Guimaras Travel Guide: 2-Day Itinerary, How to Get There, Best Time to Visit

After a full, joy-packed birthday weekend in Iloilo City, we thought about why not continue the celebration? Just a short hop away is the island of Guimaras, a serene escape that balances beaches, mango treats, and slow island life.

We spent two days there, enjoying sun, sea, and scenic drives with the family. Guimaras quietly surprises you—the kind of place that feels like a secret celebration tucked just off the mainland.

Guimaras is famously known as the Mango Capital of the Philippines. Its sweet carabao mangoes are considered among the best in the world—so good that they’re exported internationally. But beyond mangoes, Guimaras is also loved for:

• Rolling hills and scenic coastal roads
• White-sand beaches and calm waters
• Wind farms and panoramic viewpoints
• Simple island life that feels unhurried and welcoming

It’s an island that caters especially well to local tourists, which keeps prices affordable and experiences refreshingly authentic.

How to Get to Guimaras from Iloilo

Getting to Guimaras from Iloilo is straightforward.

• From Iloilo City Proper or Iloilo Business Park, we headed to Parola Port, conveniently located behind SM City Iloilo. Travel time: ~10–15 minutes by car or taxi.
• From Parola Port, passenger boats sail regularly to Jordan Wharf, Guimaras. The ride takes just 15 minutes, making it easy to combine with an Iloilo trip.

Typical one-way fares:

• Local pump boat / bangka: ~₱14 – ₱40 per person (daytime) (common option)
• RORO ferry (FF Cruz Shipping): ~₱35 per person (scheduled service)
• Montenegro Shipping Lines: ~₱50 per person (scheduled service)
  (Prices vary slightly by operator and time of day — bring small cash.)

⏱️ Ride time: ~15–20 minutes between ports.

💡 Return tickets cost the same range.

Once on the island, you can explore via:

1. Pre-arranged tour: Convenient if you like everything planned.
2. DIY tricycle tour (what we did!): Affordable, flexible, and perfect for families. Local drivers know the best spots and can customize the route depending on your pace.

Typical DIY tricycle day tour costs:

• ₱1,200 – ₱1,800 per tricycle/day — good for small groups (up to ~4–5 pax) and covers key spots like:
  • Guisi Lighthouse & Ruins
  • Trappist Monastery
  • Wind Farm / scenic viewpoints
  • Mango plantation stops
  • Beaches like Alubihod/Raymens
  (Exact route and stops depend on your preferences and how much time you want at each spot.)

Budget tip: If you’re just heading to a single destination or your hotel/resort instead of a full island tour (e.g., to Nueva Valencia), drivers may charge lower one-way rates (e.g., ~₱250–₱400).

Top Attractions in Guimaras

We managed to cover most highlights in one full day, plus a relaxed beach day on the second day. Here’s what made our trip special:

Alubihod Beach (Island Hopping Jump-off)

A calm, white-sand beach lined with small resorts—perfect for a morning swim or pre-tour relaxation. The waters are generally calm, ideal for families or snorkeling.

Guisi Lighthouse (Historic Landmark)

The lighthouse is partially in ruins, but that’s part of its charm. Perched on a cliff, it offers sweeping sea views. It’s a quiet, photogenic spot where we paused for a few minutes to take everything in simply.

Balaan Bukid (Sacred Mountain)

A spiritual hilltop revered by locals. We climbed for a mix of reflection and panoramic views. If you enjoy destinations that blend nature, faith, and culture, this is a must-visit.

Trappist Monastery

We stopped for a peaceful pause at the monastery, where the quiet chapel and its old bells added to the serene atmosphere. We also picked up local goodies like mango jam and mango bars from the monastery’s souvenir shop—a refreshing contrast to our full day of touring.

Fact: The old bells at the Trappist Monastery weren’t just for show. They historically called monks to prayer, meals, and moments of silence. Today, they serve as a quiet reminder of daily rhythm and reflection amid island life.

