The Grandeur that is... ISLA DE GIGANTES!
- Apr 2, 2017
- 4 min read
2 years ago when I set foot on this majestic terrain and I still feel the same awe I felt back then. A lot has changed maybe but its beauty has remained as it is. Isla de Gigantes is indeed a grandeur to behold like its history. According to legends, townsfolk found coffins in the island containing giant-like bones hence, it got its name. People also believe that the islands are inhabited by “engkantos” (Fairies/Environmental Spirits) that protect it from mischief.
Going there is a choice between you booking a package or just heading there without any plans at all. I prefer getting a package so that it’ll be just as swift as it is and it won’t cost you to shell out anything when you get there. We got ours from Regatta Hotel who posted a Summer promo for P2500.00 2 days and 1 night accommodation regardless of the number of people who’ll join. It already included van transpo from Iloilo to Bancal Port- Ferry ride from the port to the Island- Accommodation- 4 sets of meals (with unlimited scallops of course)- Island hopping- Bonfire- van transpo heading back to Iloilo.
Bancal port is another gateway to Isla Gigantes. It houses a variety of marine riches from fresh to dried. The first time I visited we took the Estancia route and it took us 2 hours to get to the island. This time, it only took less than an hour to get there. So this is where our journey begins and probably a checklist of where to go and what to do in Isla de Gigantes.
Pulupandan is a very small island amidst the vast blue waters. What’s unique to this island is the single coconut tree that springs high towards the sky. The rock formations are also perfect for the camera.
Cabugao Gamay is the most photographed view in Isla de Gigantes. This is it! This is the landmark that tells people outside the archipelago that you have set foot on this regal treasure. The last time I visited it was a challenge getting uphill to get that perfect shot but now, townsfolk have made it easier setting up scaffolds and ladders.
Tangke is a salt water lagoon that according to locals is protected by “engkantos”. Mysterious as it may sound, the lagoon is covered by trees growing from steep rock formations but you will seldom see dry fallen leaves on the water. It is believed that the enkantos would wash away these leaves to preserve the beauty of the lagoon. One can appreciate the beauty of Tangke during high tide as it is relaxing and alluring at the same time. If you are the adventurous type, this is where you’ll probably find your calling. Tour guides would allow you to cliff dive at a measure of around 8-10 ft.
Sandbar. Like any other sandbar, this is where the water meets the sand. You can buy souvenirs made locally by people who live in the area. A perfect place for swimming as well.
Antonia Beach is now a developed piece of craft. Tents are offered for those who would want to stay the night. If you’d like to just drop by, there are benches and tables to rest your feet on. The island also offers other amenities such as banana boat ride, jetski and snorkeling.
Little Boracay is known for its fine polvoron-like sand.
Pawikan Cave got its name from the treasure found inside the cave shaped like a “pawikan” (turtle). It’s an hour hike from the resort where we stayed. Not very challenging. Sad as true the mineral forming stalagmites and stalactites have already died inside. Vandals are everywhere but the air is still breath taking. Contrary to that is another cave for the brave and enduring. Bakwitan Cave promises an array of obstacles to reach its peak. It got its name from "bakwit" which means to transfer. This cave served as the people's sanctuary during typhoon and pending flood. Although it is not the track where the faint heart should go, the journey to the finish and the view up is mesmerizing.
Although we didn’t get the chance to visit the Lighthouse, it was still a trip worth it. Let me take you 2 years ago, to get there, you’ll have to ride a “habal-habal” for P60.00 from the hideaway resort following a very narrow road. Uphill, you stop at a certain point, stroll for 5-10 minutes and a historical pigmented brick house will welcome you as its entrance.
This particular part here is not really a destination but the most awaited part of the day since we are all famished most of the time. The island offers a variety of fresh catches of the day. From Fish to Crabs, especially scallops which is abundant in the area and only costs P1.00 per piece when you take it home. Apart from the sumptuous meals that the island offers, the locals are very welcoming and accommodating as well. The friendliest in the hatch. They will let you feel home away from home.
It was great to know that Isla de Gigantes has marveled its way out of its borders and yet still keep the uniqueness of what it has to offer. Probably because locals didn’t want to open opportunities for foreign investors to take charge of it. Which is good. I hope so. ‘Cause if they do, I’m afraid, the natural essence of it will be altered. No matter how many times I go back, I hope it still will be as magical as it is. Yes, a lot has changed when I came back from the first time I saw it 2 years ago, but one thing has not changed indeed. It is still the Grandeur that is... Isla de Gigantes!
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