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Getting Around Siquijor

Getting Around Siquijor

Siquijor The Visayas, Philippines Travel Guide

Public Transportation

The main modes of public transport in Siquijor are tricycles, habal-habals (motorcycle taxis), and jeepneys. There is no metro, tram, or large-scale bus system withinside the island itself. These modes define local travel.

Tricycles are motorcycles with a sidecar, carrying two to three passengers plus a driver. Habal-habals are regular motorcycles carrying passengers, typically one or two behind the driver. Jeepneys operate on fixed routes along the circumferential road.

Transit Details

  • Tricycles and Habal-habals: Ubiquitous in municipal centers (Siquijor, Larena, San Juan).
  • Jeepneys: Follow the main circumferential road, connecting all six municipalities.
  • Fares for tricycles/habal-habals: Agree on price with driver before boarding.
  • Hours: Generally 6:O'CLOCK IN the MORNING to 9:00 PM/10:00 PM.

Tricycles

Most common for short distances, available in town centers.

Habal-habals

Faster for solo travelers or pairs, navigate rough roads with ease.

Jeepneys

Economical for longer distances between municipalities, less frequent.

Efficient Navigation Tips

Local Insights
  • Ask accommodation staff or locals for usual prices or best routes.
  • Polite negotiation on prices for special trips is common.
  • Motorcycle rental offers ultimate flexibility and cost-efficiency.
Accessibility & Safety
  • Public transportation generally lacks wheelchair accessibility.
  • Private car hires are more comfortable for mobility challenges.
  • Always wear a helmet when riding a habal-habal or rented motorcycle.

Rental Options

Car Rental

Rare and not generally recommended.

Motorcycle/Scooter

Widely available, PHP 250-400/day.

Bicycle Rentals

Limited; suitable for short rides.

Specialty Vehicles

Tricycles and Habal-habals for tours.

Motorcycle & Scooter Rentals

Motorcycle and scooter hires are commonly available across Siquijor. You find numerous rental shops in Siquijor Municipality, Larena, and the main tourist hub of San Juan. Many guesthouses and resorts also rent motorcycles directly to their guests.

Requirements & Cost

  • Valid national driver's license with motorcycle endorsement.
  • International Driving Permit (IDP) legally advisable.
  • Daily rental for a scooter: PHP 250-400 (plus fuel).
  • Inspect the bike carefully before renting; document any existing damage.

Safety & Driving

  • Always wear a helmet; most rental places supply them.
  • Drive cautiously, especially on unfamiliar roads or at night.
  • Road conditions: Circumferential road is good; interior roads vary.
  • Parking is generally easy to discover at attractions and accommodations.

Walking & Cycling

  • Town centers are pedestrian-friendly for short distances.
  • Walking for full island exploration is impractical due to distances plus heat.
  • Avoid walking/cycling on main roads at night due to poor lighting.
  • Limited dedicated bicycle infrastructure.
  • Cycling on the circumferential road possible, but be aware of other vehicles.
  • Self-guided walks within town centers are enjoyable.

Specialized Transportation

Tour Buses

No tour buses or hop-on-hop-off services operate on Siquijor.

Boat Taxis Bangka

Main form of water transportation, available for island hopping, coastal tours, and snorkeling/diving trips.

Unique Transport

Siquijor features no cable cars, funiculars, or other unique transport systems.

Boat Taxi Details

Local boats, known as Bangka, serve as the main form of water transportation around Siquijor. These outrigger boats are available for hire for various purposes, allowing exploration of the island's coastal beauty and nearby marine attractions.

Activities by Bangka

  • Island Hopping: Check out close-by islets and coastal areas.
  • Coastal Tours: Discover hidden coves and inaccessible beaches from the sea.
  • Snorkeling/Diving Trips: Access various dive sites around Siquijor and Apo Island.
  • Day trips to Apo Island from Siquijor are common.

Booking & Cost

  • Rates vary depending on trip duration, number of passengers, and destination.
  • Always negotiate the price beforehand to avoid misunderstandings.
  • Arrange boat trips through resorts, dive centers, or directly with local boatmen.
  • Consider sharing the cost with other visitors for group tours.

Accessibility Services

Public Transport Limitations

Accessibility services for travelers with mobility challenges continue to be limited in Siquijor. Public transportation modes like tricycles and jeepneys are not wheelchair accessible.

Limited Accessibility

Natural Attractions

Many natural attractions (waterfalls, caves, some beaches) are not designed for wheelchair accessibility, requiring movement over uneven terrain.

Tough Terrain

Private Car Hire

Private car hire with a driver represents the most comfortable and adaptable transport option for those with mobility concerns. Inquire directly with accommodations about accessible features before booking.

Recommended Option

Driving Laws & Road Conditions

Laws
  • Drive on the right-hand side of the road.
  • Helmets are mandatory for both cab drivers and passengers on motorcycles.
  • Speed limits rarely strictly enforced; drive with caution.
Roads
  • The main circumferential road is largely paved and in good condition.
  • Roads to interior attractions can be unpaved, steep, or rough.
  • Parking is generally easy to discover at attractions and accommodations.

Taxi & Ride-Sharing

  • Traditional metered taxis are not common in Siquijor.
  • Private car rentals with drivers are available, arranged through resorts.
  • Fares for private car hires are negotiated upfront.
  • A full-day private car hire with a driver typically costs PHP 2,000-4,000.
  • Ride-sharing apps (Grab, Angkas) are hard to find for passenger transport.
  • Booking private cars through reputable resorts is generally a safe option.
  • Motorcycle accidents remain the most common safety concern on the island.
  • Confirm fare before starting your trip to avoid price disputes.

Final Transportation Tips

For optimal flexibility, renting your own motorcycle offers the best way to explore the island at your pace. Always remember safety first.

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