Guimaras: Private Land Tour with Lunch and Transfers

Exploring Guimaras: A Practical Look at the Private Land Tour with Lunch and Transfers

Traveling to the Philippines often means exploring its famous beaches or vibrant city life, but Guimaras offers something a little different—peaceful island scenery, charming local crafts, and delicious mangoes. This private land tour, offered by H&H Holidays Travel and Tours, promises an insightful day around this lesser-known gem.

What we love about the experience is its variety: from watching miniature ships lovingly crafted by locals, to visiting the oldest church on the island, and ending the day with scenic views and beachside relaxation. The tour also includes a traditional Filipino lunch, making it a well-rounded, hassle-free way to see Guimaras.

A potential consideration is that the tour involves some walking and uneven terrain—so if mobility is a concern, plan accordingly. But overall, it’s a great choice for those wanting a balanced mix of culture, nature, and local flavors.

This tour caters well to travelers wanting an authentic glimpse of Guimaras without the hassle of planning transport or choosing between sights. It’s particularly suited for first-time visitors, history enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a relaxing, educational day.

Good To Know

• All-Inclusive Convenience: Transfers, ferry tickets, lunch, and a guide included provide a smooth experience.
• Cultural & Historical Highlights: Visit Navalas Church and observe local mini-ship craftsmanship.
• Beautiful Natural Views: Roca Encantada, San Lorenzo Windmills, and Raymen Beach offer scenic photo ops.
• Local Flavors & Delights: Sample the famous Guimaras mangoes, with optional mango pizza and coffee available.
• Authentic Local Experience: Interact with artisans and learn about the island’s rich traditions.
• Flexible Booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, with a pay-later option for added flexibility.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive: What’s Included and What You Can Expect

Seamless Transfers and Ferry Rides

Starting from Iloilo, your day kicks off with a round-trip transfer that takes the stress out of logistics. The tour includes ferry fare between Iloilo and Guimaras, so you won’t need to worry about separate tickets or timings. The use of air-conditioned tourist transportation makes the journey comfortable, even in the heat. Guided by a DOT-accredited expert, you’ll get a rundown of each site, along with local insights that add depth to the experience.

Visit to Galleon Making at Brgy. Rizal

Your first stop is the miniature ship-making workshop in Rizal, Buenavista. Here, local artisans craft tiny, detailed Galleons—mini ships built entirely by hand. Visitors often find the craftsmanship impressive, with some reviewers noting, “You can see the effort put into each tiny ship.” Watching artisans at work offers a slice of local culture and provides fantastic photo opportunities. It’s a lively, hands-on stop that highlights Guimaras’ craftsmanship tradition.

Navalas Church: A Testament to Resilience

Next, you’ll visit Navalas Church, the oldest Roman Catholic church on the island, constructed between 1880 and 1885. Despite its age, the church remains remarkably well-preserved, surviving earthquakes and even raids from Moro pirates in its early days. Visitors often comment on its charm and resilience—seeing such a structure still standing after over a century is both humbling and inspiring. It’s a peaceful spot for reflection and a window into the island’s history.

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Roca Encantada and Scenic Views

Moving on, the tour visits Roca Encantada, a site known for its striking rock formations and panoramic views. The name translates to “Enchanted Rock,” and the scenery truly lives up to the name, with cliffs and rugged coastlines that are perfect for photos. It offers a sense of the island’s rugged natural beauty, away from crowded tourist spots.

Windmills and Beachside Relaxation

The San Lorenzo Windmills showcase Guimaras’ efforts in sustainable energy, and the views from here are spectacular—ideal for a quick walk or a photo session. Afterward, the group heads to Raymen Beach Resort for some leisurely downtime. Whether you want to swim, sunbathe, or simply relax with a cold drink, this beach stop provides a gentle break in the day’s schedule with beautiful vistas and tranquil waters.

Trappist Monastery and Mango Research Center

The Trappist Monastery offers a peaceful reprieve, where visitors can appreciate the monastic lifestyle and perhaps buy some local products. Following that, the National Mango Research Center is a highlight—no surprise given Guimaras’ reputation as the Mango Capital of the Philippines. You can learn about mango cultivation, sample fresh varieties, and gain insight into what makes Guimaras mangoes so special.

Local Markets and Landmarks

The tour rounds out with visits to the Guimaras Provincial Capital Trade Center and local landmarks, giving travelers a taste of everyday life on the island. You might notice how the local community maintains its traditions, with friendly interactions and small shops selling handmade crafts.

Value and Practicalities

At $147 per person, this tour offers a solid value considering the inclusions: all transfers, ferry tickets, entrance fees, lunch, and a guide. It’s designed to be convenient, especially for those who prefer to avoid the hassle of independent planning. The meal, featuring local dishes and the famed Guimaras mangoes, is a highlight, offering both taste and cultural insight.

While the itinerary is packed, it’s paced to allow enough time at each stop without feeling rushed. The inclusion of optional snacks like Mango Pizza and Mango Coffee, at guests’ own expense, adds a fun, local twist to the day.

Reviewers appreciate the knowledge and friendliness of the guides, who are said to be well-informed and accommodating. The tour’s focus on authentic experiences, like watching shipmakers and visiting a historic church, provides a richer perspective than just ticking off tourist sites.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive, hassle-free introduction to Guimaras. It’s especially suited for first-time visitors, culture lovers, and those interested in local craftsmanship and history. The scenic stops make it ideal for photography enthusiasts, while the beach break caters to anyone needing a bit of R&R.

It’s less suitable for travelers with mobility challenges due to some walking and uneven surfaces, but overall, it caters well to those seeking comfort, convenience, and authentic local flavor.

Final Thoughts

This private land tour offers a well-balanced mix of history, culture, natural beauty, and local flavor—all wrapped in a comfortable, organized package. The inclusion of a guide ensures you’ll gain insights into Guimaras’ unique character, while the scenic stops keep the day visually engaging.

For a modest investment, you get a full day’s worth of memorable moments without the hassle of planning every detail. It’s a practical choice for those who want to explore Guimaras at a relaxed pace, with enough variety to keep everyone interested.

Whether you want to learn about local crafts, indulge in delicious mangoes, or simply enjoy stunning views, this tour provides a thoughtful, authentic experience that highlights the best of Guimaras.

FAQ

Is transportation provided throughout the day?
Yes, the tour includes round-trip transfers from your hotel to the wharf, along with air-conditioned transportation during the tour.

Are ferry tickets included?
Absolutely, the ferry fare between Iloilo and Guimaras is part of the package, making the journey seamless.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in case your plans change.

Is the tour suitable for families?
While generally family-friendly, those with mobility issues should consider the walking involved, as some sites require light walking on uneven terrain.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, water, and a camera are recommended to make the most of each scenic stop.

Are there any optional activities or snacks?
Yes, optional snacks like Mango Pizza and Mango Coffee are available at your own expense, adding a fun local flavor to your day.

This Guimaras private land tour balances culture, natural beauty, and comfort, making it an excellent choice for those eager to uncover the island’s charm without the fuss.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby