The enchanting town of Boracay has become a top destination for both foreign and local travelers. To make your visit even more memorable, the local government of Malay, Aklan, has officially named the Seven Wonders of Malay.
Felix Delos Santos, the Malay tourism chief, says the wonders of Malay are anchored on the theme ‘Better than Ever.’ The attractions of the seven wonders fall under the different tourist experiences, such as eco-adventures, immersive communes, culinary oases, and health and wellness hubs, among others.
As this develops, many tourist destinations in Aklan are growing on the Malay mainland. Still, the local government has widely promoted these seven wonders so far. Keep an eye out for these tourist spots in Aklan, which will leave you spellbound.
1. The Malay Ecological Park
Address:Brgy. Argao, Malay, Aklan
Entrance Fee:PhP50 per head
Whether looking for a serene spot to meditate or practice yoga, this place offers both.
Images: Joseph Renojo Udan (L); Opacarofiles (R)
This tourist destination in Aklan is located at Barangay Argao, Malay, Aklan, and is 15 meters away from Caticlan, while it is only 30 minutes away from Boracay. The Malay Tourism Office considered the park to be looking for serenity and communing with nature. It has an entrance fee of PhP50 for tourists.
It is tagged Seven Wonders of Malay and boasts amenities, including a view deck/lookout tower overlooking Boracay. You can capture Instagram-worthy moments on the bamboo platform, garden swings, a comprehensive Bermuda grass lawn good for sitting, yoga and meditation, prenuptial shoots, picnics, or a study and ‘workcation’ place. It also has an iconic 65-step entrance stairs, a water fountain, a fishpond, and a mini museum to add charm.
You can bring food to the area, but littering is strictly prohibited.
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Poblacion, Malay, Aklan's wildlife sanctuary, renowned for its eight interconnected chambers that house flickering stalagmites and stalactites. The whole cave system is said to have a total area of 5,001 square meters. While the cave corridors are narrow, the chambers it leads to are massive. In the crevices of these chambers, you’ll find hundreds of native fruit bats.
This tourist destination in Aklan is tagged Seven Wonders of Malay and is less than seven kilometers from the Caticlan Airport and the Caticlan Jetty Port. It is only a 15-minute car ride from these two ports and 30 minutes away from Boracay. It has an entrance fee of PhP50, but for starters, seeking a local tourist guide is recommended to ensure maximum cave navigation experience.
This place is a perfect fit if you want to experience authentic rural Philippines and not just lay on the beach!
Image: Writer
Villagers at Barangay Montag, also in Malay, Aklan, have united to preserve their traditions and methods in farming, cultural lifestyles, folksongs, and folk dances, among others. At this tourist destination in Aklan, you will be experiencing nostalgia as the villagers in these days of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and digital technologies; here, they showcase how their ancestors lived, urging tourists to experience the same in real-time.
4. Nagata Falls
Address:Brgy. Nabaoy, Malay, Aklan
Entrance Fee:PhP30 to PhP50 per head
Nagata Falls is an awe-inspiring natural wonder and stands tall as the highest waterfall in the entire municipality.
Image: Nagata falls Facebook page
This ‘Seven Wonders of Malay’ is the highest waterfall at Barangay Nabaoy, Malay, Aklan. Since it is a hiking trail good for adventurers, asking for a local guide to accompany you is highly recommended. Depending on your endurance, the hike usually takes about five to six hours, enjoying nature at its best! It is also best to visit nearby Narra Resort and the Nabaoy River, where Boracay's potable water comes from.
To protect this tourist spot in Aklan, a PhP50 environmental fee is charged for foreign tourists while PhP30 for domestic.
It's not the other type of fall where you are on the grounds, and in front of you are the waterfalls. It has a rock boulder, your ground, and a small river below you.
5. Tuburan Resort
Address:Cubay Sur, Malay, Aklan
Fees:PhP30 (adults), PhP20 (kids) PhP300 to PhP500 (cottages)
Looking for a way to stay cool without breaking the bank? Check out this resort!
Image: Tuburan Resort
Discover the beauty of our first natural pool in Malay, Aklan, where you can take a refreshing dip in crystal-clear water. Conveniently located in Barangay Cubay, Malay Aklan, it's just a short 20-minute boat and tricycle ride from Caticlan and only 30 minutes from Boracay.
Barangay Cubay is the perfect place to experience the warm hospitality of the Ati, the indigenous people who have been living here for generations. Get ready to be welcomed with open arms by these friendly and accommodating locals, who have been engaging with tourists for several years. Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to immerse yourself in this tourist destination in Aklan’s rich culture and traditions.
6. Agnaga Mini Falls and the Cold Springs
Address:Brgy. Kabulihan, Malay, Aklan
Agnaga Mini Falls and the Cold Springs is a hidden gem amidst the lush forest and rugged rocks.
Image: AKLAN Tourism Facebook page
Nestled in the heart of Barangay Kabulihan, Malay, Aklan, lies a serene getaway just 30 minutes from Caticlan. With the El Nino phenomenon bringing in a warm and dry spell this year, there's no better place to unwind and soak up the sun than here. Don't miss the chance to lounge in paradise at this excellent Seven Wonders of Malay.
Boracay offers unparalleled sand, sun, and sea adventures that will leave you thrilled and exhilarated.
Image: Malay-Boracay Tourism Office Facebook page
Of course, your journey to all the six wonders will not be completed and will never be enough if you do not visit Boracay Island, the anchor beach tourism destination.
According to Google, Boracay is a small island in the central Philippines. It's known for its resorts and beaches. White Beach is backed by palm trees, bars, and restaurants along the West Coast. On the east coast, strong winds make Bulabog Beach a hub for water sports. Nearby, the observation deck on Mount Luho offers panoramic views over the island. Offshore, coral reefs and shipwrecks are home to diverse marine life.
Malay has a lot to offer beyond the famous Boracay Island. While Boracay is known worldwide, many are unaware of the hidden gems waiting to be explored in Malay. Don't miss out on the opportunity to discover new and exciting places.
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About Jun N. Aguirre
Jun Aguirre is a mobile journalism (Mojo) practitioner and a freelancer covering mostly Panay Island to include Boracay. In 2020, he was the only Filipino featured via online conference promoting MOJO during the Mobile Journalism Congress in Asia.
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