The most up-to-date information on how to get to Malapascua Island for 2024
Have an Easy Trip to Malapascua
Travel to the Philippines
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There are several airlines flying to the Philippines, with many of them having Cebu as one of their direct destinations. We recommend flying directly to Mactan International Airport (Cebu) and avoiding flights via Manila if you are traveling with heavy luggage, as internal flights often have strict carry-on weight restrictions. Check if your airline has special fares for sports equipment if you travel with your scuba equipment.
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Among the most reliable airlines are Qatar Airways, Emirates, Cathay Pacific, Delta, and United, but there are many others to choose from. Take into consideration that all of them will require you to show proof of an exit flight within the validity of your visa before embarkation. If you don't have a specific departure date in mind, feel free to ask us about this concern and we will help you to find a solution.
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Mactan Airport / Cebu City to Maya
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PRIVATE TRANSFER:
The most efficient means of traveling from Mactan or Cebu to Maya is by pre-booking a private car/van. This service typically costs Php3500 for a car and Php4000 for a van. It is the most recommended choice for group travelers, as the fare can be shared among up to 4 people in a car and 8 people in a van. Additionally, you have the option to arrange to be picked up at Mactan International Airport, saving you plenty time and energy. If you haven't arranged any transfer in advance, you might still be able to negotiate a ride to Maya in a White Taxi for up to 4 people at a similar price as the pre-booked option. 
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PUBLIC TRANSPORT:
Your initial step is reaching the North Bus Terminal near SM Cebu City Mall. If you arrived in Cebu by flight and need to get from Mactan Airport to the North Bus Terminal, a taxi is the most convenient option. The taxi ride takes around 40 minutes, depending on traffic, and costs around Php200-Php300. It's advisable to avoid terminal private transfers, as they are often overpriced. Instead, walk to the White Taxi lane and request a regular metered trip. At the North Bus Terminal you have the option of taking a bus or van, Buses make plenty stops along the way, and the journey can last up to 5 hours. Their only advantage is that, generally, there is ample space for passengers and luggage. On the other hand, vans are faster, often completing the trip in less than 4 hours, but they can be overcrowded, making it challenging to accommodate excess luggage. The two bus companies offering this service are Ceres Liner and Rough Riders. Both have buses departing every half an hour, with only Ceres Liner operating Aircon Buses departing every hour. Prices range from Php250 to Php300 per person. Vans depart when there is a minimum number of people aboard, so you need to inquire about the estimated departing time. The price for vans is Php300 per person. All of them have Maya Pier as the final stop. |
Maya Pier to Malapascua Island
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PRIVATE TRANSFER:
If you booked a full transfer to Malapascua, the driver of the car/van will provide you with the name of the boat waiting for you at the pier. You only need to register at the port office, pay the Php120 per person environmental fee, and inquire about your boat. If you require assistance with your luggage, the pier porters charge Php20 per piece. |
PUBLIC TRANSPORT:
Upon reaching Maya Ro-ro Port, take a banka boat to Malapascua Island. Boats operate regularly from 07:00h to 17:30h and the journey lasts approximately 35 minutes in good sea conditions. Register and settle the Php120 per person environmental fee at the port office and purchase your Php200 ticket at the booth on the pier, If you arrive after 17:00h, you may need to arrange a private boat, although the price might differ from that of a pre-booked transfer. Inquire with the locals at the pier for this service. As a last resort, you can overnight in Maya near the port and catch the public boat the following day. If the weather is favorable, your arrival will be at the pier in Barrio. From there, you can reach any accommodation in the south area (Logon Beach) in a maximum of 15 minutes on foot. You can also ask for help with your luggage or catch a motorbike. |
Philippines Visa
Like all countries, the Philippines has a set of rules that must be followed when visiting the country. Fortunately, in this regard, they make it quite convenient and offer a very accessible service.
If you plan to stay in the Philippines for up to two months, you can apply for a visa at the Philippine embassy in your country. Check the prerequisites and requirements on their website or through a phone call well in advance.
For visitors from most countries arriving in the Philippines without a visa, you will receive a free stay of 30 days in the country upon arrival. This visa waiver can be extended online for an additional 29 days.
If you plan to stay in the Philippines for up to two months, you can apply for a visa at the Philippine embassy in your country. Check the prerequisites and requirements on their website or through a phone call well in advance.
For visitors from most countries arriving in the Philippines without a visa, you will receive a free stay of 30 days in the country upon arrival. This visa waiver can be extended online for an additional 29 days.
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If you plan to stay for more than two months, you can continue extending your stay online for up to three years. However, at some point, you'll need to visit an immigration office to obtain your Alien Certification Card, a mandatory document after crossing the 59-days mark.
You can explore the different services offered online by the Philippines Bureau of Immigration here: Philippines Bureau of Immigration Online Services |
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