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  1. Philippines 🎫
  2. Caticlan

Discover Caticlan

About Caticlan, Philippines

Caticlan is a small coastal barangay located in the municipality of Malay, Aklan province, in the Philippines. It serves as a primary gateway to the renowned island of Boracay, known for its white-sand beaches. While Caticlan itself is a modest community, its strategic position adjacent to Boracay makes it a significant travel destination for those looking to explore the island's offerings. Visitors planning a trip to Caticlan will benefit from understanding its key attractions, climate, cost considerations, and transportation options.

Main Points of Interest in Caticlan
  • Caticlan Jetty Port: The main transit point for ferries to Boracay, providing quick access to the island.
  • Ariel's Point: A popular day-trip destination for cliff diving and snorkeling, accessible via boat from Caticlan.
  • Motag Living Museum: An interactive cultural museum offering insights into traditional Filipino rural life.
Climate and Best Times to Visit Caticlan

Caticlan experiences a tropical climate, with warm temperatures year-round, typically ranging from 25-32°C (77-90°F). The dry season, from November to April, is the ideal time to visit, offering sunny days and minimal rainfall. The wet season runs from May to October, with the heaviest rains occurring from June to August.

Budget and Travel Costs in Caticlan

Caticlan is generally affordable, with costs varying based on proximity to Boracay. Prices are estimates and subject to change (approx. 56 PHP to 1 USD).

  • Accommodation:
    • Budget Hotel: $20 - $40 USD (1,120 - 2,240 PHP) per night.
    • Mid-Range Hotel: $50 - $100 USD (2,800 - 5,600 PHP) per night.
  • Food & Drink:
    • Local Eatery Meal: $3 - $6 USD (170 - 340 PHP).
    • Restaurant Meal: $10 - $20 USD (560 - 1,120 PHP).
  • Activities:
    • Day Trip to Boracay: $15 - $30 USD (840 - 1,680 PHP) including round-trip ferry fare.
Transportation To and From Caticlan
  • Caticlan Airport (Godofredo P. Ramos Airport): The nearest airport, offering direct flights to major cities such as Manila and Cebu.
  • Caticlan Jetty Port: Key transit hub for ferries to Boracay, operating frequent services.
  • Bus and Van Services: Available for travel to other parts of Aklan and nearby provinces, with routes to Kalibo and Iloilo.

Top Caticlan Routes by Transport Type

Bus from Caticlan

DestinationOperatorsOffersFirst DepartureLast DepartureDurationMin PriceRating
1
28
06:00
19:00
0h30m
$1.60
1
28
06:00
19:00
2h0m
$3.20

Ferry from Caticlan

DestinationOperatorsOffersFirst DepartureLast DepartureDurationMin PriceRating
1
37
07:30
23:30
10h0m
$22.39
  4.1
1
56
06:00
19:00
1h0m
$3.20
  4.5
2
9
10:00
14:00
3h20m
$7.52
  3.9
1
6
03:00
15:00
3h30m
$12.95
  3.0
1
6
09:30
09:30
5h0m
$7.44
1
12
01:00
20:00
3h20m
$16.16

Van from Caticlan

DestinationOperatorsOffersFirst DepartureLast DepartureDurationMin PriceRating
2
12
09:00
19:00
1h5m
$13.68
  4.9

Bus to Caticlan

DestinationOperatorsOffersFirst DepartureLast DepartureDurationMin PriceRating
1
4
06:00
11:00
19h0m
$16.00
  5.0
1
1
13:00
13:00
14h0m
$22.25
1
1
08:30
08:30
21h0m
$23.19
1
28
06:00
19:00
0h30m
$1.60
  5.0
1
1
06:00
06:00
13h30m
$27.80
1
1
12:00
12:00
7h30m
$15.91
1
28
06:00
19:00
2h0m
$3.20

Ferry to Caticlan

DestinationOperatorsOffersFirst DepartureLast DepartureDurationMin PriceRating
1
35
07:30
21:00
10h0m
$22.39
  5.0
1
56
06:00
19:00
1h0m
$3.20
2
9
02:00
08:00
3h40m
$7.52
  4.1
1
6
10:00
22:00
3h30m
$12.98
1
6
16:30
16:30
5h0m
$7.44
1
2
06:00
11:00
3h30m
$16.16
  2.0

Van to Caticlan

DestinationOperatorsOffersFirst DepartureLast DepartureDurationMin PriceRating
2
12
09:00
19:00
1h2m
$13.68
  4.8

Popular Questions

How clean is Caticlan?

