Flights from Manila, Philippines to Tacloban, Philippines

After withstanding the worst of Typhoon Yolande in 2013, Tacloban has reinvented itself by restoring historic monuments, rebuilding restaurants and bars and keeping its strong sense of community. Traditionally a departure point for the islands of Leyte and Samur, it is worth a visit itself for attractions such as Kanuraw Hill. The home of the City Hall of Tacloban, it looks over Kankabato Bay and is a great spot to sit under its shady trees and watch the world go by. There is also the Madonna of Japan in front of Cancabato Bay and Magsaysay Boulevard, which offers a seductive view over the water.

Flying to Tacloban

1. Which airports serve Manila to Tacloban?

There are three airports in the Greater Manila Area, but most passenger traffic goes through Metro Manila’s Ninoy Aquino International Airport, which is the country’s major hub. It is about four miles south of the city. Terminal Two caters to international and domestic flights, and Terminal Four caters to domestic flights only to destinations such as Tacloban’s Daniel Z Romualdez Airport.

2. Which airlines operate flights from Manila to Tacloban?

AirAzia Zest provides 40% of the direct flights from Manila to Tacloban, with Cebu Pacific and Philippine also offering direct daily flights. Cebu is the most popular connecting city when flying this route.

3. How long is the flight?

The average direct flight time from Manila to Tacloban is just under an hour and a half. There is also the option of taking connecting flights, but these will add on time depending on the carrier and stopover destination.

4. Climate changes between Manila and Tacloban

For Manila, the hottest month is May with an average temperature of 86°F. The coldest month is January at 79°F, and the wettest month is August with an average of 140mm of rain. In Tacloban, there is little difference in temperature, with an average for the year of 85°F. The coldest month is January with an average of 73°F. Every month has an average rainfall of 60mm.

5. Culture differences and need-to-know

Manila and Tacloban are in the Philippines, so travelers will use the Philippine peso in both cities. For visitors to both, there are some useful pointers online, including information on tipping. This is customary practice, and most people leave 10% to 15% of the final bill in restaurants. In salons and spas, the tip is generally 10%, and it is also common to round up a cab fare. The Philippines is also very hot and humid, so dressing in light, loose clothing is a good idea to help visitors feel more comfortable.

Tacloban Information

The Philippines is a former Spanish colony, and in Manila, the nucleus of Spanish life is Intramuros. This walled city underwent restoration after its destruction in World War II, and it is a wonderful escape from the chaos of Manila itself with its leafy residential streets lined with Colonial architecture. Yet another historic city, Tacloban has even more to see and do, including a visit to the Sohoton Natural Bridge National Park across the river. You can also sample the wares of the food vendors on Rizal Avenue and take a ride on a habal-habal.