Explore the B.I.G. Three: 4D3N DIY Travel Guide to Bacolod, Iloilo & Guimaras

Discover the beauty of the Western Visayas as you explore Bacolod, Iloilo, and Guimaras. This 4-day, 3-night itinerary is perfect for solo travelers who want to experience the best of these provinces. From historical sites and beautiful islands to unique food adventures, this guide will walk you through an exciting journey across the B.I.G. Three.

Day 1: Guimaras Tour

The mango capital of the Philippines welcomes you with picturesque views, historical sites, and mouth-watering dishes.

Arrival:

• Airport: Iloilo International Airport

Transportation Options:

1. Van to SM City Iloilo: 100 PHP per pax, then taxi to Robinsons Mall (120 PHP).

2. Airport Taxi: Direct to Iloilo City for 800 PHP.

3. Private Pickup by Sir Mark: Contact Mark Arabia at 0977 6044 376 / 0956 1955 702 / 0946 374 6744 (600 PHP).

From Robinsons Mall:

• Ride a tricycle to Parola (100 PHP fare).

• From Parola, take a ferry (Jordan Ferry) to Guimaras (30 PHP per pax).

Places to Visit in Guimaras:

• Smallest Plaza: Snap a photo at this quirky landmark.

• Guimaras Windmills: Perfect spot for Instagram-worthy photos.

• Guimaras Signage: Iconic photo spot.

• The Pitstop Restaurant: Try their famous Mango Pizza—a must-try!

• Manmade Forest & Mango Plantation: Enjoy the serene greenery.

• Trappist Monastery: Buy mango-flavored delicacies made by monks.

• Guisi Lighthouse & Guisi Beach: Historical ruins with a scenic beach.

• Boboy’s Pasalubong Center/Boboy’s Delicacies: Grab mango-flavored treats to take home.

Tour Guide:

• Kuya John Lloyd (Private Tour): 700 PHP.

• Contact: 0946 448 9766 | Facebook Page: John Tumlos

Day 2: Islas de Gigantes Tour

Island-hopping paradise awaits! Explore pristine beaches, lagoons, and delicious seafood.

Package Price: 999 PHP per pax (Joiner Tour)

Inclusions:

• Marina Franchise Boat for Island Hopping

• Tour Guide/Photographer Services

• Entrance, Environmental, and Tourism Fees

• FREE Lunch: Seafood feast with 6 standard dishes and drinks.

Island Hopping Stops:

• Pulupandan Islet: Swim or visit Gaket Gaket Islet (visible during low tide & Amihan season).

• Cabugao Gamay: The iconic, most-photographed spot of Gigantes.

• Antonia Beach: Lunch stop and optional activities like snorkeling, banana boat rides, jet skiing, and crystal kayaking.

• Bantigue Sandbar & Mini Boracay: Beautiful beaches to relax.

• Tangke Lagoon: A stunning natural saltwater pool.

Optional Activities:

• Banana Boat Ride: 200 PHP each (min. of 5 heads)

• Jetski: 2,000 PHP (30 mins) at Putting Baybay Gamay.

• Crystal Kayak: 250 PHP (15 mins).

Itinerary:

• 4:30 - 5:00 AM: Travel to Bancal Port via Joiners Van or Private Transfer (350 PHP per way).

• 8:00 - 8:15 AM: Meet-up at Bancal Port, Carles.

• 8:15 - 8:30 AM: Registration at Tourism Office.

• 8:30 AM: Start of Island Hopping.

• 4:00 PM: Return to Bancal Port.

• 4:10 PM: Travel back to hotel.

Booking Inquiries: Gigantes Island Tour Facebook Page

Day 3: Bacolod City Tour

Step into the “City of Smiles” and immerse yourself in culture, history, and food.

Getting to Bacolod:

• Ferry: Weesam Express

• First Trip: 6:30 AM

• Fare: Regular Non-Aircon (525 PHP), Regular Aircon (550 PHP)

• Passenger Terminal Fee: Iloilo to Bacolod (30 PHP), Bacolod to Iloilo (40 PHP)

• Last Trip to Iloilo: 2:45 PM

Places to Visit in Bacolod:

• Bacolod City Plaza & San Sebastian Church: Historical spots.

• Negros Museum: (100 PHP entrance fee).

• The Ruins: (120 PHP entrance fee).

• Manokan Country: Try the famous Bacolod Inasal & Cansi.

• Bongbong’s Pasalubong: Get the best Piaya and Napoleones.

Day 4: Iloilo City Tour

Wrapping up your journey with a relaxing city tour.

Places to Visit:

• Garin Farm Pilgrimage:

• Transportation: Mini bus to San Joaquin (104.25 PHP fare).

• Molo Church & Molo Mansion: Beautiful architecture and history.

• Popoy’s Batchoy: Taste Special Batchoy & Puto.

• Iloilo Signage & Festive Walk Stroll: Perfect for a leisure walk.

Travel Tips & Recommendations:

1. Packing List: Comfortable clothes, swimwear, sunscreen, hat, power bank, camera, reusable water bottle, flip-flops, travel insurance.

2. Cash is King: Some places don’t accept cards, so bring enough cash for transportation, entrance fees, and meals.

3. Local Delicacies to Try: Mango Pizza in Guimaras, Bacolod Inasal, and Batchoy in Iloilo.

4. Book Early: Secure your accommodation and tours at least a month in advance, especially during peak season.

5. Contact Your Tour Guides: To confirm your booking and clarify pickup points and schedules.

Expenses Overview:

• Airfare (Roundtrip via Philippine Airlines): 3,484 PHP.

• Accommodation (Go Hotels - 4D3N with late checkout): 5,213.01 PHP.

• Note: Go Hotels allows guests to leave baggage upon checkout.

• Contact for Booking: Go Hotels Iloilo.