Panay Philippines. Holidays in Panay: reviews about Panay

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Panay - the island of waterfalls, fun and flowers

A little further from Thailand and Vietnam, which tourists love, are washed by seas and waters Pacific Ocean Philippine Islands. From countries Southeast Asia The Philippines is separated only by the South China Sea, which is not difficult for seekers of adventure and earthly pleasure to cross. What are these islands famous for? First of all beautiful views. The architecture fades into the background here, and the Pacific surface attracts attention for a long time. By the way, each island of the Philippines is unusual, unique and a local attraction in its own way.

Little heart of a big state

Situated almost in the very center of the huge archipelago, Panay is not accidentally called the “Island of the Painted”. This relatively large island was originally inhabited by aborigines, on whose skin a design was always tattooed - this detail was a distinctive feature of the tribe. Later, the island was taken over by the Spaniards, who drove out the “decorated” ones and included this land among their possessions. The memory of the previously living tribe remains only in the name, but now not everyone knows this legend, so few locals call Panay the “Island of the Decorated”.

Panay is washed by two seas (Sulu and Sibuyan), as well as a bay, which later received the name Panay. The island's terrain mostly consists of mountains, which are abundantly enveloped in greenery. If you see the island from a bird's eye view, you can be frozen in amazement. Panay will no longer seem so majestic and large - it will become just a particle in a long chain of green islands, which is tenderly protected by sea and ocean waters.

By the way, the wonderful views that the island of Panay provides have remained captured for centuries by the writer’s pen. Pedro Monteclaro, based on numerous legends of the island of Panay, created the great work "Maragtas". In it the author gave detailed description the settlement of this territory by Filipinos, who were the ancestors of the modern people living there. In Panay's book, it is not just a background picture to add effect, but the main location of the action. To better understand the origins and cultural foundations of Panay, it is worth reading Maragtas.

Panay Island. Photo by Gary Todd.

What is Panay famous for?

White sandy beaches firmly established in association with the island of Panay. Surprisingly, the stories about the sands covered with white granular crystals turned out to be by no means just another legend to attract tourists. At first glance it may even seem that this is artificial turf, but it is easy to check. Only when you step on the sand do you realize that the beaches of Panay are the real pride and value of the island. Here you can sunbathe, play sports and even do yoga all year round. Swimming is also allowed at any time, because sea water does not fall below +25 degrees even in December. Such conditions are ideal for an unforgettable paradise holiday.

Philippine nature has long been famous for its amazing plants that grow in a specially designated place - on the territory of the Mangrove Ecopark. There are excursions there every day, so everyone can see with their own eyes a growing pineapple, Philippine cherry or rare species flowers. In addition, there is a farm in the eco-park, which has become a habitat not for large animals or even lizards, but for small colorful butterflies. There are many different types of these cute creatures collected here. They swirl around tourists like bright colorful balls, and over the years they have even become tame.

Panay has prepared a surprise for lovers of underground beauty. The thing is that there are several caves on the island. The largest of them is called Pangihan. Just imagine, it is more than 5 million years old. Entering this huge underground cave, you won’t see a soul around - only darkness, silence and somewhere in the depths, barely discernible rustles. Creepy? Don't be afraid, these are just bats that have been in the darkness for centuries and break the deathly silence with the squeak and sound of their wings. The cave is not at all scary, and the residents deliberately preserve this primitive image of the most ancient Philippine place so that they have something to surprise the most fastidious guests. Not far from the cave there is the famous mineral spring Khurum-Khurum. Its waters are always cold and have healing properties. Locals warn about this in advance, fueling the already strong desire to swim. Interestingly, this mineral spring is one of the few whose water residents drink and use for cooking. This only confirms the opinion that the water in Khurum-Khurum is as clear as a tear.

Now comes the fun part. Among tourists, Panay rightfully bears the name of the island of waterfalls. Therefore, the highlight of any excursion will definitely be these water structures, which were created not by human hands, but by nature itself. The falling mountain streams of Samirakh and Havili, that’s what the waterfalls are called, are located near a small village, so getting there won’t be difficult. By the way, Havilli is located at the very foot of the mountain from which it originates. It is generally accepted that splashes of water evoke a feeling of joy in a person, which will increase many times over if you have the mighty element of a waterfall in front of you. Truly an incomparable feeling. Delight, and that’s all!

Panay Island. Photo by Edgar Ediza.

Martial arts and other entertainment

Since the island of Panay is geographically divided into 4 provinces, cities and towns are equipped for both residents and visitors. These are clubs, magnificent hotels and restaurants with exquisite local and foreign cuisine.

Fans of extreme sports and adrenaline will be able to go down the Butang River or go diving in their free time. Thanks to the purest sea ​​water You can see not only corals, but also small tropical fish. By the way, even a beginner can dive. The organizers have thought through everything to the smallest detail, having acquired experienced instructors who will help and give the right advice.

Filipinos attach great importance to the culture of their state and open it to all tourists. For example, where else can you see battles for nuts? Only in Panay. In another way it is called the martial art of dumog, which originated here. According to legend, this type of wrestling, similar to modern judo, was created thanks to two warriors who participated in the battle for a coconut. On certain days, the inhabitants of the island plunge into the distant past and organize such fights. Let’s admit, it looks spectacular and unusual. It will be a great success to come into contact with this element of Philippine culture.

In addition to martial arts, the Filipinos hold the Ati-Atian festival every year. This is a large and colorful parade, which is held in honor of the reconciliation of the Malays and the indigenous population of the island. The festival includes dancing in national costumes and various entertainment. On this day, Panay is immersed in music, dancing, and an atmosphere of fun, joy and unity reigns. Black patterns are pre-painted on the bodies of dancers and musicians to emphasize the historical roots and continuity of the past. How else can one get to know the inner world of the Filipinos if not through music and dance?

A relaxing holiday on the white shore of the azure sea, exploring the depths of the water or getting to know the culture of the Philippines - everyone will choose what they like best. The island archipelago differs from European and Asian cultures. You know, there is something about them that attracts attention. Tourists from all over the world confidently note that Filipinos are a special people; they are always joyful and hospitable. Maybe it's all about the nature and landscape that surrounds Panay Island. After all, how can you be sad when there are green mountains above your head and under your feet? white sand, and there are endless expanses of water ahead?

In the Philippines - one of the most visited and popular resorts on the archipelago.

The Philippine archipelago includes both small and large islands. Of course, most tourists want to spend their holidays on large and developed islands. One of these is the island of Panay, which is home to about two million people. Not far from it there is another famous place - Boracay, and between these islands there are only a couple of kilometers.

The area of ​​Panay is perhaps the most similar to Paradise. And during the Ati-Atian holiday, which is celebrated in the city of Kalibo, it becomes especially beautiful here. During this celebration small town turns into a real visitor center. Crowds of people take to the streets, parades are held, and those participating in them dress in stunning, colorful outfits. It is interesting that at first it seems as if the parade participants are walking completely chaotically, but in fact they strictly adhere to a pre-designed route. By the way, during the celebration, a so-called mobile casino appears in the city, which constantly travels between the islands, without staying in any of them for more than a week.

In addition, famous Filipino musicians come to the city, because Ati-Atian is a youth festival that is absolutely impossible to imagine without music. And they love music very much.

Panay Island - diving

Known for other entertainment as well. So, many divers come here because the diving spots here are truly amazing. In general, all lovers will like it here active entertainment– what does rafting on local rivers cost, but the Butang River is especially popular among tourists.

Don't forget to visit the local caves with waterfalls, and the largest is Pangihan Cave, where there are stalactites with stalagmites that are about five million years old, at least that's what the guides say. From here you can get to Khurum-Khurum - these are the purest mineral springs in which you will relieve tension and cool the skin. Cold water from the springs can even be drunk or used for cooking - it is truly healing.

Waiting for you! Have a nice trip!

Panay Island does not have many beaches to organize active recreation. Often, tourists who are planning a visit to the country of 7,000 islands prefer to go sunbathing on the beaches of Boracay Island. This small island is located 2 km from the northern part of Panay; there are no problems with transportation.

For those tourists who decide to explore the local beaches of panay island, you need to pay attention to the following settlements:

Island Agho(Iloilo Province). This island is privately owned, but visitors do not need to pay an entrance fee to visit it. There are no hotels, shops or restaurants on Agho territory. Tourists planning a visit to the island should take food, picnic supplies, and tents for the night. You can get here by water: there is a bangka from the city of Concepcion, which is not difficult to rent. Transportation takes no more than 30 minutes. In addition to snow-white sand, warm water, and pristine nature, visitors will be able to enjoy wonderful sunrises, to contemplate which you need to go to the far side of the island. Not far from the island there are coral gardens that are a good option for diving. Scuba diving in these regions will delight you with its colorful reefs, exotic fish, and unique flora. In some areas you can find giant clams: it is better to check with local fishermen about their exact location. The disadvantage of Agho Island is that it is littered: vacationers often leave behind food scraps, plastic dishes, and bottles.

Gigantes Islands (Gigantes islands). They are part of the province of Iloilo and consist of a dozen small islands. There are several ways to get here, but transportation will be by water:

• From the port of Estancia. Every day a public boat departs from this city to the islands, which can carry 60 passengers. Tourists who want to take advantage of this option must be at the port before 13.00. The duration of the trip is about 2 hours.
• From the port of Carles. Here you can rent a boat and hire a guide. The journey to the Gigantes Islands takes no more than 1 hour.

The most attractive place for swimming is the beach Antonias Beach, which is located on the island of Sur Gigantes. On the snow-white sandy shore there are seashells of different shapes and colors. The water here is clean and clear. Those tourists who are not attracted to passive beach holidays can go snorkeling: there are all the conditions for this. After the last strong typhoon, the coral reefs were slightly destroyed, but divers will find interesting sites in these regions. There's a lot growing on the beach coconut trees, where vacationers like to hang a hammock and sunbathe.

Those who are interested in sand beaches of panay island, can also visit Bantigue Island, which belongs to the Gigantes Islands group. The sand here is clean and white, there are not too many tourists, and gentle slopes make this place a good option for families with children.

There will be no problems with spending the night on the islands: visitors often settle in tents on one of the beaches. You can also rent a hotel room, but you shouldn’t expect luxurious service: water and electricity in the rooms are provided according to a schedule, mobile communications are poor. Things are better with food: seasoned tourists seafood dishes and desserts are praised.

Olotayan Island(Capiz province). You can get here from the port of Roxas city by Bangka. The crossing will take about 50 minutes. Tourists will certainly be impressed by the landscapes and nature of the island: snow-white sand, dense thickets of palm trees, crystal clear water. You can sometimes see fragments of coral reefs in the sand: it is better not to walk barefoot on the beach. The sea here is rarely calm, but the height of the waves allows swimming and snorkeling. Those who decide to take a tour of the island should take food, a picnic mat, a towel, and insect repellent with them: there are no shops or cafes on the island.

Most visited beaches of panay island

There are two of them on the island:

• Jawilli Beach. Not far from coastline There are hotels where you can rent a room and stay in this calm place for a couple of days. Those who want to enjoy solitude should plan their visit on Tuesday: on these days the beach is empty. The sand on the beach is clean, but not as snow-white as in Boracay.
• Baybay Beach. The width of the beach coastline is about 30 m. During low tides, the shore is practically invisible. The sand itself is gray in color: the consequences of the 2013 typhoon. Entrance to Baybay Beach is free, but you have to pay for the public toilet (5 pesos). People often come here with children: near the beach there is a clean park, many restaurants and canteens. The sea water is warm, the slope is gentle.

There are beaches for swimming in Panay, but for those who plan to visit the country of seven thousand islands to organize beach holiday, it is better to go to Palawan or Boracay.

Panay Island is located in the western part of the Visayas group of islands, southeast of the island of Mindoro and northwest of the island of Negros. From the north, Panay is washed by the Sibuyan Sea, and from the southwest by the Sulu Sea and the Gulf of Panay. The island is divided into 4 provinces - Aklan, Antique, Capiz and Iloilo.

Panay is the setting for Pedro Monteclaro's landmark Philippine book Maragtas, which tells the story of the arrival of the Malay race, the ancestors of modern Filipinos, to the islands. According to legend, in ancient times, 10 chiefs from the island of Borneo arrived in the town of San Joaquin, located in the province of Iloilo. They bought the island of Panay from the local population - people from the Ati tribe, began to cultivate the land and named their new home Madya-as.

