Do I really need to inspect a rental scooter before riding?

Yes. Even if the rental provider has already checked the scooter, doing your own inspection takes less than ten minutes and protects you from being held responsible for pre-existing damage.

What should I do if I find damage on the scooter before I ride?

Point it out to the rental staff immediately, take photos, and ask for the damage to be noted in writing before signing any agreement.

Is it safe to ride a scooter in Siquijor as a beginner?

Many beginners ride in Siquijor without difficulty. The roads are generally quiet. You should be comfortable with basic scooter controls before renting.

Do I need a driver's license to rent a scooter in Siquijor?

Philippine law requires a valid driver's license. Foreign visitors should carry their home country license and an International Driving Permit (IDP).

What happens if the scooter breaks down during my rental?

Pull over safely, turn on hazard lights, and contact your rental provider immediately with your location.

How do I check if the scooter tires are safe?

Press your thumb firmly into the tire — it should feel firm. Check for visible tread grooves, and look for cuts, bulges, or embedded objects.

Is a helmet required when riding in Siquijor?

Yes. Helmet use is required by law in the Philippines under the Motorcycle Helmet Act.

What are the most common road hazards in Siquijor?

Common hazards include loose gravel or sand, dogs crossing roads, slow-moving tricycles, rain-slicked roads, and tight mountain curves.

Should I take photos of the scooter before I ride?

Yes, always. Photograph all four sides before leaving the rental location to protect yourself from being charged for pre-existing damage.

Where can I find fuel stations in Siquijor?

Fuel stations are available in Larena, Lazi, and San Juan. Fill up before heading to remote areas.

What are SiquiRide's terms and conditions for scooter rental?

Full rental terms and conditions are available on the SiquiRide Terms and Conditions page at siquiride.store/pages/terms-and-conditions.

How much does it cost to rent a scooter in Siquijor?

Daily rates for a standard automatic scooter in Siquijor typically range from ₱350 to ₱500 per day. Newer or larger models may cost ₱500 to ₱700 per day. Always confirm current rates directly with your rental provider.

Is a security deposit required to rent a scooter in Siquijor?

Yes. Most rental shops require a security deposit of ₱1,000 to ₱3,000 before releasing the scooter. The deposit is refunded when you return the scooter in the agreed condition.

Is fuel included in the scooter rental price?

No. Fuel is not included in the standard rental rate. Ongoing fuel costs are the renter's responsibility. Confirm the fuel return policy with your provider at pickup.

Do I need a driver's license to rent a scooter in Siquijor?

Philippine law requires a valid driver's license to operate a scooter. Foreign visitors should carry their home country license and an International Driving Permit (IDP).

Are scooter rentals cheaper during low season in Siquijor?

Daily rates don't change dramatically between seasons — usually ₱50 to ₱100 per day difference at most. The bigger advantage of low season is better availability and more flexibility on weekly or monthly rates.

What happens if the scooter breaks down during my rental?

Move to a safe location and contact your rental provider directly. Most shops will guide you through the next steps. Formal roadside assistance is not standard, so save your provider's contact number before you ride.

Is travel insurance included in a scooter rental in Siquijor?

No. Scooter rentals do not include personal travel insurance or medical coverage. Check whether your travel insurance policy covers motorized two-wheeler use before your trip.

How far in advance should I book a scooter rental in Siquijor?

During low season, walk-in rentals are generally easy to arrange. During peak season — particularly Holy Week, Christmas, and New Year — contact a provider before you arrive to confirm availability.

How much does it cost to rent a scooter in Siquijor?

Daily rates for a standard automatic scooter in Siquijor typically range from ₱350 to ₱500 per day. Newer or larger models may cost ₱500 to ₱700 per day. Always confirm current rates directly with your rental provider.

Is a security deposit required to rent a scooter in Siquijor?

Yes. Most rental shops require a security deposit of ₱1,000 to ₱3,000 before releasing the scooter. The deposit is refunded when you return the scooter in the agreed condition.

Is fuel included in the scooter rental price?

No. Fuel is not included in the standard rental rate. Ongoing fuel costs are the renter's responsibility. Confirm the fuel return policy with your provider at pickup.

Do I need a driver's license to rent a scooter in Siquijor?

Philippine law requires a valid driver's license to operate a scooter. Foreign visitors should carry their home country license and an International Driving Permit (IDP).

