Guimaras Day Tour From Iloilo

If you’re visiting Iloilo and craving a glimpse of a laid-back island with charming sights, the Guimaras Day Tour offers a convenient way to explore this lesser-known paradise. This tour promises a mix of natural beauty, cultural sights, and fun island hopping—all packed into a manageable day trip. While it may not be the most action-packed itinerary in the Philippines, it provides a relaxed experience perfect for those wanting to see the highlights without the fuss.

What makes this tour appealing? First, the private guided transfers cut out the hassle of navigating alone. Then, the planned stops at scenic spots and islands like Turtle Island and Ave Maria Island promise memorable views and encounters. Lastly, the lunch, entrance fees, and bottled water are included, delivering good value for a day of sightseeing. However, some travelers might find the overall experience somewhat simple or lacking in “wow” moments, especially if you’re expecting major attractions or seasonal mango harvesting.

This tour is best suited for travelers looking for an easy, guided way to enjoy Guimaras’ natural beauty, especially if you’re interested in island hopping, scenic views, and a laid-back day. If you prefer a busy itinerary full of historical or cultural surprises, this might feel a bit tame. Still, for those wanting a stress-free, authentic glimpse of island life, it hits the right notes.

Key Points

Convenient private transfers make for a comfortable start and end to your day.
All-inclusive pricing simplifies budgeting, covering entrance fees, lunch, and water.
Island hopping offers a relaxed way to see multiple islets and beaches.
The tour’s timing from 7 am to around 5 pm makes it easy to fit into a travel schedule.
The experience is ideal for those seeking an uncomplicated, scenic excursion.
Review insights show that while the places are simple, views of Guimaras’ coastline are quite charming.

Exploring Guimaras: What to Expect from the Tour

Starting with Convenience: Private Guided Transfers and Early Morning Pickup

From the moment you book, you’ll appreciate the door-to-door private transfer from Iloilo City hotels. Meeting at 7 am, the tour begins early enough to maximize your day but not so early that it disrupts your morning. The private transport allows you to relax without worrying about navigating unfamiliar roads or waiting for groups. This personalized approach is especially valuable if you prefer a more intimate experience, away from large crowds.

The First Stop: Smallest Plaza and Mango Delights

Your journey kicks off at the Smallest Plaza — a quaint spot that offers a quiet introduction to the island. Then, a pit stop at Mango Pizza provides a tasty snack, giving you a chance to sample Guimaras’ famous mango flavor in a local twist. This is a simple but charming way to connect with the local produce, famous across the Philippines for its sweetness.

Visiting the Trappist Monastery & Mango Farm

Next, you’ll visit the Trappist Monastery, a peaceful place that offers insights into local religious life and some lovely views. Nearby, the mango farm is a highlight—if you’re visiting during the season, you might see trees heavy with ripe mangoes. However, it’s worth noting that the mango harvest is seasonal, so not every trip guarantees a fruitful experience. As one reviewer pointed out, “Mango in Guimaras is seasonal so you can experience it well during the harvest months,” implying the experience hinges on timing.

Cultural and Scenic Stops: Wind Farm and Raymen Beach Resort

The tour also includes stops at the Wind Farm, where you can admire the sustainable energy setup and get a sense of Guimaras’ environmental efforts. The Raymen Beach Resort offers some downtime with views of the coast, perfect for snapping photos or just relaxing on the sand. While the beaches are picturesque, don’t expect pristine, deserted sands—these spots are enjoyable but more modest compared to tropical island resorts elsewhere.

Island Hopping Adventure: Natago Beach, Ave Maria, Turtle Sanctuary, and Pirate Cave

The second part of the tour involves island hopping—a highlight for many. You’ll visit Natago Beach, known for its calm waters ideal for swimming, and Ave Maria Island, which features a small church and relaxing scenery. The Turtle Sanctuary is a unique stop where you can observe sea turtles—if you’re lucky, you might even spot some swimming nearby. The Pirate Cave adds a bit of historical fun, though it’s mostly a scenic spot rather than an adventure-filled exploration.