San Lorenzo Wind Farm

The iconic Guimaras windmills were next, standing tall against the island’s rolling hills and creating a striking, photogenic landscape. This wind farm harnesses the steady coastal winds to generate clean energy that helps power parts of Panay Island, making it not only a scenic stop but also an important contributor to the region’s renewable energy efforts.

The Forest Souvenir Stop

One of our favorite surprises was a small man-made forest area, where a kind, elderly vendor sells handmade keychains crafted from Sinukuan wood, known for naturally forming a cross in the center of the grain. Local accounts suggest this wood is traditionally harvested on specific occasions, like Good Friday, with the cross‑like pattern visible no matter how the piece is cut. It’s a simple but meaningful souvenir—and a lovely way to support a local livelihood.

The Smallest Plaza & Local Churches

We made a quick stop at the Smallest Plaza in Jordan Town and visited some quaint churches. Both stops added charm and cultural insight to our tour without taking much time.

Fact: The plaza in Jordan, Guimaras is known as the Smallest Plaza in the Philippines because it occupies a very small area — roughly the size of a small basketball court at around 200–300 square meters — and was once even recognized in the Guinness Book of World Records for being the smallest plaza in the world.

Pitstop Restaurant: Mango Pizza Experience

No Guimaras trip is complete without mango pizza—a sweet and savory surprise. Definitely a birthday-week treat worth trying at least once.

Day 2: Beach Time & Resort Stay

After a full day of touring, Day 2 was about slowing down. We stayed at a beachfront resort, swam in calm waters, and enjoyed the island atmosphere.

Many resorts cater to families and local travelers, offering:

• Clean beachfront rooms
• Simple food options or nearby eateries
• Calm waters ideal for swimming

Comfortable & Relaxing Stays

Guimaras Mangrove Guesthouse – A cozy guesthouse in Nueva Valencia, just a short drive from popular spots like Alubihod Beach and Guisi Lighthouse. It’s a simple and convenient base for families who want easy access to beaches and local attractions while enjoying relaxed island vibes.

Costa Aguada Island Resort, Inampulugan Island, Sibunag, Guimaras – A scenic island resort with beach access, relaxing surroundings, and plenty of space to unwind. It’s ideal for families looking to pair beach fun with tranquil views and a slower pace out on the water.

Action: Packing & Prep for Guimaras

Essentials we brought:

• Comfortable clothes & breathable outfits
• Slippers or sandals
• Sunscreen & hat
• Reusable water bottle
• Small backpack or sling bag
• Cash (ATMs are limited)

Optional but useful:

• Dry bag for island hopping or beach days
• Power bank

Best Time to Visit

• The best time to visit Guimaras is during the dry season, from November to May. March to May is especially popular for beach trips.
• If you want fewer crowds and better deals, consider:
• Weekdays
• Months just before or after summer peak
• The Manggahan Festival (usually in May) is also a great time to visit if you enjoy cultural events and mango-themed celebrations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is Guimaras senior-friendly?
Yes. Many attractions are accessible by road, and tricycle tours allow flexible pacing. Seniors may just need assistance on uneven paths or viewpoints.

Is Guimaras kid-friendly?
Absolutely. The short boat ride, calm beaches, and relaxed touring pace make Guimaras suitable for children.

Can you tour Guimaras in one day?
Yes. A full-day tour is enough to see major attractions, but staying overnight lets you enjoy the beaches without rushing.

Is Guimaras budget-friendly?
Very much so. Transportation, food, and tours are affordable, especially for local travelers.

Guimaras proves that you don’t need a long vacation to enjoy a meaningful island escape. Spending my birthday there with my family made the experience even more memorable, with scenic landscapes, mango treats, and the warmth of local life making it truly special.

Spending my birthday week in Iloilo and Guimaras was unforgettable. After the city’s history, food, and river walks, Guimaras offered a peaceful island escape: sweet mangoes, scenic views, and authentic local life.

It’s a destination that quietly celebrates simple joys—perfect for families, couples, or anyone looking for a meaningful getaway near Iloilo.