HomeIloiloIloilo ProvinceNorthern IloiloCarlesGigantesGigantes Islands Guide for First Time Travelers 14948 sharesA travel guide to Gigantes Islands in Iloilo, Philippines with essential tips on how to get there, things to see & do, resorts, itineraries, & tours. By Marcos Detourista. Updated on July 22, 2016.The Gigantes Islands, also known as Islas de Gigantes or the islands of giants, is a remote group of islands located off the coast of Carles and Estancia towns in northeastern Iloilo, Philippines. It takes at least 5 hours to get there from Iloilo City. Those willing to go the “extra mile” can look forward to enjoying beautiful seascapes and a laid-back island lifestyle that Gigantes has to offer. The islands are blessed with pristine white sand beaches, bountiful fresh seafood, and jagged rock formations shrouded by mystical tales of locals. Despite the increase of tourist arrivals in recent years, Gigantes has retained its off-beat charm and remains relatively underdeveloped compared to Boracay, Bohol, and other mainstream tourist destinations in the Philippines.Further readings: Gigantes travel guide, Gigantes resorts, Gigantes transportation tips.Things to Do and Tourist SpotsWhat are the best things to do in Gigantes? Here’s a few from our list of the best tourist spots and attractions in Gigantes.Take an island hopping tour – A visit to Gigantes is not complete without taking an island hopping tour to see its magnificent beaches and islands. It takes half a day, at least, to visit the main sites, which includes Cabugao Gamay Island, Tangke, Antonia Beach, Bantigue Island, and Pawikan Cave.Cabugao Gamay Island Tangke, Gigantes Sur Island, Islas de Gigantes, Carles, Iloilo, Bantigue Island's crystal clear waters Relax at white sand beaches – Gigantes is blessed with many white sand beaches and sandbars. The main islands, Gigantes Norte, and Gigantes Sur, may have their own sandy beaches but the best ones can be found at Antonia, Cabugaw Gamay Island, and Bantigue, which can only be reached by boat from the resorts.White sand beach and calm waters at AntoniaExplore mystical caves – The islands are home to many caves hidden behind steep rock formations and cliffs. Many of these like Pawikan Cave have spacious caverns that can be easily explored. It is said that the island chain got its name from over-sized coffins found at Bakwitan Cave in Gigantes Norte that contained gigantic sets of human bones.Visit the old lighthouse – Ruins of a Spanish-colonial lighthouse found at the northern shore of Gigantes Norte Island. Climbing to the top of the modern lighthouse that stands beside it affords a breathtaking view of the sea.Go Rock Scrambling – A very steep rocky trail in Gigantes Sur leads to the top of the row of limestone cliffs that the locals call as the “Boulevard.” This high vantage point provides a 360-degree view of Gigantes group of islands and the Visayan sea.Overlooking view of Cabugao Gamay, Cabugao Dako, and Bantigue Islands from Boulevard View Point in Gigantes SurFeast on fresh seafood – You can look forward to cheap and fresh seafood in Gigantes, unofficially known as the scallops capital of the Philippines. The islands are also abundant in fish, squid, crabs, shrimp among other aquatic delights. Prices of seafood here and in Estancia are more affordable than the cities of Iloilo and Roxas, and definitely a lot cheaper than Manila or Boracay.Bowl of scallops shells sold by a local on the beach.Further readings: All things to do in Gigantes.Resorts and AccommodationsMost of the established resorts can be found in Gigantes Norte Island. These resorts offer basic accommodations and are catered to budget-conscious travelers. Tent-style accommodations are also quite popular in Antonia Beach and Cabugao Gamay Island. Additionally, intrepid travelers can arrange a homestay at Gigantes Sur.Further readings: All Gigantes resorts, Iloilo Hotels and Resorts.TransportationThe towns of Carles and Estancia are the main jump-off points, which can be reached by land from all major transport hubs in Panay Island including Iloilo, Roxas City, and Boracay. Aboard land and ferry connections, travel time to Gigantes (via Carles) takes around 5-6 hours from Iloilo City, 3-4 hours from Roxas City, and 6-7 hours from Boracay/Caticlan.Bancal Port in the town of Carles is the most convenient jump off point and fastest way to get to Gigantes Islands. Passenger boats from both Carles and Estancia run once daily leaving around noontime to Gigantes. Alternatively, tourists can also charter a boat to get to and around Gigantes from either seaport.To travel between islands in Gigantes, you need to charter a boat since there are no options for commuting. The bigger islands, Gigantes Norte and Gigantes Sur, have narrow inland roads connecting different villages on the island.Further readings: How to get to & around Gigantes.Typical ExpensesAccommodation costs – Fan cottages start at P200 per person per night. Aircon cottages start at P1,500 for cottages that can fit 2 to 4 people.Transportation costs Iloilo City to Estancia – Bus fare is P170 to 180 per person, while the van fare is P150. Estancia Bus Terminal to Estancia Port – Tricycle fare is P10 per person. Estancia to Gigantes – The fare on the commuter pumpboat to Gigantes Norte is P80 per person. The cost of the chartered roundtrip transfer to Gigantes plus a whole island hopping tour is around P5,000 per boat. Within Gigantes Norte or Sur – Motorycle taxi costs P10 per person per wayActivities and Tour costs Island Hopping – Chartering a pumpboat for a whole-day island hopping tour around Gigantes (including a guide) costs P1,500 to P2,000 for up to 10 people. The guide costs an additional P500. Cabugaw Gamay Island – P20 entrance fee per person Antonia Beach – P20 entrance fee per person Tangke Gigantes Norte Lighthouse – P60 per person for the roundtrip motorcycle taxi transfer. Bakwitan Cave Tour – P500 for the cave guide and P200 for the roundtrip motorcycle taxi transfer.Itinerary and BudgetWhen taking the commuter pumpboat to Gigantes, spending at least 3 days and two nights is recommended since the boat arrives in the island late in the afternoon and leave early morning the next day. If you are hiring your own chartered pumpboat, it is possible to visit Gigantes on an overnight trip from Iloilo City.Travelers can also spend the night at the town proper of Carles or Estancia, where there are more options for beach resorts and hotels, and then charter a boat to explore the islands of Gigantes. When taking this alternative, it’s better to stay at mainland Carles since it is much nearer to Gigantes than Estancia.3 days and 2 nights ItinerarySample 3D2N Gigantes itinerary for do-it-yourself (DIY) budget travelers. The estimated budget is around P2,500 to P3,000 per person for a group of 4 people traveling from Iloilo by van, staying at a fan room in Gigantes Norte, and doing all of the activities mentioned below. This estimate includes the roundtrip transport commute from Iloilo City, meals in Estancia / Gigantes, and the island hopping charter plus entrance fees.Day 10800 – 1100Iloilo City to Estancia Port via bus/van1100 – 1400ETA Estancia; Lunch at Estancia Town Center; Buy Provisions1400 – 1600Estancia Port to Gigantes Norte via commuter pumpboat1600 – 1700ETA Gigantes Norte; Resort Check-in1700 – 1800Gigantes Norte Lighthouse tourDay 20700 to 1700Gigantes Island Hopping TourDay 30600 – 0900Resort Check-out0900 – 1100Gigantes to Estancia via commuter pumpboat1100 – 1230ETA Estancia Port; Lunch at at Estancia Town Center1230 – 1530Estancia to Tagbak Terminal via bus/van1530ETA Tagbak Terminal, Iloilo CityGet Oriented Buy food (at least for the first day), water, and other necessities in Estancia since the islands are limited to sari-sari type stores only. On your second day, you could buy fresh seafood in the islands but be sure to go to the selling area early morning since the locals usually send most of their catch to the mainland. You may also arrange this with your resort. Be sure to have enough drinking water for the whole duration of your stay. There is potable spring water in Gigantes Sur if your stomach is up for it. Electricity only runs at scheduled hours of the day/night. Electricity is turned on late in the afternoon until 11pm and then switched to a power generator, depending on the resort. The Gigantes group of Islands are also popularly known as Islas de Gigantes, which means “Islands of Giants” in Spanish. Its two most populated and largest islands by land area are Isla de Gigantes Norte (North Gigantes Island) and Isla de Gigantes Sur (South Gigantes Island).Don’t leave yet. There’s more!Leave a Reply Cancel replyYour email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *Comment *Name * Email * Website ΔThis site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.Comments Thomas saysSeptember 12, 2017 at 7:07 amGreat post! Have nice day ! :) ahfylReply Nesh saysSeptember 3, 2017 at 4:33 pmhi! if you are looking for a tour guide to explore the beauty of Isla de Gigantes, My uncle Roselo is offering a service for you. Please visit our FB account for the contact information. Kindly click the link. Thank you so much. https://www.facebook.com/GigantesIslandTouristboat/?ref=aymt_homepage_panelReply Ma. Leonora Ticorda saysApril 13, 2017 at 10:58 amGoodmorning Maam/sir is ther any any available for reservation for 6 persons? From this day 4/13/17 to 4/15/17 in 3 days and 2 nights?Reply Nelia alarcon saysMarch 17, 2017 at 7:00 pmMy fam plan to go thr on apr 13 to 15 do i need to book for our stay there? How can we call for reservat’n?Reply Nelia alarcon saysMarch 17, 2017 at 6:57 pmDo i need to reserve or book?Reply Anne Sera saysMarch 14, 2017 at 9:14 pmDo they operate on holy week?Reply pau manansala saysMarch 14, 2017 at 5:18 amHi,punta aq sa islas de gigantes along this march 26 to march 28 alone.Anyone wants to join para makatipid?email me nalang [email protected]Reply Andrei Uy saysMarch 11, 2017 at 7:30 pmWe are interested, where can we book for the gigantes tour?Reply Yasmeen Mohamed saysMarch 7, 2017 at 6:45 amHi, Good day… Plan ko po ipasyal ang 2 kong anak at nanay ko po with in this year…magkano po ba lhat na magagastos for 3 days in Gigantes Island? Thanks & God Bless…Reply Cookie Gallardo saysMarch 3, 2017 at 8:39 pmHi! My friend and i are up for a tour this coming april last week. You may join us or we can join your group for less expenses especially for the island hopping part. ☺ thanksReply Cookie Gallardo saysMarch 3, 2017 at 11:19 amMy partner and I are planning to go to Iloilo this coming April. I find this very helpful because gigantes island is one of the places we included in our bucket list. Thanks for this! Just a question, are tents allowed to be set up during the night. We dont prefer to stay in a cottage for it will also add to our expenses, too. Thank you!Reply sahrie saysFebruary 19, 2017 at 2:48 pmGreat blog! Would love to go to Iloilo because of this blog! Renting a motorbike is possible nearly everywhere. Enjoy self drive! Visit our website book2wheel.comReply CRISTINA DATANAGAN GASMEN saysFebruary 7, 2017 at 3:33 pmHi…can you help me? we only have April 23 and 24 (halfday) for gigantes. Possible ba sa sked namin? Halfday lang yung 24 kc nga 8:20pm na balik namin to manila from iloilo. You said mga 5-6hrs ang carles from iloilo city. hindi kaya alanganin? ThanksReply Onnel saysJanuary 23, 2017 at 4:21 amThank you for this. I’m at Ceres Liner Bus Station now bound for Carles to experience the Gigantes Island after the Dinagyang Festival finale.Your article is a great help though in the travel cost/itinerary, you only included the trip from Iloilo City to Estancia Port. I was looking for the Iloilo City – Carles details. Glad to have found it in one of the comments.Reply Richard Aron saysJanuary 21, 2017 at 11:10 amHi,im going to travel alone.how and where i can sched on jan.25-27,2017Reply pawie polhen saysJanuary 5, 2017 at 11:47 pmHi sir , This Jan 24-28 2017 im at ilo ilo alone kaso i dont have any idea where to go and what to do. Kaya salamat dito sir. Kaso I do have a question , magkano lahat nagastos nyo during your stay sir ? Hehe Thank you !Reply Julie Lodia saysFebruary 2, 2017 at 12:40 amSir: For the whole island hopping pumpboat rate 1,500 -2000, is this per person or for the group plus 500 for the tour guide. Thank you for your immediate response. We were going on Feb. 8, 5personsReply Johannes Claire saysJanuary 4, 2017 at 11:57 pmIsland Hopping – Chartering a pumpboat for a whole-day island hopping tour around Gigantes (including a guide) costs P1,500 to P2,000 for up to 10 people. The guide costs an additional P500. —-> i would like to clarify this. 1) 1500 – 2000 per person? or per tour (regarless of how many person)? 2) if per person, how much it the minimum no. of person per tour?Bakwitan Cave Tour – P500 for the cave guide and P200 for the roundtrip motorcycle taxi transfer. —> another clarifycation. 1) 500 payment for the guide regardless of howmany person will go to the cave? or 500 per person payment to the guide?Reply Thes saysAugust 25, 2016 at 10:33 amHi…. Which is better? Estancia or Bancal? How to reach Estancia from ILO-ilo? Thank youReply Marcos Detourist saysAugust 26, 2016 at 4:31 amBancal port in Carles is a better gateway to Gigantes. The boat ride is shorter because it is closer to the islands.Reply Lyka Chua saysAugust 23, 2016 at 2:36 pmHi!My friends and i are going to Gigantes on Sept 8th for a day trip. Could you give us an idea like what time we should be in Carles for the boat? And how much will we need to pay for a private pump boat for 3 for a whole day of tour? If there is a boat that we can share with others small pax, that would be much better!Reply Marcos Detourist saysAugust 26, 2016 at 4:30 amYou can find more Gigantes travel tips on this page: https://www.exploreiloilo.com/place/gigantes/Reply Kiko saysAugust 23, 2016 at 2:19 pmHi! I am going solo on Aug 31 – Sept 4. But I plan to go to boracay first then head to Gigantes Islands. I would be on my way to Roxas City by 6am of Sept 2, Friday from Caticlan. Any one who wants to join? Or A group where I can join that fits my schedule? Thanks. You can reach me via email. [email protected]Reply alie saysAugust 21, 2016 at 12:33 pmMy sister and i are planning for an island hopping day tour on Sep 24. Anyone wants to join us, let me know. 09176544138Reply Jenz saysAugust 20, 2016 at 2:31 amVery informative. Planning to go here this coming nov. 9-10 2016. :) Baka may pwedeng masabayan. Please let me know. Thanks! Here’s my number 09167563864! ?Reply jen rey saysAugust 13, 2016 at 7:29 pmmy friend and I are going on sep13-15! dalawa lang kami, anyone who wants to join us? para makatipid :) email me! [email protected] thanks!!Reply Rodz saysAugust 3, 2016 at 9:43 pmHI Marcos! Good things I visited your site. I’m having a hard time to decide where and how I can reach Gigantes Island.Actually I have not planned anything yet. My partner and I will arrive in Kalibo this Friday morning and I was thinking If we could go to Island the next day sat then have an overnight stay. Our flight back to Cebu will be on Monday morning and still in Kalibo airport. Please… can you suggest how we can make it? i’m out of budget as well.Is 2000 just ok for one person?Please…. if anyone there who would like to come para makatipid… Let me know. Aug 5 to 8 . contact me through 09065998487Reply Jean saysJuly 27, 2016 at 12:03 amOkay lang ba pumunta doon month of September? Hindi ba delikado dahil maulan sa buwan na yon? May plano kami kasi Sept 23-26 2016 sa Iloilo then punta ng Gigantes sana. Please advise po. Thank you.Reply rowena celerio saysJuly 16, 2016 at 1:39 pmAnyone want to join us? we are going to Gigantes this coming January 27, 2017 we’re 6 pax, interested to join us are welcome pra maka tipid tayo guys. txt me 09496405384 or msg. me at FB Rowena Alfarero Celerio. see u there!Reply Edah saysJuly 13, 2016 at 7:45 pmHi. Me and my boyf will be going to Gigantes this coming 13-14. Dalawa lang kami. Anyone interested to join para mkatipid kami. Email me at [email protected]. :)Reply Tian's saysJuly 8, 2016 at 8:46 pmhi whre going to gigantes by this july 29 – august 5, 2016 i’m with my sis and her friend who’s living in Carles mismo . who wants to join our island hopping is free to inform me para maka tipid tayo sa tour here is my email [email protected] see ya!Reply Klien saysJuly 7, 2016 at 2:00 amHello, me and my partner have got some information about the place’s accessibility from Cebu via Daanbantayan. We would want to know if there is such option. And if there is, would want to ask about the how-to. Thank you!Reply Marcos Detourist saysJuly 7, 2016 at 3:14 amThe ferry route from Cebu to Estancia, Iloilo is not from Daanbantayan, but from Bantayan Island. There are ferries from Estancia that go to Gigantes. You may also travel by land to Bancal Port in Carles and ride a ferry from there.Reply Myfanwy saysJuly 6, 2016 at 3:34 pm“Island Hopping – Chartering a pumpboat for a whole-day island hopping tour around Gigantes (including a guide) costs P1,500 to P2,000 for up to 10 people. The guide costs an additional P500.”Where can I hire the pumpboat for the whole-day island hopping tour?Reply Marcos Detourist saysJuly 6, 2016 at 6:09 pmThe tourist office in Bancal Port, Carles should be able to help you when you arrive there.Reply Lani Cabauatan saysJune 26, 2016 at 7:13 amI would like to commend the writer as he definitely was thinking of his fellow Filipinos who would want to visit the islands. The practical rates and options he enumerated are very encouraging for a mid-class earner who wants to treat the kids to a good but cost-attainable vacation. I will definitely start saving for this trip now and hopefully be able to go with my 3 kids next year.Keep up the good work and intentions, Mr. Marcos Detourist!Reply thepinaygypsy saysJune 24, 2016 at 8:56 pmWe will be in Isla de Gigantes on July 15-16 (4 pax). As per Mr. Joel Decano private boat rental for 2d1n is 5,500 while the group tour package for 4pax is around 2,600 each. Any suggestion guys kung saan kami mas makakatipid?Anyone who wants to join us? Here’s my email address: [email protected]Thank you :)Reply Kathleen saysJune 16, 2016 at 2:18 pmanyone who wants to join us on November 19-21, 2016? pls let me know. we are only 4 pax. contact me at [email protected] thank you! :)Reply marianne saysJune 15, 2016 at 10:38 pmHi, my family, we are 8 adults are planning to go at isla gigantes. i got this packages for 2315/person for a 3days-2 nights stay.all in. do u think its a good package? also, we are coming from boracay. do u happen to know how much is the fare from bora tp estancia?or which is nearer carles or estancia? should we commute or hire a van? hope to hear from u..thanks.. :)Reply Marcos Detourist saysJune 20, 2016 at 3:02 amIt depends on what is included in the package. Carles is the best jump-off point to Gigantes since it is nearer to the island.Reply Tere saysJune 8, 2016 at 4:18 amGoing there with 2 of my friends on June 27 for a Day Tour. Anyone who wants to join us, you can text/viber me : 09156607757. ThanksReply Khem saysJune 7, 2016 at 11:17 amHello All: Who wants to join with us pupunta kami sa Islas de Gigantes ngayun June 14 po flight namin dalawa lang kc kami. Pls contact me 0925-594-6594Reply adethe saysJune 6, 2016 at 9:55 pmHello,Me and my hubby are planning to go to Isla Gigantes anytime this month. Preferably this weekend or next, on a 3days/2nights stay. Anyone interested so we can share expenses. Groupies of 5 and up can save a lot on a boat rental for island hoping I heard. Sms me on 09272701374.Reply rennan saysJune 2, 2016 at 7:38 pmhi guys, gusto ko mag travel jan sa gegantis but ako lng mag isa baka may gusto mag pasama sakin jan sama nyo naman po ako? or baka may nag solo din jan pm nyo po ako sa 09202307577. thank you renanReply Maureen Santuya saysMay 27, 2016 at 9:13 pm…so proud seeing/viewing my hometown :) #AimHighIslaGiganteReply Mimay saysMay 26, 2016 at 3:17 amCan i go in gigantes by july or august? I have some relatives in that islands.Reply Marcos Detourist saysMay 26, 2016 at 8:29 pmOf course you can. To be safe, check the weather reports if there are incoming typhoons.Reply Ellyn saysMay 24, 2016 at 1:47 amHi Marcos, Its is possible to explore gigantes for atleast one day? We only have 3 days and 2 nights trip but we decided to visit boracay first for maybe 2 days and one night . We rent a van so no need to wait for the buses and save time. Do we need to book a pumpboat ?. How many person per pumpboat?Reply Marcos Detourist saysMay 24, 2016 at 4:03 pmYes it’s possible, but you have to plan the timing well. It’s better to hire a pumpboat, if you want to maximize your time. You can rent it for the roundtrip transfer to Gigantes and the island hopping around the islands. I suggest that you do Gigantes first since it’s quite far, and then visit Boracay, where it’s nearer to Caticlan or Kalibo Airport. It’s possible to do a day trip to Gigantes and spend the night at either Carles or Roxas, if you have your own transport.Reply Ellyn saysMay 24, 2016 at 5:00 pmThank you so much for the info really a big help.We leave hk -iloilo 2:20 am and arrive maybe 4:30 am. Our ticket hk-iloilo round trip. You think its better gigantes first than boracay?.. Marcos Detourist saysMay 24, 2016 at 6:07 pmIt’s possible to do it either way, but I’d go to Gigantes first since it’s the more active part of your trip and you can manage your trip better in Boracay, in case you want to rush back to Iloilo to catch your flight. Here’s a sample itinerary you can follow:Day 1 Arrival at Iloilo Airport Iloilo to Bancal Port, Carles transport by land Gigantes Island Hopping via Bancal PortYou should check Maruja Flora Resort. More info: https://www.exploreiloilo.com/guide/gigantes-great-places-to-stay/ You should ask them if they can arrange the boat transfers & island hopping.Day 2 Gigantes/Carles to Boracay transport. Depending on what time you leave, you can arrive in Boracay as early as mid-afternoon Stay in Boracay. You can find lots of resort options here: http://www.agoda.com/city/boracay-island-ph.html?asq=wKpOUwOqvj/v7suJqK6wKsKJQ38fcGfCGq8dlVHM674%3D&cid=1414469Day 3 Boracay to Iloilo transport. You should leave Boracay in the mid-morning, preferrable, not later than 12nn if you are departing on the 11PM flight to Hong Kong. Return flight to Hong Kong. You may want to check the Kalibo-Hong Kong flights if you can still make changes on your plane ticket. Jenica saysJune 21, 2016 at 1:44 pmHi Marcos,Are the pumpboat rentals inclusive of the island hopping? Thanks. Allen Cuesta saysMay 23, 2016 at 12:08 amhi, may i ask what’s the best route to carles? Is it from Ilo-ilo or Roxas city? we’re planning to have a tour on july 28-31.Reply Marcos Detourist saysMay 23, 2016 at 8:58 pmRoxas City is nearer to Gigantes. If you can book an early morning flight to Roxas, it would maximize your time.Reply Aveen saysMay 19, 2016 at 10:09 amHi, Marco Is it true that all guests going to gigantes need to take passenger boat in bancal port? what are the schedules of ferries going to gigantes from bancal port. please?Reply Marcos Detourist saysMay 23, 2016 at 9:00 pmBancal Port is the best gateway to Gigantes Island. You can read more transport tips including schedules here https://www.exploreiloilo.com/transport/place/iloilo/iloilo-province/gigantes/Reply zhaiho saysMay 17, 2016 at 5:51 pmi want to visit gigantes maybe next month..Reply Jazzy C saysMay 12, 2016 at 1:37 pmHello hello,Anybody who’s interested on going Island hoping for a day at Gigantes on June 5, 2016 that’s Sunday, please let me know. There’s only 4 of us and would like to share the cost of the ride. Shoot me an email [email protected]. Can’t wait to share the fun.Thanks — JZReply Reggie saysMay 7, 2016 at 1:10 amHi Everyone, Is there anyone who’s interested joining me this coming May 12-14 in Gigantes?Solo traveler here. For those interested please contact me @ 09275905786.Thanks, – ReggieReply rrrowena daya saysMay 5, 2016 at 9:20 amWe are planning to go to Islas de Gigantes this coming July 7-10,just want to ask if its best that we start from Roxas City to Carles?ThanksReply Mark Aaron Barcelona saysMay 1, 2016 at 1:05 pmHi, Mark here. We are planning to go to Gigantes on May 7 – 8, 2016. Five kami sa group (2 girls 3 boys) from Iloilo City. Wanna join our group and explore Gigantes together? Let’s enjoy the beauty of Iloilo message me at 09778021128 or email [email protected]. Thanks!Reply Grace saysApril 25, 2016 at 6:52 amPlanning to go their maybe next monthReply Karl Maverick Gutierrez saysApril 5, 2016 at 1:43 pmhello.. anyone who wants to join our day trip this coming June 30, 2016 four (4) lang po kami para maka LESS tau sa boat rental.. if interested, pls contact me thru my FB page.. [email protected]Reply Charm saysApril 27, 2016 at 6:30 amWe’re planning to go at Isla. We are a party of 6. If you want, we can go together para mka less tayo.Reply adethe saysJune 6, 2016 at 9:44 pmhello, interested party here. can i have your contact details. mine is 09272701374. hope to hear from you soon. thanks. Jenny ann saysApril 3, 2016 at 11:03 pmSolo traveler here bka my gusto sumama saken okay lng kahit group pls email me [email protected] thanks :)Reply Joy Venezuela saysMarch 25, 2016 at 9:52 pmAnyone here who would like to join our group (4 members) we’re planning to visit Isla Gigantes as our first destination of our Panay Island tour for two weeks probably last week of April to first week of May. If you’re up to this kindly message me @ [email protected]Reply Mark Laurence Poldo saysMarch 9, 2016 at 9:42 pmWill travel by Nov17-19, 2016.Anyone who are interested to join us? Message me or email me. 09175912147 or [email protected]Reply jerty saysMarch 9, 2016 at 2:56 ammeron po ba mag Islas de Gigantes by FEB 07-9 2017? email me po.[email protected]Reply Praning saysMarch 5, 2016 at 6:42 pmCelebrated my birthday there last week! It was really an amazing experience there in the island! I really love the view and the experience I had. A really beautiful place for a getaway! Blogged about my experience here:Reply Yeng saysMarch 2, 2016 at 6:19 pmHi I would like to go to Gigantes, I’m lookin for a group to join with. Anytime from March 25 onwards. ThanksReply Yeng saysFebruary 25, 2016 at 9:27 pmHi, Anyone has travel plan to Gigantes Island between 2nd to 3rd week of March.I am interested to join.Thanks,Reply erick gustilo saysFebruary 24, 2016 at 11:28 pmHi , were planning to go in island this coming july 18-21 this year any possible package or tour that guide us to easy get to our trip in island . is any possible were 12 persons already go to iloilo for next getaway tour . kindly email us : [email protected] / 09266616949 erick here. hope see there on that date.Reply Anna Rose Cereza saysFebruary 19, 2016 at 2:52 pmHi! Planning to go to Isla Gigantes with my partner on March 26. Baka may gustong sumama pra mka less tayo sa mga boat fares. Please message me on fb. Search Anna Rose Cereza from Bacolod. You can also send me an email message to [email protected]. thank you!Reply L saysFebruary 17, 2016 at 7:51 pmJOHNVON Baka my mag travel po sa inyo on Feb. 18 0r 19 to gigantes para sasabay po kame ng mrs ko para lesser ang fare sa boat just tx me 09086152691/[email protected]. thank you po.Reply Jean Marie mahudamahumahusay saysFebruary 16, 2016 at 7:04 pmLow po sino po ba ung may schedule for February 25-27 papunta gegantis? 4 lang kasi kami Ito po email add ko [email protected]. baka pweding sumabay 3girls w/ 1boy lang kami.thanks!Reply Mizel saysFebruary 11, 2016 at 3:14 pmWe are going to isla gigantes on April 22, 2016. We are 8 and open for joiners :) For interested, please do email me at [email protected] Thanks guys! ^,~Reply Réal D. saysFebruary 9, 2016 at 1:08 pmI would be interested in joining Any group tours going from Iloilo city to Gigantes islands from now till April 1st./16 I am a single male 60 years old. Please text me @ 09062684600. Or email me at [email protected] Réal D.Reply Jojo saysJanuary 23, 2016 at 5:40 pmBaka may mag travel po sa into sa feb 16.. Dalawa lang kami ng gf ko. If gusto nyo sumabay po para tipid… Email nyo nalang ako. [email protected]Reply Jean Marie mahudamahumahusay saysFebruary 16, 2016 at 7:06 pmNatuloy ba kau? Today?Reply lucky mabayag saysJanuary 18, 2016 at 5:29 amhi.. any group or individual na magpunta ng gigantes island on march 6-7, 2016… 7 kami baka sino gusto sumama sa group para maka less tau sa boat rental.. thanks.. msg me on fb… kung meron gusto.. thanks.. lucky lariba mabayag or [email protected]Reply pie saysMarch 1, 2016 at 12:52 pmhello pwede maki join sa inyo?Reply Ash saysDecember 28, 2015 at 9:39 pmJust came back from a 3D/2N stay in Gigantes Norte – Arjan Resort. If you seek seclusion and tranquility stay at the private resorts in Cabugao Gamay and San Antonia. Do not stay in Gigantes Norte and Sur resorts unless you don’t mind being surrounded by the island’s residents. People’s houses are literally at the back of Arjan and Jesa resorts (both at Norte), they’re beach front alright but it’s always low-tide and no waves – you got to walk at least 50 meters for a knee deep water, it’s more like a lake than a sea.Solo travellers please be warned, do not eat in Arjan resort. There’s a 150 paluto or service charge and ingredients charge on top of your order. E.g. Half kilo of scallops is Php 90 + 1 cup of rice Php 15 + service charge 150 = 255 Total for just 1 meal. Paluto is only worth the Php 150 if you’re in a big group.The blogger of this site might want to update info: Entrance fee in Cabugao Gamay is now Php 50 and Php 40 in San Antonia, it more than doubled since this article was written.People might want to know that there’s a boat travelling to and from Carles and Gigantes island. Carles is closer to the island – just 45-minute boat ride as opposed to 2 hours from Estancia port. It leaves at 10 am for Gigantes and goes back to the main island at 1 pm. Much earlier than the ones in Estancia (2 pm to Gigantes and 8 am the next day back to Estancia – not a very efficient time). Best to do day tour if you’re after the island hopping experience only.Reply Francis Gaborno saysFebruary 10, 2016 at 3:25 pmHi! Good Day! Me and my friends are planning to go to Isla Gigantes this coming holy week.. Do you have any suggestions where can we stay ang have our booking or reservations.? Thank You!Reply ralph saysFebruary 19, 2016 at 5:17 pmhi Ash,can i have more info about your tour in Gigantes? like boat expenses, Carles to Gigantes via passenger and chartered boat (if you have info) and some tips as well.. i find your post helpful.,please email me @ [email protected]Thanks-Ralph PReply denisse saysMarch 14, 2016 at 12:32 pmHi Ash,Do you have any recent contact numbers in any of your recommended resorts? Thanks.Reply Miel saysDecember 24, 2015 at 8:12 pmThanks for the info ..gonna visit isla de gigantes soon….Reply Ceejay saysDecember 17, 2015 at 3:44 amThanks for all the info here! Great help. Planning a Panay trip from Dec 26 to the NY later this year and this is def’ly one of the spots I look forward to visiting. Looks like other people are headed there too. Nice! :DReply Renhart saysNovember 24, 2015 at 11:46 pmHello any group here i can join, i am planning to visit gigantes this dec2015. Please add me in facebook [email protected] / 09213284043Reply badz saysNovember 15, 2015 at 11:03 pmhi! ill visit gigantes this december, but am a solo traveller, so my question is do i have to rent a boat to go around the islands myself or they can arrange a joiner traveller in one boat.. i think it will be huge for me to rent a boat just for myself.. hahaha.. please give me some tips.. thanks.Reply cherry saysNovember 26, 2015 at 2:28 pmhey u stil visitingng giagantes?Reply Ceejay saysDecember 17, 2015 at 3:45 amHey, planning to go around Panay from Dec 26 to the NY and I’m also looking for people to join. Up for it?Reply Alvin saysOctober 2, 2015 at 4:39 pmHi! very informative blog. Thanks for sharing. Btw, I have some questions.Madami po bang makukuhang bangka for the island hopping pagdating ng Gigantes? Yung mga tinawagan ko kasi they are offering package tour… parang much cheaper kung rent n lng ng bangka kasi I see some comments na nasa 1,500-2,000 ung rent for the day tour.May contact po ba kayo ng resort sa Gigantes Sur? Mukhang much cheaper kasi kung dun magstay at cheaper din ang bangka since nasa Sur ang mga kilalang islands.And, may byahe po ba ng bangka to Carles to Gigantes Sur? Anong oras po ang alis sa port?Reply Issa saysSeptember 28, 2015 at 10:31 amHi!I will be going to Gigantes Island some time soon. May I ask if there are Vans we can rent from Roxas airport to go to Carles?Also on the way back where can we get rented vans from Carles to Iloilo?How much would these cost? Would really prefer to have our own time vs. waiting for time of others if we follow public transport.Thank you in advance. :)Reply JOCYL GANZON saysSeptember 14, 2015 at 3:58 amWe are a group of 4 going to gigantes island on oct 29, 2015. We will only be able to spend overnight and need to be back in Iloilo the next day, oct 30. We are looking for another group of 4-6 people who can split chartered boat costs from estancia to gigantes because we are hoping to leave estancia before 12noon. Our ETA in Gigantes is 11am if we leave Tagbak before 8am.Sa mga tour guides da, bangkero or resort owners or Kung sin-o na pwede ka assist sa amon, please contact me through FB (JOCYL GANZON) or email me at [email protected]THANK YOU, ☺️☺️☺️Reply Lei saysSeptember 12, 2015 at 8:26 pmHi, any groups open for joiners? I’ve always wanted to visit Gigantes Island. I hope maybe I can join. Please add me up on facebook.Thanks! Lei Salonga [email protected]Reply Joe Walshe saysSeptember 2, 2015 at 12:43 pmStaying in Iloilo for the month of Sep. 2015 and found this web site informative and practical. Thanks for info.Reply Jeri saysSeptember 1, 2015 at 5:23 amHi Explorers,Your blog is very helpful to those who are first timers to explore gigantes islands like me. Because me and my cousins are planning to have our trip this October. Is it safe to go there around that month? Because that is our only time to have this vacation. Also do you have an estimation and iterinary if we take Carles-gigantes instead of Estancia-gigantes. I think you didnt include carles-gigantes iterinary and travel cost on what you have mentioned above. Your suggestion is highly appreciated. Thank you!Reply Marcos Detourist saysSeptember 1, 2015 at 7:33 amIt is generally safe to go to Gigantes at any month of the year as long as there is no incoming typhoon or any strong weather disturbances. October is not particularly frequented by Typhoons, but it may happen on your trip, so it’s best to check weathers forecasts before you go.I’ve been meaning to update this guide on getting to Gigantes via Carles. We’ve posted more info on our Gigantes transport guide.Reply Beng Garabel saysOctober 21, 2015 at 3:16 pmhi sir Marcos,any tour guide requirement at gigantes island especially in caving?? or do you have someone to recommend too?Btw, thank you for the informative description to this beautiful place!! and Sir do you have personal blog? Lhyn Vargas saysNovember 30, 2015 at 1:43 amHello Sir. If we are coming from Caticlan airport how do we get there & how much would it cost? Hoping for ur prompt response. Thank u so much :-) Message was corrected. Sorry for the repetition :-) Marcos Detourist saysDecember 15, 2015 at 1:16 amYou can find more info here: https://www.exploreiloilo.com/guide/gigantes-transport/ Maria saysSeptember 1, 2015 at 4:38 pmHi Jeri,We were there last week. I also checked this itinerary for our reference & it was so helpful! It’s just that some of the rates were already changed. You may contact Aldrich 09078862262 for more information (tour guide