Tibiao, Antique – an Eco-Adventure Destination in Panay

Looking for a fun and exciting place to spend the weekend in Panay? The town of Tibiao, Antique is geared up to be an eco-adventure destination in this side of the archipelago. Easily accessible by land from any point in Panay, Tibiao is a blessing for thrill seekers and nature lovers since it is just a few hours away from travel gateways such as Iloilo, Boracay (Caticlan), and Kalibo. Tibiao offers attractions found in other popular eco-adventure destinations in addition to the town’s unique set of charms that is sure to give tourists a fun experience to cherish for a lifetime!

White water river kayaking in Tibiao River, Antique

White Water River Kayaking

The Tibiao River boasts of crystal clear waters suitable for white water rafting/kayaking at various grades of difficulty. Courses are available for those interested to experience this challenging recreational outdoor activity.  For Grade 1, basic kayaking course introduces first timers to paddling a kayak in calm waters. Grade 2 course are fit for those kayaker who wants to experience a higher level of skill paddling through the rapids and big stones. Grade 3-4 course are for those professionals who want to enjoy an adrenaline rush adventure in the strong currents surpassing the big boulders and difficult maneuvers.

The Tibiao River is one of the best white water rivers in the country perfect for kayaking. In fact, it hosted the first “International Kayaking Cup,” which was initiated by Tibal Adventures, Inc. in 1997.

Lush landscapes of the Tibiao River

Basic kayak course grade 1 (very Basic skill) rapids 

Approaching grade 2 white water (basic paddling skill) rapids

Varying drops and boulders ensure a challenging course for kayak enthusiasts

Bugtong-Bato Falls

Cool down at the refreshing 7-tiered cascades of the The Bugtong-bato Falls. The waterfalls is accessible by a 20-minute foot trail through the lush forests of Brgy. Tuno, Tibiao.

20-minute foot trail to Bugtong-bato Falls from Brgy. Tuno

First cascade of Bugtong-bato Falls

Trail to the second cascade

Second and third cascade of Bugtong-bato Falls

Climb to the third cascade

Kawa Hot Bath

Enjoy a unique relaxation experience in Tibiao by bathing in a hot kawa (large vat or frying pan), just like a local jacuzzi. This unique kawa hot bath will surely relieve the stresses in your body. Just imagine yourself dipping in a kawa filled with warm water. This kawa was used before for cooking muscovado or organic brown sugar. But later on, it was developed for this only one of its kind purpose.

Pottery and Brick-making

Learn a new skill in Brgy. Bandoja, a village in Tibiao known for its pottery and brick making. This place is blessed to have 450,000 metric tons of clay reserve for pottery and brick making. Get a hands-on in making the pots and bricks. Discover the art of creating hand-made pots and bricks as you mold chocolate-brown soil into marvelous masterpieces.

Lambaklad Fishing

Before the strike of dawn, set off to the Malabor coast of Tibiao, Antique and enjoy the experience of “Lambaklad Fishing.” This unique fishing technique involves laying down a huge stationary fish trap (one of the biggest in the country) to collect migratory fish such as tuna, mackerel, moonfish, barracuda, and manta rays passing through the western border of the Cuyo East Pass (also known as a tuna highway).

Dawn at the Malabor Coast of Tibiao, Antique

Double-tiered floating bamboo raft

Gorgeous view of Antique’s mountain ranges during sunrise

Yellow fin tuna

Tibiao Fish Spa

After an adventure in Tibiao, take a load off and experience the relaxing sensation of hundreds of little fish nibbling on your feet like little masseurs. The town boasts of the most affordable fish spa in the world using locally bred “TheraFish.”

The first branch of Tibiao Fish Spa in Tibiao, Antique

Katahum Tour Packages

Katahum Tours offers various packages for those interested to experience an adventure in Tibiao. The packages are ideal for group tours and team building events. Here are details on pricing and contact information:

1 day regular tour – PHP 1,499.00 per person

• Four adventures from any of the following: Waterfalls, Butong River swimming and cliff diving, Malakagat Hanging Bridge, Tigbaboy Hanging Bridge, Manlamon Cave, Kawa Hot Bath, Pottery and Brick Making
• Includes guided tour and tour transportation within Tibiao
• Free basic kayaking short course and unlimited Tibiao Fish Spa
• Free packed lunch· Souvenir

2 days and 1 night – PHP 3,399.00 per person

• All adventures: Waterfalls, Butong River swimming and cliff diving, Malakagat Hanging Bridge, Tigbaboy Hanging Bridge, Manlamon Cave, Kawa Hot Bath, Pottery and Brick Making, Lambaklad Fishing, Sea-boating at Malabor coast, Sunset viewing at Tiguis Beach
• Includes guided tour and tour transportation within Tibiao· Free basic kayaking short course and unlimited Tibiao Fish Spa
• Accommodations, four meals and souvenir

3 days and 2 nights – PHP 3,999.00 per person

• All adventures: Waterfalls, Butong River swimming and cliff diving, Malakagat Hanging Bridge, Tigbaboy Hanging Bridge, Manlamon Cave, Kawa Hot Bath, Pottery and Brick Making, Lambaklad Fishing, Sea-boating at Malabor coast, Sunset viewing at Tiguis Beach
• Includes guided tour and tour transportation within Tibiao
• Free basic kayaking short course and unlimited Tibiao Fish Spa
• Accommodations, six meals and souvenir

Rates are subject to change without prior notice. For current prices and other inquiries contact:

Katahum Tours

• Contact person: Flord Nicson Calawag, F.T
• Email: tibiaotours@gmail.com
• Mobile: +63921-8011808
• Phone: (63)(033)3967090

Getting to Tibiao, Antique

Tibiao, Antique is approximately 2 to 3 hours away by private vehicle from Iloilo City, Boracay (Caticlan), or Kalibo, Aklan. Commuters from Iloilo City can ride the buses bound for Libertad, Antique (via San Jose de Buenavista). Likewise, commuters from Caticlan can go aboard buses headed southwards to San Jose de Buenavista.

Location Map