The Philippines is an archipelago of over 7,000 islands, known for its tropical beaches, historic landmarks, and mouthwatering cuisine. A great way to experience this diversity is with the 7-Day Nature & Island-Hopping Tour Package to Iloilo Province, Guimaras Island, and Bacolod City, which combines guided tours of heritage sites, scenic island-hopping adventures, and immersive cultural experiences in one seamless trip.
This 1-week journey takes you to the Visayas region, the central part of the Philippines known for its island adventures, Spanish-era heritage, and rich culinary traditions. The Visayas is home to some of the country’s most vibrant cities and idyllic islands, making it one of the best regions to explore if you want a mix of culture, nature, and food.
Among the many destinations in the Visayas region, the province of Iloilo, Guimaras Island, and Bacolod City stand out as a must-visit trio. Iloilo Province is celebrated for its centuries-old churches, elegant ancestral homes, and thriving food scene, and outside its city, is Gigantes Islands (also known as Islas de Gigantes) offer pristine beaches and dramatic coastal scenery.
Just a short ferry away from Iloilo Province, Guimaras Island invites you with its world-famous mangoes, quiet beaches, historic lighthouses, and island-hopping spots.
Finally, Bacolod—known as the City of Smiles—delights visitors with its colorful festivals, heritage attractions like The Ruins, ancestral mansions, and flavorful Negrense cuisine.
Together, these destinations highlight some of the best attractions in the Philippines—heritage, beaches, and cuisine—making Iloilo Province, Guimaras Island, and Bacolod City a must-visit trio for travelers who want to experience the country’s rich culture and natural beauty in just one week.
Key Takeaways
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Iloilo Province, Guimaras Island, and Bacolod City are three of the most accessible destinations in the Visayas region, offering a perfect mix of heritage landmarks, pristine islands, and rich culinary traditions.
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Iloilo Province is home to historic churches, ancestral mansions, and the Gigantes Islands, a top destination with white-sand beaches and limestone cliffs.
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Guimaras Island, the Mango Capital of the Philippines, offers both inland attractions like the San Lorenzo Wind Farm and Smallest Plaza, as well as island-hopping tours to secluded beaches, coral gardens, and caves.
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Bacolod, known as the City of Smiles, is famous for The Ruins, heritage mansions in nearby Silay, the colorful MassKara Festival, and its signature dish, chicken inasal.
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The best time to visit is during the dry season from December to May, when seas are calm for ferries and island-hopping. Planning your trip around major festivals such as Dinagyang (Iloilo), Manggahan (Guimaras), and MassKara (Bacolod) adds cultural depth to your itinerary.
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Travelers can book pre-arranged vacation packages to Iloilo Province, Guimaras Island, and Bacolod City with hotels, transfers, and tours included for a seamless travel experience.
When is the Best Time to Visit Iloilo Province, Guimaras Island, and Bacolod City?
Since this trip covers three destinations connected by sea ferries, it’s important to plan your visit during the best months for smooth travel and great experiences. The ideal time to explore these destinations is during the dry season from December to May, when skies are clear, seas are calm, and tours are less likely to be canceled due to bad weather.
This period also coincides with some of the most colorful festivals in the Philippines, giving you a chance to immerse yourself in local culture.
Climate and Weather
Iloilo Province, Guimaras, Island and Bacolod City share the same tropical climate, with distinct dry and wet seasons. The dry season (December–May) is the best time to go, offering plenty of sunshine for island-hopping, heritage tours, and city sightseeing. Travelers should still keep an eye on weather updates, especially from June to November, when thunderstorms and typhoons can affect ferry schedules and outdoor tours.
Festivals
Festivals are an incredible way to experience the vibrant traditions, music, and cuisine of the Philippines. If your travel dates align with these celebrations, you’ll enjoy an even richer cultural experience:
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Dinagyang Festival (Iloilo City) – Held every 4th Sunday of January, this spectacular religious and cultural event honors the Santo Niño (Child Jesus) with energetic street dancing, elaborate costumes, and parades.
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Manggahan Festival (Guimaras Island) – Celebrated every May, this festival pays tribute to Guimaras Island’s world-famous sweet mangoes with cultural shows, parades, and an eat-all-you-can mango feast.
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MassKara Festival (Bacolod City) – Taking place every 4th Sunday of October, Bacolod’s most famous festival lights up the city with vibrant masks, street parties, and performances, embodying its title as the City of Smiles.
