The town of Nabas in Aklan province is famous for its environmental beauty. Take a stroll through the protected rainforest, and pack a picnic for the family as you spend the day marvelling at the many waterfalls, the cold springs of Hurom-Hurom and the nearby caves that this town offers. For the night lifers, the beaches of Boracay buzz to their own frenetic beat, and though Kalibo is quieter, there are good times to be had in the airport district with a host of restaurants and nightclubs. For an Asian experience to remember, Aklan is delightfully refreshing, and a place you’ll want to visit again.

When To Go

Aklan has two distinct seasons, Amihan (October-May) and Habagat (June-September). The Habagat season is monsoon, so it’s generally warmer, and tropical storms are more likely to occur during this season. Amihan is peak tourist season, particularly in January during the Ati-Atihan Festival.

Temperatures in Aklan range from 25-32°C (77-90°F) in the Amihan season to 28-38°C (82-100°F) during Habagat, though during tropical storms it can fall below 20°C (68°F). During Amihan the prevailing winds blow from the east, so the beach on the western side of Boracay is sheltered for the best part of the year.

• Amihan is the cool season with an average temperature of 28°C (82°F) and Habagat is warmer with an average of 33°C (91°F).
• Monsoon season is from June to September. Expect tropical storms.

• January in Aklan is peak season with the annual Ati-Atihan festival in full swing, so expect lots of crowds.

Getting There

Flights to Aklan are available via Manila or Cebu, to Kalibo International Airport, which is just 10 minutes from the main city Plaza. If you’re coming from Caticlan, it’s possible to ride in an air-conditioned van, which makes the one-hour journey at a reasonable price. By sea, the journey to Aklan from Manila takes 14 to 18 hours by one of three shipping lines; MBRS, Moreta Shipping Lines and Negros Navigation. Getting around in Aklan is usually achieved by multi-cab, tricycle or hotel shuttle services. A shuttle bus service links with the ferry at Caticlan for a 20-minute ferry ride to the island of Boracay.

• Fly directly to Kalibo International Airport via Manila or Cebu.

• Sail to Aklan by ship from Manila, or take the ferry to Boracay from the port at Caticlan.

• Get around the city using multi-cab or tricycle cab services.

HotelClub Blog

iPhone App Guide to Asia