for our group) & consider staying at Rosewood Place Resort (beachfront). They can also cook the food you want, offers island hopping tours & water sports. Visit their FB page for photos! Enjoy your trip!Reply chris saysAugust 28, 2015 at 12:50 pmcall me 09352439213 kitakits po tayo see you there ^_6,Reply chris saysAugust 28, 2015 at 12:47 pmhi every0ne im going to gigantes on july 1 sino pupunta din sa gigantes on same date ?Reply jeff Miralles saysAugust 13, 2015 at 11:25 amGood day! My wife and I will be in Roxas city on August 22 and we are planning to go to gigantes island on the following day. May i inquire for any group that will be going on the same dates (Aug 23-24) that we can possibly join? 2 lang kasi kami and it would be too expensive to go on a special package…. baka lang po may ma irerefer kayo. Thanks in advance!Reply Liss saysJune 26, 2015 at 3:49 pmWe have the best tour guide ever. I want to make a little favor for him because he doesn’t know how to go online and wants to have an income. His fee is 500php for 1 day island hopping but he will do more than that. His name is Jedden, +639468516513. We spend 2000php for 3 days, including everything! food, transpo from pres. Roxas,Tip, island hopping fee,snack, accomodation.Reply Shingha saysJuly 14, 2015 at 8:23 pmLiss! Good evening. I badly need your help. We are on crunch time and were going to the islands this weekend but we are on panic mode because the chartered boat we have contacted is too expensive. I liked ur comment coz u said u only spent 2k, nays! How did you do it?Reply cheann saysAugust 27, 2015 at 12:40 amHi what resort did you check in? Does the resort offer everything such as island hoping? Thank you!Reply Alvin saysOctober 2, 2015 at 7:48 pmHi Liss… Where did you stay in Gigantes? I can’t reach Jedden on the number you provided.Reply Carla saysOctober 13, 2015 at 3:37 pmHi! May I know where exactly you stayed in Gigantes Island? thanks!Reply Khaye saysDecember 9, 2015 at 2:15 amHello, do you have sample itinerary?Reply fritz saysJune 24, 2015 at 10:51 amwe offer an island tour package for 5-10 people. P2,800.00/pax inclusive of transportation from estancia to gigante vice versa, 2 nights accommodation with meals, and 1 day island hopping. if interested, you may contact these numbers 09159875040 and 09079972910.Reply rinell jonathan saysMay 29, 2015 at 8:30 pmhi! is anyone there planning to go there by june 19 – 21? i am a solo backpacker! im confident that i can get there because of the informative blogs that i have read. my problem is that i have tight budget, i cant afford to rent a whole package for island hopping. i hope i can join in any group for good. and by the way june 20 is my birthday and i choose to celebrate it at gigantes island. 09096312902 contact me those who have the same date going there! thanks. im so excited!Reply NOEL DELA VEGA saysMay 27, 2015 at 8:40 pmWe’ve just operated a new resort in North Gigantes Island with 6 fully air conditioned rooms and 5 native bahay kubo for those who prefer fan room only. We have a new big generator set to ensure supply of electrical power in case of Ileco power outage. We offer fresh seafoods as requested like scallops, crabs, squids, wasay wasay sea shells, litod, etc. For more information and inquiries please see our facebook page at “Gigantes Island Tours & Beach Resort” or call/text bambam at 09499037157.Reply jeff Miralles saysAugust 13, 2015 at 11:22 amgood day, i’ve been trying to contact the number you provided but nobody is answering. anyways, may i inquire about the rate for 2 pax, overnight on Agust 23 to 24, 2015. What are the inclusions and additional charges for those taht are not included. salamat and i hope to receive a reply from you.Reply Carla saysOctober 13, 2015 at 2:50 pmHello! Were you able to contact them? :) jerald saysMay 25, 2015 at 1:47 pmHI! I just wanna ask if 6000 pesos is already enough for 2 days and 2 nights of two persons there in Islas de Gigantes, we’re coming from ILOILO City. Thank you..txt me for info..09187601020Reply jenkin cipriano saysApril 28, 2015 at 5:54 pmSir jist want to share my bad experience at Sir jist want to share my bad experience at Hideaway innTo Mr. Joel Decano Tourism OfficerI have watched drew’s gma7 episode of isla gigantes and i was amazed of the island. I have an early booking Mar29 for our 3d2n tour on April 25to27. He confirmed my booking for package rate of 4 pax. I was requesting since then to have 2 rooms no with no reply. I understand since the island dont have enough signal. I texted again for confirmation of two room last April 20. He replied “we’ll try mam”! What??? A 1 month reservation booking just to reply we’ll try”??? We arrived 3pm and sit at their dining area. The lady in their office ( sister of Joel) told us our room was have to set up. after an hour.Nataniel (our tour guide) advise us to go to our room in their extension. I was shocked for our room. its like the owner of the house evacuated for us to sleep. Cabinets of the owner was still inside no padlock open house. No lights in cr. NO BED FRAMES! I ask the management what happen to our reservation??? We are uncomfortable on our room. The guy told us there is no available room. The only option was tent and transfer in Balubadiangan island.. Its like a take it or leave it option. After dinner we decided our group to transfer on other resort /homestay but the island tour will still be availed at Hideaway inn. The lady frontdesk (sister of joel) offered us for 2500 a/c room. It was other resort in island . OMG! The room rate was offered 1500 for aircon room of 4pax. Then she will quote me 2500. We transfer at Dwelling place for an a/c room 1500 /night 4pax 200m away from hideaway inn. Fyi Dwelliing place (homestay inn) Imagine we will have our meal on their site. We need to walk 200m . The motorbike was always unavailable. we need to wait 30min for their motorbike. Tsk tsk This is my worst booking from all my local travelled experience!Gigantes Island is truly amazing! I think the Hideaway inn offers a lot to exprience the Best on the island. I saw other bloggers. that’s why i chose to booked here. What’s bad was they overbooked the guests! For all the travellers out there before you make a reservation on this resort. Make sure you will get the room that what they offered! I have images or text confirmation to prove my experience.Reply Chako saysApril 5, 2015 at 11:55 pmHello Mr. marcos, gusto ko pa itanong sa itinerary po ninyo yung tungkol po sa Day 2 Gigantes Island hopping tour, Naghire po ba kayo ng pumpboat? Pwede po ba mag commute ng pumpboat para mag island hopping? Thanks.Reply Liss saysJune 26, 2015 at 3:53 pmHi Chako, yes you can commute a ferry from estancia to isla (80php) 2pm everyday. Island hopping recommended for 1 whole day 9am-4pm, 1500php then 500 tour guide fee. contact this tour guide, Jedden, +639468516513. He is very helpful :)Reply wabchotie saysAugust 14, 2015 at 11:25 pmHi Liss. Saving Jedden’s number. Me and my friend is going to Gigantes Island next month Sept 26-28. any tips for us? We’re kinda worried about the expenses coz there’s only two of us lol . Jammy Lei saysApril 5, 2015 at 1:52 amhi would you recommend this for a female solo traveler?Reply Myshiel Abecia saysApril 2, 2015 at 6:12 pmHey! I’m currently going to Gigantes Island at the moment and I was wondering about the pumpboat rent, the 5000 you mention was back and forth from gigantes to estancia and vice versa plus the whole Island Hopping tour. Am I correct? And do any of you have suggestions on the cheapest resort to stay in for a 3 days 2 night trip? THANKS!Reply frankie saysMarch 26, 2015 at 1:38 pmsir do you guys have the bus schedule, Last trip from roxas city to estnacia and estancia to roxas? can we make the 2pm boat if we arrived at the airport of roxas city at 11am????Reply mike saysMarch 26, 2015 at 12:06 amHello I just want to ask regarding sa pumpboat po. Ilan ho ba ang pwede makasaky sa chartered na boat that costs 5000? And we can choose anytime we want sa pg punta at pag uwi? We are planning to visit Gigantes in One Whole day lang kasi. Thanks.Reply Marcos Detourist saysMarch 26, 2015 at 4:36 pmFor P5000, you can rent a pumpboat that has a capacity of up to 10-15 people. Yes you can choose your time of departure depending on your boat contact.Reply ianne saysMay 27, 2015 at 12:29 pmHi Sir Marcos. Standard rate ba yun 5k na chartered boat especially for day tour lang? kahit 2 lang kayo..kasi i have asked and the rate given to me was between 4 to 5k kahit sinabi kong 2 lang kami…thanks! Miel0316 saysMarch 18, 2015 at 1:38 amIndeed, astonished and amazed by thsi wonderful creation of our Almighty Father. I just can’t wait to see this with my 2 eyes. Praise God for His creation. God is real!Reply Resty Maza saysMarch 17, 2015 at 7:46 amHi Sir Marcus,Been looking for this page to get more info about Isla Gigantes. We’re planning to go there this coming april. How much would be the budget for 2 persons.Reply Marcos Detourist saysMarch 17, 2015 at 8:33 pmHi Resty, your budget depends on activities and accommodations that you’re planning to take. You can find the typical costs on the page so that you can calculate the estimated budget depending on how you want to travel.Reply Dr Ramon ramos saysFebruary 23, 2015 at 4:16 pmThank you , now I can plan my itenerary to Iloilo …Reply Anndee saysJanuary 12, 2015 at 10:45 amHi Sir,We are from Bacolod, we are looking for a resort that could accommodate us for an overnight or 2 nights stay. We are more or less 20 persons. Could you recommend any resort in Gigantes?Reply Schmooze saysNovember 27, 2014 at 1:44 amHi! We’ll be going to Roxas City this coming Saturday. Our problem is that we have a tight flight schedule: arriving at 11AM in Roxas Airport (11/29) then departing at 11AM on Monday (12/01) in the same airport. But there’s only 1 passenger boat plying Estancia-Gigantes route which leaves between at 2PM. Will we be able to make it? Is there an alternative way to get in & out of Gigantes?Reply LeeSaints saysMarch 14, 2015 at 2:39 pmHi! Were you able to catch the 2pm boat to Gigantes? I’m also planning on using the same route. I’m thinking if I should just stroll around Roxas City on Day 1 and go to Estancia on Day 2 instead. ThanksReply frankie saysMarch 26, 2015 at 1:28 pmHi Lee Saints when are you going? we also have the same problem. Is this really doable? 11am Arrival at the airport travel to estancia and catch the 2pm boat? Aldrin saysNovember 1, 2014 at 6:15 pmHi Sir, how do i get to Islas De Gigantes from Caticlan?Reply Marcos Detourist saysNovember 11, 2014 at 6:23 pmYou can ride a van to Kalibo, then Roxas, then Estancia … and travel by boat to Gigantes.Reply Nick saysJuly 16, 2014 at 1:14 pmHi All, I really wish to visit Gigante Island in Oct 2014. will it be allow to travel to there since is a Typhoon season? Any recommendation of tours or acommodation?thanks!Reply Marcos Detourist saysJuly 18, 2014 at 2:17 amRainy days are likely to happen in October but, not unless there is a clear Typhoon warning from weather agencies, Gigantes is relatively safe to visit and certainly allowed. There are multiple (simple) accommodation options when you reach Gigantes Norte. You can also arrange your island hopping tour there. If you are searching for a place to stay with better amenities, you might want to consider staying at the many resorts in the mainland and just make a day trip to Gigantes on a hired pumpboat.Reply Alba saysOctober 18, 2014 at 8:48 amHi, The islands are spectacular and not overcrowded. You won’t regret it. By the way , if You want to stay in estancia, check out pa-on beach club. They offer island tours also. keiffer japeth saysMay 18, 2014 at 9:44 pmMarcos Detourist.. ive been looking into your blogs and i really liked them. hmmn. actually, I used it as a guide in bucari leon.. hmmnn.. sir.. if youre an individual backpacker// will there be any chance for you to di an island hopping around gigantes? please email me sir. :)Reply Marcos Detourist saysJune 22, 2014 at 7:42 pmIf you go to the island alone, you could either rent the pumpboat on your own or try to scout the resorts in Gigantes Norte for other travelers and ask if they would be willing to let you join.Reply Len Driz saysMarch 3, 2015 at 4:19 pmThanks for this, I think this is my only option for my solo trip! :) ann saysMarch 31, 2014 at 11:42 amhi po. with ur 3 days ang 2 nights itinerary, you arrived 4pm na po sa Brgy. Lantangan so dun po kayo natulog po? ask lng po sana ako sa mga rates ng mga rooms for accommodation po dun if there’s any,. We’re planning to go there po kasi this May.Reply Marcos Detourist saysApril 2, 2014 at 5:03 pmYes you have to spend the night at Gigantes. Most of the resorts are located at Gigantes Norte (the next island), you can contact Rosewood Resort for the rates: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Rosewood-Place-Resort/401120173260382Reply mao saysMarch 1, 2014 at 8:38 pmmy friends and i are planning to go to the island this may. ive heard yolanda damaged a lot of gigantes. how is the island today?? is it still good as before?Reply Marcos Detourist saysMarch 1, 2014 at 11:30 pmThe natural beauty of the islands is still intact. However, I am not sure if the accommodations are already functional. Most of the structures in the island were swept away by the strong winds of Typhoon Yolanda. If you are bringing a tent and planning to camp there, no problem.If you’re looking for more comfortable accommodations, I suggest staying in mainland Carles or Estancia and hire a pumpboat for a day trip around the islands.Reply suppledexplorer saysFebruary 17, 2014 at 3:27 pmHi!!!I”m planning to visit Gigantes Island alonethis coming Holy week?Any group will go there?Can I be a joiner?Appreciate it much:)ThanksReply jess saysMarch 8, 2015 at 5:11 pmhello.. have you found a group to join? im planning also to go there this holyweek.. im from roxas…Reply dara saysFebruary 13, 2014 at 5:36 amI just want to ask what is the best time (month) to visit the islands?Reply Marcos Detourist saysFebruary 14, 2014 at 10:27 amApril or MayReply judayandryan of VT saysJanuary 7, 2014 at 7:21 pm@tour_guide – any updates on the island since typhoon yolanda hit Isla de Gigantes?Reply Ansel saysOctober 9, 2013 at 11:45 pmHi, I have booked a round trip ticket, but the return (Ilo-Ilo to Manila) was I think could give me a problem since my flight schedule is 2:30pm (ETD). Can I catch the flight if the pump boat will leave the Gigantes Island at exactly 7am? What if I try the alternate route which is taking the Roxas City airport going back to Manila, how can I get to Roxas City airport from Gigantes Island? Suggestions are highly appreciated. Thank you very much!Reply Rommel saysOctober 4, 2013 at 12:29 pmVery informative blog.,,thank u for this ;))anyways,we’ll be having our trip here in gigantes on nov 3,,,just an overnight trip and we are 7.and we knew that an overnyt stay is not enough to explore the island so wanna know what’s the best place in there to go to,.prob din po nmin where to stay..,anybody can help us?pls thak u in advance!;)Reply Alba saysOctober 18, 2014 at 9:00 amHello Rommel, Try nyo pa-on beach club sa estancia- paonbeach.com or google niyo paon beach club estancia. They offer different island tours. Hope you read this before your trip. Enjoy your trip (medyo bitin lang!)!!!Reply Kelets Calceta saysAugust 17, 2013 at 6:57 pmWe are planning to rent a a private boat so once we get to the take off point, we’ll just buy lunch and proceed to the islands. How many hours is the boat ride from Estancia to the islands? I think I’ve read it in the post but due to the long thread, I would just like to clarify.Thanks again.Reply Kelets Calceta saysAugust 17, 2013 at 6:50 pmIs it possible to go island hopping in Islas de Gigantes as a day tour only? We will be coming from Iloilo City. What’s the earliest bus leaving from Iloilo City, what bus and exactly where? The latest bus from the take off point back to Iloilo City?Thanks.Reply nilo saysJuly 24, 2013 at 12:52 amAnyone visiting the island on Aug3~8… I will be there….. I hope to share the tour boat cost… :)Reply Missy l Sole of Missy saysJuly 21, 2013 at 2:00 pmvery detailed! nice blog.Reply Jay saysJune 6, 2013 at 3:02 pmHi,Im flying in on Jun21 and will be staying until the 25th. I would like to get some information on whereI can stay in Gigantes for 3 days. Thanks!Reply Klaus Schwettmann saysJune 3, 2013 at 4:05 pmLooks like tom be a great place. having lived in the Philippines (and Cebu) for a long time i wonder why I haven’t hear of this beautiful spot on earth. Wished I could go there!!! Miss the Philippines anyway…Reply shean saysMay 27, 2013 at 9:06 amI plan to visit Gigante islands with my family in July ( 3rd/4th week ) for 3 to 4 days. Please recommend safe and comfy place to stay and things to do…. Thank youReply wafuMD saysMay 29, 2013 at 9:23 pmWe just explored the islands before this May 2013 ends. The place is worth the long travel from Iloilo City. We stayed overnight but we were able to see all the islands and experience things beyond our limits. With that, i wanna share how we maximized our 30 hours of exploration.We tried to contact Joel Decano, Tourism Officer of Carles (09184685006/09166690596)days before the trip and everything went smooth and hassle free. Only 5 of us in the group pushed through and 2 of us travelled all the way from Bacolod taking the 615am trip (php 530/roundtrip ticket/pax). After an hour we went directly to Tagbak to get the 9 am Aircon Bus (php 183/pax) to Estancia. The yellow bus was labeled with “free Wifi on board” but wasn’t working at all. But anyways, the 3 hour trip went very smooth and comfortable. Since we arrived around 12 noon at Estancia downtown area, we got our take out lunch at Andok’s before proceeding to the fishing port. There, we were welcomed by our boatmen and started our journey to Islas de Gigantes.