Guimaras
A small, unhurried island of mango orchards, quiet coves and islets, fifteen minutes from Iloilo City.
Quick answer
- Where: an island province between Panay and Negros, about 15 to 20 minutes by boat from Iloilo City.
- Famous for: mangoes, widely considered among the sweetest in the country.
- Festival: the Manggahan (mango) Festival, held every May since 1993.
- Sights: island hopping, the Trappist monastery in Jordan, and old lighthouses.
- Best time: April and May, at the height of the mango harvest.
Why it is a wonder
Guimaras is a small island province lying between Panay and Negros, just a quick boat ride from Iloilo City. It is best known for its mangoes, widely considered some of the sweetest in the country, and the island takes them seriously: there is a mango research centre here, and the harvest is celebrated every May with the Manggahan Festival, held since 1993.
Beyond the orchards, Guimaras is quiet and green. Boats tour small islets, coves and caves along the southern coast, and in Jordan, the Trappist monastery sells jams and treats made by the monks.
Beat the crowds
- Come midweek, or outside the festival week if you want quiet beaches.
- Start island hopping early before the midday sun.
Getting there
From Iloilo City, pump boats leave from Ortiz or Parola wharf for Jordan Wharf, about 15 to 20 minutes. On the island, hire a tricycle for the day. See our Iloilo City guide.
A perfect day
- Island hop along the southern coast in the morning.
- Eat mangoes, fresh or as a shake, or baked into pies and even pizza at local restaurants.
- Visit the Trappist monastery and its shop.
- Watch the sunset over the strait towards Iloilo.
Through the seasons
- April and May: mango harvest and the Manggahan Festival.
- December to May: generally drier.
- June to November: rain and rough seas at times.
Respect the place
Guimaras protects its mango trees with strict rules on bringing in mango fruit and plants from elsewhere. Follow them, and buy mangoes from local farmers and shops.
Photo gallery
Frequently asked questions
How do I get to Guimaras?
Take a pump boat from Ortiz or Parola wharf in Iloilo City to Jordan Wharf, about 15 to 20 minutes.
When is mango season?
The harvest peaks around April and May, when the Manggahan Festival is held.
What is the Trappist monastery?
The Abbey of Our Lady of the Philippines in Jordan, a working monastery whose shop sells mango jam and other products made by the monks.
Can I visit on a day trip from Iloilo?
Yes, though two days lets you enjoy both the island hopping and the inland sights.
Iloilo City
A gracious old city of heritage streets, coral-stone churches and some of the country's best food.
We checked this guide against the 3 sources listed below. Last updated 14 November 2026. Basis: researched from official sources. Written and edited by Delfin, with AI-assisted research (how we work). Prices, hours and rules change, so confirm before you travel. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.
