You've just landed at Sayak Airport (IAO) in Siargao. Your bags are on the conveyor belt, the tropical heat is already hitting you through the terminal doors, and you're thinking: how do I get to General Luna? You're not alone — this is the most searched question by every first-time Siargao visitor.
This guide covers everything: all your transport options, exact prices, travel times, and a step-by-step process to make your arrival completely stress-free.
About Siargao Airport
Sayak Airport (officially Siargao Airport, IATA code: IAO) is located in the municipality of Del Carmen in northern Siargao Island. It's a small domestic airport handling flights from Manila, Cebu, and Clark. The airport is simple — baggage claim takes about 10 minutes, there's no immigration for domestic arrivals, and the exit is just a few steps from the terminal.
General Luna is located approximately 30 kilometers south of the airport. By van, the journey takes 40–50 minutes along a well-paved road that winds through coconut palms, rice fields, and small villages.
Option 1 — Shared Shuttle Van (Best for Most Travelers)
The shared shuttle is the most popular way to get from Siargao Airport to General Luna, and for very good reason. At ₱350 per person, it's affordable, reliable, air-conditioned, and drops you directly at your hotel door.
How it works:
- Pre-book online before your flight (takes 60 seconds)
- Receive WhatsApp confirmation with driver details
- Exit the terminal and find your driver with a name sign
- Ride directly to your hotel with other passengers heading the same way
- Pay ₱350 to the driver on arrival — cash or GCash
💡 Important: During peak season (December to May), shared vans fill up within minutes of a busy flight landing. Without a pre-booked seat, you may wait 30–60 minutes for the next available van. Always book in advance.
Option 2 — Private Van Transfer (Best for Groups & Families)
A private van gives you the entire vehicle to yourself. The driver is at the airport exit specifically for you — not waiting to fill a van. The moment your group is ready, you leave.
Private van advantages:
- Zero waiting time — departs immediately when you exit
- No extra stops — straight to your hotel
- Perfect for families with children, surfers with boards, groups with heavy luggage
- Available 24/7 — ideal for early morning or late evening flights
- Driver knows your name before you land
Prices: ₱2,500 (1–4 pax) / ₱3,000 (5–7 pax) / ₱3,500 (8+ pax)
Option 3 — Tricycle (Budget Alternative)
Tricycles (motorized sidecars) are available at the airport exit. They're slower, less comfortable, have very limited luggage space, and prices are not fixed — you negotiate at the roadside.
Typical tricycle fares: ₱800–₱1,500 negotiated. Travel time: 60–75 minutes. Maximum luggage: one small bag per passenger.
Tricycles are only worth considering if you're a solo backpacker with a single small bag and no time constraints. For everyone else, the shared shuttle is better value and significantly more comfortable.
Transport Comparison Table
| Option | Price | Wait Time | Travel Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shared Shuttle | ₱350/person | 5–30 min | 45–55 min | Solo, couples, budget |
| Private Van (1-4) | ₱2,500/van | 0 min | 45 min | Groups, families |
| Private Van (5-7) | ₱3,000/van | 0 min | 45 min | Large groups |
| Tricycle | ₱800–₱1,500 | 0–15 min | 65–75 min | Solo backpackers only |
Step-by-Step: Using a Pre-Booked Shuttle
- Before your flight: Fill in the Shuttle Siargao booking form — enter your flight number, arrival time, hotel name, and passenger count. Takes 60 seconds.
- Day before: Receive WhatsApp message with your driver's name and mobile number. Save it.
- On arrival: After collecting your bags, walk through the main exit doors. Look for someone holding a sign with your name.
- If you can't find your driver: Call or WhatsApp the number sent to you. They'll find you immediately.
- During the ride: Enjoy the scenic 45-minute drive through Siargao's countryside. Ask the driver for local tips — they know the island better than anyone.
- On arrival at hotel: Pay your driver ₱350/person (shared) or the agreed private rate. That's it — enjoy Siargao!
Hotels & Destinations We Drop Off In General Luna
Shuttle Siargao covers every hotel, hostel, villa, and Airbnb in General Luna and the Cloud 9 area, including:
- All beachfront resorts along General Luna beach
- Cloud 9 surf lodges and guesthouses
- Harana Surf Resort, Kermit Siargao, Pa La-U
- Rucksack Inn, Mad Monkey Siargao
- Private villas and Airbnbs on and off the main road
- Any address in the greater General Luna area