Hacienda Maria is a Buruanga tourist spot beloved by locals in Aklan and neighboring provinces. Although Aklan is popular for Boracay and its white sand beaches, other travelers might prefer a tranquil escape away from the bustling crowds. Hacienda Maria offers a healing and picture-perfect nature getaway. It is a large property filled with lush greenery, natural caves, and a waterfall. They also offer kawa hot baths, lambanog tasting, and souvenirs to enrich your experience.
This brief guide outlines the key information you need to know about Hacienda Maria. Check out this hidden gem in Aklan.
7 Things To Know About Hacienda Maria in Aklan
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It’s an underrated eco-tourism spot in Aklan.
When you think of Aklan, Boracay is probably the first thing that comes to mind. If you’re not much of a beach person, the lush green eco-tourism spot, Hacienda Maria will appeal to you. It is an underrated gem waiting to be discovered by more visitors outside Panay Island. Trek through the vibrant canopy of leaves, descend rocky paths to hidden caves, and take a refreshing dip in the Nakita Falls, a local favorite.
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It takes a 40-minute ride from Caticlan Port.
Its remote location offers perfect serenity. Hacienda Maria Buruanga is nestled in the lowlands of Barangay Tigum, around 5 kilometers south of Buruanga Port and almost 20 minutes from Caticlan Jetty Port. Travelers coming in by ferry from Batangas, Boracay, and Roxas, Mindoro, and other nearby provinces can reach the place by car, motorcycle, or tricycle.
TIP: Starlite Ferries offers DAILY RoRo trips from Batangas to Caticlan. Ferries depart every 5:00 PM and 7:30 PM. Kindly check our page for the passenger and vehicle rates.
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It is home to several limestone caves and a beautiful waterfall.
There are two caves you can explore in Hacienda Maria, Buruanga. They offer thrilling tours for Sapsapon, complete with a guide and safety gear. If confined spaces are not your thing, try out Nakita Falls. Water flows from two large rocks on the side of the hill into a sizable natural pool. Compared to other Aklan tourist spots, Nakita Falls is not as crowded, so you can have the cascading view all to yourself. It also makes a great photo spot.
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There are nature-infused kawa hot baths to try out.
After exploring the vast, lush property, take a moment to relax and soak in their hot pot jacuzzi, traditionally known as a kawa bath. It refers to the use of a large cauldron or pot, filled with water and boiled over a fire to make a hot bath. The bath is typically filled with aromatic herbs, leaves, flowers, milk, ginger, or coffee grounds, all of which are infused with health benefits.
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You can visit the lambanog or coconut wine tasting station.
Be sure to seek out the lambanog tasting hut along the path! This local coconut wine is made from fermented coconut flower sap, from which we get tuba. It is then distilled to make the lambanog. It has about 40% ABV, and is described as sweet, smooth, and fruity. It is a popular traditional liquor in the rural areas.
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It’s not actually a Spanish colonial era-hacienda.
Despite its name, Hacienda Maria is not one of the Spanish colonial era-type haciendas, rather, it is an eco-tourism spot developed in the last decade. Since then, it has become a popular Buruanga tourist spot for locals and visitors from all over Panay Island. It promotes the healing benefits of nature, local agriculture, and breathtaking natural scenery.
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You can visit it any time.
It is a year-round attraction. You may visit Hacienda Maria any time. For those who prefer drier and cooler weather, November to April are the best months to plan a trip. However, prepare for larger crowds as these are holiday and summer months.
NOTE: As of present, there are no rates available online for Hacienda Maria, but you can directly inquire with the Aklan Provincial Tourism Office via email (apto@aklan.gov.ph) or via telephone at (036) 272-7000 Local 6500.
The multiple relaxing activities to try at this idyllic getaway is perfect for solo travelers, families, and friends. If you are looking for a remote and peaceful spot for soul-searching this summer, explore Hacienda Maria in Buruanga and reconnect with nature.
ALSO READ: The Complete Tourist Guide for Exploring Panay Island
Explore the province of Aklan through Starlite Ferries’ Batangas to Caticlan route. We offer daily scheduled trips to Panay Island, where you can enjoy a refreshing blend of pristine, white sand beaches, vibrant nature spots, and thrilling water activities. Travel in comfort, style, and safety. Visit the Chelsea Travel site to book your trip today.