Guimaras is a small island province of the Philippines located in the Western Visayas region, between the islands of Panay and Negros. Nicknamed the “Mango Country,” Guimaras is known for producing delicious mangoes. So delicious in fact that up until earlier this year, the only mangoes from the Philippines that the United States allowed for import were from Guimaras.
But there is definitely more to this province aside from their delectable mangoes. From beautiful beaches to waterfalls to historical structures, Guimaras is easily one of the many underrated destinations in the Philippines.
There are two popular ways to explore what Guimaras has to offer, you rent a tricycle for the day or go island hopping. Guimaras has fixed rates when it comes to island day tours, renting a tricycle for the land tour costs ₱1,200 for an entire day. Island hopping costs ₱500 for the first hour and an additional ₱150 for every hour after. As with most tours, you can have the trip customized depending on your interests.
Guimaras Land Tour
Guisi Beach, Guimaras
Photo from The World Behind My Wall
Guisi Beach has everything a beach lover could wish for. Not only is it secluded, it also has fine sand good enough to lounge in. Plus it has a stunning view of the land and sea scape of Guimaras. Guisi Beach sits next to a cliff that offers an overlooking view of the island. There are also rock formations that line the beach. The raw appeal and seclusion of Guisi is the perfect place to either contemplate life or think about nothing at all.
Guisi Lighthouse, Guimaras
Photo by Eugene on Flickr
Guisi Lighthouse is one of the oldest lighthouses in the Philippines. The lighthouse was built in the 18th century to guide ships that pass through the Iloilo-Guimaras Strait. The old and creaky structure stands eerily over Guisi. Oddly enough, there is something romantic about structures in a ruinous state. Perhaps a sense of nostalgia as you imagine the structure in its former glory. Climb up the creaky stairs to get a breathtaking view of Guisi beach and the surrounding areas.
Sad-Sad Falls, Guimaras
Photo from The Backpacker
Sad-Sad Falls is another noteworthy destination in Guimaras. The waterfall towers high above the jungle and its plunging waters refresh the vegetation sitting at its feet. The strong current of Sad-Sad falls may not be ideal for weak swimmers, but you can just take the view in if swimming in brownish waters is not your thing.
Trappist Monastery, Guimaras
A Trappist monk | Photo from Iskong Gala
The Trappist Monastery was founded and run by the monks of the Cistercian Order of the Strict Observance. The monks in the monastery are guided by the principles of St. Benedict, regarded as the father of Western monasticism.
Practicing a life of both work and prayer, the monks earn a living by selling items such as jams, candies, jellies, and other souvenir items. The ingredients used for the products sold are all grown from the monastery grounds.
Guimaras Island Hopping Tour
Turtle Island, Guimaras
Photo by Stephen Bugno
Turtle Island got its moniker from the old turtle living on it. The island also has a good beach to lounge and swim in. The short stretch of brown, powdery sand is the perfect place to leave all your worries behind, and taking photos with the cute turtle will do that for you as well. If you are feeling a bit more adventurous, there is a small cave on Turtle Island you can explore.
Baras Beach, Guimaras
Photo by Marvin Trinidad
Baras Beach is on a cozy little island where you can relax and get a stunning view of the other islets along the sea. For adrenaline junkies, Baras Beach Resort has a cliff diving site where visitors can jump off a cliff and into the waters. Cliff diving is not recommended during the monsoon season (June – October) because of the strong waves that put cliff divers in danger of slamming into the jagged rocks near the site. There is a ₱15 entrance fee to stay on the beach.
Ave Maria Islet, Guimaras
Photo from Go, Miguel, Go!
Ave Maria Islet is a small beach right in front of Turtle Island. With its fine white sand beach and clear waters, it’s also a perfect place for beach bumming and enjoying the view. With no cottages or huts in sight, it’s easy to appreciate the island’s unspoiled beauty.
Natago Island, Guimaras
Photo by nuki2x on Flickr
Natago Island is a privately owned beach off the coast of mainland Guimaras. The beach has powdery sand and a mini sandbar that connects one small island to another. The island has stunning rock formations and azure waters perfect for a day out. Note that because it’s a privately owned island, the owner often does not allow visitors to stay long.
How To Get To Guimaras
There are flights from Manila (MNL) to Iloilo (ILO) that are approximately 1 hour long.
Once you arrive at Iloilo airport, ride a PUV Express van to SM City Iloilo mall for approximately 40 minutes. The fare for the van ride is ₱50.
Once you get to SM City Iloilo, ride a jeep bound for Ortiz Wharf for approximately 15 minutes; the fare costs ₱8 one-way.
Once at the wharf, look for a boat bound for Jordan, the capital of Guimaras, and pay the ₱13 fare one-way.
The trip to Jordan, Guimaras takes approximately 20 minutes one-way, depending on the weather.
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