Dreaming of turquoise waters, hidden lagoons, and dramatic limestone cliffs? Coron, Palawan in the Philippines, is a tropical paradise that beckons travelers with its stunning natural beauty and world-class diving. But getting to this idyllic island requires a little planning. Unlike some more accessible Philippine destinations, Coron doesn't have direct international flights, so navigating the journey can feel a bit daunting. Knowing the best routes and transportation options ensures you maximize your time exploring the breathtaking scenery and minimize potential travel headaches.
Whether you're a seasoned globetrotter or a first-time visitor to the Philippines, understanding the ins and outs of traveling to Coron is crucial for a smooth and enjoyable vacation. This guide will break down the various ways to reach this stunning destination, from flying into nearby airports to catching a ferry from other Palawan islands or Manila. Knowing your options allows you to choose the most cost-effective and time-efficient route based on your budget and travel style.
What are the most frequently asked questions about getting to Coron?
What are the different ways to get to Coron?
The primary ways to get to Coron, Palawan are by air and by ferry. Flying directly to Francisco B. Reyes Airport (USU), also known as Busuanga Airport, is the fastest and most convenient option. Alternatively, you can take a ferry from Manila or other nearby islands, which is a more budget-friendly option but requires significantly more travel time.
Flying into Busuanga Airport offers the most seamless journey. Several airlines, including Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, and Air Asia, offer daily flights from Manila and occasionally direct flights from other major Philippine cities. From the airport, it’s approximately a 30-45 minute van or bus ride to Coron Town Proper. Pre-booked transfers are often available and recommended, especially during peak season. Taking a ferry is a less expensive, although longer, journey. 2Go Travel operates ferries from Manila to Coron several times a week. The voyage typically takes between 12 and 16 hours. Be sure to book accommodations in advance, especially during peak season, as ferries can get crowded. The ferry terminal in Coron is conveniently located near the town center.What's the cheapest way to travel to Coron?
The cheapest way to travel to Coron, Palawan is generally by taking a direct flight from Manila to Busuanga Airport (USU), also known as Francisco B. Reyes Airport, and booking your flights well in advance, often months ahead, to secure the lowest fares. While there are other options involving ferries and potentially overland travel from other parts of Palawan, these are typically more time-consuming and, when factoring in accommodation and meals en route, don't always translate to significant cost savings.
Flights from Manila to Busuanga Airport are often offered by budget airlines like Cebu Pacific or AirAsia. Keep an eye out for their seat sales and promo fares, which can dramatically reduce the cost of your flight. Be flexible with your travel dates, as flying mid-week or during the off-season can often result in cheaper flights. Also, consider flying early in the morning or late at night, as these flights tend to be less popular and therefore cheaper. From Busuanga Airport, you'll need to take a van or shuttle to Coron Town Proper, which is about a 30-45 minute ride. These vans typically cost around PHP 150-200 per person and are readily available upon arrival at the airport. Pre-booking a van transfer is also an option. Be mindful of potential extra charges for oversized luggage when booking your flight. Ultimately, the key to cheap travel to Coron is advance planning, flexibility with travel dates and times, and taking advantage of budget airline promotions. Avoid peak season travel if possible, and always compare prices from different airlines before booking.How long does it take to get to Coron from Manila?
The total travel time from Manila to Coron typically ranges from 1.5 to 3.5 hours, depending on your chosen mode of transportation. This includes flight time plus travel to/from airports and any potential waiting times.
Getting to Coron from Manila primarily involves flying or taking a ferry. Flights are by far the quicker option, usually taking around 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes. However, you also need to factor in travel time to Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) in Manila, check-in procedures (usually 2-3 hours prior to departure for domestic flights), and the travel time from Francisco B. Reyes Airport (USU) in Coron to your accommodation, which can add another 30-60 minutes. While ferries are a more budget-friendly option, they involve significantly longer travel times. A ferry trip can take anywhere from 12 to 20 hours, depending on the ferry company and the specific route. While onboard, passengers usually have dining and sleeping accommodations, but the extensive travel time might not be suitable for travelers with limited time. Also, ferry schedules can be less frequent and more prone to delays due to weather conditions.Do I need a visa to go to Coron?
