Guimaras Island | Iloilo City

Guimaras is an island province located in the Panay Gulf, situated between the islands of Panay and Negros. It is globally recognized for producing some of the sweetest mangoes in the world and serves as a major eco-tourism hub featuring white sand beaches, limestone formations, and agricultural estates.

Visual Characteristics

The island landscape is a combination of rolling hills, lush mango orchards, and a rugged coastline indented with small coves. Many of its beaches, such as those in Jordan and Nueva Valencia, feature powdery white sand and clear turquoise waters contrasted against dark limestone cliffs.

Location & Access Logistics

Gateway: Jordan Wharf or Buenavista Wharf.

From Iloilo City: Take a motorized outrigger (banca) or a large ferry from the Ortiz Wharf (for Jordan) or Parola Wharf (for Buenavista). The crossing takes approximately 15–20 minutes.

Transport: On the island, the primary modes of transport are tricycles (for short distances or customized tours) and multicabs. Motorbikes (habal-habal) are also available.

Operating Hours: Ferries run from 05:00 to 18:00 daily; limited trips may be available at night.

Fees: A nominal terminal fee and environmental fee are collected at the point of entry.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Guimaras was formerly a sub-province of Iloilo until it became a full province in 1992. The island’s soil is particularly suited for fruit production, leading to its status as a specialized agricultural zone. The National Mango Research and Development Center in Jordan is a key institution dedicated to the protection of the island’s Carabao mango variety.

Key Highlights & Activities

Mango Tours: Visiting the vast orchards and the Mango Museum; the Manggahan Festival held every May is the province's largest event.

Island Hopping: Tours typically depart from Nueva Valencia and include stops at Alubihod Beach, Natago Beach, Ave Maria Islet, and the Turtle Sanctuary.

Trappist Monastery: The only Trappist monastery in the Philippines, known for its peaceful grounds and gift shop selling mango-based products like jams and otap.

Guisi Lighthouse: Ruins of an 18th-century Spanish lighthouse offering panoramic views of the Panay Gulf.

Taklong Island National Marine Reserve: A protected area ideal for snorkeling and viewing mangrove forests.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Accommodations: Concentrated mostly in the Alubihod area of Nueva Valencia, ranging from budget beachfront huts to mid-range resorts.

Dining: Local restaurants often feature mango-infused dishes, such as the famous mango pizza at The Pitstop.

Connectivity: 4G and 5G signals are strong in the main towns of Jordan and Buenavista but can be weak in remote coastal areas of Nueva Valencia.

Utilities: Electricity and water are stable in most tourist areas; ATMs are available primarily in the capital, Jordan.

Best Time to Visit

The dry season (November to May) is the best time for beach activities and island hopping. Visiting in May allows for the Manggahan Festival, where the mango harvest is celebrated with cultural events and "eat-all-you-can" mango sessions.

Facts & Legends

Guimaras mangoes are famously served at the White House and Buckingham Palace. Due to strict quarantine protocols to protect the trees from pests, it is strictly prohibited to bring any outside mangoes or mango-related plant materials onto the island.

Nearby Landmarks

Small Rat Island – Part of the Nueva Valencia island-hopping circuit.

San Lorenzo Wind Farm – Features large wind turbines providing renewable energy to the island.

McArthur’s Wharf – A historical pier in Buenavista.