Overview
San Jose del Monte (SJDM) is a sprawling resettlement city of 650,000 people in Bulacan province, founded in the 18th century but transformed in the 1980s when thousands of informal settlers from Metro Manila were relocated here. For backpackers, SJDM offers affordable access to natural attractions—Kaytitinga Falls, Mount Balagbag, and the Angat Watershed—plus Catholic pilgrimage sites, all within 30 km of Manila.
Budget Travel · Day Trips · Nature · Trekking
Before you go
Connectivity
Philippine mobile carriers (Globe, Smart) provide coverage throughout SJDM. WiFi available at malls and some resorts.
Money
As a Philippine city, cash and GCash mobile payments are common. ATMs available at malls and banks in poblacion areas.
Transport
Grotto Terminal is the central transport hub; jeepneys and tricycles are the primary modes. Budget extra travel time as destinations are spread across barangays.