Are scooter rentals cheaper during low season in Siquijor?

Daily rates don't change dramatically between seasons — usually ₱50 to ₱100 per day difference at most. The bigger advantage of low season is better availability and more flexibility on weekly or monthly rates.

What happens if the scooter breaks down during my rental?

Move to a safe location and contact your rental provider directly. Most shops will guide you through the next steps. Formal roadside assistance is not standard, so save your provider's contact number before you ride.

Is travel insurance included in a scooter rental in Siquijor?

No. Scooter rentals do not include personal travel insurance or medical coverage. Check whether your travel insurance policy covers motorized two-wheeler use before your trip.

How far in advance should I book a scooter rental in Siquijor?

During low season, walk-in rentals are generally easy to arrange. During peak season — particularly Holy Week, Christmas, and New Year — contact a provider before you arrive to confirm availability.

How much does it cost to rent a scooter in Siquijor?

Daily rates for a standard automatic scooter in Siquijor typically range from ₱350 to ₱500 per day. Newer or larger models may cost ₱500 to ₱700 per day. Always confirm current rates directly with your rental provider.

Is a security deposit required to rent a scooter in Siquijor?

Yes. Most rental shops require a security deposit of ₱1,000 to ₱3,000 before releasing the scooter. The deposit is refunded when you return the scooter in the agreed condition.

Is fuel included in the scooter rental price?

No. Fuel is not included in the standard rental rate. Ongoing fuel costs are the renter's responsibility. Confirm the fuel return policy with your provider at pickup.

Do I need a driver's license to rent a scooter in Siquijor?

Philippine law requires a valid driver's license to operate a scooter. Foreign visitors should carry their home country license and an International Driving Permit (IDP).

Are scooter rentals cheaper during low season in Siquijor?

Daily rates don't change dramatically between seasons — usually ₱50 to ₱100 per day difference at most. The bigger advantage of low season is better availability and more flexibility on weekly or monthly rates.

What happens if the scooter breaks down during my rental?

Move to a safe location and contact your rental provider directly. Most shops will guide you through the next steps. Formal roadside assistance is not standard, so save your provider's contact number before you ride.

Is travel insurance included in a scooter rental in Siquijor?

No. Scooter rentals do not include personal travel insurance or medical coverage. Check whether your travel insurance policy covers motorized two-wheeler use before your trip.

How far in advance should I book a scooter rental in Siquijor?

During low season, walk-in rentals are generally easy to arrange. During peak season — particularly Holy Week, Christmas, and New Year — contact a provider before you arrive to confirm availability.

Are there fuel stations in Siquijor?

Yes. Fuel stations are available in Siquijor's main towns, including Larena, San Juan, and Lazi. Roadside bottle vendors also sell fuel by the liter in smaller areas between towns.

Will I run out of fuel riding around Siquijor?

Not if you start with a full tank and top up when passing through main towns. A standard 125cc scooter has enough range to cover the full island loop on a single tank under normal conditions.

What type of fuel do rental scooters use in Siquijor?

Most rental scooters in Siquijor run on regular unleaded gasoline — typically RON 91. Confirm with your rental provider before you ride. Never use diesel in a scooter engine.

How much does fuel cost in Siquijor?

Unleaded gasoline has typically been priced between ₱58 and ₱72 per liter in recent years. A full tank refill for a standard 125cc scooter generally costs between ₱250 and ₱360. Confirm current prices locally as rates change regularly.

Can I pay for fuel with a card or GCash in Siquijor?

Cash is the most reliable payment method. GCash may be accepted at some larger stations but is not guaranteed. Card payments are rarely available. Always carry enough pesos to cover at least one full refill.

How far can I ride on one tank in Siquijor?

A standard 125cc scooter with a 4–5 liter tank can typically cover between 140 and 225 kilometers on a full tank. The full island loop is approximately 72 kilometers — well within the range of a single tank for most riders.

What should I do if I run out of fuel in Siquijor?

Move to a safe location and look for a nearby sari-sari store selling fuel by the bottle. Ask a local 'May gasolina po ba dito?' Contact your rental provider for guidance on the nearest fuel source.

How much should I budget for fuel per day in Siquijor?

