Discovering another famous island in the Philippines Isla Gigantes is one of the tourist destinations that really captures the eyes of not just foreigners but also locals. It’s just like paradise that you want to stay even if there is no internet connection or even electricity. Well, it’s not just one island that you will discover when you visit the region/province. See it below.
This is not my first time in Iloilo City, but it is my first time exploring the famous island. The people that you travel with also add to the wonderful experience during this trip. It was a long-planned trip organized by Tropang Lakwatsero (a social media group that shares a common interest in travel).
It was also my first time to meet and greet those travelers who came from different places in the Philippines. As I used to be a solo traveller, there’s a shyness when meeting them, but nothing to worry about as we are all there to enjoy.
On the first night, all of us met to have dinner at Emilion Japanese Restaurant and have time to get acquainted as all of them are new people to be part of my life story. It’s a Dutch treat during our dinner, and it was fun listening to their stories. Somehow, it inspired me to explore more around the Philippines.
I don’t know what the name of the food is, but what I only know is that all of these are delicious. I was also surprised that there was no service charge and that they didn’t accept tips either. This restaurant is recommended. You can check it out when you visit Iloilo City.
After the sumptuous dinner, we took time to relax a bit and freshen up before we hit the dance floor. The trip wouldn’t be complete without the party. You may check out several clubs and bars in Iloilo City, but for us, we went to MO2 bar/club. It’s the night before we depart for Isla Gigantes, so drink moderately.
Then the first day and night ended with fun and enjoyment. I went back to the hotel with a smile to Grand Tower Suites and then to the Ongbun Pension House.
On the next day, departing to Carles from Iloilo City will take around 3 hours of van travel. Since we had partied the previous night, the call time of 5:00 AM turned to 6:00 AM.
Time is so precious when travelling, so there is nothing to worry about if you were drunk from last night’s party. Just take advantage of sleeping when you are travelling to your next destination, especially if it is a long drive.
We departed from Iloilo City at exactly 6:00 AM and we arrived in Carlisle, Iloilo at 9:00 AM. Our boat to use for the tour to Isla Gigantes was not yet ready upon our arrival, so we took time to have our breakfast.
We have a member that is from Iloilo, which is a good thing for us because he knows what/how/where to go on our trip. We hired a van since we were a big group. For commuters or DIY travelers, you can take a bus or van from Iloilo City North Terminal to Carles. Just let the driver know that you are heading to Isla Gigantes. Don’t be shy about asking questions and add some charm when you ask. If you are not able to get tour packages prior to your arrival, there is nothing to worry about since the tourism office can provide you when you are in Carles. Just hope and pray that the weather is good on your travel dates.
In our time, the ocean seemed to be angry as the waves were really huge. It somehow made our travel time stretch when we were in the middle of the ocean. It was scary but fun. Even though the waves were mad, it didn’t stop us from exploring the islands.
So we better decided to go to the resort (where we stay) to have our lunch first because of the big waves.
One of the important items on your checklist if you are a backpacker traveler is the accommodation where you will be staying during your trip. If you are on a tight budget, you need to consider and review everything on your list of beaches, resorts, and hotels. It’s a good thing our group is under a package including the island hopping, accommodation with meals, and transportation. MJ’s Beach Resort in Isla Gigantes is one of the recommended accommodation options on the island.
After our lunch, we freshened up and settled our things in our room. We continued our island hopping at 1:30 PM. Moments are precious, so don’t waste your time when you are on tour. Because of the strong wind and huge waves, we didn’t visit other islands because we were running out of time.
Aside from Walang Forever Island, which is the smallest and the first island that we visited, here are the other islands that you will truly be amazed at.
ANTONIA ISLAND
BANTIGUE ISLAND SANDBAR
CABUGAO ISLAND
It was a long day full of adventure and happiness during our island tour. Some took beautiful photos and some enjoyed swimming and the breeze of the ocean every time we arrived at each of the islands. For me, it was full of memorable experiences and moments that I will treasure for the rest of my life. The only difference between traveling alone and traveling with a group is the number of people, but the happiness will be there regardless of how you deal with it.
How to travel to Isla Gigantes?
The towns of Carlsbad and Estancia are the main jump-off points, which can be reached by land from all major transport hubs in Panay Island, including Iloilo, Roxas City, and Boracay. Travel time to Gigantes (via Carles) by land and ferry takes approximately 5–6 hours from Iloilo City, 3–4 hours from Roxas City, and 6-7 hours from Boracay/Caticlan.
Bancal Port in the town of Carles is the most convenient jump-off point and the fastest way to get to the Gigantes Islands. Passenger boats from both Carles and Estancia run once daily, leaving around noontime to Gigantes. Alternatively, tourists can also charter a boat to get to and around Gigantes from either seaport.
To travel between islands in Gigantes, you need to charter a boat since there are no options for commuting. The bigger islands, Gigantes Norte and Gigantes Sur, have narrow inland roads connecting different villages on the islands.
Through Iloilo International Airport.
From the Airport, you may:
- a. Take a Van to SM City Cebu
- b. Take a Taxi to Tagbak Terminal
If you choose option “a” above, then you may:
- a. take a jeepney bound to Leganes and drop to Tagbak Terminal
- b. take a taxi to Tagbak Terminal
From Tagbak Terminal, get a bus bound to Estancia. 4 Hours Travel Time. PHP 185-200
Take a tricycle from Estancia Ceres Terminal to Estancia Feeder Port.
Public Boat is available in the port going to Isla Gigantes
For Accommodation
Contact MJ’s Beach Inn via 09989816812 and look for Paul
For Island Hopping and Tour: Contact Gigantes island Tours and Services
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/Gigantesislandtour/
Website: www.gigantesisland.com
Contact Number: 09157595000
For Van Services (Iloilo City to Port/Vice Versa) : Contact Alog through 09103105624
One last thing, each meal in our accommodation is unlimited. Seafood is the most common meal that they will serve, so if you have allergies, please make sure to bring anti-allergy or you may request another kind of dish.