The current province of Capiz became one of the first habitats of the Malays hundreds of years before the Spaniards arrived here. When the Spanish conquistadors led by Miguel Lopez de Legazpi arrived in Panay in 1569, they saw people with tattoos here and named the island Isla de los Pintados, which means “Island of the Painted Ones.” It is still unknown where the modern name Panay came from. The Spaniards founded their settlement at the mouth of the Banica River - it became the second Spanish settlement in the Philippines after the town of San Miguel on the island of Cebu.

Diving lovers should go to west coast, famous for its numerous dive sites - Black Rock, the walls of Nasoga and Buruan, the Dog Drift cliff, etc. Many of these places are also accessible to beginner divers, who will undoubtedly enjoy the coral colonies and tropical fish scurrying among them. Visibility here reaches 25 meters.

Panay primarily attracts not lovers of a relaxing beach holiday, but active nature explorers. So, one of the popular attractions of the island is amazingly beautiful waterfalls Hawilli, which people even come to see from the neighboring islands of Boracay and Negros. Cascade Falls also attract no less number of tourists.

Another natural attraction of Panay are caves - for example, the largest cave on the island, Pangihan, where you can see stalactites and stalagmites that are about 5 million years old! Not far from the cave there are Khurum-Khurum mineral springs, where you can swim and collect water for cooking or drinking. Local residents consider these springs to be healing.

While rafting down the Butang River, recognized as the cleanest in the Philippine archipelago, you can visit a factory that produces bags, bed linen and even clothes made from... pineapple! And at the end of the rafting, tourists will find the cozy resort town of Malumpati.

Finally, it is worth visiting the Mangrove Eco-Park, which houses a unique collection of Philippine plants and unusual tree houses.

It should be mentioned that in addition to natural beauty, Panay also has the traditional attributes of tourist infrastructure - luxury hotels, nightclubs and luxury restaurants.

Useful information for tourists about Panay Island in the Philippines - geographical location, tourist infrastructure, map, architectural features and attractions.

Panay Island is located in the western part of the Visayas group of islands, southeast of the island of Mindoro and northwest of the island of Negros. From the north, Panay is washed by the Sibuyan Sea, and from the southwest by the Sulu Sea and the Gulf of Panay. The island is divided into 4 provinces - Aklan, Antique, Capiz and Iloilo.

Panay is the setting for Pedro Monteclaro's landmark Philippine book Maragtas, which tells the story of the arrival of the Malay people, the ancestors of modern Filipinos, to the islands. According to legend, in ancient times, 10 chiefs from the island of Borneo arrived in the town of San Joaquin, located in the province of Iloilo. They bought the island of Panay from the local population - people from the Ati tribe, began to cultivate the land and called their new home Madya-as.

The current province of Capiz became one of the first habitats of the Malays hundreds of years before the Spaniards arrived here. When the Spanish conquistadors led by Miguel Lopez de Legazpi arrived in Panay in 1569, they saw people with tattoos here and named the island Isla de los Pintados, which means “Island of the Painted Ones.” It is still unknown where the modern name Panay came from. The Spaniards founded their settlement at the mouth of the Banica River - it became the second Spanish settlement in the Philippines after the town of San Miguel on the island of Cebu.

Diving enthusiasts should go to the west coast, famous for its numerous dive sites - Black Rock, the walls of Nasoga and Buruan, the Dog Drift cliff, etc. Many of these places are also accessible to beginner divers, who will undoubtedly enjoy the coral colonies and scurrying among them are tropical fish. Visibility here reaches 25 meters.

Panay primarily attracts not lovers of a relaxing beach holiday, but active nature explorers. Thus, one of the popular attractions of the island is the amazingly beautiful Hawilli Falls, which people even come to see from the neighboring islands of Boracay and Negros. The Cascade Falls attract no less number of tourists.

Another natural attraction of Panay are caves - for example, the largest cave on the island, Pangihan, where you can see stalactites and stalagmites that are about 5 million years old! Not far from the cave there are Khurum-Khurum mineral springs, where you can swim and collect water for cooking or drinking. Local residents consider these springs to be healing.

While rafting down the Butang River, recognized as the cleanest in the Philippine archipelago, you can visit a factory that produces bags, bed linen and even clothes made from... pineapple! And at the end of the rafting, tourists will find the cozy resort town of Malumpati.

Finally, it is worth visiting the Mangrove Eco-Park, which houses a unique collection of Philippine plants and unusual tree houses.