A daily fuel budget of ₱200 to ₱400 covers most riding scenarios in Siquijor comfortably. Most travelers spend less than this, particularly if they're not completing the full island loop.

Where is Secret Beach Siquijor located?

Secret Beach is located in Barangay Liloan, municipality of Maria, on the eastern side of Siquijor Island, Philippines. It is also known as Bacong Beach or Kagusuan Beach.

How much is the entrance fee at Secret Beach Siquijor?

The environmental fee is ₱50 for local visitors and ₱100 for foreign visitors. Residents are exempted. Parking fees are separate: ₱20 for scooters, ₱40 for tricycles/tuktuks, and ₱50 for cars. Fees may change — confirm at the entrance.

How do I get to Secret Beach Siquijor?

Follow the circumferential road to the municipality of Maria, then proceed to Barangay Liloan. From San Juan, the drive is approximately 45–60 minutes by scooter. From Siquijor Town, allow 35–50 minutes.

Can I visit Secret Beach by scooter?

Yes — a scooter is the recommended way to visit Secret Beach. It gives you the flexibility to combine the destination with other eastern Siquijor stops like Salagdoong Beach and Cambugahay Falls in a single day.

Is Secret Beach Siquijor safe for swimming?

Swimming conditions depend on tide and weather. On calm days, the water near the rocks can be clear and swimmable. On days with strong swell, swimming is not advisable. Always assess conditions on arrival.

How much is the drone shot at Secret Beach?

The drone shot costs ₱300. A drone operator is typically present at the site. Arriving before 9 AM reduces your waiting time.

What is the best time to visit Secret Beach Siquijor?

The best time to visit is between 7:00 AM and 9:30 AM. Morning light is ideal for photography, crowds are smaller, and the drone queue is shorter.

Are there facilities at Secret Beach Siquijor?

Secret Beach is a natural destination with minimal facilities. There is a parking area and an entrance fee collection point. There are no beach resorts, restaurants, or vendor stalls on-site. Bring everything you need before arriving.

Explore with SiquiRide

Everything You Need to Plan Your Adventure

Practical travel guides, local tips, transportation information, places to stay, things to do, and useful tools to help you travel with confidence.

Old Enchanted Balete Tree Siquijor (2026 Visitor Guide)

The Old Balete Tree is one of Siquijor's most iconic stops — a 400-year-old tree with a spring-fed fish spa beneath its roots, right on the island loop road. It takes 15–30 minutes, costs almost nothing and is one of those places that stays with you long after you leave the island. Visit before 10 AM for the best experience.

Quick Answer

The Old Balete Tree is a 400-year-old landmark in Lazi, Siquijor — free to enter, with a small fish spa fee. It's a 15–30 minute stop on the island loop, best visited early morning before tour groups arrive. The fish spa beneath the roots is the main experience.

Location	Lazi, Siquijor
Entrance fee	Free; fish spa ₱20–₱100 (verify on arrival)
Best time to visit	8:00–10:00 AM
Time needed	15–30 minutes
On the island loop?	Yes — directly on the coastal road in Lazi

Who This Guide Is For

This guide is for independent travelers visiting the Old Balete Tree — whether you're fitting it into an island loop day, curious about the fish spa, or looking for honest advice on what to expect. If you want practical, local-tested information without the mystical hype, this is the guide for you.

Visitor Information

Information	Details
📍 Location	Lazi, Siquijor (on the coastal circumferential road)
⏱ Recommended Visit Time	15–30 minutes
💰 Entrance Fee	Free to enter; fish spa ₱20–₱100 (verify on arrival)
🚻 Facilities	Parking, souvenir stalls, snack vendors, restrooms
📸 Best Time to Visit	Early morning (8:00–10:00 AM) or late afternoon (3:00–5:00 PM)
🛵 Distance from San Juan	~25–30 minutes by scooter heading east

What Makes the Old Balete Tree Special?

The tree's massive trunk and sprawling aerial roots create an impressive natural landmark that has stood for generations. Fed by a natural spring, the clear water flowing beneath the tree supplies the famous outdoor fish spa, where visitors can sit back and let tiny fish gently nibble away dead skin from their feet.

Although many stories connect balete trees with local legends, today's site is a welcoming community attraction enjoyed by both locals and travelers. It's a great opportunity to experience a piece of Siquijor's heritage while taking a short break from riding.

