Carabao Island is the twin island of Boracay. However, most of us neglect Carabao Island because we all want to go to Boracay. For those who are desiring a relax and laid back environment, maybe they also have an idea on what Carabao Island have: its natural beauty. Maybe this simple Carabao Island Travel Guide helps you plan your visit to the island.
How to get there?
From Caticlan
- From Caticlan, another port is serving for Carabao Island or Hambil as the locals also call it. From the Caticlan Jetty Port (the port serving Boracay Island and Ro-ro coming from Mindoro), you have to ride a tricycle going to Tabon Port.
- There are two boat schedules. The first boat usually leaves between 8:30am to 9am and the second boat leaves Tabon port after lunch. Please arrive early because sometimes they will also leave ahead of time, that’s as soon as the boat reaches maximum capacity.
- Expect some rough seas, but you don’t have to worry, as long as the boat have clearance to sail, it’s safe.
- Fare is Php 100/person.
From Tablas
- There is also a regular daily boat from Tablas Island via Santa Fe. The boat usually leaves Santa Fe between 8am-10am
From Boracay
- There are many boats from Boracay sailing back to Carabao Island in the late afternoon. They are also the same boats for hire in the island hopping activities in Boracay. Fare varies from Php 50-100 per person. You just have to ask the locals in Boracay where to find the boat going to Carabao Island. They usually leave from Bulabog.
Accommodation
There are few rental properties in Poblacion, San Jose. More of the accommodations are in Lanas; they are also resorts offering diving activities to guests.
- Republic of Inobahan – I spend two nights at this resort. The owner is a former Mayor of San Jose and it is a nice beachfront accommodation. They have beach cottages in front of the house. There is also a convenience store and a restaurant.
Things To Do
- Visit Tourism Office – at the San Jose Tourism Office, they have maps and Carabao Island travel guide available showcasing the treasure of the Island. You can ask for Free. Tourism Office is just along the beach at the corner before reaching the San Jose Arch.
- Carabao Island Tour – from the Carabao Island travel guide you secured from the Tourism Office, hail a motorcycle (habal-habal) to take you to the viewpoints. As of now, habal-habal is also the main transport in Carabao Island due to the small roads available. I hire my habal-habal for Php 500 during my half-day tour. Essentially, you can complete the itinerary in half-day.
- Beach Bumming – in Poblacion, San Jose, they have a very nice beach. With fine white sand and turquoise seas, you will be enticed to take a dip.
- Diving in Lanas – many resorts in Lanas also offers diving, if it’s your purpose in coming to Carabao Island.
I am in Carabao Island for 2 days and 2 nights. My stay there is very remarkable. The place is also spectacular. Exploring the place, meeting new friends; I have a new discovery of a place to just relax and have FUN! Hope you will also enjoy your stay in Carabao Island. 🙂
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