Mindoro Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, stay, eat, and play on the island of Mindoro in the Philippines. From hiking routes to must-try dishes, this comprehensive guide has everything you need to plan your trip.


Introduction to Mindoro

Nestled in the MIMAROPA region of the Philippines, Mindoro is a stunning island known for its natural beauty, pristine sandy beaches, and lush rainforests. Divided into two provinces, Occidental Mindoro and Oriental Mindoro, the island offers a wide range of experiences for travelers seeking culture, adventure, and relaxation. In this travel guide, we’ll share some of the best places to visit, activities to enjoy, and tips for making the most of your time on this beautiful island.

List of Places to Visit in Mindoro

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

For travelers interested in learning about the rich history and culture of Mindoro, there are several museums and historical sites worth visiting:

  • Museo de Calapan: This museum provides an overview of the customs and traditions of Mindoro’s indigenous peoples, including Mangyan tribes.
  • Fort San Pedro: Located in Puerto Galera, this 17th-century fortress was built by the Spanish to protect against pirates and other invaders.
  • Mangyan Village: This community in Calapan offers visitors a chance to learn about the daily life and customs of the Mangyan people.

Natural Attractions of Mindoro: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Mindoro is a nature lover’s paradise, with a diverse range of landscapes that can be explored through various outdoor activities:

  • Mount Halcon: This challenging hike offers panoramic views of Mindoro’s rainforests, waterfalls, and wildlife.
  • Tamaraw Falls: Located in Puerto Galera, this scenic waterfall cascades down three tiers and is a popular spot for swimming and picnics.
  • Apo Reef Natural Park: This marine reserve is home to a diverse array of marine life, including sea turtles, sharks, and rays, making it a top spot for snorkeling and diving.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Mindoro

For travelers looking for an active way to explore Mindoro’s natural scenery, there are several hiking and biking routes through the island’s mountains, forests, and beaches. Some popular options include:

  • Mount Malasimbo Trail: This hike takes visitors through the dense rainforest of Puerto Galera up to the peak of Mount Malasimbo, which boasts incredible views of the island.
  • Tukuran River Trail: Located in Occidental Mindoro, this bike ride takes visitors through lush green hills and valleys, past the beautiful Tukuran Waterfalls.
  • Bayanan Beach Hike: This short, easy hike in Oriental Mindoro leads to a stunning hidden beach, perfect for swimming and relaxation.

Best Things to Do in Mindoro: Activities and Tours

Aside from natural and cultural attractions, there are many other activities and tours on offer in Mindoro, including:

  • Island hopping: Set sail from Puerto Galera or Muelle port and explore the beautiful islands and beaches nearby.
  • Water sports: Mindoro’s clear waters and gentle waves make it a great spot for paddleboarding, kayaking, and jet skiing.
  • Spa treatments: After a day of adventure, treat yourself to a relaxing massage or spa treatment at one of Mindoro’s luxurious resorts.

Week-Long Itinerary for Mindoro

If you’re spending a week in Mindoro, here’s a suggested itinerary to make sure you experience all the highlights of the island:

  • Day 1: Explore Calapan City, visit the Museo de Calapan and the Mangyan Village.
  • Day 2: Hike Mount Halcon or visit the Tamaraw Falls.
  • Day 3: Go island hopping around Puerto Galera.
  • Day 4: Discover the Apo Reef Natural Park on a diving or snorkeling trip.
  • Day 5: Take a bike ride through the hills and valleys of Occidental Mindoro.
  • Day 6: Relax on the beach and indulge in a spa treatment.
  • Day 7: Explore the historic Fort San Pedro before departing.

Food and Drink Scene of Mindoro

No travel guide is complete without highlighting the local cuisine of a destination. Mindoro has many delectable dishes to offer, including:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Tamaraw: A buffalo native to Mindoro, its meat is lean & low in cholesterol. It’s served in many Philippine restaurants in various ways, and is a must-try on the island.
  • Adobo: A classic Filipio dish of meats like pork, chicken, or beef that is marinated in a mixture of vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, and other spices before being slow-cooked to tender perfection.
  • Sweet Treats: Try a local delicacy like Mindoro’s famous “tuba” or coconut liquor, or bibingkang kanin sa palayok, which is rice cake baked in a clay pot.

Local Beverages

  • Mindoro Sling: A tropical fruit cocktail with gin, lime, pineapple juice, and grenadine syrup, this drink is the perfect accompaniment to a day in the sun.
  • Tuba: As mentioned, a traditional coconut liquor native to Mindoro.

Where to Stay in Mindoro: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Accommodation options range from budget-friendly hostels to luxury resorts in Mindoro. Some recommended choices include:

  • Tamaraw Beach Resort: Located in Puerto Galera, this beachfront resort has an outdoor pool, spa, and restaurant.
  • Sunny Beach Resort: Found in San Juan, this beachfront guesthouse offers a relaxing getaway with a restaurant and stunning sea views.
  • The Manor at Puerto Galera: This premium resort in Puerto Galera boasts luxury amenities, including a pool, spa, fitness center, and on-site restaurant.

