Gigantes
Islands, also known as Islas
de Gigantes, is a remote group
of islands which I considered as one of the most exhilarating and thrilling
places in the world. It is also known as the scallops capital of the
Philippines! (As in, scallops overload! Whoa!) This idyllic place should be
included in your must-visit summer destination list. Trust me, you wouldn’t
want to miss this!
But waaiiittt… why it was named as Islas de Gigantes or islands of the giants? Well, it was believed that coffins found in Bakwitan cave contained gigantic set of human bones! (Oh, my giants!)
So, if you’re from Iloilo City, then it would take you 3-4 hours travel going to Estancia Port. Well, the long journey can never be compared to the beauty that this island has to offer.
This unspoiled paradise will make every adventurous soul thirsty which makes it so alluring to those who seek it. So, get out from your comfort zone, take risks and explore Gigantes Islands!
HOW
TO GET THERE
If you’re from Iloilo, head straight to Tagbak Terminal in Jaro. Take a jeepney going to Tagbac Terminal. (ROUTES: Jaro Liko Tagbak, Leganes Hi-way SM City, Leganes Lapaz) Then from Tagbac Terminal, take either Ceres Bus/HPQ Bus (4 hours travel time) or UV Express Van (2-3 hours travel) going to Estancia. Estimated fare costs around 200 pesos/ head. From Estancia, take a tricycle going to the Port (10 pesos). Then, another boat ride (1-2 hours travel) from the port to Sitio Hayahay, Baranggay Asluman, Gigantes Norte.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Compared to the famous beach of Boracay, Palawan and Cebu, Gigantes has retained its off-beat charm and remains relatively underdeveloped. Electricity is only available from 3:00 pm to 11:00 pm, then generator will take over from 11:00 am to 6:00 am, so expect that there will be no electricity from 06:00 am onward. Another thing is that, there’s NO signal in Gigantes Norte. You have to have a break with your phone, from texting/calling or surfing the net. Goodbye for now Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. (hihi) Oh well, your stay here will really give you ample time to reflect, meditate, relax and enjoy this tranquil and magnificent unspoiled paradise.
WHAT ACTIVITIES TO DO
➼Island Hopping tour in 5-6 islands
➼Jet Skiing
➼Banana Boating
➼Natural Cliff Jumping
I did it! |
➼Spelunking- Cave Exploration
Another challenging activity! |
➼Visit the Century Old Spanish Lighthouse
➼Swimming/ Snorkeling
➼Eat scallops!
➼Mountain Trekking
➼Relax and enjoy your stay
~TOURIST SPOTS~
Antonia Beach❤
Cabugao Gamay Island❤
Tangke Lagoon❤
Old Century Spanish Lighthouse❤
I'll definitely visit this place again and will eat more scallops, explore more islands and will have an unforgettable time again in this unspoiled paradise.
GIGANTES ISLANDS, you are amazing and I can't wait to be back!
XOXO
Love,
Marie❤