There is no better way to kick off your summer than to travel to Mindoro. The province offers diverse experiences, from flowing waterfalls to challenging hikes, unique diving spots and peculiar caves. It is also home to some of the most family-friendly beaches and tourist spots, all within a single RoRo trip from Batangas and other nearby locations. Whether it’s your first time traveling there or not, it is important to stay updated with the latest information about Mindoro.

If you’re looking for a practical Mindoro travel guide, you’ve come to the right place. This article outlines key travel info, such as ferry travel routes, Batangas Port to Calapan RoRo fare, tourist spots to check out, and how to book a ferry ticket.

Your Hassle-Free Mindoro Travel Guide: Ferries, Transportation, and Tourist Spots

Best Time to Visit

The dry season from January to April is your best option for a Mindoro trip. You can enjoy island hopping activities, dive, swim, and snorkel to your heart’s content. Rain showers and typhoons are more common from late May to November, which can bring unpleasant weather conditions.

Mindoro Ferry Routes

If you’re traveling from Batangas or Panay Island, it’s easy to travel to Mindoro via ferry. The common ferry routes are listed below:

Serviceable by Starlite Ferries

• Batangas to Calapan, Oriental Mindoro
• Caticlan to Roxas, Oriental Mindoro
• Buruanga, Aklan to Roxas, Oriental Mindoro

Non-Serviceable by Starlite Ferries

• Batangas to Puerto Galera, Oriental Mindoro
• Batangas to Abra de Ilog, Occidental Mindoro

Ferry rates depend on the route and type of accommodation you choose. Starlite Ferries rates are as follows:

• Batangas Port to Calapan RoRo Fare: Php 660
• Caticlan Jetty Port to Roxas, Oriental Mindoro RoRo Fare: Php 1,300 – Php 1,550
• Port of Buruanga, Aklan to Roxas, Oriental Mindoro RoRo Fare: Php 690 – Php 920

How to Book Mindoro Trip Tickets

Via Accredited Ticketing Outlet

1. Visit any ticketing outlet accredited by Starlite Ferries. Prepare a valid photo ID, your payment, and passenger details.
2. Book your Mindoro trip at the window. You will receive a printed e-ticket voucher.
3. Arrive at the assigned port at least 3 hours before your departure time.
4. Claim your actual ticket with your e-ticket voucher and a valid photo ID.
5. Board the vessel at the designated pier.

Via Online Booking

1. Type in https://www.chelseatravel.ph/ in your web browser.
2. Select ‘Ferries’ as your travel type. Input your Origin, Destination, Travel Date, and Number of Passengers.

• OPTIONAL: Toggle “With Vehicle” on if traveling with rolling cargo. Input your vehicle details.

1. Select your Mindoro trip time and accommodation.
2. Input the passenger details and proceed to the payment portal.
3. Receive your e-ticket voucher via the email address you provided. Prepare a printed copy and valid photo ID for the port.
4. Arrive at the port at least 3 hours before departure. 
5. Present your documents at the port to claim your actual ticket and proceed to the boarding area.
6. Board the vessel at the designated pier.

Mindoro Transportation 

If you plan to commute around when you travel to Mindoro, you can ride tricycles, jeepneys, buses (traditional or modern), and vans. For instance, if you need to travel from Roxas to Calapan by land, you can take an air conditioned van. Be sure to prepare cash for your fare.

Where to Go: Popular Tourist Spots in Mindoro

No Mindoro trip is complete without visiting some of the best tourist destinations in the two provinces. Be sure to include the following in your itinerary.

Occidental Mindoro

• Mount Baco and Mount Halcon – Mountaineers and hikers will love the majestic views, challenging trails, and towering height of the two peaks of Mindoro. Non-hikers can still appreciate the view from the lowlands.
• Aryuan Falls – Get charmed by the gentle cascades of this waterfall in Sablayan. The water flows over a short height of rocks in the middle of the woods, which makes it the perfect photo-op location.
• Sablayan Parola Park – Experience a zipline over the sea and a short boat ride back to shore. The park also offers paved walking trails, a grotto, lighthouse, and towering greenery.
• Isla de Oro Lagoon Park – If you’re in Mamburao, visit this cultural and eco-park to enjoy a peaceful day by the lagoon. They also feature a dragon fruit garden, playground, and floating cottages.

Oriental Mindoro

• San Rafael Cave – Visit the largest cave in Oriental Mindoro, which has 10 chambers that take up to two hours to explore. See rock formations up close when you’re in the municipality of Roxas.
• 333 Steps – Climb 333 steps to reach the top of this quiet getaway in Naujan, and get rewarded with a stunning view overlooking the sea, stone church, and the little town of Melgar.
• Tamaraw Falls – It is the easiest waterfall to visit in Puerto Galera, conveniently located right next to the highway, where you can dip in the man-made pool or take scenic photos from the viewing platform.
• Bulusan Park – The lush park features a mini zoo, picnic and camping area, and circuit sports facilities, where Calapan residents and tourists spend memorable outdoor bonding. 

A noteworthy trip is one where you get to explore the island comfortably by yourself or with your loved ones. Bask in the unspoiled balance of the island’s natural landscape and rural escapes. Save this travel guide for when you book your well-deserved trip this season.

ALSO READ: Tourist Spots in Oriental Mindoro that You Should Not Miss

Starlite Ferries offers unmatched convenience when you travel to Mindoro. Our three routes from Batangas, Buruanga, and Caticlan are equipped with cozy accommodation, complete facilities, food and souvenir options, and entertainment, delivering a pleasant travel experience to all passengers. Check our updated RoRo schedule here and experience an easy and safe voyage.