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Local Transportation

Local Transportation

The Visayas, Philippines

Public Transportation

Public transport in Bohol offers an authentic and economical way to travel, specifically for local routes. Jeepneys, colorful elongated vehicles, are the most common form of public transport.

They operate on fixed routes, connecting towns and major points within Tagbilaran City and to other municipalities. Larger buses connect Tagbilaran City to more distant towns across Bohol, serving inter-municipality routes.

Navigating Public Transit

  • No formal, widely published route maps for jeepneys exist; locals or hotel staff provide guidance.
  • Integrated Bus Terminal (Dao Bus Terminal) in Tagbilaran is the main hub for buses and jeepneys.
  • Pay conductors/drivers directly in cash; fares remain fixed by distance (PHP 15-50).
  • Operation hours: generally 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM; frequency varies by area/time.

Jeepneys & Multicabs

Iconic, economical, and cover local and inter-town routes.

Hubs & Fares

Dao Bus Terminal in Tagbilaran is . Cash payment, fixed distance-based fares.

Accessibility Note

Public transport generally lacks accessibility for mobility challenges.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Licensed Taxis & Fares
  • Limited metered taxis in Tagbilaran and at Panglao Airport.
  • Insist on meter use or agree on a fair price beforehand.
  • Cash is the only accepted payment method for taxis.
Ride-Sharing & Safety
  • Grab is the dominant app, available in Tagbilaran and parts of Panglao.
  • Grab provides fixed, upfront pricing and GPS tracking for safety.
  • Tricycles and Habal-habal (motorcycle taxis) are generally safe for short distances.

Airport/Station Taxi Arrangements

Panglao Airport

Designated taxi stands and pre-booked private vans available outside terminal.

Tagbilaran Port

Taxis and tricycles readily found outside the ferry terminal.

Tricycles

Not officially inside airport; hail just outside perimeter for cheaper fares.

Bargaining

Always agree on price beforehand for tricycles to prevent overcharging.

Rental Options

For independent exploration, Bohol offers various rental options, from cars to scooters, allowing flexible travel around the island.

Car Rental

  • International driving permit (IDP) and national driver's license needed.
  • Credit card typically needed for a deposit.
  • Costs: PHP 1,500 - 3,000 per day for basic sedan/SUV.
  • Roads can be narrow, traffic congested in Tagbilaran, rural roads less maintained.

Motorcycle & Scooter Rental

  • Most popular rental option for tourists, widely available in Panglao and Tagbilaran.
  • Helmets are usually provided and should always be worn. Get your helmet here.
  • Costs: PHP 400 - 700 per day; discounts for longer periods possible.
  • Drive defensively, aware of local habits and road conditions.

Driving Laws & Road Safety

  • Traffic drives on the right-hand side of the road.
  • Speed limits: 60 kph on open roads, 30-40 kph in built-up areas.
  • Parking available at most attractions and accommodations.
  • Be aware of motorcycles and tricycles weaving through traffic.
  • Always drive defensively.
  • Check vehicle condition thoroughly before renting.

Other Rental Options

Bicycle Rentals

Available at some resorts and local shops, good for short distances.

Tricycles

Motorized rickshaws, abundant for short to medium distances. Negotiate fare beforehand.

Habal-habal

Motorcycle taxis. Useful for remote areas or quick movement. Bargain for price.

Walking & Cycling

Explore Bohol at a slower pace on foot or by bicycle. Choose pedestrian-friendly areas and be mindful of road conditions and traffic.

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas

  • Alona Beach: The beachfront and main road invite leisurely strolls.
  • Rural areas: Quiet roads offer pleasant walking with scenic views.
  • Tagbilaran City: Sidewalks can be crowded, heavy traffic makes walking less relaxed.
  • Rural Note: Be mindful of stray dogs and occasional traffic in rural settings.

Cycling Infrastructure & Safety

  • Limited dedicated bicycle lanes. Cyclists share roads with vehicles.
  • Always wear a Helmet when cycling.
  • Be highly aware of traffic, especially tricycles and motorcycles; drive defensively.
  • No formal bicycle sharing programs exist.

Walking Tours & No-Go Zones

Guided Walks

No formal, widespread walking tours. Tour packages may include guided walks within attractions (tarsier sanctuary).

Included in specific tours

Highways Caution

Main highways outside towns are busy and often lack proper pedestrian infrastructure, making walking or cycling unsafe.

Avoid for safety

City Traffic

Areas with heavy traffic congestion in Tagbilaran can pose challenges for walking or cycling due to pollution and vehicle movement.

Challenging conditions

Specialized Transportation

Tour & Water Transport
  • No formal hop-on-hop-off services; organized day tours use air-conditioned vans/buses.
  • Boat taxis common for island hopping (e.g., Balicasag Island, Virgin Island).
  • Loboc River Cruise provides dining on a floating restaurant.
Unique Transport & Accessibility
  • Danao Adventure Park offers a "Sky Ride" cable car system with aerial views.
  • Specialized accessibility services are limited for travelers with mobility needs.
  • Arrange private transportation with a driver who can accommodate specific needs.

Important Considerations for Transit

  • Always agree on fare for tricycles and habal-habal before starting.
  • Ensure helmets are worn on motorcycles, including habal-habal.
  • Be mindful of traffic patterns and local driving habits.
  • Public transport can be crowded, especially during peak hours.
  • Keep small denominations of Philippine Peso for fares.
  • Roads to remote areas might be unpaved or poorly maintained.
  • Confirm accessibility when booking accommodations and tours.
  • No formal hop-on-hop-off services; organized tours are the closest option.

Local Transport Wisdom

Renting a scooter offers the most flexible and cost-efficient way to explore Bohol independently. Just remember to always wear a helmet and drive defensively.

For longer distances, local buses provide an economical connection to various towns across the main island.