Posted by Visayas is one of the three main island groups in the Philippines. It is divided into three regions- Central Visayas which is composed of the provinces of Bohol, Cebu, Siquijor and Negros Oriental, Western Visayas which is composed of Negros Occidental, Aklan, Ilo-ilo, Antique, Guimaras and Capiz, Eastern Visayas which is composed of Leyte, Southern Leyte, Northern Samar, Samar, Eastern Samar and Biliran. The total land area of Visayas is 71, 503 square kilometers. Here are the 16 Provices I Have Visited in the Visayas.
Note: For those who’d like to dive deeper into our travels, our book Exploring Around the Philippines is now published and available on Amazon. It captures our journey across at least 80 provinces, told through personal stories, cultural encounters, and unforgettable experiences from around the country.
https://www.amazon.com/Exploring-Around-Philippines-Provinces-Culinary/dp/B0FCSGHD6L
Western Visayas (also known as Region VI)
1.) Negros Occidental
Negros Occidental, recognized as the “Sugar Bowl of the Philippines,” boasts expansive haciendas adorned with sprawling sugar cane plantations. Beyond its remarkable tourist attractions and substantial sugar production, the province presents a diverse range of industries and opportunities. Negros Occidental is a hub for various sectors, including marine industries, cottage industries, bottling plants, power generation, prawn culture, steel fabrication, aquaculture ventures, agribusiness, and BPO industries. This diverse economic landscape showcases the province’s multifaceted contributions to agriculture, manufacturing, technology, and services, highlighting its significance and potential in various sectors. (Swipe below photo for more pictures)
2.) Aklan
Aklan stands out primarily for Boracay, a renowned resort island situated just a kilometer north from Panay’s tip. Famous for its pristine white sandy beaches, Boracay is considered one of the Philippines’ most prominent and sought-after destinations. Additionally, the Kalibo Sto. Niño Ati-atihan Festival has gained global recognition, earning the title “The Mother of all Philippine Festivals.” This annual feast, held every January in honor of the Sto. Niño (Infant Jesus), culminates on the third Sunday. The festival is a vibrant celebration featuring tribal dances along the town’s main streets, accompanied by ethnic music, and participants adorned in indigenous costumes and gear, offering a captivating display of cultural richness and tradition. (Swipe below photo for more pictures)
3.) Ilo-ilo
Iloilo is a treasure trove of historical landmarks, charming beaches and islands, heritage homes, and a distinctive and delightful cuisine. Its picturesque natural wonders combined with the warm and welcoming locals create an inviting destination that feels like a second home. Whether exploring its rich history or indulging in its unique culinary offerings, Iloilo promises an immersive and memorable experience that captures the hearts of its visitors. (Swipe below photo for more pictures)
4.) Capiz
Capiz is our 43rd province to visit in the Philippines. From Carles, Iloilo, we took a few hours bus ride going to its neighboring province Capiz, excited to explore its unique offerings. We stayed in its capital city Roxas, which is known for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant local life. During our visit, we explored the beautiful Cathedral, admired the intricate architecture, and took in the serene atmosphere. The museum showcased the local history and artistry, providing valuable insights into the province’s past. Moreover, we enjoyed leisurely strolls along the scenic boulevard, where we sampled delicious local seafood dishes, witnessing firsthand the stunning sunset over the bay that painted the sky in hues of orange and pink, creating a picturesque end to our day. (Swipe below photo for more pictures)
5.) Antique
Our 44th province visited in the Philippines is Antique. We took a bus from Iloilo City going to its capital town San Jose de Buenavista. Top things we liked about our travel was the amazing coastline we have passed by, with its stunning views of the crystal-clear waters and lush greenery that line the shore. We also love the availability of fresh seafood, which we indulged in at local eateries, savoring the rich flavors and unique dishes made from the catch of the day. It is also nice to explore some of the cultural items we found within its capital, including traditional crafts and historic landmarks that tell the story of the province’s heritage. Additionally, we had the opportunity to meet some of the warm and welcoming locals, who shared their stories and traditions, enriching our experience even further. The combination of natural beauty, delectable cuisine, and vibrant culture truly made our visit to Antique a memorable adventure. (Swipe below photo for more pictures)
