Getting to Boracay from Caticlan or Kalibo: A First-Time Arrival Guide

Your holiday starts with an arrival plan

For a first visit to Boracay, the useful question isn't only “Which flight should I book?” It's also “What happens when I land?”

The usual airport-to-hotel journey includes a mainland ride to the port, a boat crossing, and an island ride to your accommodation. A little preparation means you know who to meet and which parts are already arranged.

Arriving through Caticlan Airport (MPH)

Caticlan Airport, also called Boracay Airport, is on the mainland close to the crossing. After collecting your bags, meet your pre-arranged transfer or organise a ride to the operating jetty port. From there, take the boat to Boracay and continue by island transport to Mecasa.

Your route: Caticlan Airport → short mainland ride → jetty port → boat → island ride → Mecasa.

The mainland journey is short, but allow time for meeting your transfer, port procedures, boat boarding and the final ride. Landing at the airport isn't the same as arriving at your hotel.

Arriving through Kalibo International Airport (KLO)

From Kalibo Airport, begin with a van or bus journey towards Caticlan. Allow approximately 1.5–2 hours for this mainland road leg, before the port procedures, boat crossing and onward island ride to Mecasa.

Your route: Kalibo Airport → mainland van/bus → jetty port in the Caticlan area → boat → island ride → Mecasa.

If you're booking a pickup, make sure the confirmation says Kalibo/KLO rather than Caticlan/MPH and covers the longer mainland journey. For a late flight, confirm the onward transfer and hotel check-in arrangements before you travel.

Both airports are gateways to the same island holiday. Choose the flight that suits your schedule and overall travel budget, then arrange the complete onward journey. MyBoracayGuide's airport transfer guide describes both routes. Follow current port instructions, as the operating ports can change with conditions.

Option 1: Request a transfer through Mecasa

Mecasa can arrange pickups from both Caticlan and Kalibo airports through a local transfer partner. Before travelling, call +63 947 531 2000 or email mecasahotel@gmail.com to ask about availability, current prices and inclusions.

Tell us clearly whether you're arriving at Caticlan (MPH) or Kalibo (KLO). Have your flight number, travel date, expected arrival time and passenger count ready. Mention children's ages, larger luggage or any assistance you may need.

Ask for confirmation of the meeting point and what the quote covers. Transfers are a paid service; do not assume they are included with your room reservation.

For first-time guests who would prefer help coordinating the arrival, this is the option we suggest exploring first.

Option 2: Book an independent transfer

You can also compare transfers directly with operators. Southwest Tours lists Caticlan and Kalibo options, while MyBoracayGuide offers shared and private choices.

A shared service can be worth comparing when price matters. If travelling as a family or group, ask for a private quote too and compare the total for everyone.

Read what “private” includes. For example, MyBoracayGuide's First Class service lists a private van with a shared boat; a private boat is a separate upgrade.

Whichever company you choose, check both land journeys, the boat ticket, terminal and environmental fees, luggage assistance, and the exact hotel drop-off. Those companies are examples to compare, not identified here as Mecasa's transfer partner.

Option 3: Arrange the journey yourself

Independent travel is possible. Arrange transport to the operating mainland port, follow the current registration and payment process, take the boat, then organise the island ride to Mecasa.

This puts each connection in your hands. Decide whether that suits your luggage, travelling companions and arrival time. Check current instructions and use official payment counters. Ports and operations can change with conditions; follow directions on the day. This independent route guide explains the individual stages.

A short checklist before you fly

• Save your pickup confirmation, meeting point and coordinator's phone number offline.
• Keep identification and your hotel booking confirmation accessible.
• Check what happens if your flight is delayed, and update the coordinator when plans change.
• For late arrivals, confirm transfer availability and hotel check-in arrangements in advance.
• Ask about child seating or boarding assistance before booking if needed.
• If booking a return transfer, confirm the hotel pickup arrangements for your departure.

Leave your first day a little breathing room. Travel times depend on baggage collection, queues, boat operations, weather and the final island journey.

For pickup enquiries, contact Mecasa by phone or email. For your stay, explore Mecasa Hotel and check rooms and book direct.

Phone: +63 947 531 2000

Email: mecasahotel@gmail.com

Travel information checked 14 September 2026. Confirm current fees, service inclusions and operating arrangements before travelling.

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