Roxas Travel Guide (Mindoro/Luzon/Philippines/Southeast Asia/Asia)

Introduction to Roxas

Located in the southwestern part of Mindoro in the Philippines, Roxas is a charming town packed with stunning scenery, beautiful beaches, and fascinating cultural experiences. The town is named after President Manuel Roxas and is known as the rice granary of Mindoro. It’s a perfect destination for adventure lovers, nature enthusiasts, and anyone looking to immerse themselves in the local culture.

List of Places to Visit in Roxas

Here are the top places to visit in Roxas:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Roxas Museum: Housed inside a Spanish-era building, the Roxas Museum showcases the town’s rich heritage and culture, including artifacts from the pre-Spanish era, relics from the Spanish colonial period, and a gallery of local artists.
Sta. Cruz Parish Church: One of the oldest churches in Mindoro, the Sta. Cruz Parish Church is an excellent example of Spanish Baroque architecture. It has beautiful murals, a bell tower, and a magnificent altar.
Fort San Antonio Abad: Built-in 1740, Fort San Antonio Abad is a historical site that served as the town’s defense against pirate attacks in the past. It’s currently being renovated but still worth a visit.

Natural Attractions of Roxas: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Sablayan Zipline Adventure: Experience flying across the town’s lush and verdant forest with the Sablayan Zipline Adventure. It’s a great way to see panoramic views of Roxas and get your adrenaline pumping.
Mt. Baco National Park: For a nature escape, visit Mt. Baco National Park, a protected area in Mindoro with numerous waterfalls, rivers, and bird species. Hiking trails are available for adventurous visitors.
Pandan Island: A must-visit destination for beach lovers, Pandan Island has crystal clear waters, white sand beaches, and a thriving marine life, perfect for snorkeling, kayaking, and relaxing.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Roxas

If you love hiking or biking, Roxas offers several trails for you to explore. Here are some of the best:

Mt. Baco Traverse: A 4-day hike across Mt. Baco, Mt. Calavite, and Mt. Aruyan, the highest peak in Mindoro. This challenging hike rewards you with breathtaking views of the mountain ranges, forests, and seas.
Sablayan-Benli-Mangyan Trail: A great way to explore the town and experience the local culture, the Sablayan-Benli-Mangyan Trail is a community-based tourism initiative where you can hike through the rice terraces, forests, and Mangyan tribe villages.
Bike to Pandan Island: If you prefer biking, rent a bike and cycle your way to Pandan Island. The route passes quaint villages, scenic rice fields, and rugged coastline.

Best Things to Do in Roxas: Activities and Tours

Aside from hiking and biking, there are plenty of activities to do and tours to join in Roxas. Here are some of the best:

Island Hopping: Explore the nearby islands and beaches of Roxas with an island hopping tour. You’ll visit virgin beaches, secluded coves, and fascinating rock formations.
Diving and Snorkeling: Roxas has some of the best diving and snorkeling sites in the Philippines. The Coral Garden, Sabang Point, and Apo Reef are just some of the sites you can explore.
Mangrove Tour: Discover the town’s mangrove forests with a guided tour. You’ll learn about the importance of mangroves in the ecosystem and see some impressive flora and fauna.

Week-Long Itinerary for Roxas

Here’s a sample week-long itinerary for Roxas:

Day 1: Arrive in Roxas, visit the Roxas Museum, and explore the town’s plaza and eateries.
Day 2: Hike to Mt. Baco and see the stunning views of the mountain ranges.
Day 3: Island hopping tour to nearby beaches and islands, enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and observing the marine life.
Day 4: Take a mangrove tour, visit the local fishing villages and learn about the importance of the mangrove forests.
Day 5: Dive or snorkel in the Coral Garden, Sabang Point, and Apo Reef.
Day 6: Rest day, relax on the beach or go shopping for souvenirs in town.
Day 7: Depart from Roxas.