(the pumpboat could accomodate 15 pax for php 4500/whole trip inclusive of our roundtrip ride to Estancia-Gigantes plus island hopping without time limit).The first four islands we stopped over were Pulopandan, Gigantes Sur’s Cabugao Gamay, Antonia’s beach and the Sandbar. They provided us with our personal tour guide/waiter/runner who went with us throughout the trip (tip ranges from a minimum of php 300 and up depending on the tourists’ generosity). Photo opps, swimming, rock climbing and snorkeling were just a few things these islands can offer. We headed off to Brgy. Asluman, Gigantes Norte while the sun sets where the Gigantes Hideaway Inn is located. The villagers there welcomed us with warm smiles and unselfish greetings (we were like celebrities then). The inn was still in the developing stage but the 2 star accomodation was way beyond our expectations since this this place only started a year ago and this was their first summer. Accomodation was only php 200/pax, electricity is up from 4pm til 11pm and is replaced by a generator overnight.For your meals, the inn offers a wide array of seafoods especially scallops (the island is the scallops capital of Panay) at a very very affordable price. Before getting to bed, we had some few beers which were also available.At 530am the following day, we fixed ourselves and headed of the to the lighthouse (parola)via a motorcycle for php 60/pax round trip. There, we were greeted by a Spanish old house and ground remains of the old parola. Few feet away is where a modern lighthouse was built and anyone could safely climb up to the tip to see the panoramic view of the gigantes norte island and Masbate on the other side. Afterwhich, we went back to the Inn and prepared ourselves for a caving adventure. We rode thru a motorcycle again for php 20/pax roundtrip to the foot of the mountain/cave. The caving took more than an hour. In this adventure, you had two options. It’s either you go back after reaching the mid part of the cave or continue towards the exit. Our group chose the exit way. With that, we had to do spelunking by climbing a vertical 2 storey wall without harness. But thanks to our guide who patiently taught us the detailed steps on how to do it. Fortunately, we all did it and went out through the exit way. I thought the challenge was over but going down wasn’t easy at all. We have to pass through sharp stones doing some rock climbing maneuvers. Twas tiring but the total experience was unforgettable! Then we headed back to our Inn to prepare for the last island to visit–the “Tangke”.It took around 30 minutes from Norte to Tangke and upon seeing the place…Wow!!! was very first word I uttered. Twas very beautiful. We stayed there for an hour and went back to our Inn for our lunch. Our total expense for the tour was php 1500/pax (personal boat,accomodation,meals) and remember, we were only five in the group.We left Gigantes at 3pm and arrived at Estancia at around 430pm just in time for the last Bus trip of the day back to Iloilo.I strongly recommend Islas de Gigantes!!!A piece of advise from our boatmen–avoid habagat seasons because seas are rough during these timesReply Chako saysApril 6, 2015 at 12:15 amHow much for the personal boat? :) Then about your accomodation of 200 per pax , do they have a cr inside? Nardee saysMay 21, 2013 at 9:12 amhi guys if you are planning to visit islas higantes.you can drop by in our place before going to the islands, we offer accommodations, food and drinks and also island package tour. we are situated near Bancal port(walking distance) Carles, Iloilo. the boat ride will just take you 45min to 1hr going to islas de higantes. check our page. thank you. :) https://www.facebook.com/pages/Chateau-de-Aow-Resort/380487678631216?fref=tsReply Foolish heart saysApril 24, 2013 at 8:32 pmThis place is really amusing ILONGGO’s like me should be proud of!PS: How much will i spend if i will go in this place?Reply bogs saysApril 5, 2013 at 12:19 pmI’m planning to go there tomorrow morning by myself. I do really have no idea how to get there and worried much on how much will I spend. I think 1 night is not enough for this place..Reply Tour_Guide saysMarch 11, 2013 at 10:36 amHello adventurer people arround the world, this island is waiting for you… i can tour you arround the island and discover the secret caves…. 09073174611 for interested…Reply fredaline saysApril 3, 2013 at 9:39 pmhi,any info about sa accommodation one night only.Reply tripper saysApril 27, 2013 at 7:20 amhi Hann saysFebruary 17, 2013 at 11:14 amHi Marcos, please help me with our itinerary. I’m really bothered if we can make it for a 3D2N trip in Isla Gigantes considering the pumpboat schedule. We’ll be arriving in Roxas around 11:05 am via Cebupacific, and our flight back on the 3rd day is around 11:35AM. Can you suggest an itinerary? Thanks a lot!Reply Marcos saysFebruary 23, 2013 at 4:25 amArriving 11:05am, you’ll have a very slim chance of catching the regular passenger boat on the same day. I suggest spending the night at either Estancia or Carles on your first day then hire a pumpboat the next day to take you to Isla Gigantes and do the island tour. If you do spend the night in Gigantes, you can take the early morning boat back to the mainland on your third day.Reply Tour_Guide saysMarch 11, 2013 at 10:28 amHi,How did you know the trip schedule of passenger boat? are you living in GIGANTE? anyway i admire you being adventurer…. maybe we can meet soon in this island….. i’m from Brgy. Granada, Gigante Norte, Carles, Iloilo… juliet justado saysFebruary 10, 2013 at 10:29 amgud am. thank you very much for these very helpful informations. hoping to be here sooner, hopfully with my husband as we celebrate our 13yrs fruitful marriage. i,ve already been to estancia port not knowing that from there, marami na pala pwdng pasyalan. much thanks;)Reply trekero saysFebruary 8, 2013 at 2:50 pmthanks for the helpful tips. would love to be there soon…Reply naida dicen saysJanuary 21, 2013 at 10:04 pmgood day to the admin..its just am looking for a friend which I’m searching his name, the Island of Gigantes appeared b 4 his name…(BOYET MAGALLANES)he really lives in this island..I wonder if he is the admin….just to say HI!Reply Tour_Guide saysMarch 11, 2013 at 10:10 amHey, who wants with me in this summer to GIGANTE ISLAND? swimming ability is a must… accomodation is free… kung walang budget sa travel expense??? mag-ipon muna…hehehehehehh may bahay kami doon and my relatives are living there…….Reply Joanna Marie saysMarch 24, 2013 at 3:08 pmAko pwedi?Im lookin forward to go there din eh.Im from bacolod.How much i can spend kaya?txt me 09187033383 Joanna Marie saysMarch 24, 2013 at 3:09 pmtxt me 09187033383 thelma saysApril 3, 2013 at 11:34 amcount me in! pls. let me know when :-) siguro nman hindi natin lalanguyin ang buong island :-D Joseph Reyes saysApril 19, 2013 at 7:03 amI’m quite interested… just keep me updated of the chosen date and if I’m available on the said date I could participate and join the group.. I would really like to stay longer if possible to enjoy and explore the islands. Thanks.. jetty saysMay 8, 2013 at 12:37 amDo u guys have a date yet ? Puede ka upod… :-) Ansel saysOctober 9, 2013 at 11:58 pmHi, patulong sana ko kung anong dapat o pwede ko gawin since ang schedule ko ay may problem. ayoko naman na magspend pa ng another cents para iparebook lang. Please, if you don’t mind, sa email ko na lang idiscuss in detailed or kaya sa text msg. Eto yung email add ko… [email protected] or 09227244872. Hope to hear from you. Thank you. ella saysNovember 13, 2013 at 4:06 pmhello gusto ko po pumunta jan by jan 2014 pa naman pero may ticket na ako puntang iloilo. Taga Palawan po ako pwidi po bang patulong nman if saan pwidi mag stay, cinu pwiding kuntakin at kung pwidi sumali sa group tour ng iba salamat. number ko po please pahelp nman 09129129399 pagdato saysDecember 28, 2012 at 5:23 pmi will surely love the place…Reply pagdato saysDecember 28, 2012 at 5:21 pmi like this page. very imformative. hope to visit it soon if i have some free time. im from iloilo but never been there yet.Reply karl saysNovember 19, 2012 at 11:39 amHi all, we are going to this beautiful island this coming Dec. 13 – 15. We are only 2 and would love to share the experience and boat expense with fellow travelers also. Anyone interested in joining us?We are the traveler/backpacker type of people who are just happy wherever we are. In case you are interested, you can email me at [email protected]. Thank you very much.Reply Lou saysNovember 8, 2012 at 8:19 pmhi! i saw from the post of Kris, that Joel’s family can accommodate people in their place..is there anyone who has a contact number? we are planning to visit maybe last week of December or first week of January.. :) or any suggestions for a place to stay..we are a group of max 10 people..thanks!Reply ian | going places saysJuly 12, 2012 at 5:53 pm@bea: how much is their island hopping through the tourism office and the average per night rate of accomodation in Carles? Thanks!By the which is much better to Isla de Gigantes via Estancia or Carles?Reply Marcos saysJuly 12, 2012 at 5:56 pmCarles mainland is closer to Isla de Gigantes but there are more transportation options (pumpboats) in Estancia. If you’re commuting, Estancia is the only port with commuter boats that go to Isla de Gigantes. If renting your own boat (pakyaw), Carles is an excellent choice, though, passing through Estancia is also not that bad (especially because it is closer and more accessible if coming from Iloilo City).Reply Beng Garabel saysOctober 21, 2015 at 3:38 pmhi sir marcos,do you have sample It for 2D/1N tour in Gigantes?? and if possible to pitching tent some inn’s and hotel in the island!! or do you have any suggestion in affordable accommodations with a the best food. thanks in advance!! Irene saysMay 25, 2013 at 4:56 pmHi,How long it takes to carles from lloilo airport by taxi. How much is it? How long from carles to lloilo city and how much ?Reply Mie saysJune 25, 2012 at 6:47 pmGood day! We are planning to spend our honeymoon there on April 2013. Can you give me any contact details prior to our inquiries. Awaiting reply. Tnx po.Reply Bea Jera saysApril 12, 2012 at 3:37 pmI’ve been to Gigantes twice. On March 2012 I stayed in Paon Beach in Estancia and did a one-day island hopping to Gigantes. I went to the following islands: Gaket-Gaket, Bantigue, Cabugaw Gamay (rock climbing and snorkeling), Antonia (snorkeling), Uaydahon (snorkeling), Tinagong Baybay Daco, Tangke and Balbagon (though we didn’t dock at this island — just a drive-by/sail-by since we were running out of time). Early this week I went back with friends but stayed for 2 nights in Gigantes Norte (decent accommodation at Gigantes Hideaway Inn, they serve meals too and their tap water is potable, you just have to get used to the taste but it’s not that unpleasant). This time around, aside from the islands I already mentioned, we also visited: Tinagong Baybay Gamay, Cabugaw Daco and Balbagon (went down for photo-op and not just a sail-by as before). We went to the parola (lighthouse) via habal-habal (motorcycle) and we also saw how they shuck the deep-sea scallops. The most convenient way to get there is via Estancia. We tried via Carles but the trip is complicated since you ride a bus/van from Roxas to Balasan then jeep to Carles town proper then take a tricycle or habal-habal to the seaport (Bangcal? sorry I forgot the name of the port) if you fail to catch the bus from Roxas that goes directly to Carles seaport. There is a van that goes straight to Estancia from Roxas so its more convenient. Travel time from Estancia to Gigantes Norte is 30 minutes longer than from Carles mainland (or so the locals say, I can’t know for sure because it took us longer to get to Gigantes Norte from Carles mainland than when I came via Estancia, but maybe that’s because the weather was a bit bad when we went through Carles mainland). Contact Carles Tourism Officer — Joel Decano, 0918-4685006 if you want to stay in Gigantes Norte or want to go island hopping. Don’t expect him to answer your call but he will reply if you send him text — this is because they have erratic cellphone signals in the island. Sometimes it takes him half a day to reply to my text but he does reply, just wait. You can also stay overnight in some of the islands but you have to bring all your supplies, especially drinking water since not all the islands have fresh water. Not all the islands have electricity too — and those that have only have it at certain times of the day. The long and winding travel to Gigantes is not for the faint-hearted since the trip by land is a bit daunting (either via Roxas or Iloilo City–I tried both ways) and the sea could get rough — but I’ve seen it as calm as a swimming pool, even the open seas. After a punishing travel to the islands, you’ll get a most peaceful and beautiful reward and I’m sure if you have the time (no flight back home to catch), you’ll stay an extra day or two.Reply Jezbob saysApril 10, 2012 at 11:36 pmvery informative. I’m planning to visit Gigantes Island this coming May. I was mesmerized by one of the pictures of my friend she posted on her wall. I think it’s one of the Islands in Gigantes. looking forward for this trip. thanks a bunch.Reply johann saysApril 3, 2012 at 8:42 pmthe other day, i mean the nxt day,,Reply Kris saysApril 29, 2012 at 3:24 am@Johann I’ve been there last week and the place is really beautiful. FYI: there is a place where you can stay for 150/head. The place is owned by Joel’s family (almost all boatman know him). Electricity is available from 3PM to 11PM and their gen set stays on until you need it. There is unlimited supply of water fresh from the mountains so you can have your shower as long as you want-free of charge. There is no wet market in the area though. They will serve whatever is the catch for the day. The good thing is, you will only pay the amount as priced by the fishermen. There is a “sari-sari” store a few steps away. The resort owner will not ask you for additional charges. You just need to give some amount to the “chef” a hundred or two will be enough.Once you go for Island Hoping, you can even ask someone or even Joel to deliver your brunch in one of the islands there.We hired a “pump boat” from Estancia going to Isla Gigantes. We paid 3,500. This is good for a “round trip” travel, including Island Hopping. In our case, we visited 4 Islands and a cave. We hired the pump boat for more than 24 hours for only 3,500.Reply tripper saysApril 27, 2013 at 7:25 amhi…how many of you went in that island??how much did u spend per pax????pls send me some info…tnx :-D tripper saysApril 27, 2013 at 7:28 amhi kris…can i have joel’s number coz we are planning to go in the island this coming may 4, 2013…tnx johann saysApril 3, 2012 at 8:38 pmi want to have some camp fire in one islet. pwede po bang mgpahatid sa bangka tpos dun nlng ako mg set ng tent tpos sunduin nlng ako ng same boat the other depende sa usapan namin? is it possible? i love camping po kasi..tnxReply Vic saysMarch 26, 2012 at 3:50 pmRebie yes true a big help indeed . With this website , we discover a Prestine Beach of Iloilo …Reply rebie saysMarch 26, 2012 at 10:31 am..thanks much for this article. i’ve been looking for info on how to go there as i’ve been wanting to go and this is such a big help! ;)) be blessedReply Vic saysMarch 14, 2012 at 11:11 pmTin , Conception to Estancia is more than 1 hour and Estancia to Gigantes have only 1 trip per day … Iloilo City to Guimaras is around 15 minutes boatReply tin saysMarch 14, 2012 at 8:35 pmand from iloilo city, how long it will take to reach guimaras? many thanks!!:)Reply tin saysMarch 14, 2012 at 8:17 pmwould u know if there is a place to stay at isla de gigantes like at least a cottage where we can sleep overnight? my family are planning to get there by lunch from concepcion then proceed for island hopping in the afternoon then rest. thanks in advance.Reply jr saysJanuary 25, 2012 at 10:29 pmhelo. will be there this 27th of jan. we will be leaving iloilo @ 11am. is it still possible to cath-up for the trip to isla?Reply Vic saysJanuary 18, 2012 at 4:33 pm@frances, helo there, i am bit confused what you trying to say and what is the object of “this” due to the absense in any of your sentence. But i have in mind , that you mean there is your trip to Isla Gigante, you may correct me here,another thing that confuses me is what you mean “OK ” . Is it 1. Affordable 2. Convenient 3. less hassle francesReply frances saysJanuary 18, 2012 at 1:20 pmhey there! if we do this sa holy week, okay ba ang transpo? any idea? thanksReply Vic saysJuly 22, 2011 at 3:18 pm@Kirsten…. youre welcome… you can just put tent in there on the shore or atop of plateau overlooking the beach in Antonio if you wish to spend the night …( you can see Marcus post on Beach Antonia just recently) as long as its strong enough to withstand the Gush .. but I’ m sure most tents do….you can watch you-tube for tips on how to survive the camping on places where there’s no access to food or water and many things…best to spend it with someone else too and you know i prefer to nightcamp during the Full-Moon( new Moon)we will have bigger moon on the last days of July…. and when the sky is clear… much better…Reply Kirsten saysJuly 22, 2011 at 3:24 pmWe’re used to camping in remote islands here in the Philippines. Might do that again too when we finally push through with our mountain climbing plans :)Thanks once again! You’ve been a great help! :)Reply Kirsten saysJuly 22, 2011 at 2:55 pm@Vic: Good thing I’m not! I’ll take note of your suggestions. :) BTW, is there a place in Gigantes where we can just pitch our tent? If I understood it right, there are no inns for travelers.Reply Vic saysJuly 22, 2011 at 1:18 pm@Kirsten… i suggest you would eat at the sea food restaurant in San Dionisio..its very very delicious (preska) and very very cheap …try their sizzling squid…. very tasty and sinigang na tanguigi… its