How to Get to Siquijor: The Ultimate Travel Guide

Siquijor is a small yet fascinating part of the Philippines, just an island away from my hometown, and despite its size, this island has a lot to offer, from quiet beaches where you can relax to hills and waterfalls that invite adventure.

The island’s nickname, “Island of Witches”, comes from its long history of folk healing and local traditions that have been passed down through generations.

I’ve had the privilege of visiting Isla del Fuego for three different occasions and I’ve witnessed firsthand how this island earned its mystical reputation.

Now, the question is “How to get to Siquijor?”

***The Pitogo Cliff in San Juan, Siquijor.***

Getting to Siquijor might seem a bit tricky at first, especially if you’re not going to take the direct routes, but the journey to the island is worth it if you’re craving a mix of natural beauty, history, and a touch of mystery.

Whether you want to fly in from a nearby city or take a ferry, I’ll walk you through the most ideal and best ways to reach Isla del Fuego. So, let’s begin!

General Information

✈️ Flights Going to Siquijor: Starting December 15, 2025, Sunlight Air will have a flight between Cebu and Siquijor four times weekly (Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday)
🗺️ Most Ideal Route: Ferry from Dumaguete to Siquijor

👉🏻 Check available trips here 👈🏻

How to Get to Siquijor?

Getting to Siquijor is part of the overall adventure. But don’t worry—it’s easy to reach by ferry from nearby islands. Here’s how you can make your way to Isla del Fuego:

🗺️ Dumaguete to Siquijor

Dumaguete City, located on the island of Negros, is the closest major city to Siquijor and the most popular gateway.

From Dumaguete Port, you can catch a ferry to Siquijor Port, which is the main entry point to the island.

The Dumaguete to Siquijor ferry ride is short, usually around 30 to 45 minutes for fast-crafts, depending on the weather.

Several ferry companies operate this route, with Montenegro Shipping Lines and OceanJet being the most common choices.

Other than that, Dumaguete is a favorite starting point for many travelers because of its proximity and the frequent ferry schedules.

👉🏻 Check available trips here 👈🏻

🗺️ Bohol to Siquijor

If you’re visiting Bohol, known for its Chocolate Hills, tarsiers, and beaches, you can easily extend your trip to include Siquijor.

Fast ferries from Tagbilaran Port in Bohol to Siquijor take about 2 hours. This route gives you a scenic view of the sea, and the ride is generally smooth.

Furthermore, Bohol is a great place to explore before heading to Siquijor because it also offers a mix of nature and rich culture. I was there last summer and it was indeed true.

👉🏻 Check available trips here 👈🏻

🗺️ Cebu to Siquijor

📢 GOOD NEWS! Starting December 15, 2025, Sunlight Air company will launch its new route from Cebu to Siquijor 4 times a week (Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday).

While there are some direct ferries from Cebu to Siquijor, many travelers find it easier to first take a ferry from Cebu to Dumaguete, and then transfer to a ferry bound for Siquijor.

This option usually provides more flexibility in terms of schedules and can be more comfortable, especially if you want to break up the journey.

The ferry from Cebu to Dumaguete takes about 5-6 hours or you can also take a bus ride for about 6 hours, and from Dumaguete to Siquijor, it’s just a short hop.

👉🏻 Check available trips here 👈🏻

🗺️ Manila to Siquijor

A Cebu Pacific airplane ready for takeoff at Panglao International Airport. — ***One of the local airlines that can fly you from Manila to other nearby islands like Dumaguete, Bohol, and Cebu.***

For visitors starting in Manila, the capital of the Philippines, the journey involves a flight followed by a ferry.

You can fly from Manila to either Cebu, Bohol, or Dumaguete, with multiple flights available daily. Once you’ve landed, simply head to the nearest port to catch a ferry to Siquijor.

Flying to Dumaguete is usually quicker if your main goal is to get to Siquijor from Manila as soon as possible.

👉🏻 Check available trips here 👈🏻

Is it Worth Going to Siquijor?

***Jumping at the beautiful sunset sky of Paliton Beach.***

Siquijor is definitely worth visiting! ✨

I can’t even properly express how this small island in the Philippines is full of charm, natural beauty, and unique experiences that you won’t find anywhere else. Emphasis on folk healing!

This island is famous for its beautiful beaches like Paliton and Salagdoong, where you can relax on soft white sand or swim in clear blue waters.

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The island’s green landscapes, filled with forests, some rice fields, and Siquijor waterfalls like Cambugahay Falls, are also perfect for nature lovers and hiking aficionados.

History lovers will enjoy visiting the old churches, ruins, and heritage houses that reflect the island’s past.

And again, what makes Siquijor unique is its mystical vibe, with local healers, sacred spots, and traditional rituals adding a special touch to the experience.

Check out this Siquijor Cambugahay Falls and Heritage Day Trip

What to Pack for Your Siquijor Trip?

👕 Comfortable clothing: Siquijor is warm and humid, so bring light and breathable clothes. Cotton shirts, shorts, and light dresses work well. It’s a good idea to pack a light jacket or a long-sleeved shirt for cooler evenings.

🩱 Swimwear: With Siquijor’s stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters, you’ll want to swim or snorkel often. Pack at least one swimsuit, but two might be better if you plan on swimming every day.

👒 Sunscreen and hat: The sun in Siquijor can be intense, especially during the middle of the day. Choose a sunscreen with a high SPF, and bring a wide-brimmed hat to protect your face and neck.

🧴 Insect repellent: Mosquitoes are common, especially in the early morning and evening. Bring insect repellent with DEET or other effective ingredients to avoid bites. You might also consider packing anti-itch cream, just in case.

👟 Comfortable shoes: You’ll likely do a lot of walking, whether it’s exploring the island’s waterfalls, caves, or beaches. Sturdy sandals or lightweight sneakers are great for the day, and flip-flops are handy for the beach.

🥤 Reusable water bottle: Staying hydrated is important in the tropical heat. Bring a reusable water bottle to fill up and carry with you.

🤿 Snorkeling gear (optional): If you love snorkeling, consider bringing your own mask and snorkel. While you can rent gear, having your own ensures a good fit and comfort.

🎒 Dry bag: To keep your valuables safe from water and sand, pack a small dry bag. It’s useful when you’re at the beach or exploring near water.

🔋 Travel adapter and power bank: The Philippines uses a Type A or B plug, and the voltage is 220V. A travel adapter is essential if your devices have a different plug type. A power bank is also useful for keeping your phone charged while you’re out exploring.

Frequently Asked Questions

Siquijor does have its own airport but it’s not available for commercial flights, so the nearest options are in Dumaguete and Bohol. The airport in Dumaguete, called Sibulan Airport, is just a short drive from the ferry port, making it the most convenient choice if you’re heading straight to Siquijor. This airport handles flights from Manila and Cebu as of the moment. Another option is Panglao International Airport in Bohol, which also connects to major cities like Manila and Cebu. From Panglao, you can take a ferry from Tagbilaran Port to reach Siquijor. Both airports offer easy access to ferries that will take you to the island.

The dry season is the best time to visit Siquijor, which runs from December to May. During these months, the weather is generally sunny and perfect for exploring the island’s beaches, waterfalls, and outdoor attractions. The peak months of January to April are especially popular with tourists, so it’s wise to book accommodations in advance. While the dry season offers the best weather, Siquijor is beautiful year-round. The wet season, from June to November, brings occasional rain, but the island remains lush and green. This time of year is also quieter, with fewer tourists, making it a peaceful time to visit Siquijor if you don’t mind the occasional rain shower.

It’s possible to see some of the main sights in Siquijor in one day, but you’ll be rushing through your visit. If you only have one day, you can hit a few highlights like Cambugahay Falls, the century-old Balete Tree, and one or two beaches. However, to really experience what Siquijor has to offer, I recommend staying for at least 2 to 3 days. This gives you enough time to explore the island’s beautiful beaches like Paliton Beach, visit several waterfalls, and maybe even take part in some of the island’s unique cultural experiences such as going to a healer.

No, Siquijor is a separate province from Dumaguete, though they are both part of the Central Visayas Region. Dumaguete is the capital city of Negros Oriental, a province on the larger island of Negros. Siquijor, on the other hand, is its own province and is located on a smaller island southeast of Negros. While they are close to each other and often visited together, Siquijor has its own distinct culture, history, and government. The two are connected by regular ferry services, making it easy to travel between them.

Siquijor is generally a very safe place to visit, even for solo travelers. The island has a peaceful, laid-back atmosphere, and violent crime is rare. Just like Filipinos in general, locals here are also known to be friendly and welcoming to visitors. However, like anywhere else, it’s important to take basic precautions. Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded places or when using public transportation. When exploring the island, stick to well-known paths and avoid wandering alone at night in unfamiliar areas. If you’re driving a scooter or motorbike, which is a popular way to get around Siquijor, always wear a helmet and drive carefully, as some roads can be steep or winding.

Wrapping-Up: How to Get to Siquijor

Souvenir mugs with a witch design. — ***How to Get to Siquijor? If you can literally fly with a broomstick then it would be fun, right? haha***

As one of the hidden gems of the Philippines, you can visit and stay in Siquijor whether you choose to go here directly or add this as one of your destinations while island hopping in the country.

As for me, the ideal gateway to reach Isla Del Fuego is via Dumaguete but in the future I hope that the Siquijor Airport will be open for commercial flights so more people will see its beauty.

For this year, take the opportunity to explore Siquijor before it becomes even more popular. Trust me, you will thank yourself when the word “underrated” is no longer associated with this island. 😉

🏝️ Travel Resources for Your Siquijor Trip

Here’s everything you need to book your trip to Siquijor—ferries, places to stay, local transport, and more.

How to Get to Siquijor – Book ferry tickets to Siquijor from Dumaguete, Bohol, or Cebu using 12Go, which shows updated routes, schedules, and prices from trusted ferry and flight operators.

Where to Book Your Stay – Find beach resorts, guesthouses, and budget hostels in San Juan or Larena through Booking.com, Agoda, Vrbo, or Airbnb, with options for every budget.

Getting Around the Island – Rent a motorbike (₱300–₱500/day), hop on a tricycle for short rides or full-day tours, or ask your hotel to arrange private transport for longer routes.

Book Tours and Activities – Explore waterfalls, caves, and beaches by booking guided experiences on Klook , GetYourGuide, or Viator, or simply ask locals once you’re on the island.

Stay Connected – Use an Airalo eSIM for reliable data, rent pocket WiFi from Klook if you’re in a group, or grab a Globe or Smart SIM card before you arrive.

Cash, ATMs, and Payments – Bring enough pesos before heading to the island, as ATMs are limited and card payments are rarely accepted outside major resorts.

Travel Insurance – Protect your trip with coverage from SafetyWing, HeyMondo, or World Nomads, especially if you’re riding motorbikes or joining outdoor tours.

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About the Author

Hi! I’m Kristine (aka KR). I’m the main developer of Philippine Hidden Gems. My work includes going to places to cover events and places that I’m happy to share with the readers.

Even though I’m an introvert who loves to read and stay indoors all the time, I love to travel outside the country (at least once a year) and nearby regions within PH.

My recent hobbies include learning Japanese culture and exploring the world of K-Pop as a Carat.