Touring Boracay on Eco-Friendly Wheels

Biking on Boracay is the perfect choice for connecting with nature on the beautiful island.
Touring Boracay on Eco-Friendly Wheels

Biking, an effective cardiovascular workout, is the perfect choice for connecting with nature on the beautiful island resort of Boracay.

Many tourists who want to explore the inland rent the cheaper bicycles available at the beaches in order to tour the entire island at their own pace. The solitude in being on a two-wheeled vehicle and the ability to enjoy untamed sites is an attractive option for tourists to choose biking over taking bancas (boats) around the island. If you want to witness more than what the average visitors typically see at the fringing beaches, then allot a thousand pesos or so for a day of leisurely Boracay exploration.

Why go biking in Boracay?

Aside from the obvious health benefits, biking is a passive way of helping to preserve Boracay’s beauty. Leg power is the only commodity needed, so there is no carbon imprint. It is also a quiet activity perfect for soul-searchers who want to be alone with nature for the most part of their vacation.  The greatest advantage of biking is the fact that you can cover more uncharted areas not seen by tourists concentrated on the beaches and their activities.

Where can you rent bicycles in Boracay?

Bike rental establishments can be found at the D’Mall complex on White Beach. Some are also located at the other beaches. Ask the locals for locations and haggle for the price to save, especially if you are a group. Staff at Boracay resorts are also a good source of information regarding bike rental shops. The average rental cost for bikes is 100 pesos per hour; discounts can be given for longer hours. Since some tracks on the island can be challenging, ask for a bike that can tackle difficult terrains.

What is biking in Boracay like?

Biking is a great Boracay experience because it draws tourists to the “inside” of the island. During the summer months, droves of tourists ride in groups to take advantage of the clear skies. Before going, buy a map at the information centre since it will come handy in case you are riding alone and get lost. Asking around for directions shall come as a natural instinct.

Riding a bike is one of the safest activities in Boracay, and pedaling lets you focus on the experience and gives you some freedom. Choose the paved main road close to the beaches that is plied by motorbikes and tricycles, or veer off some side paths where the real exploration begins. Boracay has a vast network of dirt roads that lead to steep, narrow, and winding inclines and declines; some may even require pushing the bike up to go over peaks.

Here are some notable places of interest:

Mount Luho

Rising at 100 meters above sea level, Mount Luho can be reached in two ways. The easier path is by taking the road from Sitio Pinaungon, from which bikers can pass the amusement park and the golf course. For more experienced cyclists, they can ascend the steep, northward road from Bulabog, which offers a quieter experience. At the peak of Mount Luho lies a makeshift observation deck that allows tourists to capture a 360-degree panorama of the island. Leave your bike at the bottom of the stairs and pay the entrance fee.

Bat Caves

The northeastern tip of Boracay near Ilig-Iligan Beach holds another attraction that two-wheeled tourists can check out: the bat caves. The fruit bats, which can be found hanging upside down on cave ceilings or tree branches, are protected species on the island. Show respect to these endemic inhabitants of Boracay by not disturbing their sleep with unnecessary noise.

Puka Beach

Providing an alternative, laid back destination for tourists, Puka Beach on the north of the island lies on the trail of the bike ride. Bear witness to the quality of puka shells from which the beach is named and from which some locals get their livelihood. Stop for a while to enjoy the quiet, the peaceful lapping of the ocean to the shore, and the direct contrast to the crowded White Beach.

Forest

Secondary roads lead to the inner part of the island where the forest is located. Connect with nature by breathing the fresh air, taking in the chirping of birds, and listening to the gentle bristle of tree leaves. If lucky, you might spot a waran (monitor lizard) or a wild monkey in their natural habitat. Remember to be careful and follow your instinct for danger.