just stood right beside the Sea Plus–Fish Factory…in Poblacion … In Estancia… Bayuyan has plenty of restaurant too… where I used to eat sinigang na shrimp….hope youre not allergic to sea foodsReply Kirsten saysJuly 22, 2011 at 12:45 pmI appreciate it, Vic! I’m now working on our itinerary, yay! :)Thanks to Marcos as well. This article is a big help! I’m a fan of his blog! :)Reply Vic saysJuly 22, 2011 at 11:20 am@Kirsten…. either way works well and it is primarily depend on what convenience you choose from …. if you decided to be closer to Iloilo City on your return… better off to make Carles first and be your last destination is Conception … if you choose your first vacation place is heavy and eventful… follow the Conception-first-Carles-next sequence…Reply Kirsten saysJuly 22, 2011 at 10:57 amHi Guys!We have an upcoming trip to Iloilo early next month. We want to experience both Carles and Concepcion. Is it better to go to Carles or Concepcion first? Suggestions please.Thanks so much!Reply Boyet Magallanes saysMarch 17, 2012 at 12:05 pmif you searching memorable and exciting mountain climbing, try the stone mountain of Langub, Gigantes Island…… almost 900 feet high.. take care….Reply Vic saysJuly 19, 2011 at 2:51 pm@ristof… make an itinerary..after you have fix the date of trip and duration, quantify the expenses and things to bring… if you take it by plane… its like 1500… by sea..its like the same then…youll get here Iloilo City as entry point… you’ll stay at least one day to simmer down especially when your arrival is in the afternoon… youll stay in the City pension house… that would be like 300 something … youll have party out on the night time 8pm-12am… and you return home in the morning 1am… at dawn 6am you do some jog in bordwalk… and have the breakfast at 8am and check out…as soon youll get to Tagbak Terminal at 10am and ride the Bus to Estancia your arrival is like 1pm,, youll take lunch … you are in once-a-day boat to Gigantes… around 2pm… and get there around 4pm…you still have time to move around and enjoy the beaches… and then at dusk..you’ll buy foods in some stores…and at night… you started to put up your tent and campfire… and you need whiskey to kick in you way to sleep… and so on …Reply naida dicen saysJanuary 24, 2013 at 9:08 pmhi boyet!Reply Boyet_Magallanes saysMarch 5, 2013 at 8:31 amNaida Decin, Hello…. its been a long years since our younger years in college…. Hope to see you again soon…. Tour_Guide saysMarch 11, 2013 at 10:18 amHi, if didn’t forget my real name!!!! just search me in facebook… i can’t give you any number in this public conversation… thanks and GOD BLESS…. take care….. ristof saysJuly 19, 2011 at 1:47 pmhow i wish to visit the place. i’m a lone trekker from bukidnon. surely, this is a very memorable place to visit. iloilo is my father’s hometown. any tip for a solo trekker will be highly appreciated.Reply Vic saysJuly 19, 2011 at 1:46 pm@celden margarico…. are their any alternative for a less expensive one?— i believe Paon is beautiful because they have this leisure garden chairs right beneath the cliff-deck past the shore….Reply celden margarico saysJuly 16, 2011 at 11:34 amI would recommend you guys to stay at paon beach resort..the place is nice and they got a swimmin pool..its in estancia…they arrange boat rental for groups…cost aroud 6000 pesos for a day tour around the islands….Reply Vic saysJuly 13, 2011 at 9:48 am@Marcus…you are welcome… and you came just in time just as when I am expecting what is common incidence these past few months . You would notice someone here chronically harassed , verbally abused , character assassinate those who inquire , comments or give a though on your post . Obviously, he/she is here with aim to damage , to discredit , stir trouble and humiliate , disrupting the harmonious and meaningful conversation of certain places, events and everything which is happening in Iloilo … Noticeably , I believe you know who exactly that under-sanctioned person … I maintain to the policy that which necessitates to execute certain degree of civility and sensible inputs, interwove with practical humour and wit …Reply Marcos saysJuly 13, 2011 at 2:32 amThis is a warning to those fond of using the comments section for personal attacks and off-topic statements. Comments will be moderated accordingly. Continued abuse will be sanctioned. Thank you.Reply Jenette 3827 saysOctober 8, 2015 at 11:51 amIm planning to go there with a friend next week Saturday and Sunday, I would like to know the schedule of commutters boat in the morning. I have read there is only one schedule of departure at 2pm in Estancia. I would like to know if we can have walk-in in the Gigantes hideaway tourist inn for the accomodation(because in the net there is no reservation) How much the Fan room. This is our first time and Im impress how did your budgeting. Thank you so much hope you can help me. God blessReply Vic saysJuly 12, 2011 at 10:18 amthis is detailed…. —- —- —- One thing to make spring water potable is a 3 drops of potassium hypoclorite in all leading pharmacy … —- —- —- @mur2s……The place is the best setting for your own personalized Blue-Lagoon Fairy-Tales …. wow ( nostalgia) hahahahaha… —— —— —— @billy … im sure if you get into this Island…you would personify Jack Black in Gulliver-Travel 2010 kind of guy.Reply kris saysSeptember 3, 2011 at 2:12 pmthat island for me is heaven…i spend my childhood n that place…Reply Badong Babaran saysOctober 20, 2012 at 3:28 pmThis place is very nice to have your vacation. ROSEWOOD resort in tabun-ak, Brgy. Granada, Isla Gigantes Norte can accommodate.They have rooms with aircon. Just Contact Ayesha. 09088741936 or 09287128091Care taker Nong Panong: 09079551099
Nesh saysSeptember 3, 2017 at 4:33 pmhi! if you are looking for a tour guide to explore the beauty of Isla de Gigantes, My uncle Roselo is offering a service for you. Please visit our FB account for the contact information. Kindly click the link. Thank you so much. https://www.facebook.com/GigantesIslandTouristboat/?ref=aymt_homepage_panelReply
Ma. Leonora Ticorda saysApril 13, 2017 at 10:58 amGoodmorning Maam/sir is ther any any available for reservation for 6 persons? From this day 4/13/17 to 4/15/17 in 3 days and 2 nights?Reply
Nelia alarcon saysMarch 17, 2017 at 7:00 pmMy fam plan to go thr on apr 13 to 15 do i need to book for our stay there? How can we call for reservat’n?Reply
pau manansala saysMarch 14, 2017 at 5:18 amHi,punta aq sa islas de gigantes along this march 26 to march 28 alone.Anyone wants to join para makatipid?email me nalang [email protected]Reply
Andrei Uy saysMarch 11, 2017 at 7:30 pmWe are interested, where can we book for the gigantes tour?Reply
Yasmeen Mohamed saysMarch 7, 2017 at 6:45 amHi, Good day… Plan ko po ipasyal ang 2 kong anak at nanay ko po with in this year…magkano po ba lhat na magagastos for 3 days in Gigantes Island? Thanks & God Bless…Reply
Cookie Gallardo saysMarch 3, 2017 at 8:39 pmHi! My friend and i are up for a tour this coming april last week. You may join us or we can join your group for less expenses especially for the island hopping part. ☺ thanksReply
Cookie Gallardo saysMarch 3, 2017 at 11:19 amMy partner and I are planning to go to Iloilo this coming April. I find this very helpful because gigantes island is one of the places we included in our bucket list. Thanks for this! Just a question, are tents allowed to be set up during the night. We dont prefer to stay in a cottage for it will also add to our expenses, too. Thank you!Reply
sahrie saysFebruary 19, 2017 at 2:48 pmGreat blog! Would love to go to Iloilo because of this blog! Renting a motorbike is possible nearly everywhere. Enjoy self drive! Visit our website book2wheel.comReply
CRISTINA DATANAGAN GASMEN saysFebruary 7, 2017 at 3:33 pmHi…can you help me? we only have April 23 and 24 (halfday) for gigantes. Possible ba sa sked namin? Halfday lang yung 24 kc nga 8:20pm na balik namin to manila from iloilo. You said mga 5-6hrs ang carles from iloilo city. hindi kaya alanganin? ThanksReply
Onnel saysJanuary 23, 2017 at 4:21 amThank you for this. I’m at Ceres Liner Bus Station now bound for Carles to experience the Gigantes Island after the Dinagyang Festival finale.Your article is a great help though in the travel cost/itinerary, you only included the trip from Iloilo City to Estancia Port. I was looking for the Iloilo City – Carles details. Glad to have found it in one of the comments.Reply
Richard Aron saysJanuary 21, 2017 at 11:10 amHi,im going to travel alone.how and where i can sched on jan.25-27,2017Reply
pawie polhen saysJanuary 5, 2017 at 11:47 pmHi sir , This Jan 24-28 2017 im at ilo ilo alone kaso i dont have any idea where to go and what to do. Kaya salamat dito sir. Kaso I do have a question , magkano lahat nagastos nyo during your stay sir ? Hehe Thank you !Reply
Julie Lodia saysFebruary 2, 2017 at 12:40 amSir: For the whole island hopping pumpboat rate 1,500 -2000, is this per person or for the group plus 500 for the tour guide. Thank you for your immediate response. We were going on Feb. 8, 5personsReply
Johannes Claire saysJanuary 4, 2017 at 11:57 pmIsland Hopping – Chartering a pumpboat for a whole-day island hopping tour around Gigantes (including a guide) costs P1,500 to P2,000 for up to 10 people. The guide costs an additional P500. —-> i would like to clarify this. 1) 1500 – 2000 per person? or per tour (regarless of how many person)? 2) if per person, how much it the minimum no. of person per tour?Bakwitan Cave Tour – P500 for the cave guide and P200 for the roundtrip motorcycle taxi transfer. —> another clarifycation. 1) 500 payment for the guide regardless of howmany person will go to the cave? or 500 per person payment to the guide?Reply
Thes saysAugust 25, 2016 at 10:33 amHi…. Which is better? Estancia or Bancal? How to reach Estancia from ILO-ilo? Thank youReply
Marcos Detourist saysAugust 26, 2016 at 4:31 amBancal port in Carles is a better gateway to Gigantes. The boat ride is shorter because it is closer to the islands.Reply
Lyka Chua saysAugust 23, 2016 at 2:36 pmHi!My friends and i are going to Gigantes on Sept 8th for a day trip. Could you give us an idea like what time we should be in Carles for the boat? And how much will we need to pay for a private pump boat for 3 for a whole day of tour? If there is a boat that we can share with others small pax, that would be much better!Reply
Marcos Detourist saysAugust 26, 2016 at 4:30 amYou can find more Gigantes travel tips on this page: https://www.exploreiloilo.com/place/gigantes/Reply
Kiko saysAugust 23, 2016 at 2:19 pmHi! I am going solo on Aug 31 – Sept 4. But I plan to go to boracay first then head to Gigantes Islands. I would be on my way to Roxas City by 6am of Sept 2, Friday from Caticlan. Any one who wants to join? Or A group where I can join that fits my schedule? Thanks. You can reach me via email. [email protected]Reply
alie saysAugust 21, 2016 at 12:33 pmMy sister and i are planning for an island hopping day tour on Sep 24. Anyone wants to join us, let me know. 09176544138Reply
Jenz saysAugust 20, 2016 at 2:31 amVery informative. Planning to go here this coming nov. 9-10 2016. :) Baka may pwedeng masabayan. Please let me know. Thanks! Here’s my number 09167563864! ?Reply
jen rey saysAugust 13, 2016 at 7:29 pmmy friend and I are going on sep13-15! dalawa lang kami, anyone who wants to join us? para makatipid :) email me! [email protected] thanks!!Reply
Rodz saysAugust 3, 2016 at 9:43 pmHI Marcos! Good things I visited your site. I’m having a hard time to decide where and how I can reach Gigantes Island.Actually I have not planned anything yet. My partner and I will arrive in Kalibo this Friday morning and I was thinking If we could go to Island the next day sat then have an overnight stay. Our flight back to Cebu will be on Monday morning and still in Kalibo airport. Please… can you suggest how we can make it? i’m out of budget as well.Is 2000 just ok for one person?Please…. if anyone there who would like to come para makatipid… Let me know. Aug 5 to 8 . contact me through 09065998487Reply
Jean saysJuly 27, 2016 at 12:03 amOkay lang ba pumunta doon month of September? Hindi ba delikado dahil maulan sa buwan na yon? May plano kami kasi Sept 23-26 2016 sa Iloilo then punta ng Gigantes sana. Please advise po. Thank you.Reply
rowena celerio saysJuly 16, 2016 at 1:39 pmAnyone want to join us? we are going to Gigantes this coming January 27, 2017 we’re 6 pax, interested to join us are welcome pra maka tipid tayo guys. txt me 09496405384 or msg. me at FB Rowena Alfarero Celerio. see u there!Reply
Edah saysJuly 13, 2016 at 7:45 pmHi. Me and my boyf will be going to Gigantes this coming 13-14. Dalawa lang kami. Anyone interested to join para mkatipid kami. Email me at [email protected]. :)Reply
Tian's saysJuly 8, 2016 at 8:46 pmhi whre going to gigantes by this july 29 – august 5, 2016 i’m with my sis and her friend who’s living in Carles mismo . who wants to join our island hopping is free to inform me para maka tipid tayo sa tour here is my email [email protected] see ya!Reply
Klien saysJuly 7, 2016 at 2:00 amHello, me and my partner have got some information about the place’s accessibility from Cebu via Daanbantayan. We would want to know if there is such option. And if there is, would want to ask about the how-to. Thank you!Reply
Marcos Detourist saysJuly 7, 2016 at 3:14 amThe ferry route from Cebu to Estancia, Iloilo is not from Daanbantayan, but from Bantayan Island. There are ferries from Estancia that go to Gigantes. You may also travel by land to Bancal Port in Carles and ride a ferry from there.Reply
Myfanwy saysJuly 6, 2016 at 3:34 pm“Island Hopping – Chartering a pumpboat for a whole-day island hopping tour around Gigantes (including a guide) costs P1,500 to P2,000 for up to 10 people. The guide costs an additional P500.”Where can I hire the pumpboat for the whole-day island hopping tour?Reply
Marcos Detourist saysJuly 6, 2016 at 6:09 pmThe tourist office in Bancal Port, Carles should be able to help you when you arrive there.Reply
Lani Cabauatan saysJune 26, 2016 at 7:13 amI would like to commend the writer as he definitely was thinking of his fellow Filipinos who would want to visit the islands. The practical rates and options he enumerated are very encouraging for a mid-class earner who wants to treat the kids to a good but cost-attainable vacation. I will definitely start saving for this trip now and hopefully be able to go with my 3 kids next year.Keep up the good work and intentions, Mr. Marcos Detourist!Reply
thepinaygypsy saysJune 24, 2016 at 8:56 pmWe will be in Isla de Gigantes on July 15-16 (4 pax). As per Mr. Joel Decano private boat rental for 2d1n is 5,500 while the group tour package for 4pax is around 2,600 each. Any suggestion guys kung saan kami mas makakatipid?Anyone who wants to join us? Here’s my email address: [email protected]Thank you :)Reply
Kathleen saysJune 16, 2016 at 2:18 pmanyone who wants to join us on November 19-21, 2016? pls let me know. we are only 4 pax. contact me at [email protected] thank you! :)Reply
marianne saysJune 15, 2016 at 10:38 pmHi, my family, we are 8 adults are planning to go at isla gigantes. i got this packages for 2315/person for a 3days-2 nights stay.all in. do u think its a good package? also, we are coming from boracay. do u happen to know how much is the fare from bora tp estancia?or which is nearer carles or estancia? should we commute or hire a van? hope to hear from u..thanks.. :)Reply
Marcos Detourist saysJune 20, 2016 at 3:02 amIt depends on what is included in the package. Carles is the best jump-off point to Gigantes since it is nearer to the island.Reply
Tere saysJune 8, 2016 at 4:18 amGoing there with 2 of my friends on June 27 for a Day Tour. Anyone who wants to join us, you can text/viber me : 09156607757. ThanksReply
Khem saysJune 7, 2016 at 11:17 amHello All: Who wants to join with us pupunta kami sa Islas de Gigantes ngayun June 14 po flight namin dalawa lang kc kami. Pls contact me 0925-594-6594Reply
adethe saysJune 6, 2016 at 9:55 pmHello,Me and my hubby are planning to go to Isla Gigantes anytime this month. Preferably this weekend or next, on a 3days/2nights stay. Anyone interested so we can share expenses. Groupies of 5 and up can save a lot on a boat rental for island hoping I heard. Sms me on 09272701374.Reply
rennan saysJune 2, 2016 at 7:38 pmhi guys, gusto ko mag travel jan sa gegantis but ako lng mag isa baka may gusto mag pasama sakin jan sama nyo naman po ako? or baka may nag solo din jan pm nyo po ako sa 09202307577. thank you renanReply
Maureen Santuya saysMay 27, 2016 at 9:13 pm…so proud seeing/viewing my hometown :) #AimHighIslaGiganteReply
Mimay saysMay 26, 2016 at 3:17 amCan i go in gigantes by july or august? I have some relatives in that islands.Reply
Marcos Detourist saysMay 26, 2016 at 8:29 pmOf course you can. To be safe, check the weather reports if there are incoming typhoons.Reply
Ellyn saysMay 24, 2016 at 1:47 amHi Marcos, Its is possible to explore gigantes for atleast one day? We only have 3 days and 2 nights trip but we decided to visit boracay first for maybe 2 days and one night . We rent a van so no need to wait for the buses and save time. Do we need to book a pumpboat ?. How many person per pumpboat?Reply
Marcos Detourist saysMay 24, 2016 at 4:03 pmYes it’s possible, but you have to plan the timing well. It’s better to hire a pumpboat, if you want to maximize your time. You can rent it for the roundtrip transfer to Gigantes and the island hopping around the islands. I suggest that you do Gigantes first since it’s quite far, and then visit Boracay, where it’s nearer to Caticlan or Kalibo Airport. It’s possible to do a day trip to Gigantes and spend the night at either Carles or Roxas, if you have your own transport.Reply
Ellyn saysMay 24, 2016 at 5:00 pmThank you so much for the info really a big help.We leave hk -iloilo 2:20 am and arrive maybe 4:30 am. Our ticket hk-iloilo round trip. You think its better gigantes first than boracay?..
