Backpacking in Guimaras (9 Stunning Tourist Spots)

The Province of Guimaras will definitely be brought up on the topic when we talk about mangoes because they are said to have the “Sweetest Mango in the Philippines.” With that, their local delicacies, with mango, are just mouth-watering. Aside from that, the residents must be proud of their breathtaking and stunning tourist destinations, such as beaches, historical sites, and other activities. They also have the Manggahan Festival, an annual festivity to thank them for their bountiful mango harvest. It is a small island province that can be visited for the whole day, but it can offer a lot to visitors.

Alubihod Beach - Things You Need To Know

After the Trappist Monastery, we headed to Alubihod Beach in Nueva Valencia. Travelling to this gorgeous beach via a habal is easy because the roads are all concrete. I was welcomed by the courteous staff of Raymen Beach Resort. Settled the entrance fee and walked to the beach area. The shoreline is pretty in its own way. The picturesque is Instagram-worthy because of the rock formation highlighted by the creamy white sand with corals and pebbles. The ambience by the beach is relaxing because the sea breeze is cool.

Guisi Lighthouse - Things You Need To Know

Touching the walls of Guisi Lighthouse or Faro de Punta Luzaran is the most exciting part of my backpacking in Guimaras. It is the second oldest lighthouse in the Philippines, lit up for the first time in 1894. This structure was erected in the 18th century to guide the mariners passing by the waters of Iloilo and Guimaras. Its structure is made of metal from France, tisa from Portugal, and cement from England. Based on the ruins, the floor plan is similar to Burgos Lighthouse in Ilocos Norte and the Cape Engaño Lighthouse in Palaui Island. Today, the thick walls are covered with mosses and plants, and the rusty metal lighthouse remains erect. The ambiance in the area is relaxing because of the cool sea breeze. 

GUIMARAS TOURIST SPOTS: The Smallest Plaza - a 2021 travel guide

The Smallest Plaza in the Philippines is located in Guimaras, the first tourist destination we visited. It was also the former Guinness Book of World Records holder of the same title. From the port of Guimaras, it's 15 to 20 minutes habal ride. The plaza is around 200 to 300 square meters area with the Philippine National Hero Dr. Jose Rizal in the middle, and right beside the highway and residents houses. According to Kuya Ken, my habal driver/tour guide, during their annual fiesta, all the attendees are being fit into this small plaza. This means that this tiny plaza also witnessed most of the gigantic historical events in the province.

Manggahan Festival, stunning costume and performance

Guimaras is one of the small island provinces in the Philippines, but with a huge and vibrant culture, breathtaking tourist attractions, and world-class mangoes. Having said that, the province created the Manggahan Festival every May to showcase their gift. In this presentation, Binagtong, which means anything that is wrapped by a katsa or patadyong, will be featured to show its usefulness as an accessory to export mangoes and other products by using this piece of cloth in the hands, shoulder or head. To be included in the presentation are the unique and exciting countryside experiences for tourists – from agri eco-adventure parks to bike circuits, historical sites, religious events, and other cultural activities. Info from Aliwan Fiesta Website.

San Lorenzo Wind Farm (Guimaras Windmills)

My last destination was Guimaras Windfarm, with 27 gigantic wind turbines that harness electricity from the wind. The sea surrounds the island, so it’s a perfect location for renewable energy because of its breeze. According to Kuya Ken, the harnessed energy is transported to Ilo-Ilo City via cables submerged in the water. There’s a registration, but no entrance fee. We also discussed the proposed bridge connecting Guimaras to Iloilo; however, it was rejected because it could damage living underwater creatures. By the way, Bangui Windmills is the most prominent wind farm in the Philippines, and it has attracted a lot of tourists to Ilocos Norte. Just recently, I featured the Pililla Windfarm in Rizal. READ: SOLO-BACKPACKING IN CAPIZ, ANTIQUE, GUIMARAS, ILO-ILO

My Solo-Backpacking in Capiz, Antique, Guimaras, and Ilo-Ilo

Day 1 - Itinerary: Manila to Roxas Airport:

• I rode in a tricycle from Roxas Airport to my first destination - Panay Church. Travel Time: 23 minutes. Fare: 200 pesos. ETA: 7:30 AM.
• Upon arrival, I easily felt the cool and fresh air blowing.
• I also noticed an event banner hanging by the side of the church; thus, with respect, I did not check the entire part of the Panay Church, including the largest bell on top. However, I stayed in the area for an hour and thirty minutes.
• Had my breakfast at 7-11, in front of the church, while starring on its gorgeous facade.