Madalag Simbaban Riverrafting

Short Description

This is real adventure. Before April 2007, we did know the river for its beautyful stones but did not know that there is one of the greatest adventures to be found on Panay Island.
You hike up the valley crossing several times the river. After about 3 hours you arrive at Simbaban. After a short rest at the local sari-sari, you get on board of a bamboo raft and descend the river. It is breathtaking.
This trip is not recommended without a guide. At Jawili Blue Starfish resort and Dumatad Silent Garden resort we organize 1 day trips up to the Simbaban River.

Time and Distance

From Kalibo it is a short ride of about 45 to 60 minutes to the end of the road after Madalag.. The distance is some 30km. Take a bus or a jeepney to Madalag. In Madalag you have to change to a tricycle for the river-shore.

Equipment

Sandales (flip-flops) are OK. We recommend to wear sandales that have at least two attachments. In the Alps, this trip would be done with trecking shoes. And don't forget everything you need for an enjoying bath.

What to see

You will encounter real remote Philippines nature. No modern civilisation, no cars, no touists, but pure nature. The Simbaban climbs up to the mountains into regions where never a white man did put his feet. And on your way back downstram you will ride on a bamboo raft. It is sure like a gondola in Venice but will take your breath like a rollercoaster. (The degree of adrenaline output depends on the season and the amount of water in the river).

What to do

Discover real remote nature. If hiking is your preferred pasttime, you are in the right spot here.At this moment we are exploring the valley even higher up. We have heard from the people in Simbaban thet there are stunning waterfalls 2 hours upstream from their village. We also evaluate the possibility to sleeb up in the valley. So please come back and read more ...

Costs

Think of PHP 500 for your guide and PHP 500 for the ride.
Guided tours from Jawili Blue Starfish and Dumatad Silent Garden resorts are available from PHP 1250 per person.

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