What to Expect

A towering centuries-old balete tree with impressive aerial roots and hanging vines
A spring-fed fish spa beneath the tree — the main experience for most visitors
Local souvenir shops selling handmade crafts and keepsakes
Small food stalls offering snacks and cold drinks
Shaded areas to relax before continuing your island adventure

Because the stop is located directly along the island's circumferential road, it's easy to include in any clockwise or counter-clockwise itinerary.

🛵 SiquiRide Field Notes — Old Balete Tree

FI-0001 — Visit Before 10 AM: The Old Balete Tree is a popular stop on organized island tours. By 10–10:30 AM, tour vans start arriving and the fish spa fills up. Get there early and you'll have the tree and the spring almost to yourself. The morning light through the roots is also the best for photos.

FI-0002 — The Fish Spa is the Main Event: Most visitors spend 10–15 minutes at the fish spa. It's genuinely relaxing and unlike anything else on the island. Bring small cash — fees are collected on-site and range from ₱20–₱100 depending on duration. Verify the current rate when you arrive.

FI-0003 — Don't Climb or Damage the Tree: The balete tree is a protected cultural landmark. Do not climb the roots or pull on the hanging vines. Respect the site — it's been here for 400 years and the local community takes pride in it.

FI-0004 — Combine with Lazi Church (5 Minutes Away): Lazi Church and Convent is a 5-minute ride from the Old Balete Tree. These two stops together take less than an hour and cover the most historically significant sites in Siquijor. Don't skip the church just because you're in a hurry.

FI-0005 — It's a Loop Stop, Not a Destination: The Old Balete Tree is best experienced as part of the island loop — not as a standalone trip. Combine it with Cambugahay Falls, Lazi Church and Salagdoong Beach for a full Lazi heritage and nature day. All four stops are within 20 minutes of each other.

Nearby Attractions

The Old Balete Tree is in Lazi — the richest single area on the island for combining heritage and nature stops. All within a short ride:

Cambugahay Falls — multi-tiered freshwater falls with rope swings; 5–10 minutes away
Lazi Church and Convent — one of the oldest and largest stone churches in the Philippines; 5 minutes away
Salagdoong Beach — cliff jumping and swimming; 15–20 minutes further east

See our Island Loop Guide for the complete route and timing.

Riding to the Old Balete Tree?

The Old Balete Tree is right on the coastal road in Lazi — a natural stop on the island loop. A scooter gives you the flexibility to arrive early, combine it with nearby stops, and continue the loop at your own pace.

Reserve Your Scooter → Compare scooter options & rates

Free delivery near Siquijor Port. Helmets included. Book a day ahead during peak season.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there an entrance fee for the Old Balete Tree?

The area is free to enter. The fish spa beneath the tree has a small fee — typically ₱20–₱100 depending on duration. Verify the current rate on arrival. Bring small cash.

How long should I spend at the Old Balete Tree?

Most visitors spend 15–30 minutes. If you plan to try the fish spa, allow 30–45 minutes total.

What is the best time to visit?

Early morning (8:00–10:00 AM) before tour groups arrive. The light is better for photos and the fish spa is less crowded.

Is the Old Balete Tree on the island loop?

Yes — it's located directly on the coastal circumferential road in Lazi, making it a natural stop on both clockwise and counter-clockwise routes.

What is the fish spa experience like?

You sit at the edge of a spring-fed pool and small fish nibble dead skin from your feet. It's gentle, relaxing and genuinely unique. Most visitors enjoy it. A small fee applies.

Can I combine the Old Balete Tree with other stops?

Yes — Cambugahay Falls, Lazi Church and Salagdoong Beach are all within 20 minutes. The Lazi area is the most attraction-dense part of the island loop.

Related Guides

Island Loop Guide: How to Ride Around Siquijor in One Day — the Old Balete Tree is a key stop on the clockwise route
Cambugahay Falls Siquijor (2026 Travel Guide) — a short ride away, best visited the same morning
Salagdoong Beach Siquijor (2026 Guide) — continue south after the tree for cliff jumping and swimming
Scooter Rental Prices in Siquijor — plan your transport for the island loop
3-Day Siquijor Itinerary — see how the Old Balete Tree fits into a full trip plan
Best Time to Visit Siquijor — seasonal conditions and when to plan your trip