How to get to San Jose

San Jose, located in the province of Occidental Mindoro, is a significant economic hub and a convenient starting point for exploring the picturesque corners of the Philippines. This city attracts travellers with its authentic atmosphere and serves as a key transport hub for those planning routes across the western part of the archipelago.

If you are deciding how to get to San Jose, various transport options are at your service, including regular flights and combined routes via buses and ferries. Before travelling to this city, it is worth studying the available logistics options in advance to choose the most comfortable mode of travel and begin your acquaintance with the region with pleasant impressions.

The fastest and most comfortable way to reach San Jose is by air. The city is served by its own airport (IATA code: SJI), which handles regular domestic flights. The main departure point for most travellers is Manila, from where direct flights are operated.

The flight time from the Philippine capital is usually about one hour, which allows for significant time savings compared to ferry crossings. The airport is located in immediate proximity to the city limits, so the transfer to the centre or your hotel using local transport, such as a tricycle, will take very little time.

It is impossible to reach the city of San Jose by train, as railway connections are completely absent in this part of the country. On the island of Mindoro, where the city is located, there are no railway tracks or stations.

The national railway network has a very limited geography and does not cover this region. When planning a route, travellers are advised to exclude this mode of transport and utilise domestic airlines or a combination of buses and ferries.

The bus network on Mindoro island is quite well-developed, connecting San Jose with key transport hubs and neighbouring provinces. Land transport remains a popular choice among tourists due to its affordability and the regularity of trips. For travellers arriving in the province of Occidental Mindoro by ferry, the main route involves a journey from the port of Abra de Ilog: covering a distance of about 170 kilometres by bus or minivan usually takes between 4 to 5 hours.

If you plan to travel from the administrative centre of the neighbouring province, Calapan City, you should expect a longer journey. The distance is approximately 235 kilometres, and travel time varies from 5 to 7 hours. Local buses are generally equipped with air conditioning, though the level of comfort may vary. When planning movement along Philippine roads, it is recommended to always allow a small buffer of time for possible delays and transfers.

Travelling by car to San Jose is an excellent opportunity to view the changing landscapes of Mindoro island. The most popular internal route leads from Calapan City: a road stretching over 200 kilometres usually takes about 4.5–5 hours. The highway passes through picturesque areas; however, drivers should remain vigilant due to potential winding roads and busy local traffic.

For those planning to arrive by car from neighbouring islands, for example, from Caticlan or Luzon, the logistics will be more complex. Since the Philippines is an archipelago, the trip inevitably includes the use of RORO (Roll-on/Roll-off) ferries, allowing vehicles to be transported by sea. This makes the journey exciting but significantly increases travel time, requiring careful coordination with the schedules of cargo-passenger vessels.

Finding a taxi or hiring a car with a driver in the country is quite simple, but meters are practically not used for intercity trips. The cost of the service must be agreed upon in advance, and the final price often depends on your negotiation skills. For comfortably covering long distances, travellers often book private minivans, which offer more amenities than standard taxis.

Thorough preparation for your trip to San Jose will make your journey through the Philippines much more comfortable and safe. We have compiled a list of useful recommendations that will help you avoid common mistakes and get the most enjoyment out of your stay in the province of Occidental Mindoro.

1. Clothing and Essentials. The city has a tropical climate, so opt for light, modest clothing made from natural fabrics such as cotton or linen. Be sure to bring sunglasses, a hat, and high SPF sunscreen. If your trip falls during the rainy season (June to November), a light raincoat or a sturdy umbrella will be indispensable companions.
2. Transport. The main means of transport around the city are tricycles—motorcycles with a sidecar. This is a cheap and colourful way to get to your destination. For short trips around the centre, fares are usually fixed, but if you plan to go outside the city or hire transport for several hours, the price should be agreed with the driver beforehand.
3. Finances. The official currency is the Philippine Peso (PHP). Although there are ATMs and banks in San Jose, small shops, markets, and transport operators only accept cash. It is recommended to always carry a supply of small denominations, as vendors may not have change for large banknotes.
4. Health and Safety. It is strongly advised not to drink tap water; buy only bottled water for drinking and brushing your teeth. You should also take care of protection against insects: use repellents, especially in the evening, to avoid mosquito bites which can carry tropical fevers.
5. Communication. Filipinos speak excellent English, as it is one of the official languages of the country. You will easily be able to make yourself understood in a hotel, restaurant, or shop. However, locals greatly appreciate it when tourists know a couple of words in Tagalog, for example, "Salamat" (thank you)—this always brings a smile.
6. Local Etiquette. The local residents are very friendly and hospitable. Here, it is not customary to raise one's voice or show aggression in public—this is considered a loss of face. A smile and polite address will help solve any problem much faster than a demanding tone.
7. What to Avoid. Try not to openly display expensive gadgets and jewellery on busy streets or markets. Although the city is generally safe, basic caution is advisable. Also, avoid discussing religious or political topics if you are not sufficiently well-acquainted with your interlocutor.
8. Additional Tip. San Jose is often used as a transit point for trips to Apo Reef—one of the best diving spots in the world. If you have time, definitely plan an excursion there, but book the boat and equipment in advance through verified operators in the city.

Following these simple rules will help you quickly adapt to the local rhythm of life. San Jose is a city that opens up to those who show respect for its traditions and are ready for small adventures.