Things To Do
in Panay
Panay is an island located in the Western Visayas region of the Philippines. It is known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant festivals, and historical landmarks such as the Miagao Church, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The island boasts a rich cultural heritage, with traditional crafts, music, and dances still being practiced by its residents.
Panay is also a popular destination for outdoor activities such as diving, hiking, and exploring waterfalls.
- "Kumusta ka?" - How are you?
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Paalam" - Goodbye
- "Oo" - Yes
- "Hindi" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing swim at the stunning White Beach in Boracay. Enjoy a delicious breakfast at a beachfront café, soaking in the gorgeous views.
Explore the local shops for unique souvenirs and swim in the crystal-clear waters. Grab a light lunch at one of the many beachside restaurants offering fresh seafood.
Relax on the beach as the sun sets, creating a breathtaking atmosphere. Indulge in a delightful dinner at a renowned local restaurant and enjoy the vibrant nightlife.
Embark on an island-hopping tour to explore nearby hidden gems like Crocodile Island. Snorkel and marvel at the colorful marine life in the crystal-clear waters.
Savor a picnic lunch on one of the pristine shores. Spend time relaxing or swimming before heading to the next island destination.
Return to your accommodation and freshen up. Enjoy a casual dinner by the beach and take a stroll along the shore under the stars.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural landscapes including beaches, mountains, and waterfalls.
- Rich cultural heritage with vibrant local festivals and traditions.
- Diverse cuisine featuring fresh seafood and local dishes.
- Friendly and hospitable local residents.
- Opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, diving, and snorkeling.
- Limited access to modern amenities in rural areas.
- Vulnerability to natural disasters such as typhoons and earthquakes.
- Traffic congestion in urban areas like Iloilo City.
- Economic disparities and poverty in some regions.
- Environmental issues, including pollution and deforestation.
Best Activities in Panay
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Panay Island boasts numerous stunning beaches, perfect for beach hopping and enjoying the sun, sand, and sea.
Explore the lush landscapes and mountains of Panay through various hiking trails offering breathtaking views.
Embark on an island hopping adventure to discover the beautiful surrounding islands and their hidden gems.
Discover and visit the picturesque waterfalls scattered across Panay, providing refreshing and scenic spots for relaxation.
Tours
Uncover the best of Panay with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Panay
Visit one of these nice places.
Famed for its stunning sunsets and white sand, offering fantastic photo opportunities
Scenic waterfalls surrounded by lush vegetation, great for nature photography
A UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its intricate Baroque architecture and stunning surroundings
Food in Panay
Panay Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A savory noodle soup hailing from the La Paz district in Iloilo City, featuring pork, chicharrón, and fresh egg noodles. Visit Netong's Original Special La Paz Batchoy in Iloilo for an authentic experience.
Must-Try!
Fresh oysters are a must-try delicacy in Panay, particularly around the coastal areas. Head to Villa, Iloilo for the best fresh and grilled oysters straight from the sea.
A local barbecue dish known for its distinct flavor, usually made with chicken marinated in a blend of vinegar, lime, and annatto, then grilled over hot coals. Look for the famous Manokan Country in Bacolod for a variety of inasal options.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Panay better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Located in Iloilo City, this bustling night market is a treasure trove of local street food such as grilled seafood, barbecues, and various traditional snacks. It's a great spot to experience the vibrant food culture of Panay.
Seafood lovers shouldn't miss this market in Roxas City, where you can handpick fresh seafood and have them cooked to your liking by local vendors. Enjoy an array of fresh and flavorful seafood dishes.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Panay, it is important to show respect to elders and authority figures. This is often demonstrated through polite language, deference, and attentive listening.
Greetings such as 'po' or 'ho' are commonly used to show respect. Additionally, gestures like taking off your shoes before entering someone's home are considered polite.
Hospitality and generosity are valued in Panay. It is customary to share food and offer assistance to guests, reflecting a culture of community and mutual support.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Panay with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Panay
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a widely practiced custom in Panay, Philippines. It is not expected in most establishments, but leaving a small amount as a token of appreciation for good service is welcome.
Payment in Panay, Philippines is predominantly done in cash, although major establishments may also accept credit or debit cards. It is customary to pay for goods and services in the local currency, Philippine Peso (PHP).
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Panay.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
This is the best time to visit Panay as the weather is sunny and pleasant. You can expect warm temperatures and low rainfall, making it ideal for beach activities and outdoor excursions.
During this period, Panay experiences heavy rainfall and occasional typhoons. Travelers should expect higher humidity and the possibility of disruptions to outdoor plans due to the weather.
Panay at Night
Hiking in Panay
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking spot with stunning views of the surrounding landscapes and a relatively easy trail suitable for beginners.
Located near the scenic Binangonan, this mountain offers challenging trails and is known for its rich biodiversity and breathtaking panoramic views.
The highest peak in Antique, Mount Madja-as features a variety of trails and is famous for its diverse flora and fauna, making it a great destination for experienced hikers.
Though slightly farther, Taal Volcano is an iconic hiking spot that offers a unique opportunity to see an active volcano and explore its crater lake.
A rather larger hiking area with well-marked trails. It features lush landscapes and is rich in historical significance.
This spot offers a moderately easy to challenging hike with scenic views of the lake and the mountains surrounding it.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Panay through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Panay by plane.
The main international airport serving the western part of Panay Island, primarily catering to tourists heading to Boracay.
An international airport located in the province of Iloilo, serving both domestic and international flights, and is one of the main gateways to the region.
An airport located in Caticlan, primarily serving Boracay Island with domestic flights and limited international connections.
Situated in Bacolod City, this airport serves international and domestic flights, being one of the main airports in the Visayas region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Panay, primarily speaking the Hiligaynon language.
A major ethnic group in the western part of Panay, known for their distinct language and culture.
Inhabitants of Aklan province, recognized for their unique language and cultural practices.
People originating from the Bicol region who have settled in parts of Panay.
Another ethnic group with a significant presence in the area, particularly from the northern regions.
Migrants from Cebu who have contributed to the demographic mix of the island.
Individuals from the Ilocos region who have also settled in Panay, adding to the cultural diversity.
The Soul of Panay
Discover the essence of Panay through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball is the most popular sport in Panay, played in villages, schools, and community courts, often fostering camaraderie and local rivalry.
Volleyball is widely played in Panay, especially among women and youth, with many local tournaments showcasing teams from various barangays.
Soccer is gaining popularity in Panay, with youth leagues and community events promoting the sport, inspired by international competitions.
A traditional sport in the region, Sepak Takraw combines elements of soccer and volleyball, with players using their feet, knees, and head to hit a rattan ball over a net.
Badminton is a common recreational sport in Panay, enjoyed by people of all ages in both casual settings and competitive tournaments.
This traditional water sport has a strong presence in Panay, involving teams paddling in unison in long boats, and is often featured in local festivals.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Panay.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Panayan cuisine heavily features meat and seafood, many restaurants and cafes in popular tourist areas like Boracay and Iloilo offer vegetarian and vegan dishes. Look for restaurants with international menus that cater to diverse dietary preferences.
Gluten-free options may be limited in smaller local eateries, but larger restaurants and tourist-oriented establishments in Panay's urban centers are increasingly accommodating gluten-free diets. It's advisable to communicate your dietary needs clearly to ensure a delightful dining experience.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Panay with these cultural adventures.