Marcos Detourist saysMay 24, 2016 at 6:07 pmIt’s possible to do it either way, but I’d go to Gigantes first since it’s the more active part of your trip and you can manage your trip better in Boracay, in case you want to rush back to Iloilo to catch your flight. Here’s a sample itinerary you can follow:Day 1 Arrival at Iloilo Airport Iloilo to Bancal Port, Carles transport by land Gigantes Island Hopping via Bancal PortYou should check Maruja Flora Resort. More info: https://www.exploreiloilo.com/guide/gigantes-great-places-to-stay/ You should ask them if they can arrange the boat transfers & island hopping.Day 2 Gigantes/Carles to Boracay transport. Depending on what time you leave, you can arrive in Boracay as early as mid-afternoon Stay in Boracay. You can find lots of resort options here: http://www.agoda.com/city/boracay-island-ph.html?asq=wKpOUwOqvj/v7suJqK6wKsKJQ38fcGfCGq8dlVHM674%3D&cid=1414469Day 3 Boracay to Iloilo transport. You should leave Boracay in the mid-morning, preferrable, not later than 12nn if you are departing on the 11PM flight to Hong Kong. Return flight to Hong Kong. You may want to check the Kalibo-Hong Kong flights if you can still make changes on your plane ticket.
Jenica saysJune 21, 2016 at 1:44 pmHi Marcos,Are the pumpboat rentals inclusive of the island hopping? Thanks.
Allen Cuesta saysMay 23, 2016 at 12:08 amhi, may i ask what’s the best route to carles? Is it from Ilo-ilo or Roxas city? we’re planning to have a tour on july 28-31.Reply
Marcos Detourist saysMay 23, 2016 at 8:58 pmRoxas City is nearer to Gigantes. If you can book an early morning flight to Roxas, it would maximize your time.Reply
Aveen saysMay 19, 2016 at 10:09 amHi, Marco Is it true that all guests going to gigantes need to take passenger boat in bancal port? what are the schedules of ferries going to gigantes from bancal port. please?Reply
Marcos Detourist saysMay 23, 2016 at 9:00 pmBancal Port is the best gateway to Gigantes Island. You can read more transport tips including schedules here https://www.exploreiloilo.com/transport/place/iloilo/iloilo-province/gigantes/Reply
Jazzy C saysMay 12, 2016 at 1:37 pmHello hello,Anybody who’s interested on going Island hoping for a day at Gigantes on June 5, 2016 that’s Sunday, please let me know. There’s only 4 of us and would like to share the cost of the ride. Shoot me an email [email protected]. Can’t wait to share the fun.Thanks — JZReply
Reggie saysMay 7, 2016 at 1:10 amHi Everyone, Is there anyone who’s interested joining me this coming May 12-14 in Gigantes?Solo traveler here. For those interested please contact me @ 09275905786.Thanks, – ReggieReply
rrrowena daya saysMay 5, 2016 at 9:20 amWe are planning to go to Islas de Gigantes this coming July 7-10,just want to ask if its best that we start from Roxas City to Carles?ThanksReply
Mark Aaron Barcelona saysMay 1, 2016 at 1:05 pmHi, Mark here. We are planning to go to Gigantes on May 7 – 8, 2016. Five kami sa group (2 girls 3 boys) from Iloilo City. Wanna join our group and explore Gigantes together? Let’s enjoy the beauty of Iloilo message me at 09778021128 or email [email protected]. Thanks!Reply
Karl Maverick Gutierrez saysApril 5, 2016 at 1:43 pmhello.. anyone who wants to join our day trip this coming June 30, 2016 four (4) lang po kami para maka LESS tau sa boat rental.. if interested, pls contact me thru my FB page.. [email protected]Reply
Charm saysApril 27, 2016 at 6:30 amWe’re planning to go at Isla. We are a party of 6. If you want, we can go together para mka less tayo.Reply
adethe saysJune 6, 2016 at 9:44 pmhello, interested party here. can i have your contact details. mine is 09272701374. hope to hear from you soon. thanks.
Jenny ann saysApril 3, 2016 at 11:03 pmSolo traveler here bka my gusto sumama saken okay lng kahit group pls email me [email protected] thanks :)Reply
Joy Venezuela saysMarch 25, 2016 at 9:52 pmAnyone here who would like to join our group (4 members) we’re planning to visit Isla Gigantes as our first destination of our Panay Island tour for two weeks probably last week of April to first week of May. If you’re up to this kindly message me @ [email protected]Reply
Mark Laurence Poldo saysMarch 9, 2016 at 9:42 pmWill travel by Nov17-19, 2016.Anyone who are interested to join us? Message me or email me. 09175912147 or [email protected]Reply
jerty saysMarch 9, 2016 at 2:56 ammeron po ba mag Islas de Gigantes by FEB 07-9 2017? email me po.[email protected]Reply
Praning saysMarch 5, 2016 at 6:42 pmCelebrated my birthday there last week! It was really an amazing experience there in the island! I really love the view and the experience I had. A really beautiful place for a getaway! Blogged about my experience here:Reply
Yeng saysMarch 2, 2016 at 6:19 pmHi I would like to go to Gigantes, I’m lookin for a group to join with. Anytime from March 25 onwards. ThanksReply
Yeng saysFebruary 25, 2016 at 9:27 pmHi, Anyone has travel plan to Gigantes Island between 2nd to 3rd week of March.I am interested to join.Thanks,Reply
erick gustilo saysFebruary 24, 2016 at 11:28 pmHi , were planning to go in island this coming july 18-21 this year any possible package or tour that guide us to easy get to our trip in island . is any possible were 12 persons already go to iloilo for next getaway tour . kindly email us : [email protected] / 09266616949 erick here. hope see there on that date.Reply
Anna Rose Cereza saysFebruary 19, 2016 at 2:52 pmHi! Planning to go to Isla Gigantes with my partner on March 26. Baka may gustong sumama pra mka less tayo sa mga boat fares. Please message me on fb. Search Anna Rose Cereza from Bacolod. You can also send me an email message to [email protected]. thank you!Reply
L saysFebruary 17, 2016 at 7:51 pmJOHNVON Baka my mag travel po sa inyo on Feb. 18 0r 19 to gigantes para sasabay po kame ng mrs ko para lesser ang fare sa boat just tx me 09086152691/[email protected]. thank you po.Reply
Jean Marie mahudamahumahusay saysFebruary 16, 2016 at 7:04 pmLow po sino po ba ung may schedule for February 25-27 papunta gegantis? 4 lang kasi kami Ito po email add ko [email protected]. baka pweding sumabay 3girls w/ 1boy lang kami.thanks!Reply
Mizel saysFebruary 11, 2016 at 3:14 pmWe are going to isla gigantes on April 22, 2016. We are 8 and open for joiners :) For interested, please do email me at [email protected] Thanks guys! ^,~Reply
Réal D. saysFebruary 9, 2016 at 1:08 pmI would be interested in joining Any group tours going from Iloilo city to Gigantes islands from now till April 1st./16 I am a single male 60 years old. Please text me @ 09062684600. Or email me at [email protected] Réal D.Reply
Jojo saysJanuary 23, 2016 at 5:40 pmBaka may mag travel po sa into sa feb 16.. Dalawa lang kami ng gf ko. If gusto nyo sumabay po para tipid… Email nyo nalang ako. [email protected]Reply
lucky mabayag saysJanuary 18, 2016 at 5:29 amhi.. any group or individual na magpunta ng gigantes island on march 6-7, 2016… 7 kami baka sino gusto sumama sa group para maka less tau sa boat rental.. thanks.. msg me on fb… kung meron gusto.. thanks.. lucky lariba mabayag or [email protected]Reply
Ash saysDecember 28, 2015 at 9:39 pmJust came back from a 3D/2N stay in Gigantes Norte – Arjan Resort. If you seek seclusion and tranquility stay at the private resorts in Cabugao Gamay and San Antonia. Do not stay in Gigantes Norte and Sur resorts unless you don’t mind being surrounded by the island’s residents. People’s houses are literally at the back of Arjan and Jesa resorts (both at Norte), they’re beach front alright but it’s always low-tide and no waves – you got to walk at least 50 meters for a knee deep water, it’s more like a lake than a sea.Solo travellers please be warned, do not eat in Arjan resort. There’s a 150 paluto or service charge and ingredients charge on top of your order. E.g. Half kilo of scallops is Php 90 + 1 cup of rice Php 15 + service charge 150 = 255 Total for just 1 meal. Paluto is only worth the Php 150 if you’re in a big group.The blogger of this site might want to update info: Entrance fee in Cabugao Gamay is now Php 50 and Php 40 in San Antonia, it more than doubled since this article was written.People might want to know that there’s a boat travelling to and from Carles and Gigantes island. Carles is closer to the island – just 45-minute boat ride as opposed to 2 hours from Estancia port. It leaves at 10 am for Gigantes and goes back to the main island at 1 pm. Much earlier than the ones in Estancia (2 pm to Gigantes and 8 am the next day back to Estancia – not a very efficient time). Best to do day tour if you’re after the island hopping experience only.Reply
Francis Gaborno saysFebruary 10, 2016 at 3:25 pmHi! Good Day! Me and my friends are planning to go to Isla Gigantes this coming holy week.. Do you have any suggestions where can we stay ang have our booking or reservations.? Thank You!Reply
ralph saysFebruary 19, 2016 at 5:17 pmhi Ash,can i have more info about your tour in Gigantes? like boat expenses, Carles to Gigantes via passenger and chartered boat (if you have info) and some tips as well.. i find your post helpful.,please email me @ [email protected]Thanks-Ralph PReply
denisse saysMarch 14, 2016 at 12:32 pmHi Ash,Do you have any recent contact numbers in any of your recommended resorts? Thanks.Reply
Ceejay saysDecember 17, 2015 at 3:44 amThanks for all the info here! Great help. Planning a Panay trip from Dec 26 to the NY later this year and this is def’ly one of the spots I look forward to visiting. Looks like other people are headed there too. Nice! :DReply
Renhart saysNovember 24, 2015 at 11:46 pmHello any group here i can join, i am planning to visit gigantes this dec2015. Please add me in facebook [email protected] / 09213284043Reply
badz saysNovember 15, 2015 at 11:03 pmhi! ill visit gigantes this december, but am a solo traveller, so my question is do i have to rent a boat to go around the islands myself or they can arrange a joiner traveller in one boat.. i think it will be huge for me to rent a boat just for myself.. hahaha.. please give me some tips.. thanks.Reply
Ceejay saysDecember 17, 2015 at 3:45 amHey, planning to go around Panay from Dec 26 to the NY and I’m also looking for people to join. Up for it?Reply
Alvin saysOctober 2, 2015 at 4:39 pmHi! very informative blog. Thanks for sharing. Btw, I have some questions.Madami po bang makukuhang bangka for the island hopping pagdating ng Gigantes? Yung mga tinawagan ko kasi they are offering package tour… parang much cheaper kung rent n lng ng bangka kasi I see some comments na nasa 1,500-2,000 ung rent for the day tour.May contact po ba kayo ng resort sa Gigantes Sur? Mukhang much cheaper kasi kung dun magstay at cheaper din ang bangka since nasa Sur ang mga kilalang islands.And, may byahe po ba ng bangka to Carles to Gigantes Sur? Anong oras po ang alis sa port?Reply
Issa saysSeptember 28, 2015 at 10:31 amHi!I will be going to Gigantes Island some time soon. May I ask if there are Vans we can rent from Roxas airport to go to Carles?Also on the way back where can we get rented vans from Carles to Iloilo?How much would these cost? Would really prefer to have our own time vs. waiting for time of others if we follow public transport.Thank you in advance. :)Reply
JOCYL GANZON saysSeptember 14, 2015 at 3:58 amWe are a group of 4 going to gigantes island on oct 29, 2015. We will only be able to spend overnight and need to be back in Iloilo the next day, oct 30. We are looking for another group of 4-6 people who can split chartered boat costs from estancia to gigantes because we are hoping to leave estancia before 12noon. Our ETA in Gigantes is 11am if we leave Tagbak before 8am.Sa mga tour guides da, bangkero or resort owners or Kung sin-o na pwede ka assist sa amon, please contact me through FB (JOCYL GANZON) or email me at [email protected]THANK YOU, ☺️☺️☺️Reply
Lei saysSeptember 12, 2015 at 8:26 pmHi, any groups open for joiners? I’ve always wanted to visit Gigantes Island. I hope maybe I can join. Please add me up on facebook.Thanks! Lei Salonga [email protected]Reply
Joe Walshe saysSeptember 2, 2015 at 12:43 pmStaying in Iloilo for the month of Sep. 2015 and found this web site informative and practical. Thanks for info.Reply
Jeri saysSeptember 1, 2015 at 5:23 amHi Explorers,Your blog is very helpful to those who are first timers to explore gigantes islands like me. Because me and my cousins are planning to have our trip this October. Is it safe to go there around that month? Because that is our only time to have this vacation. Also do you have an estimation and iterinary if we take Carles-gigantes instead of Estancia-gigantes. I think you didnt include carles-gigantes iterinary and travel cost on what you have mentioned above. Your suggestion is highly appreciated. Thank you!Reply
Marcos Detourist saysSeptember 1, 2015 at 7:33 amIt is generally safe to go to Gigantes at any month of the year as long as there is no incoming typhoon or any strong weather disturbances. October is not particularly frequented by Typhoons, but it may happen on your trip, so it’s best to check weathers forecasts before you go.I’ve been meaning to update this guide on getting to Gigantes via Carles. We’ve posted more info on our Gigantes transport guide.Reply
Beng Garabel saysOctober 21, 2015 at 3:16 pmhi sir Marcos,any tour guide requirement at gigantes island especially in caving?? or do you have someone to recommend too?Btw, thank you for the informative description to this beautiful place!! and Sir do you have personal blog?
Lhyn Vargas saysNovember 30, 2015 at 1:43 amHello Sir. If we are coming from Caticlan airport how do we get there & how much would it cost? Hoping for ur prompt response. Thank u so much :-) Message was corrected. Sorry for the repetition :-)
Marcos Detourist saysDecember 15, 2015 at 1:16 amYou can find more info here: https://www.exploreiloilo.com/guide/gigantes-transport/
Maria saysSeptember 1, 2015 at 4:38 pmHi Jeri,We were there last week. I also checked this itinerary for our reference & it was so helpful! It’s just that some of the rates were already changed. You may contact Aldrich 09078862262 for more information (tour guide for our group) & consider staying at Rosewood Place Resort (beachfront). They can also cook the food you want, offers island hopping tours & water sports. Visit their FB page for photos! Enjoy your trip!Reply
chris saysAugust 28, 2015 at 12:47 pmhi every0ne im going to gigantes on july 1 sino pupunta din sa gigantes on same date ?Reply
jeff Miralles saysAugust 13, 2015 at 11:25 amGood day! My wife and I will be in Roxas city on August 22 and we are planning to go to gigantes island on the following day. May i inquire for any group that will be going on the same dates (Aug 23-24) that we can possibly join? 2 lang kasi kami and it would be too expensive to go on a special package…. baka lang po may ma irerefer kayo. Thanks in advance!Reply
Liss saysJune 26, 2015 at 3:49 pmWe have the best tour guide ever. I want to make a little favor for him because he doesn’t know how to go online and wants to have an income. His fee is 500php for 1 day island hopping but he will do more than that. His name is Jedden, +639468516513. We spend 2000php for 3 days, including everything! food, transpo from pres. Roxas,Tip, island hopping fee,snack, accomodation.Reply
Shingha saysJuly 14, 2015 at 8:23 pmLiss! Good evening. I badly need your help. We are on crunch time and were going to the islands this weekend but we are on panic mode because the chartered boat we have contacted is too expensive. I liked ur comment coz u said u only spent 2k, nays! How did you do it?Reply
cheann saysAugust 27, 2015 at 12:40 amHi what resort did you check in? Does the resort offer everything such as island hoping? Thank you!Reply
Alvin saysOctober 2, 2015 at 7:48 pmHi Liss… Where did you stay in Gigantes? I can’t reach Jedden on the number you provided.Reply
Carla saysOctober 13, 2015 at 3:37 pmHi! May I know where exactly you stayed in Gigantes Island? thanks!Reply
fritz saysJune 24, 2015 at 10:51 amwe offer an island tour package for 5-10 people. P2,800.00/pax inclusive of transportation from estancia to gigante vice versa, 2 nights accommodation with meals, and 1 day island hopping. if interested, you may contact these numbers 09159875040 and 09079972910.Reply
rinell jonathan saysMay 29, 2015 at 8:30 pmhi! is anyone there planning to go there by june 19 – 21? i am a solo backpacker! im confident that i can get there because of the informative blogs that i have read. my problem is that i have tight budget, i cant afford to rent a whole package for island hopping. i hope i can join in any group for good. and by the way june 20 is my birthday and i choose to celebrate it at gigantes island. 09096312902 contact me those who have the same date going there! thanks. im so excited!Reply
NOEL DELA VEGA saysMay 27, 2015 at 8:40 pmWe’ve just operated a new resort in North Gigantes Island with 6 fully air conditioned rooms and 5 native bahay kubo for those who prefer fan room only. We have a new big generator set to ensure supply of electrical power in case of Ileco power outage. We offer fresh seafoods as requested like scallops, crabs, squids, wasay wasay sea shells, litod, etc. For more information and inquiries please see our facebook page at “Gigantes Island Tours & Beach Resort” or call/text bambam at 09499037157.Reply
jeff Miralles saysAugust 13, 2015 at 11:22 amgood day, i’ve been trying to contact the number you provided but nobody is answering. anyways, may i inquire about the rate for 2 pax, overnight on Agust 23 to 24, 2015. What are the inclusions and additional charges for those taht are not included. salamat and i hope to receive a reply from you.Reply
jerald saysMay 25, 2015 at 1:47 pmHI! I just wanna ask if 6000 pesos is already enough for 2 days and 2 nights of two persons there in Islas de Gigantes, we’re coming from ILOILO City. Thank you..txt me for info..09187601020Reply
jenkin cipriano saysApril 28, 2015 at 5:54 pmSir jist want to share my bad experience at Sir jist want to share my bad experience at Hideaway innTo Mr. Joel Decano Tourism OfficerI have watched drew’s gma7 episode of isla gigantes and i was amazed of the island. I have an early booking Mar29 for our 3d2n tour on April 25to27. He confirmed my booking for package rate of 4 pax. I was requesting since then to have 2 rooms no with no reply. I understand since the island dont have enough signal. I texted again for confirmation of two room last April 20. He replied “we’ll try mam”! What??? A 1 month reservation booking just to reply we’ll try”??? We arrived 3pm and sit at their dining area. The lady in their office ( sister of Joel) told us our room was have to set up. after an hour.Nataniel (our tour guide) advise us to go to our room in their extension. I was shocked for our room. its like the owner of the house evacuated for us to sleep. Cabinets of the owner was still inside no padlock open house. No lights in cr. NO BED FRAMES! I ask the management what happen to our reservation??? We are uncomfortable on our room. The guy told us there is no available room. The only option was tent and transfer in Balubadiangan island.. Its like a take it or leave it option. After dinner we decided our group to transfer on other resort /homestay but the island tour will still be availed at Hideaway inn. The lady frontdesk (sister of joel) offered us for 2500 a/c room. It was other resort in island . OMG! The room rate was offered 1500 for aircon room of 4pax. Then she will quote me 2500. We transfer at Dwelling place for an a/c room 1500 /night 4pax 200m away from hideaway inn. Fyi Dwelliing place (homestay inn) Imagine we will have our meal on their site. We need to walk 200m . The motorbike was always unavailable. we need to wait 30min for their motorbike. Tsk tsk This is my worst booking from all my local travelled experience!Gigantes Island is truly amazing! I think the Hideaway inn offers a lot to exprience the Best on the island. I saw other bloggers. that’s why i chose to booked here. What’s bad was they overbooked the guests! For all the travellers out there before you make a reservation on this resort. Make sure you will get the room that what they offered! I have images or text confirmation to prove my experience.Reply
Chako saysApril 5, 2015 at 11:55 pmHello Mr. marcos, gusto ko pa itanong sa itinerary po ninyo yung tungkol po sa Day 2 Gigantes Island hopping tour, Naghire po ba kayo ng pumpboat? Pwede po ba mag commute ng pumpboat para mag island hopping? Thanks.Reply
Liss saysJune 26, 2015 at 3:53 pmHi Chako, yes you can commute a ferry from estancia to isla (80php) 2pm everyday. Island hopping recommended for 1 whole day 9am-4pm, 1500php then 500 tour guide fee. contact this tour guide, Jedden, +639468516513. He is very helpful :)Reply
wabchotie saysAugust 14, 2015 at 11:25 pmHi Liss. Saving Jedden’s number. Me and my friend is going to Gigantes Island next month Sept 26-28. any tips for us? We’re kinda worried about the expenses coz there’s only two of us lol .
