Aklan Travel Guide (Panay/Visayas/Philippines/Southeast Asia/Asia)

Introduction to Aklan

Aklan, located in the Panay Island of the Visayas region in the Philippines, is a popular tourist destination known for its stunning beaches, historic sites, and vibrant festivals. It is home to Boracay Island, one of the best and finest beach destinations in the world. Aklan is a province with a rich culture, history, and natural wonders that are worth experiencing. In this comprehensive tour guide, we will take you through the best places to visit, things to do, and food to eat in Aklan.

List of Places to Visit in Aklan

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Aklan has several cultural landmarks and museums that showcase the history and heritage of the province:

Bantayan Park and Pier - a historic park and pier in the town of New Washington where locals and visitors flock to enjoy a panoramic view of the Sibuyan Sea.
Museo It Akean - a museum located in Kalibo that showcases Aklan’s rich culture and history, featuring artifacts and artworks from the early settlers of the region.
Aklan Freedom Shrine - a historical monument located in Kalibo that celebrates the Aklanon’s contribution to the Philippine revolution and independence.
Bakhawan Eco-Park and Research Centre - a mangrove forest park in Kalibo, a perfect place to enjoy nature walks, river kayaking, and bird watching.

Natural Attractions of Aklan: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Aside from its culture and history, Aklan also boasts of natural attractions that are perfect for outdoor adventures and sightseeing:

Boracay Island - A famous island that is known for its powdery white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and an array of water sports and activities.
Jawili Falls - a series of cascading waterfalls in Malay, with crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming, picnics, and nature walks.
Nabaoy River - a scenic river located in Tangalan that offers stunning views of nature, perfect for kayaking, river trekking and bamboo rafting.
Aklan River - a river in the middle of Kalibo, with a beautiful scenery, ideal for rowing and fishing.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Aklan

Aklan is known for its scenic landscape that offers various biking and trekking routes. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes in Aklan:

Batasan Hills - a hiking trail that offers a stunning panoramic view of Boracay Island while hiking through lush greenery and scenic hills.
Mt. Madjaas - the highest peak in Antique that, although not in Aklan, offers breathtaking views during the ascent, a challenging and strenuous hiking experience.
Malumpati Cold Spring - a popular biking trail with views of rivers, valleys, and vegetable gardens. The Malumpati cycling tour is divided into two routes, each with a different difficulty level.

Best Things to Do in Aklan: Activities and Tours

Aklan is home to numerous fun and exciting activities that cater to everyone. Here are some of the best activities and tours to experience in Aklan:

Island hopping - explore the neighboring islands surrounding the province of Aklan.
Scuba diving and snorkeling - A world-class diving and snorkeling location, where you can discover the underwater beauty of Boracay Island.
Helmet diving - experience underwater underwater world by wearing a helmet.
Parasailing and kitesurfing - soar high and enjoy the amazing aerial views of Boracay Island.

Week-Long Itinerary for Aklan

Here is a week-long itinerary that covers the highlights of Aklan:

Day	Destination	Activity
Day 1	Kalibo	Visit Museo It Akean and Bantayan Park
Day 2	Tangalan and Ibajay	Bamboo rafting or kayaking and swimming
Day 3	Nabas and Malay	Trekking and exploring Jawili Falls
Day 4	Boracay Island	Island hopping
Day 5	Boracay Island	Scuba diving and snorkeling
Day 6	Boracay Island	Parasailing and kitesurfing
Day 7	Malumpati Cold Spring, Antique and Ibajay	Conquer Mt. Madjaas

Food and Drink Scene of Aklan

Must-Try Dishes

Aklanon cuisine is a fusion of Malay, Chinese, and Spanish influence that resulted in unique dishes that are both delicious and wholesome. Here are some of the must-try dishes in Aklan:

Nilarang na Managat- A sour and savory fish soup dish made with Managat or Seabass, tamarind, and different spices.
Inubarang Manok - A chicken dish cooked with coconut milk and ubod ng saging or banana pith, a common vegetable in the Philippines.
Tupig - A sweet, glutinous treat made from ground sticky rice, coconut milk, and brown sugar wrapped in a banana leaf before grilling on hot coals.