Sample 1-Week Travel Itinerary to Iloilo Province, Guimaras Island & Bacolod City
This 7-day Philippines itinerary through Iloilo Province, Guimaras Island, and Bacolod City highlights the best of the Visayas region. It combines cultural heritage, scenic island escapes, and local cuisine, giving you a well-rounded experience of three distinct yet interconnected destinations.
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Day 1: Arrival in Manila City
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Check in at your hotel and explore nearby attractions such as Intramuros old town or Binondo Chinatown for a relaxing introduction to the Philippines.
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Day 2: Flight + Iloilo City Heritage Tour
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Fly to Iloilo International Airport and discover landmarks like Jaro Cathedral, Molo Church, Calle Real, and the UNESCO-listed Miagao Church.
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Day 3: Gigantes Island Hopping
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Spend the day exploring Cabugao Gamay Island and other scenic spots on this famous island-hopping adventure.
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Day 4: Guimaras Island Top Attractions Island Hopping Tour
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Cross from Iloilo to Guimaras by boat and visit landmarks like the Smallest Plaza and San Lorenzo Wind Farm, then continue to island hopping spots.
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Day 5: Ferry Transfer + Bacolod City Top Attractions Tour
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Take the ferry to Bacolod, the “City of Smiles.” Visit The Ruins, San Sebastian Cathedral, and cap off the day with the destination's signature dish, chicken inasal.
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Day 6: Return Flight to Manila City
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Fly back to Manila City and enjoy a free afternoon to explore more of the capital’s shopping, dining, or entertainment spots.
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Day 7: Departure from Manila City
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Check out of your hotel and transfer to Ninoy Aquino International Airport for your flight home.
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Day 1: Arrival in Manila City
Your journey begins in Manila City, the bustling capital of the Philippines and the country’s main international gateway. With Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) serving as the primary hub for flights across the country, Manila City is the starting point for most trips to the Visayas region.
Upon arrival, you can book convenient Manila airport transfers to take you directly to your accommodation. There are plenty of Manila hotels to choose from, ranging from budget stays to luxury properties, so you can settle in comfortably after your flight.
Depending on your schedule, you may want to spend the rest of the day exploring the capital before heading to the Visayas region. History lovers can join guided Manila tours of Intramuros, the city’s historic walled district with Spanish colonial landmarks like Fort Santiago and San Agustin Church.
Food enthusiasts can head to Binondo, the world’s oldest Chinatown, to try Filipino-Chinese specialties like lumpia (spring rolls) and hopia (sweet mooncakes). For a slower pace, unwind with a spa treatment or enjoy authentic Filipino dishes at one of Manila’s many restaurants.
Spending your first day in Manila provides a great introduction to the Philippines’ mix of history, culture, and cuisine before flying onward to Iloilo Province, Guimaras Island, and Bacolod City.
Day 2: Iloilo Province
On your second day, fly from Manila City to Iloilo International Airport, the gateway to Iloilo Province and its capital city known for rich cultural heritage. Iloilo Province is celebrated for its vibrant festivals, Spanish-era churches, ancestral mansions, and culinary traditions, making it one of the most charming destinations in the Visayas.
From the airport, you can arrange Iloilo transfers to your accommodation. There are many Iloilo hotels available, from boutique heritage stays to modern properties near the city center. After checking in, you can begin exploring the city’s iconic landmarks.
Must-visit stops include:
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Jaro Cathedral – Declared a National Shrine, this church is known for its grand architecture and stained glass windows.
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Molo Church – Famous as the “feminist church” of the Philippines for its 16 all-female saint statues.
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Molo Mansion – A heritage home turned museum and cultural retail shop where you can also try local treats.
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Calle Real – Iloilo’s historic downtown street lined with Art Deco and neoclassical buildings.
If you’re on a guided experience, these stops are often included in Iloilo City tours, but DIY travelers can also explore them with ease.
In the evening, treat yourself to Ilonggo specialties. Popular dishes include La Paz Batchoy, best enjoyed at the La Paz Market, or fresh seafood at local favorites like Tatoy’s Manukan. For souvenirs, don’t miss Biscocho Haus, known for toasted biscocho bread and butterscotch.
After a full day of sightseeing, return to your hotel and rest up for tomorrow’s adventure in Iloilo Province’s stunning offshore islands.
Day 3: Gigantes Islands in Iloilo Province
Your third day takes you out of the city and into one of Iloilo Province’s most breathtaking natural wonders—the Gigantes Islands or Islas de Gigantes. This island chain is renowned for its pristine white-sand beaches, towering limestone cliffs, hidden lagoons, and rich marine life, making it a must-visit destination in the Visayas.
From your hotel in Iloilo City, it’s a scenic drive to the northern town of Carles, where boats depart for island-hopping tours. Many Gigantes Island tours include roundtrip transfers, but DIY travelers can also reach the port via public vans or private cars.
Among the highlights you’ll visit are:
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Cabugao Gamay Island – The most photographed spot in Gigantes, with its postcard-perfect sandbar, soft white sand, and panoramic viewpoint.
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Tangke Lagoon – A natural saltwater pool surrounded by towering cliffs, best enjoyed with a refreshing swim.
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Antonia Beach – A peaceful stretch of sand where you can relax, swim, or try fresh scallops, a local specialty.
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Bantigue Island Sandbar – A shifting sandbar that reveals itself during low tide, perfect for photos and beach strolls.
After a full day of exploring the idyllic Gigantes Islands you’ll return to Iloilo City in the late afternoon. Back in the city, you can rest at your hotel or cap the evening with dinner at one of Iloilo City’s restaurants or bars.
Day 4: Guimaras Island
Just a short ferry ride from Iloilo City lies Guimaras Island, world-famous as the Mango Capital of the Philippines. Beyond its sweet produce, the island is blessed with secluded beaches, heritage landmarks, and scenic island-hopping spots, making it a perfect day trip for travelers looking to combine culture and nature.
Your day begins with a transfer from your hotel in Iloilo City to the port, where you’ll board a boat to Guimaras Island. Upon arrival, you can explore some of the island’s inland attractions before heading out to sea:
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Smallest Plaza – Once recognized in the Guinness World Records, this tiny public square remains a quirky landmark and photo stop.
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San Lorenzo Wind Farm – With 27 towering wind turbines, this renewable energy site offers panoramic views of Guimaras’ rolling landscapes and coastline.
From here, the adventure continues with island-hopping around Guimaras. Highlights include:
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Lamurawan Island – Climb to its view deck for sweeping vistas of Guimaras’ islets, and visit the peaceful grotto of the Virgin Mary tucked into the site.
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Baras Cave – A natural cave with two openings that allow boats to pass through. Its clear waters and dramatic limestone formations make it a favorite for photos.
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Ave Maria Islet – Known for its powdery sand and calm waters, this tiny island is perfect for a swim or quick beach escape.
A hearty local lunch, often featuring fresh seafood and of course Guimaras Island mangoes, completes the experience. Afterward, you’ll return to Iloilo City by boat and vehicle transfer, leaving time in the afternoon for shopping, dining, or relaxing at your hotel.
Book Guimaras tours in advance to secure hassle-free transfers, guides, and island-hopping arrangements.
Day 5: Bacolod City
After breakfast in Iloilo City, make your way to the ferry port for a scenic ride across the Guimaras Strait to Bacolod City. Known as the City of Smiles, Bacolod City is famous for its lively MassKara Festival, rich cultural heritage, and laid-back charm.
Upon arrival, you can arrange convenient Bacolod transfers to your chosen hotel. There are plenty of Bacolod hotels to suit every type of traveler, from cozy boutique stays to modern city accommodations. After checking in, you’re ready to explore the city’s highlights.
Must-visit attractions in Bacolod City include:
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The Ruins – A grand mansion built in the early 1900s, often called the “Taj Mahal of Negros.” Its skeletal yet elegant architecture is one of the most photographed landmarks in the Philippines.
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San Sebastian Cathedral – Built in the late 19th century, this Neo-Gothic church stands as a testament to Bacolod’s deep Catholic roots.
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Capitol Lagoon and Park – A relaxing green space in the city center, popular with locals for afternoon strolls.
No trip to Bacolod is complete without indulging in its famous chicken inasal, a flavorful grilled chicken dish marinated in local spices. Enjoy it for lunch at one of the city’s beloved eateries, such as Manokan Country, before continuing your tour.
In the afternoon, you can unwind at your hotel, visit a café for Bacolod City’s sweet delicacies like piaya and napoleones, or explore local shops for souvenirs.
Day 6: Return to Manila City
After breakfast in Bacolod City, check out from your hotel and head to the airport for your flight back to Manila City, the country’s bustling capital and main international gateway.
The rest of the day is free for you to spend as you wish. You can relax in your hotel and enjoy its amenities, or explore the city at your own pace. Manila offers plenty of shopping malls, local markets, and restaurants where you can savor everything from traditional Filipino dishes to international cuisine.
As evening falls, you may choose to experience Manila City’s dynamic nightlife—from lively bars to entertainment hubs—making it a memorable way to cap off your day before your final departure.
