If you're arriving in Siargao expecting the convenience of Grab or Uber, you need to recalibrate your expectations โ and quickly. Here's the complete picture of transportation in Siargao.
Is There Uber in Siargao?
No. Uber exited the Philippine market in 2018 and has not returned. Uber does not operate anywhere in the Philippines, including Siargao.
Is There Grab in Siargao?
No. Grab operates in Manila, Cebu, and several other major Philippine cities, but it does not operate on Siargao Island. There is no Grab car, Grab bike, or Grab food delivery service in General Luna as of 2026.
Are There Taxis in Siargao?
No. There are no metered taxis on Siargao Island. This is fundamentally different from what travelers experience in Manila, Cebu, or other Philippine cities.
So How Do You Get Around?
Siargao has its own transport ecosystem that works perfectly well once you understand it. Here's what's available:
1. Pre-Booked Shuttle Vans โ Best for Airport Transfers
For getting from the airport to your hotel and back, pre-booked van transfers with Shuttle Siargao are the best option. Fixed prices, air-conditioned, door-to-door. Shared shuttle: โฑ350/person. Private van: from โฑ2,500.
2. Rented Scooter โ Best for Daily Exploration
The number one recommended transport for getting around Siargao day-to-day. Scooters rent for โฑ300โโฑ400/day from dozens of rental shops in General Luna. No license technically required (though an international license is advisable). The freedom to explore is unparalleled.
3. Tricycle (Tuk-Tuk) โ Good for Short Local Trips
Tricycles are the local public transport of Siargao. They're available throughout General Luna for short distances โ getting from your hotel to a restaurant, or from GL to Cloud 9. Typical fares: โฑ50โโฑ150 for short distances in GL. Negotiate before boarding.
4. Habal-Habal (Motorbike Taxi) โ Quick Local Trips
Motorbike taxis operated by local drivers. Common throughout General Luna. Hailed from the roadside. Fares: โฑ20โโฑ100 for short distances. Ask other travelers or your hotel about current fair rates.
5. Pump Boat โ Island Hopping and Lagoon Tours
For reaching Guyam, Naked, and Daku islands or traveling to Sugba Lagoon, pump boats are the transport mode. Tours are organized through hotels and local operators, typically including the boat, guide, and lunch.
6. Rented Bicycle โ Eco-Friendly Local Option
Some guesthouses offer bicycle rentals for exploring the immediate GL area. Good for short distances on flat roads, less practical for longer island explorations.
Our Recommendation for Getting Around Siargao
- Airport โ Hotel: Pre-booked van transfer with Shuttle Siargao
- Daily exploration: Rented scooter (most flexible, most popular)
- Short GL trips: Tricycle or walk (GL is small and walkable)
- Island hopping / Sugba: Organized boat tours
- Hotel โ Airport (departure): Pre-booked van transfer