What to Know About the Island Hopping

The boat rides between islands are generally smooth, but timing can be tight depending on weather conditions. The tour mentions admission fees are included, but many of these stops are free or have minimal charges, making the overall value quite reasonable. Expect about 4 hours of island hopping, with the chance to relax, take photos, and enjoy the stunning coastline.

Practical Details & Tips for the Tour

Duration and Timing

Spanning approximately 8 to 10 hours, the tour starts at 7 am and wraps up in the late afternoon. This schedule suits travelers who want a full day outside the city but don’t want to spend overnight on the island. Be prepared for a fairly busy day, but with plenty of breaks built in.

Cost and Value

Priced at $167 per person, the package covers transportation, entrance fees, lunch, and bottled water. When you consider the convenience of a private guide and the multiple sightseeing spots, the cost is reasonable—especially compared to self-organized trips or larger group tours.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for relaxed travelers who prefer guided, all-inclusive outings. It suits those interested in scenic views, island hopping, and local culture without the need for intense physical activity. If you’re expecting a packed day with major attractions or seasonal events like mango harvesting, this might feel more subdued.

Considerations Worth Noting

While the tour covers key spots, some travelers might find the stops somewhat simple or lacking in standout attractions. The sole review mentions Guimaras as a “simple place to visit,” emphasizing that it isn’t comparable to other more famous destinations in the Philippines. Also, weather can affect the experience—poor weather might lead to cancellations or a different plan, as outlined in the policy.

Authentic Traveller Insights

From the single review, we learn that Guimaras is better appreciated for its scenic tranquility than for bustling attractions. The reviewer notes, “there’s no much exciting, interesting or famous destination to compare to other tourist destinations in the Philippines,” but still finds value in experiencing the local environment. The tour’s simplicity might appeal to travelers looking to relax and see the coast, rather than seek thrill or adventure.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

This day trip offers a straightforward way to get a taste of Guimaras’ quiet charm. Its private transfers, all-inclusive pricing, and relaxed itinerary make it a hassle-free choice, especially if you’re short on time and want a guided experience. The stops at wind farms and mango farms give a glimpse into the local vibe, but the main draw remains the scenic island views and island hopping.

The value is clear—if you’re after a peaceful, scenic day without the crowds, this tour delivers. However, if you’re seeking highly unique or intense activities, you might find it a bit tame. Overall, it’s a dependable option for those wanting to enjoy some of Guimaras’ natural beauty in comfort.

Is transportation included? Yes, the tour provides private 2-way guided transfers from your Iloilo City hotel, making the day comfortable and stress-free.

What’s the start time? The tour begins at 7:00 am, giving you a full day to explore without rushing.

Are entrance fees covered? The tour includes entrance fees for the main spots, so you won’t need to worry about extra costs at those locations.

How long does the tour last? It runs approximately 8 to 10 hours, wrapping up in the late afternoon, ideal for a full but manageable day.

Can I customize the itinerary? Since it’s a private tour, there’s potential for some flexibility, but the main stops are pre-planned.

Is this suitable for children or elderly travelers? Yes, the relaxed schedule and private transfers make it suitable for most age groups, but always check with your provider for specific needs.

What should I bring? Water, sun protection, comfortable shoes, and a camera are recommended for the island hopping and sightseeing stops.

What’s the best time to visit Guimaras? The tour runs year-round, but note that Mango harvesting is seasonal; visiting during the harvest months enhances the experience.

Is it a full-day tour? Yes, expect to be on the go from 7 am until late afternoon, with plenty of scenic downtime.

Would I enjoy this if I love adventure? Probably not. This tour is more about relaxed sightseeing and enjoying the natural surroundings—perfect for laid-back travelers.

To sum it up, the Guimaras Day Tour from Iloilo offers a straightforward, hassle-free way to enjoy some of the Philippines’ lesser-known island scenery. With scenic stops, island hopping, and inclusive amenities, it provides good value for travelers wanting a relaxed day immersed in nature. While it may lack big-ticket attractions, the views and tranquility make it a worthwhile choice for those seeking a gentle escape from city life.