Things to do while in Kalibo 2023

KALIBO, Aklan- Since the administration of Kalibo Mayor Juris Bautista-Sucro, he has introduced the ‘Bagong Kalibo’ concept, which provided more emphasis on the welfare of the young people.

Among the programs he undertook was tourism, to which many concepts have been introduced in this town, luring more investors, increasing economic opportunities, and making this town livable, environmentally friendly, and clean.

The town of Kalibo has been known for so many years for its annual ati-Atihan festival every third week of January. But as the number of hotels in Kalibo increases, tourism-related activities have increased. Thank you to the Kalibonhons who invested to strengthen the tourism industry in this town.

Herewith are the top ‘things to do’ lists while in Kalibo.

1.) The Kalibo Bakhawan Eco-Park -Located in Barangay New Buswang, Kalibo Aklan. This vast 220-hectare mangrove forest lets your mind relax and savor the beauty of nature. Its major activity was a 20-minute walk across the sprawling mangrove forest. Aside from this, one can also enjoy bird watching, picnicking with friends, and the biggest challenge of all: eating woodworm (tamilok).

2.) Tigayon Hills and Caves- The Tigayon Hills and Caves in Barangay Tigayon, Kalibo, also offer a nature’s haven. It was known as one of the hiding grounds of the local revolutionaries during the Spanish and Japanese occupations. It is also a place of enchantment. People believed there were fairies, dwarves, and even kapres who lived among the trees. It is also a place where Catholic devotees frequently visit as a station of the cross during the holy week.

3.) Kalibo Ostrich Farm- The farm, which is adjacent to Tigayon Hill, is not only known for Ostrich but also for different zoo animals such as Lion, Tiger, Black Crocodile among others. It is also famous for its snake massage, where tourists can enjoy a relaxing massage using snakes. Just a piece of advice: never eat a chicken the night before the planned snake massage activity. The ideal time for enjoyment is at least an hour.

4.) Evergreen Resorts- Located in Barangay Tinigao, Kalibo offers a swimming pool with pristine scenery. Aside from bingeing at the pool, other activities to enjoy were exercising at the gym, and playing badminton. They also accept private events such as weddings, debuts, among others.

5.) Kalibo Museum- Located at the center of Kalibo, it was formerly known as the ‘escuwela ng hari’ (school of the kings) during the Spanish occupation era. It is the home of the old artifacts gathered as a collection, mostly from Kalibo and some from neighboring towns as well.

6.) Talibong Mini Museum- Located inside the Lolo Manings Farm at Barangay Estancia, Kalibo. The ‘Talibong’ is an ancient blade of the Aklanons mainly used for farming but, according to historians, used as a primary weapon against the occupiers. There, tourists can see the collections of the different varieties of the real Talibongs. The Aklanons nowadays use talibong as a gift for very important personalities. The mini museum, although it is still a private museum, is open to anyone who wants to know the local history.

7.) Aklan Agri-Aqua Demonstration Farm and Training Center – In Barangay Nalook, Kalibo, an agriculture laboratory to ensure food security in the province. It is officially open to tourists who want to explore innovations in climate-resilient foods and other agricultural products.

8.) The 19th Martyrs Shrine- A shrine for the 19th-century martyrs who courageously fought against the Spaniard occupation in the 18th century. It is located in Barangay Poblacion, Kalibo.

9.) Ati-atihan Gallery- Located inside the Kalibo Pastrana Park, it is the home of the richness of history of the Kalibo Sto. ino Ati-atihan Festival considered by some as the ‘Mother of Philippine Festivals.’