Myshiel Abecia saysApril 2, 2015 at 6:12 pmHey! I’m currently going to Gigantes Island at the moment and I was wondering about the pumpboat rent, the 5000 you mention was back and forth from gigantes to estancia and vice versa plus the whole Island Hopping tour. Am I correct? And do any of you have suggestions on the cheapest resort to stay in for a 3 days 2 night trip? THANKS!Reply
frankie saysMarch 26, 2015 at 1:38 pmsir do you guys have the bus schedule, Last trip from roxas city to estnacia and estancia to roxas? can we make the 2pm boat if we arrived at the airport of roxas city at 11am????Reply
mike saysMarch 26, 2015 at 12:06 amHello I just want to ask regarding sa pumpboat po. Ilan ho ba ang pwede makasaky sa chartered na boat that costs 5000? And we can choose anytime we want sa pg punta at pag uwi? We are planning to visit Gigantes in One Whole day lang kasi. Thanks.Reply
Marcos Detourist saysMarch 26, 2015 at 4:36 pmFor P5000, you can rent a pumpboat that has a capacity of up to 10-15 people. Yes you can choose your time of departure depending on your boat contact.Reply
ianne saysMay 27, 2015 at 12:29 pmHi Sir Marcos. Standard rate ba yun 5k na chartered boat especially for day tour lang? kahit 2 lang kayo..kasi i have asked and the rate given to me was between 4 to 5k kahit sinabi kong 2 lang kami…thanks!
Miel0316 saysMarch 18, 2015 at 1:38 amIndeed, astonished and amazed by thsi wonderful creation of our Almighty Father. I just can’t wait to see this with my 2 eyes. Praise God for His creation. God is real!Reply
Resty Maza saysMarch 17, 2015 at 7:46 amHi Sir Marcus,Been looking for this page to get more info about Isla Gigantes. We’re planning to go there this coming april. How much would be the budget for 2 persons.Reply
Marcos Detourist saysMarch 17, 2015 at 8:33 pmHi Resty, your budget depends on activities and accommodations that you’re planning to take. You can find the typical costs on the page so that you can calculate the estimated budget depending on how you want to travel.Reply
Dr Ramon ramos saysFebruary 23, 2015 at 4:16 pmThank you , now I can plan my itenerary to Iloilo …Reply
Anndee saysJanuary 12, 2015 at 10:45 amHi Sir,We are from Bacolod, we are looking for a resort that could accommodate us for an overnight or 2 nights stay. We are more or less 20 persons. Could you recommend any resort in Gigantes?Reply
Schmooze saysNovember 27, 2014 at 1:44 amHi! We’ll be going to Roxas City this coming Saturday. Our problem is that we have a tight flight schedule: arriving at 11AM in Roxas Airport (11/29) then departing at 11AM on Monday (12/01) in the same airport. But there’s only 1 passenger boat plying Estancia-Gigantes route which leaves between at 2PM. Will we be able to make it? Is there an alternative way to get in & out of Gigantes?Reply
LeeSaints saysMarch 14, 2015 at 2:39 pmHi! Were you able to catch the 2pm boat to Gigantes? I’m also planning on using the same route. I’m thinking if I should just stroll around Roxas City on Day 1 and go to Estancia on Day 2 instead. ThanksReply
frankie saysMarch 26, 2015 at 1:28 pmHi Lee Saints when are you going? we also have the same problem. Is this really doable? 11am Arrival at the airport travel to estancia and catch the 2pm boat?
Marcos Detourist saysNovember 11, 2014 at 6:23 pmYou can ride a van to Kalibo, then Roxas, then Estancia … and travel by boat to Gigantes.Reply
Nick saysJuly 16, 2014 at 1:14 pmHi All, I really wish to visit Gigante Island in Oct 2014. will it be allow to travel to there since is a Typhoon season? Any recommendation of tours or acommodation?thanks!Reply
Marcos Detourist saysJuly 18, 2014 at 2:17 amRainy days are likely to happen in October but, not unless there is a clear Typhoon warning from weather agencies, Gigantes is relatively safe to visit and certainly allowed. There are multiple (simple) accommodation options when you reach Gigantes Norte. You can also arrange your island hopping tour there. If you are searching for a place to stay with better amenities, you might want to consider staying at the many resorts in the mainland and just make a day trip to Gigantes on a hired pumpboat.Reply
Alba saysOctober 18, 2014 at 8:48 amHi, The islands are spectacular and not overcrowded. You won’t regret it. By the way , if You want to stay in estancia, check out pa-on beach club. They offer island tours also.
keiffer japeth saysMay 18, 2014 at 9:44 pmMarcos Detourist.. ive been looking into your blogs and i really liked them. hmmn. actually, I used it as a guide in bucari leon.. hmmnn.. sir.. if youre an individual backpacker// will there be any chance for you to di an island hopping around gigantes? please email me sir. :)Reply
Marcos Detourist saysJune 22, 2014 at 7:42 pmIf you go to the island alone, you could either rent the pumpboat on your own or try to scout the resorts in Gigantes Norte for other travelers and ask if they would be willing to let you join.Reply
Len Driz saysMarch 3, 2015 at 4:19 pmThanks for this, I think this is my only option for my solo trip! :)
ann saysMarch 31, 2014 at 11:42 amhi po. with ur 3 days ang 2 nights itinerary, you arrived 4pm na po sa Brgy. Lantangan so dun po kayo natulog po? ask lng po sana ako sa mga rates ng mga rooms for accommodation po dun if there’s any,. We’re planning to go there po kasi this May.Reply
Marcos Detourist saysApril 2, 2014 at 5:03 pmYes you have to spend the night at Gigantes. Most of the resorts are located at Gigantes Norte (the next island), you can contact Rosewood Resort for the rates: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Rosewood-Place-Resort/401120173260382Reply
mao saysMarch 1, 2014 at 8:38 pmmy friends and i are planning to go to the island this may. ive heard yolanda damaged a lot of gigantes. how is the island today?? is it still good as before?Reply
Marcos Detourist saysMarch 1, 2014 at 11:30 pmThe natural beauty of the islands is still intact. However, I am not sure if the accommodations are already functional. Most of the structures in the island were swept away by the strong winds of Typhoon Yolanda. If you are bringing a tent and planning to camp there, no problem.If you’re looking for more comfortable accommodations, I suggest staying in mainland Carles or Estancia and hire a pumpboat for a day trip around the islands.Reply
suppledexplorer saysFebruary 17, 2014 at 3:27 pmHi!!!I”m planning to visit Gigantes Island alonethis coming Holy week?Any group will go there?Can I be a joiner?Appreciate it much:)ThanksReply
jess saysMarch 8, 2015 at 5:11 pmhello.. have you found a group to join? im planning also to go there this holyweek.. im from roxas…Reply
dara saysFebruary 13, 2014 at 5:36 amI just want to ask what is the best time (month) to visit the islands?Reply
judayandryan of VT saysJanuary 7, 2014 at 7:21 pm@tour_guide – any updates on the island since typhoon yolanda hit Isla de Gigantes?Reply
Ansel saysOctober 9, 2013 at 11:45 pmHi, I have booked a round trip ticket, but the return (Ilo-Ilo to Manila) was I think could give me a problem since my flight schedule is 2:30pm (ETD). Can I catch the flight if the pump boat will leave the Gigantes Island at exactly 7am? What if I try the alternate route which is taking the Roxas City airport going back to Manila, how can I get to Roxas City airport from Gigantes Island? Suggestions are highly appreciated. Thank you very much!Reply
Rommel saysOctober 4, 2013 at 12:29 pmVery informative blog.,,thank u for this ;))anyways,we’ll be having our trip here in gigantes on nov 3,,,just an overnight trip and we are 7.and we knew that an overnyt stay is not enough to explore the island so wanna know what’s the best place in there to go to,.prob din po nmin where to stay..,anybody can help us?pls thak u in advance!;)Reply
Alba saysOctober 18, 2014 at 9:00 amHello Rommel, Try nyo pa-on beach club sa estancia- paonbeach.com or google niyo paon beach club estancia. They offer different island tours. Hope you read this before your trip. Enjoy your trip (medyo bitin lang!)!!!Reply
Kelets Calceta saysAugust 17, 2013 at 6:57 pmWe are planning to rent a a private boat so once we get to the take off point, we’ll just buy lunch and proceed to the islands. How many hours is the boat ride from Estancia to the islands? I think I’ve read it in the post but due to the long thread, I would just like to clarify.Thanks again.Reply
Kelets Calceta saysAugust 17, 2013 at 6:50 pmIs it possible to go island hopping in Islas de Gigantes as a day tour only? We will be coming from Iloilo City. What’s the earliest bus leaving from Iloilo City, what bus and exactly where? The latest bus from the take off point back to Iloilo City?Thanks.Reply
nilo saysJuly 24, 2013 at 12:52 amAnyone visiting the island on Aug3~8… I will be there….. I hope to share the tour boat cost… :)Reply
Jay saysJune 6, 2013 at 3:02 pmHi,Im flying in on Jun21 and will be staying until the 25th. I would like to get some information on whereI can stay in Gigantes for 3 days. Thanks!Reply
Klaus Schwettmann saysJune 3, 2013 at 4:05 pmLooks like tom be a great place. having lived in the Philippines (and Cebu) for a long time i wonder why I haven’t hear of this beautiful spot on earth. Wished I could go there!!! Miss the Philippines anyway…Reply
shean saysMay 27, 2013 at 9:06 amI plan to visit Gigante islands with my family in July ( 3rd/4th week ) for 3 to 4 days. Please recommend safe and comfy place to stay and things to do…. Thank youReply
wafuMD saysMay 29, 2013 at 9:23 pmWe just explored the islands before this May 2013 ends. The place is worth the long travel from Iloilo City. We stayed overnight but we were able to see all the islands and experience things beyond our limits. With that, i wanna share how we maximized our 30 hours of exploration.We tried to contact Joel Decano, Tourism Officer of Carles (09184685006/09166690596)days before the trip and everything went smooth and hassle free. Only 5 of us in the group pushed through and 2 of us travelled all the way from Bacolod taking the 615am trip (php 530/roundtrip ticket/pax). After an hour we went directly to Tagbak to get the 9 am Aircon Bus (php 183/pax) to Estancia. The yellow bus was labeled with “free Wifi on board” but wasn’t working at all. But anyways, the 3 hour trip went very smooth and comfortable. Since we arrived around 12 noon at Estancia downtown area, we got our take out lunch at Andok’s before proceeding to the fishing port. There, we were welcomed by our boatmen and started our journey to Islas de Gigantes.(the pumpboat could accomodate 15 pax for php 4500/whole trip inclusive of our roundtrip ride to Estancia-Gigantes plus island hopping without time limit).The first four islands we stopped over were Pulopandan, Gigantes Sur’s Cabugao Gamay, Antonia’s beach and the Sandbar. They provided us with our personal tour guide/waiter/runner who went with us throughout the trip (tip ranges from a minimum of php 300 and up depending on the tourists’ generosity). Photo opps, swimming, rock climbing and snorkeling were just a few things these islands can offer. We headed off to Brgy. Asluman, Gigantes Norte while the sun sets where the Gigantes Hideaway Inn is located. The villagers there welcomed us with warm smiles and unselfish greetings (we were like celebrities then). The inn was still in the developing stage but the 2 star accomodation was way beyond our expectations since this this place only started a year ago and this was their first summer. Accomodation was only php 200/pax, electricity is up from 4pm til 11pm and is replaced by a generator overnight.For your meals, the inn offers a wide array of seafoods especially scallops (the island is the scallops capital of Panay) at a very very affordable price. Before getting to bed, we had some few beers which were also available.At 530am the following day, we fixed ourselves and headed of the to the lighthouse (parola)via a motorcycle for php 60/pax round trip. There, we were greeted by a Spanish old house and ground remains of the old parola. Few feet away is where a modern lighthouse was built and anyone could safely climb up to the tip to see the panoramic view of the gigantes norte island and Masbate on the other side. Afterwhich, we went back to the Inn and prepared ourselves for a caving adventure. We rode thru a motorcycle again for php 20/pax roundtrip to the foot of the mountain/cave. The caving took more than an hour. In this adventure, you had two options. It’s either you go back after reaching the mid part of the cave or continue towards the exit. Our group chose the exit way. With that, we had to do spelunking by climbing a vertical 2 storey wall without harness. But thanks to our guide who patiently taught us the detailed steps on how to do it. Fortunately, we all did it and went out through the exit way. I thought the challenge was over but going down wasn’t easy at all. We have to pass through sharp stones doing some rock climbing maneuvers. Twas tiring but the total experience was unforgettable! Then we headed back to our Inn to prepare for the last island to visit–the “Tangke”.It took around 30 minutes from Norte to Tangke and upon seeing the place…Wow!!! was very first word I uttered. Twas very beautiful. We stayed there for an hour and went back to our Inn for our lunch. Our total expense for the tour was php 1500/pax (personal boat,accomodation,meals) and remember, we were only five in the group.We left Gigantes at 3pm and arrived at Estancia at around 430pm just in time for the last Bus trip of the day back to Iloilo.I strongly recommend Islas de Gigantes!!!A piece of advise from our boatmen–avoid habagat seasons because seas are rough during these timesReply
Chako saysApril 6, 2015 at 12:15 amHow much for the personal boat? :) Then about your accomodation of 200 per pax , do they have a cr inside?
