WHEN IN NEGROS ISLAND:

ITINERARY, BUDGET, AND TRAVEL GUIDE

Negros Island, the third largest island in the Philippines, is located in the heart of the Visayas. It is a unique place that offers diverse attractions and charming experiences. When I visited with my boyfriend Carlo, we initially planned to attend the famous MassKara Festival in Bacolod. However, we soon realized that the island had much more to offer. With two provinces, Negros Oriental and Negros Occidental, we decided to extend our stay and explore the whole Negros Island Region.

To kick off our adventure, we opted for a flight to Dumaguete, strategically located for our exploration of Negros Oriental. The decision was not just about convenience but also a savvy choice to save on costs, as Dumaguete flights tend to be more budget-friendly compared to Bacolod-Silay flights. While Bacolod-Silay flights might be suitable for those solely attending the MassKara Festival, I recommend booking Dumaguete flights for a more comprehensive island tour.

For those who are looking for budget-friendly accommodation options, pension houses like Ong Bun offer rooms for as low as Php350. However, during peak times like the Masskara Festival, booking a room can be challenging. I would suggest that you plan ahead and reserve your spot at least three months before the festival to avoid any disappointment.

Although I failed to book a room at Ong Bun due to high demand, I was fortunate enough to have an ex-colleague now turned friend, Ate MJ, who offered her Kubo for us to stay. It was a pleasant surprise that reinforced the idea that Negros is not just rich in attractions but also home to warm, hospitable people.

If you plan to follow my itinerary, it's essential to know the Ceres Bus schedule to avoid unnecessary long waits. Check the Dumaguete-Bacolod bus schedule in advance to ensure a smooth transition between destinations. Punctuality is key to maximizing your time and avoiding delays, whether you choose to follow my itinerary or create your own.

One of the highlights of Negros is undoubtedly its friendly inhabitants. From hospitable locals to dedicated tour guides, the warmth and approachability of the people enhance the overall experience. Generosity towards your tour guide is reciprocated with exceptional service, making every interaction memorable.

Exploring Negros Island Region is more than just attending the vibrant Masskara Festival. It's an immersive journey into the heart of Filipino culture, stunning landscapes, and genuine hospitality. Whether you choose to follow my itinerary or create your unique adventure, Negros promises an unforgettable travel experience that extends far beyond its breathtaking scenery.

SUGGESTED ITINERARY

Here is our detailed itinerary for the trip. Feel free to use this as a reference if you're a first-time traveler.

SUGGESTED BUDGET

Here is a breakdown of our expenses from the trip. If you're a first-time traveler, you can use this as a guide.

PHP 450/night | Accommodation

PHP 1,500 | Estimated Meal Budget

PHP 3,000 | Estimated Transportation

PHP 1,200 | Carbin Reef Boat Rental

PHP 200 | Twin Lakes Boat Rental

PHP 95 | The Ruins Entrance Fee

PHP 50 | Mag-aso Falls Entrance Fee

PHP 200 | Mag-aso Falls Nipa Hut Rental

PHP 1,000 | Estimated Souvenir Budget

TOTAL BUDGET: PHP 8,500 - PHP 10,000

Note: The budget is approximate and may vary based on personal preferences and travel dates.

TRAVEL GUIDE

Here are my "5-WHATS" when traveling. Click on each photo to discover each travel guide.

Read my first MassKara Festivel experiene here.

TO GOD BE THE GLORY!