Local Beverages

Here are some of the local beverages that are worth trying in Aklan:

Lambanog - A traditional Filipino liquor made from fermented coconut sap and is widely popular among locals.
Calamansi Juice - Locally known as kalamansi, this citrusy juice is a refreshing thirst quencher and is often enjoyed with meals.
Barako Coffee - A rich and strong coffee from Batangas, a region in the Philippines, that is available in local cafes and restaurants.

Where to Stay in Aklan: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Aklan offers various options for accommodation, ranging from affordable guesthouses to luxurious hotels. Here are some of the best places to stay in Aklan:

Fairways and Bluewater Resort Golf and Country Club - a luxurious resort complex on Boracay Island, offering world-renowned golf courses, pools, and spas.
Savoy Hotel Boracay Newcoast - a high-end hotel located near Newcoast Beach, with access to a private beach, pools, and views of Sibuyan Sea.
Madison Avenue Beach Club Resort - a budget-friendly resort located in Malay, offering excellent value for money accommodation and facilities.

What to Buy in Aklan: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Here are some of the unique souvenirs and local products to bring home from Aklan:

Pina Fabric - a locally produced fabric made of pineapple fibers that are hand-woven into delicate and intricate designs.
Ati-Atihan Masks - a colorful and intricately-designed mask that is used in the Ati-Atihan Festival, one of the biggest and most colorful cultural events in the Philippines.
Lambanog - Aklan’s popular traditional drink, the perfect souvenir for adults.

Local Culture and Customs of Aklan

Aklanons celebrate their rich history, traditions, and culture through various festivals and tribal ceremonies. The Ati-Atihan festival, the Maskara festival, T’boli Craft Fair, and Halaran festival are only a few of the most celebrated cultural events in Aklan.

Best Time to Visit Aklan

The best time to visit Aklan is between October and June, where the weather is generally dry and sunny. This makes it the ideal season to visit the beaches, participate in outdoor activities, and experience the festivals and cultural celebrations.

Do’s and Don’ts of Aklan

Do:

Respect the local customs and traditions.
Wear modest clothing when visiting religious landmarks or cultural sites.
Take care of the environment by practicing proper waste disposal.

Don’t:

Bring disposable plastics and Styrofoam to the beaches.
Harm or disturb wildlife in any way.
Litter in public places.

Safety and Health

Safety in Aklan

Aklan is a relatively safe province to visit, but caution should be exercised when traveling, especially during night time. As always, practice common sense and be aware of your surroundings to avoid any untoward incidents.

Health in Aklan

Travelers are advised to have the necessary vaccinations before flying to Aklan. Visitors are also advised to drink bottled water and avoid street food to avoid any stomach discomfort.

Getting to Aklan: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Aklan

The only airport in Aklan is Kalibo International Airport, which is the main gateway to Boracay Island.

Bus Stations Near Aklan

Bus terminals are located in Kalibo, which is 2-3 hours away from the capital city of Iloilo.

Other Options

There are various transportation options available in Aklan, including private transfers, tricycles, and motorized boats.

How to Get Around in Aklan

Getting around in Aklan is easy and convenient. Tricycles, taxis, and rentable motorcycles are available in many cities and towns, while motorized boats are available for island hopping and beach exploration.

Where to Go Next from Aklan: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Aklan’s proximity to other provinces and regions in the Philippines offers endless possibilities for side trips and excursions. Here are some of the top nearby destinations:

Iloilo City - a nearby city known for its rich history, delicious cuisine, and vibrant festivals.
Antique - a nearby province famous for its pristine waterfalls, lush rainforests, and outdoor activities.
Guimaras - close to Iloilo, this beautiful island is known for its beaches and year-round tropical weather.

Conclusion

Aklan is a beautiful and culturally rich province that offers a unique and unforgettable experience to travelers. With its stunning beaches, majestic waterfalls, delicious cuisine, and rich cultural heritage, it’s no wonder why Aklan is a top destination in the Philippines. Visiting this enchanting province will surely leave you with lasting memories of your Philippine adventure.