Fun Transportation Options in the Philippines
When it comes to exploring the Philippines, transportation can be just as thrilling as the destinations themselves. From iconic jeepneys to speedy motorbike taxis, there are plenty of ways to experience the local culture while getting around. Whether you’re commuting through the city or hopping between islands, these unique transportation options will make your trip even more memorable.
Here’s a guide to the fun and sometimes quirky ways to travel through the Philippines—perfect for budget-conscious travelers, digital nomads, and volunteers abroad.
1. Jeepneys: The Iconic Filipino Ride
A ride on a jeepney is a must-do experience in the Philippines, and for good reason. These colorful vehicles are not only a symbol of Filipino culture, but also an affordable and efficient way to get from one place to another.
What It Is:
Jeepneys are repurposed military jeeps, now customized into vibrant minibuses that run fixed routes through cities and towns.
They are open-air, often crowded, and super affordable, making them a popular choice for locals and tourists alike.
Why It’s Fun:
Vibrant Colors & Music: Jeepneys are incredibly colorful, with many having custom paint jobs and loud music to make your ride even more lively.
Authentic Experience: Riding a jeepney gives you a true taste of Filipino daily life, and it’s a fun, easy way to explore urban areas on a budget.
🚗 Pro Tip: Always ask the driver about the fare before hopping on. It’s typically just a few pesos—around 8 to 20 PHP ($0.14 to $0.35 USD) per ride.
Get a local SIM card with Globe or Smart for easy navigation while using jeepneys.
2. Tricycles: Your Local Two-Wheeled Taxi
If you’re in a smaller town or rural area, chances are you’ll encounter a tricycle—a motorbike with a sidecar, essentially a local taxi with wheels.
What It Is:
A tricycle consists of a motorcycle with a sidecar attached to it, and it’s often used to transport people (and sometimes goods) to places that larger vehicles can’t access.
These are common in rural areas and smaller islands, where streets might be narrow or unpaved.
Why It’s Fun:
Personalized Ride: Tricycles are often just for you, so you’ll get a more intimate, local experience as the driver weaves through tight spaces.
Unique to Rural Areas: It’s one of the most practical and fun ways to explore the countryside or remote towns.
🛵 Pro Tip: Agree on the fare before starting your ride, especially in non-touristy areas, where prices can be negotiable.
3. Bancas: Traditional Filipino Boats
Given the Philippines’ archipelagic nature, bancas—traditional Filipino boats—are one of the best ways to explore the islands and get between some of the country’s most beautiful beaches and remote towns.
What It Is:
Bancas are small, outrigger boats with bamboo frames, typically powered by motors, and used to travel between islands.
They are a popular mode of transportation for both locals and tourists, particularly in island-hopping destinations like Palawan, Cebu, and Boracay.
Why It’s Fun:
Island-Hopping: These boats are perfect for exploring hidden beaches, secret coves, and off-the-beaten-path islands.
Scenic Views: The tranquil water and the stunning backdrop of the Philippine coastline make for a relaxing and picturesque journey.
🚤 Pro Tip: Always check the weather before heading out on a banca, especially during the rainy season. Safety first!
Book Island-Hopping Tours through Klook for an easy and safe trip on a banca.
4. Ferries: Island-to-Island Travel Made Easy
Whether you’re hopping from one island to another or heading to a neighboring province, ferries are one of the most reliable and scenic ways to travel in the Philippines.
What It Is:
Ferries in the Philippines are commonly used for long-distance travel between islands, such as from Manila to Cebu, Batangas to Mindoro, or Bohol to Leyte.
The ferry system is well-established, and boats are equipped with comfortable seating and basic amenities for longer trips.
Why It’s Fun:
Relaxing Journeys: Unlike busy airports or cramped buses, ferries offer a relaxing and scenic way to travel between islands.
Meet New People: Ferries are a great way to interact with other travelers and locals as you sail from one island to the next.
⛴️ Pro Tip: Some ferries offer overnight trips with sleeper cabins, so if you’re planning a longer journey, you can rest comfortably while watching the waves roll by.
Book 2Go Travel or OceanJet tickets for your ferry trips around the Philippines.
5. Moto Taxis: Quick and Convenient with Joyride & MoveIt
In the fast-paced cities of the Philippines, moto taxis (like Joyride and MoveIt) are a popular choice for short, fast trips—perfect for escaping traffic jams or quickly getting from one part of town to another.
What It Is:
Moto taxis are motorbikes that pick you up and drop you off anywhere in the city. These taxis are great for getting through dense traffic or to areas where larger vehicles can’t go.
Joyride and MoveIt are popular ride-hailing apps for motorbike taxis in Metro Manila and other major cities.
Why It’s Fun:
Speed & Efficiency: Beat the traffic with a fast motorcycle ride. It’s often the quickest and most convenient way to travel in urban areas.
Exciting Ride: The thrill of zipping through narrow streets and buzzing past cars is an experience in itself.
🏍️ Pro Tip: Always wear a helmet (required by law) and check the bike for safety before starting your ride. Use the apps to track your ride in real time for peace of mind.
Download Joyride or MoveIt for affordable motorbike rides in the Philippines.
Get Ready to Explore
Whether you’re buzzing through Manila on a mototaxi, island-hopping on a banca, or enjoying a slow ferry ride between islands, transportation in the Philippines is part of the fun. Each unique mode of travel offers its own experience, allowing you to explore the country in a way that’s fun, affordable, and full of adventure.
Ready to dive into your Philippine journey?
