Hidden off the northern coast of Iloilo lies a paradise that’s steadily gaining fame among foreign travelers — the stunning Gigantes island. Known for its crystal-clear waters and friendly locals, the Islas de Gigantes are a must-see for adventurers exploring the Philippines. Getting there takes a bit of planning, but the journey is simple when you know the steps.
Step 1: Fly to the Gateway (Iloilo, Roxas, or Kalibo)
Most travelers fly to Iloilo International Airport, the main gateway to the islands (find more local context at Iloilo). If you’re splitting time with Boracay, consider Kalibo, Caticlan, or Roxas City and connect overland. For simplified arrangements, reserve a complete Island Hopping Package or pre-arranged Tour.
Step 2: Overland to Carles
From Iloilo City, ride 3–4 hours by bus or van to Carles, the jump-off point to the islands. Private vans booked via a Travel & Tours Agency offer comfort and flexibility; public buses are affordable and reliable.
Step 3: Boat to Isla Gigantes
Boats typically depart Bancal Port in the morning. If you miss the scheduled public boat, you can charter one through local operators. Once you land on Isla Gigantes, check in, then join an Island Hopping Tour to Cabugao Gamay, Antonia Beach, and Bantigue Sandbar.
Side Trips That Pair Naturally with Gigantes
- Sicogon island — chill beaches and thoughtful, eco-forward stays.
- Guimaras — mango farms, coves, and lighthouses near Iloilo.
- Heading to Boracay? Slot a transfer using Boracay Transfer and consider a finale of Boaracay island hopping before you fly out.
Practical Tips for a Smooth Journey
- Cash First: Withdraw in the city; there are no island ATMs.
- Pack Smart: Dry bags, reef-safe sunscreen, and light luggage speed up boat boarding.
- Connectivity: Download offline maps and playlists; signal can be patchy.
- Bundle Wisely: If you want stress-free logistics, reserve with a vetted Tour Agency, coordinate through a partner Travel Agency, or use a reliable Travel Booking site.
Where to Stay Before or After Your Crossing
Arriving late? Overnight in Carles and catch the morning boat. On the islands, choose simple cottages or eco-lodges that include meals and boat tours. Most hosts can arrange an Island Hopping Package that suits your pace.
Extend Your Trip to Palawan (If You Have Extra Days)
Many foreign travelers stitch Gigantes with Palawan for a balanced “quiet + iconic” Philippines route. Use Palawan to plan air gateways, browse headline Palawan attractions, then split your time:
- El Nido: Iconic lagoons and karst cliffs (El Nido logistics, guides at El Nido Palawan).
- San Vicente: Long Beach sunsets and chill villages (arrivals via San Vicente Airport, tips at San Vicente and San Vicente Palawan).
- Coron: Wreck dives and blue lakes (plan transfers via Coron, area guide at Coron Palawan).
- Puerto Princesa: Urban comforts and cave-river wonder (arrivals via Puerto Princesa Airport, city guide at Puerto Princesa).
- Nature Icons: The Subterranean River — also called the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River — is part of the celebrated Underground River system; details also at Puerto Princesa Underground River.
- Wild South: The far-flung jewels of Balabac Palawan — plan a Balabac Tour, check island intel at Balabac, and map out epic Balabac island hopping.
Finance-Savvy Travel: Insurance and Cards
Protect your trip and maximize perks. Buy travel insurance before departure; for payments and bookings, compare perks across travel credit cards, local options in the Philippines, and broader choices via Travel credit cards. If you’re heading to Palawan legs afterward, you can also browse trip-planning pages tailored for Palawan.
Bonus: Research & Inspiration
Round out your planning with traveler-driven reads and tips at Travel and Travel — great for first-time visitors mapping a longer Philippines circuit.
Final Call-to-Action
Ready to go? Book your flight to Iloilo, secure a seat to Carles, and reserve a flexible Tour or bundled Island Hopping Package. Pay with travel credit cards, back up your plans with travel insurance, and set your compass for the islands.
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