Things To Do
in Makato
Makato is a quiet agricultural municipality in Aklan, Western Visayas, known for its friendly locals and rural charm. The town sits inland among rolling fields and rivers, offering a slower pace away from busier tourist hubs. Visitors can explore simple markets, traditional eateries, and scenic countryside views that reveal everyday life in Panay.
While off the usual tourist trail, Makato serves as an affordable base for exploring nearby beaches and the cultural heart of the region.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Makato early morning and settle into your accommodation near the Poblacion district. The town is waking up with vendors setting up booths of fresh produce and local seafood. The air is fragrant with ripe mangoes and freshly harvested rice grains.
Head to the Poblacion public market to sample local delicacies like binakol soup and sinugbang tuna. Chat with friendly vendors and learn about the origins of their ingredients as they display vibrant piles of fruit and vegetables. The lively atmosphere gives insight into Makato’s daily life.
Stroll along the town plaza as evening prayers chime from the centuries-old church bell tower. Grab a bite from a street-side karenderia, ordering an authentic chicken inasal or grilled squid. Listen to local musicians playing folk tunes as you unwind under glowing lanterns.
Wake before dawn to catch the sunrise at Alimpung Beach, watching golden rays dance over calm waters. The soft sand glows pink as fishermen launch outrigger boats for their early catch. Sip on warm kapeng barako while the breeze carries the scent of salt and seaweed.
Join a small group for island hopping around nearby islets, snorkeling above vibrant corals teeming with angelfish and parrotfish. Pause at a secluded sandbar for a picnic of freshly grilled squid and tropical fruit. Swim through crystal-clear coves before returning to shore.
Return to Makato for dinner at a seaside eatery, ordering pili nut crusted fish and a bowl of sinamyang sa gata. Watch local families gather around bonfires as the tide gently rolls in. A fire-dancer performance illuminates the night sky with sparks and rhythmic music.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $1-2 |
| 🚗Local transportation (tricycle/jeepney) | $0.5-2 |
| 🏨One-night hotel/guesthouse | $15-40 |
| 🛒Groceries for a week | $20-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Great value and relaxed pace
- Friendly locals and rural scenery
- Access to nearby beaches and Boracay-area transport
- Limited nightlife and urban conveniences
- Fewer direct international connections compared with major hubs
- "Kumusta ka?" - How are you?
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Palihog" - Please
- "Maayong adlaw" - Good day
- "Paalam" - Goodbye / See you
Places to Visit in Makato
Visit one of these nice places.
The plaza offers soft morning light with a central fountain and surrounding mango trees.
A tranquil bend along the river with reflections of fields and sky during the golden hour.
Beaches, boats, and sea horizons provide dramatic seascapes.
Patchwork fields and distant coastlines offer expansive landscape shots.
Silhouettes of locals and a classic bridge set against a colorful sunset.
Food in Makato
Makato Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fresh fish marinated with vinegar, citrus, onions, and peppers; best enjoyed with rice.
Must-Try!
Local fish grilled over charcoal with garlic, salt, and calamansi—delicious with a tangy dipping sauce.
Classic adobo enriched with coconut milk for a creamy, savory flavor.
Chicken cooked in coconut water and coconut milk with garlic, ginger, and leafy greens.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Morning market offering fresh seafood, produce, and ready-to-eat snacks; great for sampling local flavors.
Larger market with diverse stalls for fruits, grilled skewers, and regional snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Offer a warm smile and use 'po' when speaking to elders to show respect.
Address elders with 'po' and 'opo'; avoid raising voices in public.
Safety
Tipping in Makato
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips are appreciated for good service; around 5-10% is common in casual eateries if a service charge is not included.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Typically from November to April; sunny days, lower humidity, and ideal conditions for outdoor photography and beach trips.
From May to October; frequent showers and higher humidity; plan for indoor activities and flexible outdoor plans.
Makato at Night
Hiking in Makato
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short hikes through terraces with expansive valley views.
Beaches and marshland trails offering birdwatching and sunset photography.
Airports
How to reach Makato by plane.
Main gateway for Aklan; short drive to Makato with domestic connections from Manila and Cebu.
Access point for Boracay; domestic flights and a short boat/ferry connection to the island; typically a longer drive to Makato.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many households are multi-generational and community-oriented.
Agricultural livelihoods are common, with activities centered on farming and markets.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular community sport played in schools and gyms.
Common in barangays and social clubs; light physical activity option.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Makato.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose vegetable dishes, tofu if available, and fresh fruit; communicate dietary needs clearly to vendors and rely on rice and vegetables for meals.