Day 7: Departure
On your final day in the Philippines, enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel while soaking in the last moments of your week-long adventure. If time permits, you can squeeze in some last-minute shopping for souvenirs—perfect keepsakes to remember your journey through Iloilo Province, Guimaras Island, and Bacolod City.
When it’s time to leave, travel to Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA). From there, you’ll catch your flight home, bringing with you unforgettable memories of historic landmarks, breathtaking islands, and the warm hospitality of the Visayas.
This marks the end of your incredible 7-day adventure, but it could also be the beginning of more journeys across the Philippines’ 7,000+ islands.
Frequently Asked Questions About Traveling to Iloilo Province, Guimaras Island, and Bacolod
Where are Iloilo Province, Guimaras Island, and Bacolod City located?
All three are found in the Western Visayas region of the Philippines. Iloilo Province is situated on Panay Island, Guimaras is a small island province just off Iloilo’s coast, and Bacolod City lies across the Guimaras Strait on Negros Island.
How do you get from Iloilo City to Guimaras Island?
Guimaras Island is only about a 15-minute ferry ride from Iloilo City. Boats regularly depart from Ortiz Wharf in downtown Iloilo City and dock at Jordan Wharf, the main entry point to Guimaras Island. From there, travelers can continue their journey by jeepney, tricycle, or join tours that include guided visits to top attractions and beaches.
How do you get from Iloilo City to Bacolod City?
The most common and convenient way to travel is by fastcraft ferry, which takes about one and a half to two hours across the Guimaras Strait. Ferries depart from Fort San Pedro terminal in Iloilo City and arrive at BREDCO Port in Bacolod. While connecting flights are also available between the two cities, most travelers opt for the ferry because it is quicker and more direct.
Can you travel from Guimaras Island directly to Bacolod City?
There are no direct ferries that connect Guimaras Island to Bacolod City. Travelers must first return to Iloilo City by boat before boarding a separate fastcraft to Bacolod.
Do I need to book ferry tickets in advance?
Tickets can be bought at the port, but if you are traveling during the peak season between December and May or planning to visit during festivals, it is best to book ferry tickets ahead to secure seats and avoid long queues.
What are the must-visit attractions in these destinations?
In Iloilo Province, travelers often explore Jaro Cathedral, Molo Church, Molo Mansion, Calle Real, and the famous Gigantes Islands. Guimaras Island offers attractions like the Smallest Plaza, the San Lorenzo Wind Farm, Lamurawan Island, and Baras Cave. Bacolod City is best known for The Ruins, San Sebastian Cathedral, the heritage houses of Silay, and the city’s beloved chicken inasal.
When is the best time to visit?
The most ideal months are during the dry season from December to May, when ferry transfers and island-hopping tours are smoother. This season also coincides with the region’s most colorful celebrations: the Dinagyang Festival in January, the Manggahan Festival in May, and the MassKara Festival in October.
How many days do I need for a trip to Iloilo Province, Guimaras Island, and Bacolod City?
A seven-day trip is recommended so travelers can explore heritage sites in Iloilo Province, enjoy both Gigantes and Guimaras island-hopping, and still have time for Bacolod City’s cultural landmarks and food scene.
What food should I try in these destinations?
Travelers in Iloilo Province should not miss La Paz Batchoy, Pancit Molo, and fresh seafood. In Guimaras Island, the star is its world-famous mangoes, which are used in unique treats such as mango pizza, mango ketchup, and dried mangoes. Bacolod City is best known for chicken inasal, but visitors should also try its sweet delicacies like piaya and napoleones.
Can I book vacation packages that include these three destinations?
Yes. It is possible to book pre-arranged Iloilo–Guimaras–Bacolod packages that already cover flights, accommodations, transfers, and guided tours through Guide to the Philippines for a smooth and hassle-free experience.
Explore the Best of Iloilo Province, Guimaras Island, and Bacolod City
Start planning your trip to the Visayas region by exploring the charm of Iloilo Province, Guimaras Island, and Bacolod City. Whether you’re traveling as a couple, with family, or on a solo adventure, these destinations offer a perfect mix of heritage, island-hopping, and culinary experiences that showcase the best of the Philippines.
For a hassle-free journey, you can choose from a variety of Philippines vacation packages or book pre-arranged packages to Iloilo Province, Guimaras Island, and Bacolod City, which already include accommodations, transfers, and guided tours. If you prefer flexibility, you can also customize your own itinerary through Guide to the Philippines, the country’s largest online travel marketplace.
Begin your adventure today and discover why Iloilo Province, Guimaras Island, and Bacolod City are among the top places to visit in the Philippines.
