Getting away from the hustle and bustle of the city can be refreshing. You can have plenty of time to bond with nature and relax. Going on outdoor adventures will enable you to discover stunning views and learn more about environmental awareness. This provides you with a new perspective of your life and your role on the planet.
If you wish to put your skills into practice and seek some adventure, head on to Igbaras, Iloilo. You will never get bored in Igbaras because you can try the following outdoor activities:
Caving
In Igbaras, you can find many caves and one of which is the Igcabugao Cave. This cave offers some awesome views for those willing to take a chance and go inside. It is an hour of trekking from the barangay road and around 14 kilometers from Poblacion.
Inside the cave, you can find the remarkable crystal formations and experience the icy cold wind. There is also a pool of cold water where you can soak your feet. Of course, there are bats and somehow the atmosphere is eerie since it’s dark and cold.
However, caving at Igcabugao is perfectly safe. It is an invigorating activity but you should know your limits. Always go caving with a group and never go alone. Take note of the safety tips and be a sensible caver.
Mountain Biking
Over the past years, mountain biking has become a popular outdoor activity. It provides various health benefits that boost you physically and mentally. Furthermore, mountain biking is one way to get out of your comfort zone and gain self-confidence.
Igbaras Mountain Bikers Association (IMBA) organized the fun ride event dubbed as “Sikad, Waswas, Panglatas sa Igbaras” in 2016 and 2017. In this event, bikers of all ages flocked at the Municipality. The route started at the Poblacion then to Barangay Signe, Barangay Riro-an, Barangay Buga, Barangay Baligabagan, Sitio Bacong-Catringan, and back to the town proper.
Through the years, the association is growing and more people are encouraged to join in this outdoor activity. Indeed, there’s something deeply rewarding with traversing the tough treks on your own. It makes you discover the world and complete complex routes.
Rock Climbing
In Igbaras, you can also try rock climbing at Bato Puti or White Rock at Barangay Igcabugao. This outdoor activity will challenge your mental and physical stamina. It helps release stress, burn calories, and strengthen the body.
For the safety of the climbers, knowledge of the equipment, techniques, and the sport itself is crucial. As such, you can contact Adventure Central Indoor Climbing Center at Iloilo Esplanade, R. MapaStreet, Tabucan, Mandurriao for your gears and other climbing needs.
Challenge yourself and go beyond your limits. Try rock climbing now and unleash your greatest potentials you have never imagined.
Hiking
Backpacking in Igbaras involves camping and hiking rolled into one fun-filled activity. You can go hiking at Mount Napulak or at Dayhag, Barangay Igcabugao together with friends and loved ones. Hiking at Mount Napulak can take 3 to 5 hours from Barangay Bagay. Higher Grounds Mountaineers in Iloilo organizes an annual hike in Mount Napulak called “Conquer the Rock” and you can join it if you want. Meanwhile, it can take around 1 to 2 hours hiking from Barangay Passi to Barangay Igcabugao.
Hikers can place their tents in areas defined for camping. Ideally, hikers must only travel light as distances are covered by foot. Make sure to bring a tent, food, water, sleeping bag, and appropriate clothing. In the morning, you can explore the place and take pictures. At nighttime, you can go stargazing and share stories with friends around the campfire.
Waterfall Swimming
In Igbaras, you can find different falls where you can swim, chill, and beat the heat of the sun. Some of the falls in Igbaras are the following: Guirutsan Falls, Miagos Falls, Sariri Falls, Libog Falls, Butuan Falls, Lagsakan Falls, Kipot Falls, and Nadsadjan Falls.
One of the most-visited spots by both foreign and local tourists alike is the Nadsadjan Falls. Nadsadjan Falls is located at Barangay Passi and it measures around 100 feet in height. It spews water in a big cauldron and creates a natural swimming pool. The falls is awesome and once you’re here, you’ll never want to leave anymore!
How to Get at Igbaras:
If you are living far from Panay Island, you can book a plane ticket from your place to Iloilo International Airport. You can also travel via ship and dock at the Iloilo port. Then, travel by taxi to the Super terminal. The fare is around Php 300 to Php 400.
From Super terminal, ride a jeep up to Igbaras. The regular fare is Php 50.00 while student fare is Php 40.00. The trip is available from 5:00 am to 8:00 p.m. only. From Igbaras town proper, you can ride a motorcycle up to the different tourist spots. The fare is around Php 150.00 to Php 200.00. For other inquiries, you can connect with the Municipal Tourism Office of Igbaras. They are more than willing to help you to make your stay in Igbaras fun and memorable.