Nardee saysMay 21, 2013 at 9:12 amhi guys if you are planning to visit islas higantes.you can drop by in our place before going to the islands, we offer accommodations, food and drinks and also island package tour. we are situated near Bancal port(walking distance) Carles, Iloilo. the boat ride will just take you 45min to 1hr going to islas de higantes. check our page. thank you. :) https://www.facebook.com/pages/Chateau-de-Aow-Resort/380487678631216?fref=tsReply
Foolish heart saysApril 24, 2013 at 8:32 pmThis place is really amusing ILONGGO’s like me should be proud of!PS: How much will i spend if i will go in this place?Reply
bogs saysApril 5, 2013 at 12:19 pmI’m planning to go there tomorrow morning by myself. I do really have no idea how to get there and worried much on how much will I spend. I think 1 night is not enough for this place..Reply
Tour_Guide saysMarch 11, 2013 at 10:36 amHello adventurer people arround the world, this island is waiting for you… i can tour you arround the island and discover the secret caves…. 09073174611 for interested…Reply
Hann saysFebruary 17, 2013 at 11:14 amHi Marcos, please help me with our itinerary. I’m really bothered if we can make it for a 3D2N trip in Isla Gigantes considering the pumpboat schedule. We’ll be arriving in Roxas around 11:05 am via Cebupacific, and our flight back on the 3rd day is around 11:35AM. Can you suggest an itinerary? Thanks a lot!Reply
Marcos saysFebruary 23, 2013 at 4:25 amArriving 11:05am, you’ll have a very slim chance of catching the regular passenger boat on the same day. I suggest spending the night at either Estancia or Carles on your first day then hire a pumpboat the next day to take you to Isla Gigantes and do the island tour. If you do spend the night in Gigantes, you can take the early morning boat back to the mainland on your third day.Reply
Tour_Guide saysMarch 11, 2013 at 10:28 amHi,How did you know the trip schedule of passenger boat? are you living in GIGANTE? anyway i admire you being adventurer…. maybe we can meet soon in this island….. i’m from Brgy. Granada, Gigante Norte, Carles, Iloilo…
juliet justado saysFebruary 10, 2013 at 10:29 amgud am. thank you very much for these very helpful informations. hoping to be here sooner, hopfully with my husband as we celebrate our 13yrs fruitful marriage. i,ve already been to estancia port not knowing that from there, marami na pala pwdng pasyalan. much thanks;)Reply
trekero saysFebruary 8, 2013 at 2:50 pmthanks for the helpful tips. would love to be there soon…Reply
naida dicen saysJanuary 21, 2013 at 10:04 pmgood day to the admin..its just am looking for a friend which I’m searching his name, the Island of Gigantes appeared b 4 his name…(BOYET MAGALLANES)he really lives in this island..I wonder if he is the admin….just to say HI!Reply
Tour_Guide saysMarch 11, 2013 at 10:10 amHey, who wants with me in this summer to GIGANTE ISLAND? swimming ability is a must… accomodation is free… kung walang budget sa travel expense??? mag-ipon muna…hehehehehehh may bahay kami doon and my relatives are living there…….Reply
Joanna Marie saysMarch 24, 2013 at 3:08 pmAko pwedi?Im lookin forward to go there din eh.Im from bacolod.How much i can spend kaya?txt me 09187033383
thelma saysApril 3, 2013 at 11:34 amcount me in! pls. let me know when :-) siguro nman hindi natin lalanguyin ang buong island :-D
Joseph Reyes saysApril 19, 2013 at 7:03 amI’m quite interested… just keep me updated of the chosen date and if I’m available on the said date I could participate and join the group.. I would really like to stay longer if possible to enjoy and explore the islands. Thanks..
Ansel saysOctober 9, 2013 at 11:58 pmHi, patulong sana ko kung anong dapat o pwede ko gawin since ang schedule ko ay may problem. ayoko naman na magspend pa ng another cents para iparebook lang. Please, if you don’t mind, sa email ko na lang idiscuss in detailed or kaya sa text msg. Eto yung email add ko… [email protected] or 09227244872. Hope to hear from you. Thank you.
ella saysNovember 13, 2013 at 4:06 pmhello gusto ko po pumunta jan by jan 2014 pa naman pero may ticket na ako puntang iloilo. Taga Palawan po ako pwidi po bang patulong nman if saan pwidi mag stay, cinu pwiding kuntakin at kung pwidi sumali sa group tour ng iba salamat. number ko po please pahelp nman 09129129399
pagdato saysDecember 28, 2012 at 5:21 pmi like this page. very imformative. hope to visit it soon if i have some free time. im from iloilo but never been there yet.Reply
karl saysNovember 19, 2012 at 11:39 amHi all, we are going to this beautiful island this coming Dec. 13 – 15. We are only 2 and would love to share the experience and boat expense with fellow travelers also. Anyone interested in joining us?We are the traveler/backpacker type of people who are just happy wherever we are. In case you are interested, you can email me at [email protected]. Thank you very much.Reply
Lou saysNovember 8, 2012 at 8:19 pmhi! i saw from the post of Kris, that Joel’s family can accommodate people in their place..is there anyone who has a contact number? we are planning to visit maybe last week of December or first week of January.. :) or any suggestions for a place to stay..we are a group of max 10 people..thanks!Reply
ian | going places saysJuly 12, 2012 at 5:53 pm@bea: how much is their island hopping through the tourism office and the average per night rate of accomodation in Carles? Thanks!By the which is much better to Isla de Gigantes via Estancia or Carles?Reply
Marcos saysJuly 12, 2012 at 5:56 pmCarles mainland is closer to Isla de Gigantes but there are more transportation options (pumpboats) in Estancia. If you’re commuting, Estancia is the only port with commuter boats that go to Isla de Gigantes. If renting your own boat (pakyaw), Carles is an excellent choice, though, passing through Estancia is also not that bad (especially because it is closer and more accessible if coming from Iloilo City).Reply
Beng Garabel saysOctober 21, 2015 at 3:38 pmhi sir marcos,do you have sample It for 2D/1N tour in Gigantes?? and if possible to pitching tent some inn’s and hotel in the island!! or do you have any suggestion in affordable accommodations with a the best food. thanks in advance!!
Irene saysMay 25, 2013 at 4:56 pmHi,How long it takes to carles from lloilo airport by taxi. How much is it? How long from carles to lloilo city and how much ?Reply
Mie saysJune 25, 2012 at 6:47 pmGood day! We are planning to spend our honeymoon there on April 2013. Can you give me any contact details prior to our inquiries. Awaiting reply. Tnx po.Reply
Bea Jera saysApril 12, 2012 at 3:37 pmI’ve been to Gigantes twice. On March 2012 I stayed in Paon Beach in Estancia and did a one-day island hopping to Gigantes. I went to the following islands: Gaket-Gaket, Bantigue, Cabugaw Gamay (rock climbing and snorkeling), Antonia (snorkeling), Uaydahon (snorkeling), Tinagong Baybay Daco, Tangke and Balbagon (though we didn’t dock at this island — just a drive-by/sail-by since we were running out of time). Early this week I went back with friends but stayed for 2 nights in Gigantes Norte (decent accommodation at Gigantes Hideaway Inn, they serve meals too and their tap water is potable, you just have to get used to the taste but it’s not that unpleasant). This time around, aside from the islands I already mentioned, we also visited: Tinagong Baybay Gamay, Cabugaw Daco and Balbagon (went down for photo-op and not just a sail-by as before). We went to the parola (lighthouse) via habal-habal (motorcycle) and we also saw how they shuck the deep-sea scallops. The most convenient way to get there is via Estancia. We tried via Carles but the trip is complicated since you ride a bus/van from Roxas to Balasan then jeep to Carles town proper then take a tricycle or habal-habal to the seaport (Bangcal? sorry I forgot the name of the port) if you fail to catch the bus from Roxas that goes directly to Carles seaport. There is a van that goes straight to Estancia from Roxas so its more convenient. Travel time from Estancia to Gigantes Norte is 30 minutes longer than from Carles mainland (or so the locals say, I can’t know for sure because it took us longer to get to Gigantes Norte from Carles mainland than when I came via Estancia, but maybe that’s because the weather was a bit bad when we went through Carles mainland). Contact Carles Tourism Officer — Joel Decano, 0918-4685006 if you want to stay in Gigantes Norte or want to go island hopping. Don’t expect him to answer your call but he will reply if you send him text — this is because they have erratic cellphone signals in the island. Sometimes it takes him half a day to reply to my text but he does reply, just wait. You can also stay overnight in some of the islands but you have to bring all your supplies, especially drinking water since not all the islands have fresh water. Not all the islands have electricity too — and those that have only have it at certain times of the day. The long and winding travel to Gigantes is not for the faint-hearted since the trip by land is a bit daunting (either via Roxas or Iloilo City–I tried both ways) and the sea could get rough — but I’ve seen it as calm as a swimming pool, even the open seas. After a punishing travel to the islands, you’ll get a most peaceful and beautiful reward and I’m sure if you have the time (no flight back home to catch), you’ll stay an extra day or two.Reply
Jezbob saysApril 10, 2012 at 11:36 pmvery informative. I’m planning to visit Gigantes Island this coming May. I was mesmerized by one of the pictures of my friend she posted on her wall. I think it’s one of the Islands in Gigantes. looking forward for this trip. thanks a bunch.Reply
Kris saysApril 29, 2012 at 3:24 am@Johann I’ve been there last week and the place is really beautiful. FYI: there is a place where you can stay for 150/head. The place is owned by Joel’s family (almost all boatman know him). Electricity is available from 3PM to 11PM and their gen set stays on until you need it. There is unlimited supply of water fresh from the mountains so you can have your shower as long as you want-free of charge. There is no wet market in the area though. They will serve whatever is the catch for the day. The good thing is, you will only pay the amount as priced by the fishermen. There is a “sari-sari” store a few steps away. The resort owner will not ask you for additional charges. You just need to give some amount to the “chef” a hundred or two will be enough.Once you go for Island Hoping, you can even ask someone or even Joel to deliver your brunch in one of the islands there.We hired a “pump boat” from Estancia going to Isla Gigantes. We paid 3,500. This is good for a “round trip” travel, including Island Hopping. In our case, we visited 4 Islands and a cave. We hired the pump boat for more than 24 hours for only 3,500.Reply
tripper saysApril 27, 2013 at 7:25 amhi…how many of you went in that island??how much did u spend per pax????pls send me some info…tnx :-D
tripper saysApril 27, 2013 at 7:28 amhi kris…can i have joel’s number coz we are planning to go in the island this coming may 4, 2013…tnx
johann saysApril 3, 2012 at 8:38 pmi want to have some camp fire in one islet. pwede po bang mgpahatid sa bangka tpos dun nlng ako mg set ng tent tpos sunduin nlng ako ng same boat the other depende sa usapan namin? is it possible? i love camping po kasi..tnxReply
Vic saysMarch 26, 2012 at 3:50 pmRebie yes true a big help indeed . With this website , we discover a Prestine Beach of Iloilo …Reply
rebie saysMarch 26, 2012 at 10:31 am..thanks much for this article. i’ve been looking for info on how to go there as i’ve been wanting to go and this is such a big help! ;)) be blessedReply
Vic saysMarch 14, 2012 at 11:11 pmTin , Conception to Estancia is more than 1 hour and Estancia to Gigantes have only 1 trip per day … Iloilo City to Guimaras is around 15 minutes boatReply
tin saysMarch 14, 2012 at 8:35 pmand from iloilo city, how long it will take to reach guimaras? many thanks!!:)Reply
tin saysMarch 14, 2012 at 8:17 pmwould u know if there is a place to stay at isla de gigantes like at least a cottage where we can sleep overnight? my family are planning to get there by lunch from concepcion then proceed for island hopping in the afternoon then rest. thanks in advance.Reply
jr saysJanuary 25, 2012 at 10:29 pmhelo. will be there this 27th of jan. we will be leaving iloilo @ 11am. is it still possible to cath-up for the trip to isla?Reply
Vic saysJanuary 18, 2012 at 4:33 pm@frances, helo there, i am bit confused what you trying to say and what is the object of “this” due to the absense in any of your sentence. But i have in mind , that you mean there is your trip to Isla Gigante, you may correct me here,another thing that confuses me is what you mean “OK ” . Is it 1. Affordable 2. Convenient 3. less hassle francesReply
frances saysJanuary 18, 2012 at 1:20 pmhey there! if we do this sa holy week, okay ba ang transpo? any idea? thanksReply
Vic saysJuly 22, 2011 at 3:18 pm@Kirsten…. youre welcome… you can just put tent in there on the shore or atop of plateau overlooking the beach in Antonio if you wish to spend the night …( you can see Marcus post on Beach Antonia just recently) as long as its strong enough to withstand the Gush .. but I’ m sure most tents do….you can watch you-tube for tips on how to survive the camping on places where there’s no access to food or water and many things…best to spend it with someone else too and you know i prefer to nightcamp during the Full-Moon( new Moon)we will have bigger moon on the last days of July…. and when the sky is clear… much better…Reply
Kirsten saysJuly 22, 2011 at 3:24 pmWe’re used to camping in remote islands here in the Philippines. Might do that again too when we finally push through with our mountain climbing plans :)Thanks once again! You’ve been a great help! :)Reply
Kirsten saysJuly 22, 2011 at 2:55 pm@Vic: Good thing I’m not! I’ll take note of your suggestions. :) BTW, is there a place in Gigantes where we can just pitch our tent? If I understood it right, there are no inns for travelers.Reply
Vic saysJuly 22, 2011 at 1:18 pm@Kirsten… i suggest you would eat at the sea food restaurant in San Dionisio..its very very delicious (preska) and very very cheap …try their sizzling squid…. very tasty and sinigang na tanguigi… its just stood right beside the Sea Plus–Fish Factory…in Poblacion … In Estancia… Bayuyan has plenty of restaurant too… where I used to eat sinigang na shrimp….hope youre not allergic to sea foodsReply
Kirsten saysJuly 22, 2011 at 12:45 pmI appreciate it, Vic! I’m now working on our itinerary, yay! :)Thanks to Marcos as well. This article is a big help! I’m a fan of his blog! :)Reply
Vic saysJuly 22, 2011 at 11:20 am@Kirsten…. either way works well and it is primarily depend on what convenience you choose from …. if you decided to be closer to Iloilo City on your return… better off to make Carles first and be your last destination is Conception … if you choose your first vacation place is heavy and eventful… follow the Conception-first-Carles-next sequence…Reply
Kirsten saysJuly 22, 2011 at 10:57 amHi Guys!We have an upcoming trip to Iloilo early next month. We want to experience both Carles and Concepcion. Is it better to go to Carles or Concepcion first? Suggestions please.Thanks so much!Reply
Boyet Magallanes saysMarch 17, 2012 at 12:05 pmif you searching memorable and exciting mountain climbing, try the stone mountain of Langub, Gigantes Island…… almost 900 feet high.. take care….Reply
Vic saysJuly 19, 2011 at 2:51 pm@ristof… make an itinerary..after you have fix the date of trip and duration, quantify the expenses and things to bring… if you take it by plane… its like 1500… by sea..its like the same then…youll get here Iloilo City as entry point… you’ll stay at least one day to simmer down especially when your arrival is in the afternoon… youll stay in the City pension house… that would be like 300 something … youll have party out on the night time 8pm-12am… and you return home in the morning 1am… at dawn 6am you do some jog in bordwalk… and have the breakfast at 8am and check out…as soon youll get to Tagbak Terminal at 10am and ride the Bus to Estancia your arrival is like 1pm,, youll take lunch … you are in once-a-day boat to Gigantes… around 2pm… and get there around 4pm…you still have time to move around and enjoy the beaches… and then at dusk..you’ll buy foods in some stores…and at night… you started to put up your tent and campfire… and you need whiskey to kick in you way to sleep… and so on …Reply
Boyet_Magallanes saysMarch 5, 2013 at 8:31 amNaida Decin, Hello…. its been a long years since our younger years in college…. Hope to see you again soon….
Tour_Guide saysMarch 11, 2013 at 10:18 amHi, if didn’t forget my real name!!!! just search me in facebook… i can’t give you any number in this public conversation… thanks and GOD BLESS…. take care…..
ristof saysJuly 19, 2011 at 1:47 pmhow i wish to visit the place. i’m a lone trekker from bukidnon. surely, this is a very memorable place to visit. iloilo is my father’s hometown. any tip for a solo trekker will be highly appreciated.Reply
Vic saysJuly 19, 2011 at 1:46 pm@celden margarico…. are their any alternative for a less expensive one?— i believe Paon is beautiful because they have this leisure garden chairs right beneath the cliff-deck past the shore….Reply
celden margarico saysJuly 16, 2011 at 11:34 amI would recommend you guys to stay at paon beach resort..the place is nice and they got a swimmin pool..its in estancia…they arrange boat rental for groups…cost aroud 6000 pesos for a day tour around the islands….Reply
Vic saysJuly 13, 2011 at 9:48 am@Marcus…you are welcome… and you came just in time just as when I am expecting what is common incidence these past few months . You would notice someone here chronically harassed , verbally abused , character assassinate those who inquire , comments or give a though on your post . Obviously, he/she is here with aim to damage , to discredit , stir trouble and humiliate , disrupting the harmonious and meaningful conversation of certain places, events and everything which is happening in Iloilo … Noticeably , I believe you know who exactly that under-sanctioned person … I maintain to the policy that which necessitates to execute certain degree of civility and sensible inputs, interwove with practical humour and wit …Reply
Marcos saysJuly 13, 2011 at 2:32 amThis is a warning to those fond of using the comments section for personal attacks and off-topic statements. Comments will be moderated accordingly. Continued abuse will be sanctioned. Thank you.Reply
Jenette 3827 saysOctober 8, 2015 at 11:51 amIm planning to go there with a friend next week Saturday and Sunday, I would like to know the schedule of commutters boat in the morning. I have read there is only one schedule of departure at 2pm in Estancia. I would like to know if we can have walk-in in the Gigantes hideaway tourist inn for the accomodation(because in the net there is no reservation) How much the Fan room. This is our first time and Im impress how did your budgeting. Thank you so much hope you can help me. God blessReply
Vic saysJuly 12, 2011 at 10:18 amthis is detailed…. —- —- —- One thing to make spring water potable is a 3 drops of potassium hypoclorite in all leading pharmacy … —- —- —- @mur2s……The place is the best setting for your own personalized Blue-Lagoon Fairy-Tales …. wow ( nostalgia) hahahahaha… —— —— —— @billy … im sure if you get into this Island…you would personify Jack Black in Gulliver-Travel 2010 kind of guy.Reply
kris saysSeptember 3, 2011 at 2:12 pmthat island for me is heaven…i spend my childhood n that place…Reply
Badong Babaran saysOctober 20, 2012 at 3:28 pmThis place is very nice to have your vacation. ROSEWOOD resort in tabun-ak, Brgy. Granada, Isla Gigantes Norte can accommodate.They have rooms with aircon. Just Contact Ayesha. 09088741936 or 09287128091Care taker Nong Panong: 09079551099