Kawa Tibiao, Antique

Kayak Inn, the view from the Kubo (Nipa Hut) of the Tibiao River.

Antique is another province in the Philippines. It is located in Western Visayas, a part of the Panay Island (Iloilo, Capiz, Aklan, Antique) at the western most side. It's capital is San Jose, Antique. Known for its pristine shorelines, nature loving people, unspoiled mountains and crystal clean waters that goes back to the Spanish era where river water are potable (in certain areas) to this day. Aside from hot springs in Siraan (southern most part, near San Joaquin, Iloilo) or cold springs in Malumpati (northern most part, near Aklan), Antique is also known for its numerous water activities in Tibiao. The province is another sequestered paradise in Panay.

This is the birth place of the "Fish Spa" where you can submerge your body in a water filled pool with fish that eats your dead skin. Other activities also includes Zip lining, Trekking to the seven Bugtong Bato falls, Kayaking, and doing the Kawa (frying pan) bath. Aside from the locals, alot of people come to this place for the Kawa bath experience.

Bugtong Bato Falls.

The Second and Third Falls, there are two options to reach the top. First option is climbing the stone marked stairs and for the adventurous, you could try climbing the falls (canonering )with the help of the rope (as seen in the picture).

The safer first option of climbing the second falls.

Photo Courtesy by Michael Sarabia

The Third Falls.

Photo Courtesy by Michael Sarabia

Water Rafting or Kayaking.

Photo Courtesy by Michael Sarabia

The infamous Kawa bath and the biggest one. Be careful! It can get a little hot.

How to get there? There's no airport in Antique, so you have to book a flight from Kalibo, Aklan or Roxas City, Capiz or Iloilo International Airport. Go to their local terminal either you ride a bus or van. If you booked a flight from Kalibo or Roxas City make sure you take a bus or van going to San Jose or Tibiao. From Iloilo, you go to Molo Terminal and take a bus or van going to Tibiao or Culasi. Be at your most comfortable it would take you 3-4 hours of travel. Your butt can get a little sore but don't worry there are stop overs for your necessities. Just tell the driver or "Konduktor" to drop you off Barangay Tuno from their a motorcycle will take you to the Kayak Inn. Another one is the Eco-Adventure Park where you take a 10-15 minutes walk. The Nipa Huts isn't air conditioned and no electric fan either but don't worry the cool atmosphere is refreshing since you're up high in the mountains. If you get lost on the way, you could always ask the locals for direction and help. Enjoy!