What to Buy in Mindoro: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Mindoro is home to many unique and locally-made products, including:

  • Mangyan crafts: Handmade items like baskets, jewelry, and pottery crafted by indigenous Mangyan tribes make for great souvenirs.
  • Agriculture Products: Mindoro produces a variety of crops, including coconuts, tamarind, rice, and banana chips making these products the perfect edible souvenir.
  • Tamaraw handicrafts: Tamaraw beef is not the only thing you want to remember during your stay. There are many crafts made primarily of this unique material that make for a great souvenir such as lamps, figurines, and desktop decoratives.

Local Culture and Customs of Mindoro

Visitors to Mindoro should respect local culture customs and traditions. Here are some customs and expectations to keep in mind while visiting:

  • Modesty in dress: As a generally conservative and traditional section of the Philippines, it is best to dress modestly when visiting towns and villages in Mindoro.
  • Respect for indigenous communities: The island is home to several indigenous Mangyan communities, and travelers should always be respectful of their customs and traditions.
  • Environmental Responsibility: There are strict regulations and rules for environmental protection on several Mindoro beaches aimed at preserving the island’s natural beauty.

Best Time to Visit Mindoro

Mindoro’s tropical climate means that it can be visited year-round, though its peak season for tourism is from November to May where you can experience clear skies and perfect beach weather.

Do’s and Don’ts of Mindoro

Do:

  • Do greet the locals with “magandang araw” a common greeting in the Philippines.
  • Do explore the local markets and try the delicious foods and drinks.
  • Do respect local customs and cultural traditions.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage the environment, help preserve Mindoro by taking out what you bring in!
  • Don’t forget to pack sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat in order to enjoy outdoor activities more comfortably during a hot day.
  • Don’t hesitate to ask locals for recommendations on what to see or eat on the island.

Safety and Health

Safety in Mindoro

Mindoro is generally a safe place for travelers, but it is always best to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings and belongings. Here are a few tips:

  • Avoid carrying large amounts of cash in public places.
  • Always take licensed taxis or transportation and avoid traveling alone during dark hours.
  • Stay away from troubled areas especially from Prohibition Zones as these places are deemed unsafe.

Health in Mindoro

Visitors should ensure they have the necessary immunizations before visiting the Philippines. Mindoro’s hospitals and clinics are often located in provincial capitals, ensure you have travel insurance which covers emergency medical attention in case of any unexpected injuries or illnesses.

Getting to Mindoro: Transportation Options and Logistics

Mindoro is accessible by land, sea, and air. Here are some travel options:

Airports Near Mindoro

  • San Jose Airport is the primary airport of Occidental Mindoro
  • Lubang Airport
  • Tugdan Airport is the main airport in Oriental Mindoro.
  • Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Manila also provides access to the island via domestic flights.

Bus Stations Near Mindoro

  • Bus lines like JAM Transit operate from major Philippine provinces to Mindoro
  • RoRo Bus, Dimple Star and Philtranco offer buses from Manila with arrival points in Mindoro.

Other Options

  • Batangas Port and the nearby Balbangan Terminal offer several ferry services to Puerto Galera and other destinations in Mindoro.
  • Private chartered boats can also be rented by travellers.

How to Get Around in Mindoro

Jeepneys and tricycles are the most common mode of transportation in Mindoro. However, if you’re looking for convenient and comfortable travel, hiring a car or renting a motorbike are also available options.

Where to Go Next from Mindoro: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

After exploring Mindoro, there are several nearby destinations worth visiting:

  • Boracay: Known for its powdery white sand beaches and crystal clear waters, Boracay is a must-visit spot for sun-seekers.
  • Palawan: Another Philippine gem, Palawan has been recognized as the world’s top island by Travel and Leisure magazine. Found in this lush paradise is endless activities to relish, from island hopping in the calm ocean to exploring its landmark sites such as the Puerto Princesa Underground River.
  • Romblon: Known for its marble industry from which it gets the nickname Marble Capital of the Philippines. tourists can visit the historic churches and forts while enjoying the crystal-clear beaches around Romblon islands.

Conclusion

Mindoro is an island paradise; perfect for diving, hiking, soaking sun and immersing in cultural heritage. While there is much to see and do, visitors should respect local customs and enjoy all that the island has to offer. With this guide, you’re ready to plan your visit to Mindoro, and we’re confident it’ll be an experience that leaves you with a lifetime of memories.



    Baco
    Lubang
    Puerto Galera
    Roxas
    Sabang
    San Jose
    San Teodoro
    White Beach