Guimaras: Private Land Tour with Lunch and Transfers

Exploring Guimaras: A Practical Review of the Private Land Tour with Lunch and Transfers

Traveling through the Philippines often means exploring vibrant cities, stunning beaches, and lush landscapes. But if you’re craving a more laid-back, culturally rich experience, a day trip to Guimaras offers just that. This private land tour, organized by H&H Holidays Travel and Tours, promises a personalized way to uncover the island’s highlights, taste its famous mangoes, and enjoy convenient transfers—all for around $147 per person.

What makes this tour appealing? First, the inclusive transportation ensures hassle-free travel from Iloilo, with round-trip transfers and a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle. Second, the taste of Guimaras mangoes—considered some of the best in the world—is a highlight that’s hard to beat. Third, the cultural and scenic stops like Navalas Church, Roca Encantada, and the windmills give you snapshots of the island’s history and beauty. The only potential downside? The itinerary’s packed pace might not suit travelers seeking a very relaxed, slow-moving experience.

This tour is perfect if you want a comprehensive, structured day exploring Guimaras without the hassle of planning logistics yourself. It’s ideal for those who appreciate cultural sights, scenic views, and a guided experience that covers the essential highlights efficiently. If you’re after an authentic taste of the island’s charm, this tour might be just what you need.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Convenience: Transfers, ferry rides, entrance fees, and lunch are covered.
• Cultural and Scenic Highlights: Visit Navalas Church, windmills, and Roca Encantada.
• Authentic Local Crafts: Watch miniature ships being handcrafted in Rizal.
• Taste of Guimaras: Enjoy fresh mangoes and a delicious lunch.
• Comfortable Transport: Air-conditioned vehicle and small group size enhance the experience.
• Flexibility: Book now, pay later, and cancel with 24 hours’ notice.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering the Best of Guimaras: A Detailed Look at the Tour

Easy, All-in-One Transportation

Starting from Iloilo, the tour’s round-trip transfers make the day seamless. The group travels in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, making it easy to relax between stops. The ferry ride from Iloilo to Guimaras is covered, removing any worries about ticketing or schedules—your guide handles it all. This setup is particularly good for travelers who want to avoid the chaos of navigating public transport or renting vehicles.

The Charm of Rizal’s Miniature Ships

Your first stop is Brgy. Rizal in Buenavista, where local artisans craft mini-Galleons—tiny ships made entirely by hand. These miniatures are a labor of love, with locals dedicating considerable effort to perfecting each one. Reviewers highlight the craftsmanship, noting that watching artisans at work is both captivating and insightful into the island’s maritime traditions. It’s a great way to appreciate local artistry and perhaps pick up a unique souvenir.

The Historic Navalas Church

Next, you’ll visit Navalas Church, claimed to be the oldest Roman Catholic church in Guimaras. Built between 1880 and 1885, it’s an enduring symbol of the island’s spiritual and historical resilience. Despite its age and several earthquakes, the church remains well-preserved and free from significant damage—a testament to the local community’s dedication. Guests report that the church’s simple yet sturdy architecture offers a glimpse into the past, and many find it a peaceful spot for reflection.

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Roca Encantada and Scenic Views

Onward is Roca Encantada, a natural rock formation with sweeping views of the sea. While detailed descriptions are limited, the spot is praised for its scenic beauty, perfect for photos and soaking in the island’s natural charm. Expect to spend some time here enjoying the vistas and capturing memorable images.

Windmills and the Local Landscape

The San Lorenzo Windmills offer an impressive sight—rows of towering wind turbines that highlight Guimaras’s commitment to sustainable energy. Visitors mention that the windmills create a striking contrast against the lush landscape, and the area provides excellent photo opportunities. It’s a reminder of how the island balances tradition with modernity.

Relaxation at Raymen Beach Resort

A visit to Raymen Beach Resort allows for some downtime amid the tour. While reviews don’t specify beach activities, the resort’s location provides a relaxed atmosphere to enjoy the sea breeze, take photos, or simply unwind. This stop adds a moment of leisure before heading to the spiritual and cultural sites.

The Trappist Monastery

The Trappist Monastery is another highlight, offering insight into the island’s spiritual life. Visitors often appreciate the calm environment and the chance to learn about monastic life—some even buy locally produced jams and crafts from the monastery’s small shop.

The National Mango Research Center

Of course, no Guimaras visit is complete without tasting its famous mangoes. At the National Mango Research Center, you’ll learn about the island’s mango industry and taste fresh, juicy mangoes—arguably the best part of the trip. Guests frequently mention the sweetness and quality of the fruit, making it a memorable highlight.

Market and Local Life

Stops at Guimaras Provincial Capital Trade Center and the Guimaras Landmark give insight into local commerce and the island’s development. These are quick visits but offer a sense of daily life and progress on the island.

Authentic, Tasty Lunch

The lunch included in the tour is typically served at a local restaurant, highlighting regional flavors. While specific dishes aren’t detailed, the emphasis on fresh ingredients and local cuisine makes this a satisfying end to the sightseeing.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At $147 per person, considering the comprehensive itinerary, transportation, entrance fees, and lunch, the value is quite reasonable. It eliminates the need for independent planning, which can be tricky given the island’s limited infrastructure, and offers a curated experience that balances cultural, scenic, and culinary highlights.

What You Might Not Love

The packed schedule means you’ll need to be comfortable with some moving around and limited free time at each stop. Also, travelers with limited mobility should consider this, as some sites involve walking or uneven surfaces. The tour’s focus on sights means it might not suit those seeking extensive beach time or purely leisure-oriented activities.

Who This Tour Is Perfect For

This experience suits travelers looking for a well-organized, insightful day exploring Guimaras without the stress of independent travel. It’s ideal for those interested in cultural sites, local craftsmanship, and mango tasting. If you value comfort, convenience, and a guided overview of key spots, you’ll find this tour offers great bang for your buck.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
It should be, especially since the itinerary involves sightseeing and cultural stops. However, consider your children’s mobility, as some sites involve walking or uneven terrain.

Can I book this tour last minute?
Yes, you can reserve your spot and pay later, offering flexibility. Just ensure availability for your preferred date.

Are meals included?
Yes, a lunch is included as part of the package. It typically features regional dishes, ensuring a taste of local flavors.

What is the group size?
While not explicitly stated, tours like this usually operate in small groups, making the experience more personal and manageable.

Is transportation comfortable?
Absolutely, the tour uses air-conditioned vehicles, making long drives more pleasant, especially in the tropical climate.

How long does the entire tour last?
While not specified, most full-day tours typically run between 6-8 hours, including travel, sightseeing, and breaks.

Is the tour family-friendly?
Yes, generally suitable for families, provided children are comfortable with the pace and walking involved.

What should I bring along?
Bring sunscreen, water, a hat, and comfortable shoes. Don’t forget your camera—scenic spots abound!

Final Thoughts

This Guimaras private land tour offers a balanced mix of cultural insights, scenic views, and local flavor—all accessible with minimal hassle and maximum comfort. The inclusion of transportation, entrance fees, and a hearty lunch makes it a cost-effective way to see much of what this charming island has to offer. Perfect for those who want a structured yet authentic experience, it provides a meaningful glimpse into Guimaras’s beauty and heritage.

While it might not be best for travelers seeking total relaxation or extensive beach time, it’s a fantastic choice for those eager to combine sightseeing, cultural appreciation, and mango tasting in a single day. With its friendly guides and well-planned itinerary, this tour helps you make the most of your Guimaras visit without the stress of planning every detail yourself.

You can check availability for your dates here: