Things To Do
in Calatrava

Calatrava is a charming municipality located on the northern part of the island of Negros in the Philippines. Known for its stunning natural landscapes, it offers a mix of beautiful beaches, rolling hills, and friendly local communities. The area is rich in cultural heritage, and visitors can experience the warm hospitality of the locals.

Calatrava is also famous for its agricultural products, particularly sugarcane and rice, making it a delightful destination for food enthusiasts.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Local Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the local market, where you can experience the vibrant atmosphere and sample fresh local produce.

afternoon
:

Visit the Calatrava Parish Church, an architectural gem, before heading to nearby rice fields to learn about local farming practices.

evening
:

Enjoy a traditional dinner at a local eatery, followed by a stroll along the beach to watch the sunset.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
morning
:

Hike to the summit of Mount Canlaon, taking in breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon at a nearby beach, swimming and relaxing in the sun.

evening
:

Dine at a beachfront restaurant and enjoy fresh seafood while listening to live local music.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at Local Restaurant$3-$5
🏨Night at Budget Hotel$15-$30
🚌Public Transport Fare$0.25
🍺Local Beer$1-$2
🧺Street Food Snack$0.50-$1

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural landscapes and beaches.
  • Rich cultural heritage and friendly locals.
  • Affordable cost of living and dining.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Public transportation can be less frequent.
  • Healthcare facilities may not meet international standards.
  • "Kumusta?" - How are you?
  • "Salamat!" - Thank you!
  • "Magkano ito?" - How much is this?
  • "Tulong!" - Help!
  • "Walang anuman!" - You're welcome!

Places to Visit in Calatrava

Visit one of these nice places.

Mount Canlaon

Capture stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes and volcanic terrain.

Calatrava Beach

Perfect for sunset photography with its golden sands and vibrant skies.

Local Rice Fields

The lush green fields provide a beautiful backdrop for capturing the essence of local agriculture.

Culinary Guide

Food in Calatrava

Calatrava offers a delightful array of local dishes that reflect its rich agricultural heritage and coastal location. Must-try foods include fresh seafood, savory rice meals, and delicious desserts made from local fruits.

Calatrava Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Inasal na Manok

Grilled chicken marinated in a mix of vinegar, garlic, and spices, served with rice and a dipping sauce.

Must-Try!

Sinigang na Baboy

A sour pork soup made with tamarind, mixed vegetables, and spices.

Leche Flan

A rich custard dessert topped with caramel sauce, made from eggs and condensed milk.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Calatrava Public Market

A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, local snacks, and street food stalls.

Street Food Stalls

Various stalls around town offer quick bites like fish balls, kwek-kwek (quail eggs), and sweet banana fritters.

Climate Guide

Weather

Calatrava experiences a tropical climate with two main seasons: dry and wet. Temperatures typically range from 25°C to 32°C (77°F to 90°F) year-round. The dry season is warm and sunny, while the wet season brings heavy rains and cooler temperatures, especially at night.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Always greet and show respect to older individuals; it's a significant cultural norm.

Politeness

Use polite language and gestures, such as saying 'po' and 'opo' to show respect.

Dress Code

Wear modest clothing, especially when visiting religious sites.

Safety Guide

Safety

Calatrava is generally safe for tourists, but it's advisable to stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Keep your valuables secure and avoid walking alone at night in less populated areas.

Tipping in Calatrava

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to leave a tip of around 10% at restaurants, though not mandatory.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted; credit cards may be used in larger establishments but not everywhere.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (November - April)

Expect sunny weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and beach visits.

Wet Season (May - October)

Prepare for heavy rainfall and potential flooding; travel plans might need adjustments.

Festival Season (January)

Experience vibrant local festivals celebrating culture, agriculture, and community spirit.

Harvest Season (August - October)

Witness the bustling activities in rice and sugarcane fields during harvest time.

Nightlife Guide

Calatrava at Night

Calatrava's nightlife is relatively laid-back, with a focus on local bars and beachside restaurants. Visitors can enjoy live music, karaoke, and cultural performances. Night markets may also pop up during weekends, offering a taste of local street food and crafts.

Hiking in Calatrava

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mount Canlaon Trail

A popular hiking trail leading to the peak of the active volcano, offering stunning views and a challenging experience.

Bata Mountain Trail

A scenic hike through lush forests that is suitable for beginners and provides beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.

Airports

How to reach Calatrava by plane.

Bacolod-Silay Airport

Located approximately 1.5 hours away from Calatrava, this airport serves domestic flights and is the nearest major airport.

Getting Around

Walkability

Calatrava is a small municipality, making it quite walkable. However, some areas may lack proper sidewalks, so caution is necessary when walking along roads. The town center is compact, allowing easy access to shops and restaurants on foot.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Visayans

The majority ethnic group in the area, known for their rich cultural traditions and agricultural practices.

Chinese-Filipino Community

A smaller demographic that contributes to local businesses and cultural diversity.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Basketball

Basketball is a highly popular sport among locals, with many courts available for community games.

Beach Volleyball

With the beautiful beaches, beach volleyball is a common pastime, especially among younger crowds.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Calatrava is generally light compared to larger cities. Public transportation consists mainly of jeepneys and tricycles, which are affordable and commonly used for getting around.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Calatrava.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local dishes can be made vegetarian; just ask the server for modifications.

Gluten-Free

While gluten-free options are limited, rice is a staple and safe for those with gluten intolerance.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Calatrava is basic, with a few local clinics and health centers available. For serious medical issues, it's advisable to travel to larger cities like Bacolod, which offer more comprehensive healthcare services.

Discover Philippines

Read more in our Philippines 2025 Travel Guide.

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