The Philippines. Just the name conjures images of turquoise waters, powdery white sand beaches, and lush, volcanic landscapes. But with over 7,000 islands, deciding where to go – and how to get there – can feel a little daunting. Don’t let it! Island hopping in the Philippines is incredibly rewarding, and with a little planning, you can create an unforgettable adventure. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about booking flights between islands, helping you navigate the options and maximize your time in this Southeast Asian gem.

Popular Island Hopping Routes

Where do you even begin with 7,000+ islands? Here are some of the most popular and easily navigable routes to get you inspired:

  • Manila – Palawan (El Nido & Coron): This is a classic route. Fly from Manila (MNL) to El Nido (ENI) or Busuanga (USU) – Coron’s airport. Palawan is famous for its stunning limestone cliffs, hidden lagoons, and world-class diving.
  • Cebu – Bohol – Siquijor: A central Visayas loop. Cebu (CEB) is a major hub, making it easy to fly to Tagbilaran (TAG) in Bohol, known for the Chocolate Hills and tarsiers. From Bohol, a short ferry ride takes you to Siquijor, a mystical island with waterfalls and healing traditions.
  • Manila – Boracay: For those seeking vibrant nightlife and stunning beaches, a flight from Manila (MNL) to Caticlan (MPH) or Kalibo (KLO) is the way to go. Caticlan is closer, but Kalibo often has more frequent and cheaper flights.
  • Clark – Palawan: If you're arriving internationally into Clark (CRK), you can skip Manila altogether and fly directly to Palawan.

These are just starting points, of course. The beauty of the Philippines is its diversity – you can easily combine these routes or venture off the beaten path to discover hidden gems.

Airlines Serving the Philippine Islands

Several airlines operate domestic flights within the Philippines. Here’s a rundown of the major players:

  • Philippine Airlines (PAL): The national carrier, offering a more premium experience and often serving major routes.
  • Cebu Pacific: A low-cost carrier with an extensive network, perfect for budget travelers. They frequently have seat sales!
  • AirAsia Philippines: Another low-cost option, known for its competitive fares and promotions.
  • SkyJet: Focuses on routes to popular tourist destinations like Boracay and Palawan.

It’s worth checking multiple airlines to compare prices and schedules. Keep in mind that baggage allowances and other fees can vary significantly, especially with low-cost carriers.

Tips for Booking Your Flights

Getting the best deals on flights requires a bit of strategy. Here are a few tips:

  • Book in Advance: Especially during peak season (November to May), booking several months in advance can save you money.
  • Be Flexible with Dates: Flying mid-week or during the shoulder season (June-October) often yields lower fares.
  • Consider Alternative Airports: As mentioned with Boracay, flying into Kalibo (KLO) instead of Caticlan (MPH) can sometimes be significantly cheaper.
  • Check for Seat Sales: Cebu Pacific and AirAsia frequently offer promotional fares. Sign up for their newsletters and follow them on social media to stay informed.
  • Use a Flight Comparison Website: Websites like Odyssey Packages allow you to compare prices from multiple airlines in one place, saving you time and effort.

Don't forget to factor in travel time to and from airports, especially in larger cities like Manila and Cebu. Traffic can be unpredictable!

Why Book with Odyssey Packages?

Planning an island-hopping adventure can be complex, with multiple flights, ferries, and accommodations to coordinate. Odyssey Packages simplifies the process. We offer:

  • Competitive Prices: We work with a wide range of airlines to secure the best possible fares.
  • Convenient Booking: Our user-friendly website makes it easy to search for and book flights.
  • Expert Support: Our travel specialists are available to answer your questions and provide personalized recommendations.
  • Package Deals: Combine your flights with hotels and tours for even greater savings.

Let us handle the logistics so you can focus on enjoying the breathtaking beauty of the Philippines. Start planning your dream island-hopping itinerary today! Browse our flight deals now!