6.) Guimaras
Guimaras is our 45th province visited in the Philippines. This small island province is just 20 minutes away from Iloilo City through a short boat trip. We docked through the Port of Jordan, and upon arrival, we were greeted by the stunning coastal views and the warm, inviting atmosphere that the island is known for. We spent a night in a hotel near Alobijod beach, where the sound of the waves lapping against the shore provided a soothing backdrop to our stay. The beach was pristine, with its white sand and crystal-clear water inviting us for a swim. We also enjoyed some of the restaurants, one of which focused on a mango-inspired menu because of the abundance of mangoes in this province. The dishes we tried showcased the sweetness of Guimaras mangoes, from refreshing smoothies to delectable desserts. Each meal was a delightful celebration of local flavors, and it was a true gastronomic adventure that deepened our appreciation for this beautiful island. (Swipe below photo for more pictures)
Central Visayas
7.) Bohol
Bohol is renowned for its iconic Chocolate Hills, named for the brown hue the grass-covered limestone hills take on during the dry season. These unique formations can be viewed in two ways: by climbing the highest point to witness them from land or through air tours offering aerial perspectives. Additionally, the Philippine tarsier, locally known as “mawumag” in Cebuano and other Visayan languages and “magô” in Waray, is a distinct species of tarsier exclusive to the Philippines. These captivating creatures inhabit the southeastern part of the archipelago, primarily found on Bohol Island, adding to the region’s allure and biodiversity. (Swipe below photo for more pictures)
8.) Cebu
Cebu, renowned for its picturesque beaches, stands as a bustling tourist destination in the Philippines. It’s particularly favored among those seeking underwater attractions, given its incredible diving opportunities. Additionally, the island boasts a wealth of Spanish Colonial architecture, cinematic forts, and historically significant religious sites. This blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and historical landmarks makes Cebu a captivating and multifaceted destination catering to a wide array of tourist interests. (Swipe below photo for more pictures)
9.) Negros Oriental
Negros Oriental boasts some of the most captivating natural landscapes and adventure destinations on the island. The province features an abundance of waterfalls and volcanic lakes, offering trekking opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. Mount Talinis and Canlaon Mountain stand out for their journeys to concealed calderas, traversing remarkable tropical forests and offering breathtaking vistas. These treks reward adventurers with immersive experiences amid stunning natural beauty and panoramic views that make for unforgettable journeys. (Swipe below photo for more pictures)
10.) Siquijor
One of the reasons why we visited Siquijor is to do the Tarzan jump in one of its famous tourist spots, Cambugahay Falls. This exhilarating experience allowed us to leap into the crystal-clear waters from impressive heights, surrounded by lush greenery and the sounds of cascading water. The thrill of the jump was matched by the breathtaking beauty of the falls, which beckoned adventurers from all around. After our jumps, we enjoyed swimming in the refreshing pool below, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere created by fellow travelers and the enchanting surroundings. This memorable excursion not only provided us with adrenaline-pumping fun but also offered an opportunity to connect with nature and appreciate the stunning landscape of Siquijor. (Swipe below photo for more pictures)
Eastern Visayas
11.) Leyte
Leyte is our 74th province visited in the Philippines after the pandemic. We stayed mainly in its capital city Tacloban, where we explored some nice cafes and restaurants such as Espazio Arts + History, La Maison Punjab, and Bigby’s Tacloban. Each establishment offered a unique ambiance and diverse menu that showcased the local culinary scene, making our dining experiences truly memorable. Apart from that, we also visited some of its iconic landmarks and hotels, where I spent most of my time hibernating before heading to my next destinations. This is because Tacloban City serves as a gateway to other provinces in Region VIII due to the availability of passenger vans to these destinations. (Swipe below photo for more pictures)
12.) Northern Samar
