Make the Most Out of Your Isla de Gigantes Tour with This Guide

Tangke Salt Water Lagoon is what easily comes to mind when tourists hear of the islands of the giants. Every tourist and local who visits Isla de Gigantes could not resist the salt water pool that is enclosed in the steep cliff limestone rock formation at the southern part of the islands. They really don’t mind a little bit of rock climbing that they have to do in order to have a glimpse of the hidden paradise.

You only have to pay for an environmental fee when you visit. But you also have to observe the CLAYGO or clean-as-you-go principle when you come to see the lagoon in order to maintain the cleanliness and beauty of the place. Swimming is allowed and you should remember to take photos as a souvenir of your communion with nature.

Isla de Gigantes captured the attention of tourists because of its picturesque islands. In particular, Cabugao Island became a landmark after tourists discovered that climbing its highest point would allow you to view the entire stretch of the island. There are several cottages that can be rented as you arrive there.

You can also buy snacks and drinks from stores on the island when you go hungry after hiking and swimming. Just prepare some change if you plan to buy from these stores or rent a cottage. For your convenience, you can make prior arrangements with the Municipal Tourism Office of Carles, Iloilo, or directly with the management.

It is not only the beach that tourists can enjoy at Isla de Gigantes. Lately, locals have included in their tour packages a visit to the Norte Lighthouse. It is where you can see a lighthouse adjacent to the ruins of a building. The lighthouse currently serves as a viewing deck whenever the caretaker is around. It is a good place for tourists to appreciate the view of the entire Isla de Gigantes from the top.

What’s more to see in Isla de Gigantes? If you and your friends are into cave exploration, the Gigantes Island adventure is for you. You can see stalactites and stalagmites as you explore Bakwitan Cave.

A bunch of water sports and activities is available at Antonia Island. If you and your friends or family would like to ride a banana boat or speed boat, pitch a tent, eat seafood, and take pictures, then going to Antonia Island must be part of your plan.

It is also the place at Gigantes Islands where you can buy fresh shellfish like diwal (angel wing clams) and scallops for a very cheap price. Depending on the season, seafood on this island is sometimes sold per piece.

Meanwhile, if you want to stay overnight, you can also rent a tent and achieve your squad or family goals. Or if you want to soak in the water all day, the seawater around Antonia Island is perfect for you—it is crystal-clear, cold, and swimmer-friendly.

Bantigue Island Sandbar recently earned nationwide attention after a group of scientists saw the potential of developing medical drugs out of marine sediments found there. This great news, which called for the protection of the sandbar where the microorganisms were seen, has drawn more tourists to the place.

Budget-conscious travelers appreciate that they can commune with nature at Isla de Gigantes without spending a fortune. If you’re on a budget, you can take one of the commuter pump boats that regularly have trips to the islands. If you’re going there with a big group, you can reserve a pump boat in advance for around PhP3,000 to PhP5,000.

The beauty of the islands at Isla de Gigantes is not the only thing that draws people there. The hospitality of the tour guides, who are at the same time the pump boat captains, the warm accommodation of the owners and managers of beach resorts, the deliciously cooked seafood, and the clean, crystal-clear waters surrounding the islands are all part of the reason why tourists are attracted to this hidden paradise of Iloilo.

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