Aklan, Philippines

Posted by Marcos Caratao Jr. (Marcos C.)

Nature’s bounty of the scenic attractions are found in Aklan. Boracay island, the province’s top tourist destination, is known throughout the world for its fine white sand beaches and crystal clear waters. Aklan is a province of the Philippines located in the Western Visayas. Its capital is Kalibo and is located at the northwest portion of Panay, bordering Antique to the southwest, Iloilo to the south, and Capiz to the east. Aklan faces the Sibuyan Sea and the province of Romblon to the north.

Province of Aklan location map

Aklan is accessible from Iloilo City by land via Buses and Vans stationed at the Tagbak Terminal in jaro District, Iloilo City. Travel time is approximately two and a half hours away from Iloilo to Kalibo and another 2 hours from Kalibo to Caticlan, the jump-off point to Boracay Island. Aklan also has its own airports and is 45 minutes from Manila by air. Aside from domestic flights, Kalibo Airport also serves direct flights to and fro Incheon and Taipei, South Korea through international flights served by Asian Spirit, Mandarin Airlines and Pacific Pearl Airways. Alternatively, flights by Sea Air and Asian Spirit through Caticlan Airport in the town of Malay are also available.

Terminal of the International Airport in Kalibo

Aklan is famous for Boracay, a resort island, which boasts of its seven kilometer “White beach” named after its powdery white sand. It is one of the top tourist destinations in the Philippines and adjudged by numerous travel magazines and surveys as one of the best beaches in the world.

White sand beach of Boracay Island

Aside from Boracay, there is still a lot of attractions in the Province of Aklan for tourists to explore and such as its exciting caves, cascading waterfalls, and natural pools. Ascend the seven basin waterfalls in Jawili. Plunge into the natural cold springs of Nabas. Conquer the five caves of Buruanga town or enjoy white water rafting in Libacao.

Jawili Seven Basins and Waterfalls

New Washinton is also a must to visit because it hosts Sampaguita Gardens owned by Sam Butcher, an American artist and creator of Precious Moments artworks that promote messages of loving, caring and sharing. Sampaguita Gardens is recognized as a landmark in the Travel & Trade Industry.

Precious moments dolls

Another known icon of the province is the annual Ati-Atihan Festival in Kalibo. Originally, The festivity was to celebrate the coexistence between the Ati and the Malays who were newcomers to the Island. This festivity coincides with the Feast of “Santo Nino” which is usually held during the third week of January.

Dancers during the Ati-atihan Parade in Kalibo

The most prominent languages in the province are the Aklan languages, which includes Aklanon and Malaynon. Aklanon is spoken by a majority of the people, while Malaynon is spoken in Malay. Other languages include the language of the Ati; Hiligaynon, the regional language; Kinaray-a; and Capiznon. Most Aklanons can speak and understand English.

Fireworks display during the Ati-atihan Festival