Caticlan is generally well-maintained, particularly because it serves as a gateway for tourists heading to Boracay. Local efforts focus on cleanliness due to the high volume of visitors. Streets and public areas are regularly cleaned, and waste management systems are in place.

Tap Water: Tap water in Caticlan is not recommended for drinking. It is advisable to use bottled water for drinking and cooking to avoid any health issues.

Swimming Areas: The waters around Caticlan, particularly those leading to Boracay, are monitored for cleanliness and are generally safe for swimming. However, always check current local advisories, especially during the rainy season when water quality can be affected by runoff.

For an enjoyable visit, consider using refillable water bottles with filtration systems and participate in local waste reduction initiatives to help maintain cleanliness.

What are the requirements going to Caticlan?

Traveling to Caticlan, the gateway to Boracay, requires careful planning. Entry Requirements: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months from your date of entry. Depending on your nationality, a visa may be required. Domestic Travelers: Generally need a government-issued ID and confirmation of their hotel booking.

Health Protocols: Stay updated on COVID-19 regulations as these can change. Proof of vaccination or a negative test result may be needed. Transportation: Flights land at Caticlan Airport, with frequent connections from Manila and Cebu. From the airport, take a tricycle to the Caticlan Jetty Port, followed by a short ferry ride to Boracay.

Costs: Tricycle fare to the jetty is typically around PHP 50 ($0.90), while the ferry costs about PHP 150 ($2.70), including environmental fees. Water Safety: Tap water is not recommended for drinking; opt for bottled water. Swimming areas around Boracay are monitored for cleanliness and are generally safe.

What is Caticlan like in winter?

Caticlan experiences a tropical climate, with the winter months (December to February) being part of the dry season. During this time, the weather is generally warm, with average temperatures ranging from 24°C to 31°C (75°F to 88°F). It's a popular time for visitors due to the pleasant weather and minimal rainfall, making it ideal for beach activities and exploring nearby attractions like Boracay Island.

Transportation: Caticlan is a gateway to Boracay, with frequent ferries running between the two locations. Tricycles and vans are common for local travel within Caticlan.

Dining and Activities: Enjoy local Filipino cuisine at various restaurants. Outdoor activities such as island hopping, diving, and snorkeling are popular due to the favorable weather.

Water Cleanliness: Tap water is not recommended for drinking; opt for bottled water. The beaches in the area, especially those on Boracay, are regularly monitored and generally safe for swimming. Always check local advisories for any updates on water conditions.

How do I plan a day in Caticlan?

Start your day with a visit to the Caticlan Jetty Port, the main gateway to Boracay Island. If you're interested in local culture, explore the nearby town of Malay, where you can visit the Ati-Atihan Museum to learn about the indigenous Ati people and their traditions.

For lunch, try local eateries offering Filipino dishes such as adobo or sinigang. Prices typically range from PHP 150-300 ($3-6).

Afterward, consider a short boat trip to Boracay. The fare is approximately PHP 150 ($3) per person. Enjoy White Beach, known for its clear waters and fine sand. Swimming and sunbathing here are popular activities, with water quality regularly monitored for safety.

In the evening, return to Caticlan for a sunset view from Ariel’s Point, a cliff diving and snorkeling spot. For dinner, seafood restaurants are plentiful, offering fresh catch of the day for PHP 300-600 ($6-12).

Tap water in Caticlan is not recommended for drinking; opt for bottled water instead. If swimming, note that beaches in the area are generally clean and safe.

How many days do you need to stay in Caticlan?

A stay of 3 to 4 days in Caticlan is generally sufficient to explore the area and nearby attractions like Boracay Island. This allows time to enjoy the beaches, partake in watersports, and visit local markets. If you wish to relax more or explore additional islands or areas, consider extending your stay to a week. Caticlan serves as the main gateway to Boracay, so budget some time for ferry transfers. Be mindful of the weather; peak tourism season is from November to May when conditions are typically dry and sunny.