Kalibo

The capital of Aklan and home to the famous Ati-Atihan Festival, one of the Philippines' most colorful cultural celebrations held every January. It serves as the main gateway to Boracay and offers an authentic glimpse into local Panay culture.

Things to do

• Ati-Atihan Festival — Witness the Philippines' most vibrant cultural celebration held every January where participants paint their faces black and dance through the streets in honor of the Ati people.
• Banga Drum Making — Visit local artisans in Kalibo who craft traditional banga drums using wood and animal hide, a craft integral to Panay's indigenous heritage.
• St. John the Baptist Church — Explore this historic baroque-style church dating back to the Spanish colonial period, featuring ornate wooden interiors and religious artifacts.
• Kalibo Public Market — Browse the bustling market where locals shop for fresh produce, dried fish, and local handicrafts, offering an authentic view of daily Aklan life.
• Museo it Aklan — Discover the museum showcasing Aklan's pre-Hispanic heritage, Spanish colonial history, and indigenous Panay artifacts including traditional clothing and tools.
• Mangrove Kayaking at Baybay — Paddle through serene mangrove forests near Baybay to spot local wildlife and experience the region's natural ecosystems.

Food to try

• Kinilaw na Tuna — Fresh raw tuna cured in vinegar and coconut milk with onions and chili peppers, representing the coastal flavors of Aklan.
• Chicken Inasal — Grilled chicken marinated in vinegar, spices, and annatto, a regional specialty that originated in nearby Kalibo and defines Panay cuisine.
• Linarang Baboy — Pork stewed in vinegar with liver sauce and spices, a rich and savory Aklan comfort dish traditionally served with rice.
• Tinutukan — A rich rice porridge made with shrimp, squid, and fish served in individual clay pots, warming and flavorful breakfast tradition.
• Puto Kalibo — Steamed rice cakes made from glutinous rice flour and coconut milk, slightly sweet and distinctly Aklanon.

Local customs & good to know

• Ati-Atihan Timing — If visiting in January, prepare for crowded streets and book accommodations well in advance as the festival attracts thousands of visitors nationwide.
• Bargaining at Markets — Gentle negotiation is expected at Kalibo's public market, though always remain respectful and understand that vendors depend on fair sales.
• Religious Respect — Dress modestly when visiting churches and religious sites, and ask permission before photographing local ceremonies or religious celebrations.
• Local Transportation Etiquette — Use tricycles and jeepneys for short distances and engage politely with drivers; locals appreciate visitors who respect traditional modes of transport.

Nearby

• Concepcion Lighthouse (Western Visayas) — 28 km
• Mararison Island (Western Visayas) — 31 km
• Sabang Beach — 43 km
• Roxas City (Western Visayas) — 44 km