Transportation Suggestions for the Philippines

Located in Southeast Asia, the Philippines is a hidden gem for tourists. Though often overlooked, its rich history and natural beauty make it an exciting destination, with Davao City standing out as a prime example.

Davao captivates visitors with its stunning landscapes and vibrant local culture. Every year, tourists from around the globe come to discover its unique charm. Fortunately, the city's affordable transportation system offers a budget-friendly and immersive travel experience.

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Shuttle Buses

Are you interested in traveling around Davao and its nearby areas? You can do this conveniently by using the Davao Metro Shuttle service. There are various types of buses available, differing in air conditioning and seating capacity. Air-conditioned buses can accommodate 45 to 58 passengers, while non-air-conditioned buses can hold 43 to 61. Additionally, these shuttle buses can be rented for personal use.

Ticket Prices

Local shuttle buses offer reasonably priced fares, typically around PHP 100 or approximately AU$ 2.66 for a one-way trip. Some buses can also transport passengers to nearby cities from the Davao terminal. Tickets can be purchased at various terminals throughout Davao or ordered online. For those interested in renting a bus, you can reach out directly to Davao Metro Shuttle.

Routes and Operating Hours

The Davao Metro Shuttle operates daily, serving passengers from 06:00 to 21:00 local time. Buses typically arrive at the terminal every 20 minutes. Notable bus stops include New Bataan, Monkayo, Laak, Tagum City, Davao Ecoland Terminal, Abreeza, Kidapawan, and Malita.

Taxis

If you prefer a more comfortable mode of transportation, taking a taxi is a great option. Taxis are readily available throughout Davao. Currently, there are two taxi services in operation: traditional taxis with a meter and app-based taxis.

Fares

In Davao, taxi fares typically range around PHP 100 or approximately AU$ 2.66. Conventional taxi drivers start with a base fare of PHP 40 or AU$ 1.07, with an additional charge of PHP 0 or AU$ 0.093 for each kilometer traveled. Ensure that the meter is functioning correctly during your ride to prevent fare discrepancies. The taxi driver will provide you with a receipt, which you can keep for reference if needed.

Routes & Operating Hours

Taxis are not only convenient and readily available, but they also operate 24 hours a day. To help you navigate your travels, it's wise to have your routes and destinations prepared on your smartphone.

Tricycles

Tricycles are a popular mode of transport in Davao. They resemble motorized rickshaws found in Indonesia or Thai tuk-tuks, with a key difference being the passenger seat, which is located next to the driver's motorcycle. These tricycles can accommodate up to three passengers at a time.

Fares

These traditional vehicles are quite budget-friendly, making them popular among both locals and tourists. Fares start at PHP 15 or approximately AU$ 8.39 for a one-way trip to your destination. You can either share the ride with other passengers at the standard fare or negotiate with the driver if you prefer to hire the vehicle exclusively. Note that these vehicles only accept cash, so it's advisable to have small denominations ready for easy payment.

Routes & Operating Hours

Similar to taxis, tricycle drivers can take you to various destinations throughout Davao. It's a good idea to plan your route. Typically, tricycle services are more commonly used during the day, but you can also find them on the side of the road in the afternoons and evenings.

Jeepneys

The Jeepney is one of the most iconic vehicles in the Philippines, featuring a truck front styled like a Jeep, with a long, colorful body akin to a van, adorned with unique designs. Inside, you'll find long seats arranged face-to-face and windows without shutters.

Originally, this vehicle was an American military truck used during World War II, which was left behind after the war. Local residents then repurposed it as public transportation, a practice that continues today.

Fares

Experiencing a jeepney ride adds a distinct flavor to traveling in the Philippines. Passengers typically pay around PHP 8 or about AU$ 0.21 for a single trip. It’s advisable to carry small bills for payment. To signal the driver when you want to stop at a designated point, simply say 'para' or 'para po.'

When riding a jeepney, you can pay the driver directly with your fare when you’re ready to get off. Alternatively, you can pass your money to passengers seated near the driver. This is considered an 'unspoken rule' of jeepney riding, where passengers assist each other, especially those seated farther from the driver, in making payments.

Routes & Operating Hours

Jeepneys do not operate on fixed routes, but they can still take you to your desired destination. Before boarding, it’s a good idea to ask the driver if their jeepney passes your intended stop. Additionally, jeepneys can be found at various times, even late at night.

Boats

Davao is a coastal city where Sasa Port and Santa Ana Harbor are particularly busy. Passengers looking to travel to nearby islands, such as Samal Island and Talikud, typically take the ferry.

Fares

The lowest fare for the ferry from Davao to Samal Island is just PHP 10 or approximately AU$ 0.27 from Sasa Port. Additional fees apply for passengers bringing private vehicles on board, such as cars or motorcycles. For cars and other light vehicles, the charge is PHP 250 or about AU$ 6.66, which includes one driver and up to three passengers. A motorcycle with two passengers costs PHP 60 or AU$ 1.60. Boat fares from Santa Ana to Talikud range from PHP 130 to 200 or AU$ 3.46 to 5.33 per person.

Read more: Travel Tips for Davao, Philippines

Routes & Operating Hours

Ferries typically transport passengers directly from Davao to the piers of Samal Island or Talikud Island without any transfers. To reach Samal Island, you can depart from Sasa Port (DavSam Ferry Terminal), Mae Wess, or Santa Ana. For Talikud Island, the ferry leaves from Santa Ana Port.

Activities at Davao's wharves run continuously throughout the day. The Sasa Port to Talikud Harbor route operates from 06:00 to 16:00 local time, while the Sasa Harbor to Babak Harbor, Samal route serves passengers from 05:00 to 21:00. Passenger ferries will only depart when a sufficient number of travelers is present, so there is no fixed schedule for these boats. Some routes, such as those serviced by Mae Wess and DavSam Ferry, offer cruises that run for up to 24 hours.

These are five exciting transportation options available in Davao City. Intrigued? Book your flight or hotel on Mytour now and start your adventure!