Guimaras / Pilipinas
Guimaras
Guimaras: The Mango Capital of the Philippines
Guimaras is a tranquil island province in the Western Visayas, nestled between Panay and Negros islands. Known worldwide for producing some of the sweetest mangoes, Guimaras offers lush rolling hills, pristine white-sand beaches, and clear turquoise waters. Its landscape is dotted with mango orchards, coconut groves, and charming coastal villages, making it an idyllic escape from the bustle of nearby Iloilo City. The province is rich in both natural beauty and cultural heritage. From the historic Guisi Lighthouse perched on a windswept bluff to lively fiestas and religious celebrations, Guimaras radiates an authentic rural charm. Adventure seekers can explore hidden coves, mangrove forests, and marine sanctuaries, while food lovers indulge in fresh seafood and, of course, the island's famous mangoes.
Safety
Guimaras is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming local community. Usual travel precautions apply; take care when swimming or boating, and secure valuables in accommodations.
Visas
As part of the Philippines, Guimaras follows national visa policies. Many nationalities can enter visa-free for up to 30 days; check Philippine entry requirements for details.
Customs regulations
Respect for elders and religious customs is important; greet locals with a smile and use polite language. Dress modestly when visiting churches or rural areas, and always ask permission before photographing people.
Prices
Guimaras is a budget-friendly destination, with affordable homestays, resorts, and local eateries. Expect modest prices for food and transportation, though guided tours and island hopping may cost more.
People and nationalities
Home to around 180,000 residents, Guimaras' population is predominantly Hiligaynon-speaking, with deep-rooted Catholic traditions and a strong sense of community. Locals are friendly, often eager to share stories and their mango harvest.
Weather
Guimaras has a tropical climate, with warm temperatures year-round. The dry season runs from November to May and is the best time to visit, especially during the annual Mango Festival in May. June to October is the rainy season, with occasional typhoons.
Health
Basic clinics and pharmacies are available in Jordan and Buenavista, but major medical needs are best addressed in Iloilo City. Bring personal medications and sunblock, and drink bottled or filtered water.
Food
Mango Pizza
A unique local specialty, this pizza uses sweet Guimaras mangoes as a topping, blending them with cheese, onions, and sometimes ham on a thin, crispy crust.
Binakol
A comforting chicken soup cooked with coconut water, lemongrass, ginger, and vegetables, often served with rice and sometimes flavored with local mangoes.
Pancit Molo
A soup made with wonton-like dumplings filled with ground pork and shrimp, swimming in a savory chicken broth, reflecting Guimaras' proximity to Iloilo's culinary influences.
Fresh Mangoes
Renowned for their unparalleled sweetness, Guimaras mangoes are enjoyed fresh, often as dessert or snack, and are a must-try for any visitor.
Seafood Kinilaw
A ceviche-like dish featuring fresh fish or shrimp marinated in vinegar, lime, ginger, onions, and sometimes diced mango, highlighting the island's coastal bounty.
Transport
Passenger Boats/Ferries
Frequent boats connect Iloilo City’s Ortiz and Parola wharves to Guimaras’ Jordan and Buenavista ports, the main entry points to the island.
Jeepneys and Multicabs
Colorful jeepneys and small multicab vans serve as the main form of public transport around the island, connecting key towns and attractions.
Tricycles
Motorized tricycles are a popular, affordable option for short-distance travel around towns or to nearby beaches and resorts.
Motorbike and Bicycle Rental
Renting a motorbike or bicycle offers flexibility to explore Guimaras’ scenic roads, hidden beaches, and mango orchards at your own pace.
Regions
Abra
Province
Agusan del Norte
Province
Agusan del Sur
Province
Aklan
Province
Albay
Province
Antique
Province
Apayao
Province
Aurora
Province
Basilan
Province
Bataan
Province
Batanes
Province
Batangas
Province
Benguet
Province
Biliran
Province
Bohol
Province
Bukidnon
Province
Bulacan
Province
Cagayan
Province
Camarines Norte
Province
Camarines Sur
Province
Camiguin
Province
Capiz
Province
Catanduanes
Province
Cavite
Province
Cebu
Province
Cotabato
Province
Cotabato City
Davao de Oro
Province
Davao del Norte
Province
Davao del Sur
Province
Davao Occidental
Province
Davao Oriental
Province
Eastern Samar
Province
Guimaras
Province
Ifugao
Province
Ilocos Norte
Province
Ilocos Sur
Province
Iloilo
Province
Isabela
Province
Kalinga
Province
La Union
Province
Laguna
Province
Lanao del Norte
Province
Lanao del Sur
Province
Leyte
Province
Maguindanao
Province
Marinduque
Province
Masbate
Province
Mindoro Occidental
Province
Mindoro Oriental
Province
Misamis Occidental
Province
Misamis Oriental
Province
Mountain Province
Province
Negros Occidental
Province
Negros Oriental
Province
Northern Samar
Province
Nueva Ecija
Province
Nueva Vizcaya
Province
Palawan
Province
Pampanga
Province
Pangasinan
Province
Quezon
Province
Quirino
Province
Rizal
Province
Romblon
Province
Samar
Province
Sarangani
Province
Siquijor
Province
Sorsogon
Province
South Cotabato
Province
Southern Leyte
Province
Sultan Kudarat
Province
Sulu
Province
Surigao del Norte
Province
Surigao del Sur
Province
Tarlac
Province
Tawi-Tawi
Province
Zambales
Province
Zamboanga del Norte
Province
Zamboanga del Sur
Province
Zamboanga Sibugay
Province
What to visit?
History
Pre-colonial Austronesian settlers inhabit Guimaras, engaging in fishing, farming, and trade with neighboring islands.
Spanish missionaries arrive and establish the first Catholic missions, introducing Christianity to Guimaras.
Construction begins on the historic Guisi Lighthouse, which would later become a prominent heritage landmark.
Guimaras becomes a sub-province of Iloilo under American colonial administration.
Guimaras is officially granted full provincial status, separating from Iloilo.
The M/T Solar 1 oil spill occurs off the southern coast, causing significant environmental damage and sparking rehabilitation efforts.
Guimaras Mango Festival becomes an annual event, celebrating the island’s agricultural heritage and drawing tourists from across the Philippines.
Activities
Island Hopping
Explore the turquoise waters and hidden beaches of Isla Naburot, Ave Maria Islet, and SEAFDEC Fish Sanctuary on a guided boat tour.
Visit Guisi Lighthouse
Climb the ruins of the 18th-century Guisi Lighthouse for panoramic coastal views and a glimpse into the island’s Spanish colonial past.
Mango Plantation Tours
Walk among the famous mango orchards, learn about cultivation, and sample the world-renowned Guimaras mangoes fresh from the farm.
Biking and Eco-Tours
Cycle scenic rural roads, pass through mango groves, and visit nature parks and mangrove forests for wildlife spotting and birdwatching.
Alubihod Beach
Relax on the powdery white sands of Alubihod Beach, popular for swimming, kayaking, and enjoying fresh seafood at beachfront resorts.