cab or land tour packages maybe expensive ranging from 2500 -3000 pesos per head. So when going to Siargao its better to be wise and asked locals for the best offer.




4. Start your tour! Once you have your transportation and accommodation sorted out, you can start your land tour.


Here are some of the places you can visit in Siargao:


  • Cloud 9: This is the most famous surfing spot in Siargao. It is a long, right-hand wave that is perfect for experienced surfers.



  • Other Surfing Spot in Siargao: If you're looking for a secluded surf spot in Siargao? Try the side road next to Harana Surf Resort! This lesser-known surf spot offers long, peeling righthand waves that are perfect for intermediate and advanced surfers. The scenery is also stunning, with beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean. Plus, the place is more relaxed and laidback than Cloud 9.



  • Sapa sa Maasin River: This is a beautiful lagoon with crystal-clear waters and a lush green setting. You can go swimming, snorkeling, or kayaking in the lagoon.


  • Magpupungko Rock Pools: These are a series of rock pools that are located at low tide. You can swim in the pools or explore the tide pools at low tide.



  • Naked Island: This is a small island that is located off the coast of Siargao. It is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling.


  • Afam Bridge: Catangnan Bridge in Siargao is famous for its beautiful sunset where people gather to have a glimpse of the relaxing sunset enjoying a bottle of beer, street foods, and just unwind and sight seeing. They started calling it AFAM BRIDGE due to the increasing group of caucasian and asian guys enjoying the area.





  • Daku Island Beach: is a beautiful and secluded beach that is perfect for a day trip or a short stay. The island is a great place to relax and enjoy the beauty of the Philippines. However, it is important to be aware of the limited facilities and the high cost of getting to the island before visiting.



These are just a few of the many things you can see and do on a DIY land tour in Siargao Island. With a little planning, you can easily create an itinerary that is perfect for you.





How to go to Siargao from Dumaguete


Unfortunately as of 2023, there are no direct flights or ferry from Dumaguete to Siargao (as far as I know). But there is an alternative route via buses from Dumaguete to Cebu going to Siargao.


  • By ferry From Cebu to Siargao: There are two ferry companies that offer ferry service from Cebu to Siargao: SuperCat and Lite Ferry. The travel time is approximately 16 hours, and the ferry departs from Cebu at 8:00 PM and arrives in Siargao at 2:00 PM the next day. The fare is around PHP 2,100 for a standard class ticket.


  • By plane From Cebu to Siargao: There are two airlines that offer direct flights from Cebu to Siargao: Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airlines. The travel time is approximately 45 minutes. The fare is around PHP 3700 for a round-trip ticket.


If you plan on going to Siargao on weekdays and not on peak seasons. *Fare may vary and might be on lower rates.




Here is a table of the approximate travel time and cost of each option:




The best way to get to Siargao from Dumaguete depends on your budget and how much time you have. If you are on a budget, the ferry is the cheapest option. However, it is the slowest option and you will have to spend a night on the ferry. If you are short on time, the plane is the fastest option.


However, it is also the most expensive option.


No matter which option you choose, make sure to book your tickets in advance, especially during the peak season.




Where to stay in Siargao this 2023


There are many great places to stay in Siargao, but here are a few of the good options based on the recent visit I have in Siargao:

  • Patrick’s on the Beach: This resort is located in General Luna, which is the main town in Siargao. It is a short ride from Cloud 9, the most famous surf spot in Siargao. The resort is one of the cheapest resort I know that is in the main town area and is closest to the action. It has a variety of rooms and cottages to choose from, all of which have air conditioning, hot water, and private bathrooms.

<<CLICK IMAGE TO BOOK>>

Reference: Google Maps Review


  • Harana Surf Resort: This resort is located in General Luna, which is the main town in Siargao. It is a short walk from Cloud 9, although this is a little expensive than the rest of the recommended resorts. It is a lesser-known surfing spot with great waves and sunrise view.



<<CLICK IMAGE TO BOOK>>

Reference: Google Maps Review

  • Bravo Resort: is a beachfront resort located in General Luna, Siargao Island, Philippines. It is a short walk from the world-famous Cloud 9 surf spot and has stunning views of the ocean.


<<CLICK IMAGE TO BOOK>>

Reference: Google Maps Review

These are just a few of the many great places to stay in Siargao. The best place for you will depend on your budget, your interests, and the time of year you are visiting.


Here are some other factors to consider when choosing a place to stay in Siargao:

  • Location: If you are planning on doing a lot of surfing, you will want to stay in a place that is close to Cloud 9 or other popular surf spots.

  • Budget: There are a variety of accommodation options available in Siargao, from budget hostels to luxury resorts.

  • Amenities: Some places to stay have more amenities than others, such as swimming pools, restaurants, and bars.

  • Atmosphere: Siargao is a laid-back island, so you will want to choose a place to stay that reflects that atmosphere.




Where are the cheapest restaurants in Siargao this 2023


There are a lot of places where you can eat cheap in Siargao. This includes eating in carenderia. With a little research, you're sure to find a place that fits your budget and your taste buds.

Here are the tips and places I recommend to eat in Siargao at an affordable prices:

  • Look for restaurants that offer set meals.

  • Go for local food, as it is usually more affordable than Western food.

  • Eat at off-peak hours, as the prices are usually lower.

  • Bring your own snacks and drinks if you are on a tight budget.

  • JM Carenderia: This is a popular restaurant/carenderia serving Filipino dishes. They have a wide variety of dishes to choose from, and the prices are very reasonable. Also they are located at the heart of General Luna. Close to popular bars.


  • Tuna on D’Go: This restaurant (carenderia) serves home made Filipino foods. Prep on the go. The dishes are not that expensive and fresh and flavorful, and the prices are very affordable. Its located on the side of JM Carenderia so looking for these two carenderia’s is easy. Distinguishing the two is the hardest part.


  • Mama's Grill: This is a local restaurant that serves grilled seafood and meat. The food is fresh and delicious, and the prices are very reasonable.





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