Whether or not you need a visa to go to Coron, Philippines depends entirely on your nationality and the duration of your intended stay. Many nationalities are granted visa-free entry for tourism purposes for a limited period.
Most nationalities, including citizens of the United States, Canada, Australia, the UK, and many European countries, can enter the Philippines visa-free for stays of up to 30 days. However, it's crucial to check the specific visa requirements based on your passport. You can verify this information on the website of the Philippine Bureau of Immigration or the nearest Philippine embassy or consulate in your country. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay and that you have proof of onward travel (like a return flight ticket). If you plan to stay longer than the permitted visa-free period, you'll need to apply for a visa before your trip, or you can extend your stay while already in the Philippines by applying at the Bureau of Immigration. Overstaying without proper authorization can lead to fines, detention, and deportation. Always ensure you understand and comply with the Philippine immigration laws to avoid any issues during your travels to Coron.What airport do I fly into to get to Coron?
To get to Coron, you'll need to fly into Francisco B. Reyes Airport (USU), also known as Busuanga Airport. This is the only airport serving the Coron area.
Busuanga Airport is a domestic airport, meaning you'll likely need to connect through a larger international airport like Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL) in Manila or Mactan-Cebu International Airport (CEB) in Cebu. Several airlines, including Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, and Air Swift, offer regular flights from Manila and Cebu to Busuanga. The flight from Manila to Busuanga is approximately one hour.
Once you arrive at Busuanga Airport, Coron town is about a 30-45 minute drive away. You can take a pre-booked airport transfer, a van, or a tricycle to reach your hotel. Be sure to arrange transportation in advance, especially during peak season, to avoid potential delays and inflated prices.
Are there ferries to Coron, and if so, from where?
Yes, ferries travel to Coron, primarily from Manila. These ferries are typically the most economical, albeit time-consuming, way to reach Coron compared to flying.
Ferries to Coron primarily depart from Manila, offered by companies like 2GO Travel. These voyages usually involve overnight travel, often taking between 12 and 16 hours depending on the specific route and vessel. It is important to check the schedules of these ferry companies in advance, as they may vary depending on the season and demand. Furthermore, securing reservations beforehand is highly recommended, particularly during peak tourist seasons. While Manila is the most common origin point, ferries to Coron may occasionally depart from other locations, though these are much less frequent. Information on these less common routes, if available, can be found on the websites of local shipping companies or through travel agencies operating in the Philippines. Always verify schedules and book in advance.What are the domestic flight options to Coron?
The primary domestic flight option to Coron (USU), also known as Francisco B. Reyes Airport, is from Manila (MNL). Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airlines (PAL Express) are the main carriers operating direct flights between Manila and Coron. There are also occasional flights from other domestic destinations, especially Cebu (CEB), although these may not be daily or as consistently available.
While Manila to Coron is the most common route, it's wise to check for flights originating from other major hubs, especially if you're already in a different part of the Philippines. Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airlines frequently adjust their flight schedules and routes based on demand and seasonality. When planning your trip, consider booking your flights well in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons like holidays and summer months (March-May). Booking early can help you secure better fares and ensure availability, as flights to Coron tend to fill up quickly. You can check websites such as Skyscanner, Google Flights, or directly through the airlines for the most up-to-date schedules and prices. Keep in mind that smaller aircraft often serve the Coron route, which can be affected by weather conditions. Therefore, it's always a good idea to factor in some flexibility in your travel itinerary in case of potential delays or cancellations.So there you have it! Hopefully, this guide has given you a clearer picture of how to make your Coron dreams a reality. Now all that's left to do is book your flights, pack your bags, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in paradise. Thanks for reading, and we hope you'll come back soon for more travel tips and inspiration!