Kalibo Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Kalibo with this comprehensive tour guide that includes a list of places to visit, hiking/biking routes, best things to do, local food and drink scene, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Kalibo

Kalibo is a small town located in Aklan, in the island of Panay, in the region of Visayas, in the Philippines, in Southeast Asia, in Asia. It is known for the colorful Ati-Atihan Festival, which is celebrated every January in honor of the Sto. Niño, as well as for its natural attractions such as its white sand beaches, rivers, and mountains.

List of Places to Visit in Kalibo

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Museo it Akean: This museum features the history and culture of Aklan, showcasing various artifacts from the pre-colonial period up to present times.
  • Bakhawan Eco-Park: A mangrove forest and park where visitors can learn about the importance of mangroves in the environment.
  • Aklan Freedom Shrine: A monument dedicated to the Aklanon heroes who fought for the province’s independence from Spanish colonizers.
  • Casa Real: An ancestral house that once served as the provincial government seat, now used as a museum showcasing vintage and colonial furniture, artwork, and other artifacts.

Natural Attractions of Kalibo: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Jawili Falls: A serene waterfall located in the town of Tangalan, with a natural pool that is perfect for swimming.
  • Hinagdanan Cave: A limestone cave located in the town of Batan, which has a natural pool inside that visitors can swim in.
  • Ariel’s Point: A cliff-jumping spot located in nearby Buruanga, which offers breathtaking views of the sea and surrounding islands.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Kalibo

  • Mount Madjaas: The highest point in Aklan, with a challenging hiking trail that rewards hikers with panoramic views of the province.
  • Aklan River: A scenic river that is perfect for kayaking and canoeing enthusiasts.
  • Nabas Bike Trail: A picturesque bike trail that takes you through Nabas’ forests and mountains, with various stops for scenic views and rest.

Best Things to Do in Kalibo: Activities and Tours

  • Ati-Atihan Festival: Join the locals in their street dancing and partying for the Sto. Niño.
  • Island-hopping: Explore the nearby islands of Boracay, Carabao, and Romblon for their white sand beaches, crystal-clear water, and natural beauty.
  • Water sports: Go scuba diving, snorkeling, parasailing, or windsurfing in Boracay’s waters.

Week-Long Itinerary for Kalibo

Day Activity
1 Arrival
2 Aklan River kayaking
3 Nabas Bike Trail
4 Ati-Atihan Festival
5 Island-hopping
6 Hinagdanan Cave visit
7 Departure

Food and Drink Scene of Kalibo

Must-Try Dishes

  • Buko pie: A local dessert made with young coconut meat and sweet condensed milk, baked in a crust.
  • Inubarang manok: Chicken stewed in coconut milk with ubod (coconut pith) and spices.
  • Tamales: Rice cake filled with meat, eggs, and vegetables, wrapped in banana leaves and steamed.

Local Beverages

  • Calamansi juice: A refreshing drink made from the citrus fruit endemic to the Philippines.
  • Lambanog: A locally made coconut wine that is known for its high alcohol content.
  • Coffee: Aklan is known for its local coffee blends, grown in the nearby mountains.

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

  • Sampaguita Resort and Plaza: A resort located by the riverfront, with comfortable rooms and a pool.
  • Aranas-Carillo Travellers Inn: A budget hostel located in the city center, with clean rooms and friendly staff.
  • Ati-Atihan Beach Resort: A beachfront resort located in the nearby town of Sto. Niño, with affordable rooms and beach activities.

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

  • Piña cloth: Locally made pineapple fiber cloth that is used to make traditional Filipino attire such as barong tagalog and Filipiniana dresses.
  • Ati-Atihan souvenir items: T-shirts, hats, and other memorabilia featuring the iconic Ati-Atihan Festival are popular souvenirs.
  • Local handicrafts: Handmade baskets, bags, and accessories made from native materials like abaca, coconut shells, and bamboo.

Local Culture and Customs of Kalibo

Kalibo is known for its colorful and vibrant culture, manifested in its music, dance, and festivals. The Ati-Atihan Festival, in particular, is a celebration of the province’s rich history and the Aklanon spirit of camaraderie and hospitality.

Best Time to Visit Kalibo

The best time to visit Kalibo is during the Ati-Atihan Festival, which is celebrated every third week of January. However, Kalibo can be visited year-round, as it offers a variety of attractions and activities that are enjoyable in any season.

Do’s and Don’ts of Kalibo

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and traditions, especially during the Ati-Atihan Festival.
  • Enjoy the local cuisine and try the traditional dishes.
  • Practice responsible tourism by minimizing your impact on the environment.

Don’t:

  • Wear skimpy outfits or reveal too much skin, as the Philippines is a conservative society.
  • Litter or damage the natural attractions and environment.
  • Engage in illegal activities such as drug use or gambling.

Safety and Health

Safety in Kalibo

Kalibo is generally a safe destination for travelers, but it is still important to exercise caution and common sense. Avoid walking alone at night and be vigilant against pickpockets and scams.

Health in Kalibo

It is recommended to have travel insurance when visiting Kalibo, as medical facilities are limited. It is also advisable to bring insect repellent and sunscreen, as well as to drink only bottled or filtered water.

Getting to Kalibo: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Kalibo

The closest airport to Kalibo is the Kalibo International Airport, which is served by several domestic airlines as well as international flights from Korea, China, and Singapore.

Bus Stations Near Kalibo

Kalibo is well-connected by bus to other major cities in Panay island such as Roxas City, Iloilo City, and San Jose de Buenavista. There are several bus companies operating from the city’s main bus terminal.

Other Options

Taxis and private cars are also available for hire in Kalibo, but visitors should negotiate the fare beforehand. Tricycles, a three-wheeled motorcycle that serves as a local mode of transportation, are also available for short trips around the city.

How to Get Around in Kalibo

Locals primarily use tricycles to get around Kalibo, as they are affordable and easily accessible. Visitors can also rent bicycles or motorbikes, or opt for taxis or private cars for longer trips.

Where to Go Next from Kalibo: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Boracay: One of the most popular beach destinations in the Philippines, known for its white sand beaches and lively nightlife.
  • Antique: A province located in Western Visayas, known for its natural attractions such as waterfalls, hot springs, and mountain trails.
  • Iloilo City: A nearby urban city and the capital of Iloilo province, known for its heritage sites and food scene.

Conclusion

Kalibo offers a unique blend of culture, nature, and adventure that makes for an unforgettable travel experience. From the colorful Ati-Atihan Festival to the natural wonders of its beaches, rivers, and mountains, there is something for every type of traveler in this charming town.