Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the establishments featured in this article may implement temporary closures and/or a set of safety requirements in alignment with changing protocols. Please make sure to abide by the guidelines to stay safe.
Think you’ve seen all of Iloilo already?
Image: Experience Sicogon Facebook Page
If you’ve seen photos of Iloilo, you’d know that it is a haven not just of centuries-old churches, but also of natural and man-made wonders. Want to know the latest tourist spots in Iloilo? Below are some places that you can include in your itinerary.
1. Bucari
Address: Brgy. Bucari, Leon, Iloilo
Bucari is a haven for hikers
Image: Iloilo City the Heart of the Philippines
Are you fond of hiking? If so, head to Bucari in Leon, Iloilo. Dubbed as the Summer Capital of Iloilo, it is where serenity and adventure come together. The mountainous town offers tourists the chance to commune with nature as they go trekking or just have a whiff of clean air.
Bucari is a place where Ilonggos and tourists can escape from the scorching heat of the sun and polluted atmosphere. Pine trees that freely grow in the area provide cool air for overnight camping. Bucari is also where you can find fresh vegetables and fruits at low prices.
As of March 2021, Bucari is still temporarily closed.
2. Ephrathah Farms
Address: Sariri, Badiangan 5033 Badiangan, Iloilo, Philippines
Ephrathah Farm is home to a picturesque glass church.
Image: Ephrathah Farms
Ephrathah Farms in Badiangan, Iloilo opened to the public a few years ago. With its picturesque glass church at the middle of the property, it is a destination for couples who wish to have an engagement shoot. It is also where workers go to take a break from routine tasks in the office.
More than these, Ephrathah Farms offer exciting activities like ziplining, rappelling, and wall climbing. The farm has refreshing swimming pools for visitors of various ages to dive into. Guests can also buy products freshly harvested from the farm at affordable prices.
3. Damires Hills Tierra Verde Leisure Farm
Address: Janiuay-Badiangan-Mina Rd 5034, Janiuay, Iloilo
The infinity pool set against verdant hills at Damires Hills Resort
Image: Damires Hills Resort
Friends and families who are up for some adventure can include in their itinerary Damires Hills Tierra Verde Resort in Janiuay, Iloilo. Situated on an elevated place, the place offers thrill and excitement for millennials, serenity for those who experience mid-life crisis, and peace for those who crave for it.
The inland resort is designed for visitors to have some adventure as they take in the natural beauty of the place. They offer all-terrain vehicle (ATV) rides, ziplining, and trekking for groups to develop camaraderie and unity. They also have cottages which are perfect for taking a relaxing break.
4. Bulabog Puti-an National Park
Address: Dingle, Iloilo
A sneak peek of what’s inside Guisi Cave at Bulabog Putian
Image: Writer’s Own
If you’ve never ever entered a cave, the stunning Bulabog Puti-an National Park in Dingle, Iloilo gives you the chance to see dazzling stalactites and stalagmites in a protected area. Aside from the rock formations, you will also see a number of endangered animals roaming around.
The national park is wide enough for you to be lost, so never dare explore the place alone. It is recommended to hire a tour guide. Visiting the park is also a good way for you to keep fit. Just don’t wear new shoes unless you want to ruin them.
5. Nagpana Falls
Address: Brgy. Lipatan, Barotac Viejo, Iloilo
Dive into the ice-cold waters of the Nagpana Falls in Barotac Viejo, Iloilo.
Image: Kesh Mia
One place to escape from the heatwave is at Nagpana Falls. The bowl-shaped falls contains free-flowing cold water from the highlands of Barotac Viejo. What’s more interesting about the place is that you get to swim with the Aetas who are residents of the area.
Sitio Nagpana in Lipata, Barotac Viejo, Iloilo is the first Aeta settlement in the town. This is also where the Aetas craft native products by hand. Nito products from this settlement have already reached the national and international market. Aside from bathing or purchasing artsy products, you can also strike a pose with the natives.
6. Sicogon Island
Address: Carles, Iloilo
The cleanest beaches in Iloilo can be found at Sicogon Island in Carles.
Image: Sicogon Island in Carles
Sicogon Island in Carles, Iloilo recently regained the public’s attention after Ayala Land decided to develop the area. The island is near the popular and spectacular Gigantes Island. It is a soul-searcher’s destination since the place is quiet enough for one to reflect on the many realities of life.
With its white sand beach and crystal-clear waters, the place is truly picture-perfect. Other than that, it features a beautiful view of both the sunrise and the sunset. You would need to ride a boat for 1.5 hours, but it will certainly be worth your time and money.
There’s more to Iloilo than the bad press it has been getting lately. There are truly amazing sights and tourist attractions that are naturally beautiful, as well as places that were developed by Ilonggos. Take time to visit Iloilo and see for yourself how it has drastically changed for the better.
This article was originally published in Yoorekka on December 12, 2017.
Check out this video:
