About the ride from Cebu to Surigao City, Mindanao
After exploring the beauty of Cebu, you might think you've seen it all in the Philippines. However, a visit to Surigao City in Mindanao will prove you wrong.
While you're in Surigao City, you'll have access to stunning jungle landscapes and inviting waters. Additionally, you'll have the opportunity to explore some truly unique environments that will be the cherry on top of your visit.
If you're ready for an excursion by sea, Surigao will be a big compliment to your itinerary without being a big drain on your budget.
Feeling curious yet?
Keep reading.
Unmissable experiences in Surigao City
Surigao City is a great launching pad for exploring the many natural wonders of northeastern Mindanao.
Check out just some of the awesome things to do:
Play at (Mabua) Pebble Beach: After all those postcard-perfect white sand beaches, why not try something a little different? Just a short jeepney ride outside of town, you can lounge on this beach made of smooth plus-sized pebbles for a unique day at the shore.
Find a hidden paradise at Bucas Grande: It will take a couple of hours by boat, but you won't complain once you take in this stunning landscape of turquoise coves tucked among a collection of rounded green hills. From above, they look similar to the Rock Islands of Palau.
Keep an eye out for whale sharks along the way.
Get beneath the surface: Right outside of town are the Silop Multi-Caves. Here, you can explore two caves and see what's underneath those beautiful mountains and jungle hills. Safety gear is included in the nominal entrance fee, and you will find that checking out the underground maze for yourself is well worth the price of admission.
What you can expect when traveling from Cebu to Surigao City
Your journey between Cebu and Surigao City will be delightful, offering scenic views along the way. Upon arrival at the port, Mindanao immediately gives off an exotic vibe.
Though its wonders have recently been showcased in the social media age, it is still far enough off the beaten path to make you feel like you're at the edge of discovery.
Fortunately, you can still enjoy plenty of creature comforts before setting out to explore what is still a very authentic destination.
How to get from Cebu to Surigao City, Mindanao
Hop on a ferry to get between Cebu and Surigao City. Here's a breakdown of what the ferry entails:
There are a number of options and operators when it comes to ferries that run the Cebu-Surigao City route.
Ferry rides can take anywhere from 5.5 to 10 hours. Amenities vary according to the operator, but you can count on air conditioning, restrooms and even TVs on board.
Some operators offer reclining seats, while tourist bed ferries offer open bunk bed layouts. This is a practical option for an overnight trip that will take care of lodging and accommodation in one ticket.
When buying your ticket, be sure to read the fine print. Certain operators have tighter restrictions on bags (7 kg/15.5 lbs per passenger).
Most operators will also require a printed ticket, not just an electronic version.
When it's time to depart, ferries may leave from any one of several terminals in Cebu port. Your exact terminal will depend on the vessel you choose.
Whichever ferry you choose, it will dock at the Surigao City Ferry Terminal. This is located on the eastern edge of town along the waterfront (obviously).
When is the best time of year to visit Surigao City?
While each season has its appeal, the perfect time to visit Surigao City is between March and May. During this period, the weather is spectacular, and whale shark watching is at its peak.
November through January are the rainy season, but other than passing showers, that shouldn't discourage you too much. Just be ready to pause your outside activities every so often.
August and September see high winds, so if you're looking to take a ferry, you can count on choppy seas. You also won't be able to take the many boat tours available.
How much time do I need in Surigao City?
This is a tough question.
The city itself can be experienced in just an afternoon.
But if you want to check out the caves, visit offshore islands, and hit the beaches, three days is a more realistic minimum. A week wouldn't hurt either.
Where should I go after Surigao City?
Mindanao has so many things to see and do that you could easily fill an entire month's worth of activities and not see it all.
From Surigao City, you have plenty of options.
You could head to Cagayan de Oro for some adrenaline-pumping whitewater rafting.
Or if you're looking to combine sun and surf, nearby Siargao Island is an emerging tourist destination with amazing beaches and natural beauty.