Food and Drink Scene of Roxas

Roxas offers a wide variety of local delicacies and refreshing drinks that you should try.

Must-Try Dishes

Sinigang na Maya-maya: A sour and savory soup made with fresh snapper fish, tamarind, and vegetables.
Adobo sa Gata: A coconut milk version of the classic Filipino adobo dish.
Kinilaw: A raw seafood salad made with vinegar, lime, and spices.

Local Beverages

Lambanog: A locally-distilled coconut wine, perfect for pairing with spicy dishes.
Barako Coffee: A strong and bold coffee, sourced from the Batangas region.

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

Here are some of the best accommodations in Roxas:

Sablayan Adventure Camp: A camping site that offers glamping, trekking, and nature tours. They have tents, treehouses, and hammocks for rent, making it an ideal choice for backpackers and adventure seekers.
Mayumi Tropical Island: A beachfront resort that offers a refreshing and relaxing retreat.
Sunflower Guest House: A budget-friendly guesthouse that offers cozy rooms, friendly staff, and a central location.

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

Here are some of the best souvenirs and local products you can bring home from Roxas:

Local Weaving Products: Mindoro is known for its traditional handloom weaving. You can buy colorful fabrics, bags, and baskets made from pandan leaves.
Nito Crafts: Nito is a type of vine that grows in Mindoro, and locals use it to craft bowls, trays, and other home decor.
Native Delicacies: Bring home some local delicacies such as cashew nuts, honey, and rice cakes.

Local Culture and Customs of Roxas

Roxas has a predominantly agricultural community with rice fields and coconut plantations. The town’s locals are warm, friendly, and religious, with a deep sense of respect for their heritage and traditions.

Best Time to Visit Roxas

The best time to visit Roxas is during the dry season from November to May, where you can enjoy the sun, the beach, and the outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Roxas

Here are some things to keep in mind during your visit to Roxas:

Do:

Respect the local culture and customs.
Try the local delicacies and drinks.
Bring sunscreen, insect repellent, and comfortable footwear.

Don’t:

Litter or pollute the beaches.
Enter Mangyan villages without permission.
Wear revealing clothing in public places.

Safety and Health

Safety in Roxas

Roxas is generally a safe place to visit, but still, it’s better to be cautious and aware of your surroundings. Be extra careful when hiking or swimming, and follow the instructions of your guide to avoid accidents.

Health in Roxas

It’s recommended to have travel insurance and visit your doctor for vaccination and medication before your trip to Roxas. The town’s hospital and clinic provide basic medical services, but for serious cases, it’s best to visit the nearest hospital in Calapan City.

Getting to Roxas: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Roxas

The nearest airport to Roxas is San Jose Airport in Occidental Mindoro, which has daily flights to Manila.

Bus Stations Near Roxas

From Manila, you can take a bus bound for San Jose, Occidental Mindoro, and drop off at Roxas town proper.

Other Options

You can also rent a car or motorbike from Manila and drive to Roxas. The journey will take approximately 5-7 hours.

How to Get Around in Roxas

The best way to get around Roxas is by tricycle, which is a motorcycle with a sidecar. Tricycles are readily available and can take you around town and nearby attractions.

Where to Go Next from Roxas: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some nearby destinations you can visit from Roxas:

Calapan City: The capital city of Oriental Mindoro, Calapan City has several historical sites, markets, and parks worth a visit.
Apo Reef: Located off the coast of Sablayan, Apo Reef is the second-largest coral reef system in the world and offers excellent diving and snorkeling opportunities.
Puerto Galera: A popular beach destination in Mindoro, Puerto Galera has numerous white sand beaches, resorts, and water sports activities.

Conclusion

Roxas is an underrated destination that offers a wealth of experiences for travelers. From hiking to beaches, local culture, and food, it’s a town that deserves more attention and appreciation. This guide should help you plan a fun and memorable trip to Roxas, Philippines.