We found Northern Samar to be a humble province that offers a unique charm and warmth. We stayed overnight in its capital town, Catarman, which is rich in local culture and welcoming to tourists. One of the most memorable experiences I had here was an engaging conversation with a young pedicab driver who kindly offered to tour me around Catarman. As we navigated through the streets, I learned about the local lifestyle and traditions that make this place special. We visited the provincial capital of Northern Samar and Catarman airport, where I took the time to observe these iconic landmarks and appreciate their significance to the community. I also asked around for some of their best restaurants and made it a point to try them myself; each dish was a delightful reflection of the region’s culinary heritage. I savored traditional meals, which sparked a deeper appreciation for the local ingredients and flavors. The next early morning, after a refreshing stay, I took the van going to Tacloban City, excited to see what other adventures awaited me in this beautiful part of the Philippines. (Swipe below photo for more pictures)
13.) Eastern Samar
Eastern Samar is our 76th province visited in the Philippines. We stayed for two nights in its capital city, Borongan, which is known for its picturesque landscapes and friendly locals. I explored some of the famous landmarks such as their Cathedral, which boasts stunning architecture, monuments that tell tales of the province’s rich history, relaxation spots along the coastline where I could unwind, and delightful restaurants offering local cuisine. The vibrant atmosphere of the city was complemented by the warm hospitality of its people. It is also a good thing that they have the Borongan Airport which has a direct flight to Cebu, making it more accessible for travelers. I hope more flights will be opened going to Borongan, as this would not only boost tourism but also help local businesses thrive and create more job opportunities for the residents. Overall, my experience in Eastern Samar was enriching, and I look forward to returning to explore even more of what this beautiful province has to offer. (Swipe below photo for more pictures)
14.) Samar
It was nice to know the province of Samar by landing through one of its nice airports, Calbayog Airport. In Calbayog, I explored the town center and that includes the cathedral, a striking example of Spanish colonial architecture that tells the rich history of the area. The warm atmosphere of the town, combined with the friendly locals, made my visit truly memorable. The next is Catbalogan City, where I also visited the city’s cathedral, which is known for its beautiful stained glass windows and serene ambiance. The architecture of this place of worship reflects the deep cultural heritage of the region. Another town we visited in the province of Samar is Santa Rita, where there is a restaurant on top of a hill with a nice view of San Juanico Bridge, a landmark that stretches elegantly over the strait connecting Leyte and Samar. Dining there was a delightful experience, as we enjoyed local delicacies while taking in the breathtaking scenery, making it a perfect end to our day of exploration. (Swipe below photo for more pictures)
15.) Biliran
Biliran is our 75th province visited in the Philippines. I stayed for a night in their capital town Naval, where the warm hospitality of the locals immediately made me feel at home. I observe that although this is still a humble province, I see a lot of constructions happening which can benefit their progress in the near future, reflecting the optimism and determination of the community. At the time of my visit, their annual festival was happening, the Dasig Naval festival, which filled the streets with vibrant colors, lively music, and delicious local delicacies. (Swipe below photo for more pictures)
16.) Southern Leyte
One of the interesting islands you can visit which is under the jurisdiction of Southern Leyte is Limasawa Island, the first island discovered by the Spaniards. Unfortunately, I got burned out with travelling that time and just decided to head to the capital city of Southern Leyte, which is Maasin City. I liked the Cathedral in Maasin City and some of the cafes like Bo’s Coffee. The Cathedral, with its stunning architecture and rich history, serves as a focal point for both locals and visitors, offering a serene atmosphere for reflection and prayer. Furthermore, Maasin City is known for its vibrant local culture, helping to rejuvenate my spirits with its lively street markets showcasing various local crafts and delicious street food. Exploring the city’s offerings made me realize that there’s so much more to experience beyond the initial travel fatigue, and I found joy in discovering the hidden gems scattered throughout the city. (Swipe below photo for more pictures)
