Batan Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay in Batan, Aklan. Learn about its culture, customs, safety, and transportation options. Find out the must-try food and drinks and the best time to visit Batan!


Introduction to Batan

Batan is a charming island town located in the northern part of Panay in the Visayas region of the Philippines. It is known for its unspoiled beaches, unique culture, and rich history.

The town features several cultural and natural attractions that make it a popular destination for every type of traveler. Whether you are interested in history, outdoor adventures, or local cuisine, Batan has something to offer.

In this travel guide, we will take you through the must-visit places in Batan, the best things to do, the food and drink scene, where to stay, local culture and customs, and much more.

Here’s everything you need to know to plan a memorable trip to Batan!

List of Places to Visit in Batan

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Museo It Akean - This museum offers a comprehensive exhibit on the province’s history and culture, featuring collections of various artifacts, photographs, and artworks.
  2. Batan Freedom Shrine - A historic monument commemorating the freedom fighters of Batan, who fought for the liberation of their town from Spanish colonization.
  3. St. John Nepomucene Parish Church - This church dates back to the 17th century and is known for its unique architecture and intricate carvings.
  4. Marconi Point - A site where Italian inventor Guglielmo Marconi conducted the first radio transmission across the sea to Molo, Iloilo.

Natural Attractions of Batan: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Jawili Falls - A stunning waterfall surrounded by lush vegetation.
  2. Nabaoy River - A scenic river that is perfect for kayaking or rafting.
  3. Tangalan Beach - A beautiful stretch of beach that is perfect for a relaxing day trip.
  4. Hibok-Hibok Volcano - A majestic volcano that offers an exciting hiking experience.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Batan

Batan offers several scenic hiking and biking routes that provide stunning views of the island and its surroundings. Some of the popular routes include:

  1. Mt. Nausang Trail - A challenging 7-kilometer trail that takes you to one of the highest peaks in Batan.
  2. Batan Circumferential Road - A 32-kilometer road that offers a picturesque view of the coastline and green fields.
  3. Magsaysay Park to Numancia Eco-Tourism Park - A 6-kilometer trail that takes you through the dense vegetation and up to the mountains of Numancia.

Best Things to Do in Batan: Activities and Tours

  1. Island-Hopping - Explore the beautiful islands surrounding Batan, including Maniguin, Naranjo, and Malalison.
  2. Scuba Diving and Snorkeling - Discover the rich marine life and colorful corals in the azure waters around Batan.
  3. Trekking to Waterfalls - There are several waterfalls in Batan, including Jawili and Bugtong Bato Falls, that are perfect for trekking and swimming.
  4. Beach-Hopping - Batan features several stunning beaches, including Tangalan and Bayuyungan, that are perfect for sunbathing and swimming.

Week-Long Itinerary for Batan

Day 1: Visit Museo It Akean, Batan Freedom Shrine, and Marconi Point. Day 2: Go hiking to Mt. Nausang or explore the beaches of Tangalan. Day 3: Explore the islands around Batan on a breathtaking island-hopping tour. Day 4: Discover the beautiful waterfalls of Batan, such as Jawili Falls or Bugtong Bato Falls.
Day 5: Go scuba diving or snorkeling, and discover the rich marine life of Batan. Day 6: Trek through the Numancia mountains or go kayaking in Nabaoy River. Day 7: Spend a relaxing day on the beaches of Bayuyungan or Malalison.

Food and Drink Scene of Batan

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Buko Juice - Freshly-squeezed coconut juice that is both refreshing and healthy.
  2. Adobo - A classic Filipino dish made with meat (usually chicken or pork), soy sauce, vinegar, and garlic.
  3. Kare-Kare - A stew made with oxtail, eggplants, and peanut sauce.
  4. Inihaw na Pusit - Grilled squid stuffed with onions and tomatoes.

Local Beverages

  1. Tuba - An alcoholic drink made from fermented coconut sap.
  2. Lambanog - A clear, colorless spirit derived from the sap of unopened coconut flowers.
  3. Barako - A strong coffee brewed using Batangas-grown coffee beans.

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

  1. Phaidon Beach Resort Batan - A beautiful beachfront resort that offers comfortable rooms with stunning views.
  2. La Trinidad Pension House - Affordable guesthouse that offers clean and comfortable accommodations.
  3. Hijos Beach Resort - A tranquil resort located on a secluded beach that offers a range of room types and facilities.

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

  1. Piña Cloth - A handmade cloth made from the fibers of pineapple leaves.
  2. Baracoa Chocolate - A local delicacy made from cocoa beans grown in Batan.
  3. Tinikling Fans - Handmade fans made from bamboo that feature intricate designs.

Local Culture and Customs of Batan

Batan is a cultural melting pot and home to several ethnic groups, including the Aklanon and the Ati. The town celebrates several festivals throughout the year, including the Ati-Atihan Festival and the Binirayan Festival.

Visitors should always respect local customs and traditions, such as showing reverence in sacred places and avoiding public displays of affection.

Best Time to Visit Batan

The best time to visit Batan is from November to May when the weather is dry and sunny. However, expect to find higher prices and larger crowds during this period, especially during the peak season between December and February.

Do’s and Don’ts of Batan

Do:

  1. Respect local customs and traditions.
  2. Practice sustainable tourism and take care of the environment.
  3. Carry cash, as most places do not accept credit cards.

Don’t:

  1. Wear revealing clothing in public places or sacred sites.
  2. Take illegal drugs or engage in any illegal activity.
  3. Disrespect local beliefs, customs, and traditions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Batan

Batan is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, visitors should still take the usual safety precautions, such as keeping an eye on their belongings and avoiding unlit areas at night.

Health in Batan

It is advisable to drink bottled water and avoid street food to avoid contracting any stomach illnesses. It is also recommended to get vaccinated against typhoid, hepatitis A, and tetanus before traveling to Batan.

Getting to Batan: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Batan

The nearest airport to Batan is Kalibo International Airport, which is about 90 minutes away by bus or van.

Bus Stations Near Batan

Batan is accessible by bus from several major cities in the Philippines, including Manila and Iloilo. The main bus station in Batan is located in Kalibo.

Other Options

Visitors can also take a ferry from nearby islands like Boracay, Mindoro, and Cebu to Caticlan. From there, buses and vans can take you to Batan.

How to Get Around in Batan

The best way to get around Batan is either by renting a car or hiring a motorcycle. Jeepneys and tricycles are also available but may not be as convenient as private transportation.

Where to Go Next from Batan: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Boracay Island - This world-renowned island destination is just a short boat ride away and offers some of the best beaches in the Philippines.
  2. Iloilo City - A bustling city that is home to some of the Philippines’ most historic sites, including Spanish colonial buildings and heritage churches.
  3. Kalibo - The capital of Aklan, Kalibo is home to several cultural and historical sites, including the vibrant Ati-Atihan Festival.

Conclusion

Batan is a beautiful, culturally-rich island town that offers a perfect vacation spot for anyone seeking adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion. With this comprehensive travel guide, you can plan your trip with ease and experience all the wonders that Batan has to offer.

Kalantiaw Shrine Bridge Kalantiaw Shrine Bridge