Mangoes from Guimaras Island
Guimaras mango refers to mangoes produced on Guimaras Island, located in the Visayas region of central Philippines. The "Carabao" variety is particularly famous for its rich sweetness, fragrance, and smooth flesh, making it widely recognized as one of the highest quality mangoes in the world. Guimaras mangoes have received international acclaim, including being certified by the Guinness World Records as the "sweetest mango in the world." Locally, they are mainly harvested during the dry season (March to June) and are popular as premium fruit for export and as gifts.
- Taste Rating
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So juicy and unbelievably sweet that I devoured it in no time. But it's so sweet that just one was enough to satisfy me.
- Price
- 56 Philippine Peso
- Meal Date
- 5/4/2025
- Food Travel Log
- The rumor about the “world’s sweetest mango” in the Philippines is no joke. The mangoes from Guimaras Island have outstanding color and shine, and a skin-like softness. And with the very first bite—so sweet! They were so delicious that I threw all manners aside and devoured them like an animal. I don’t know who or how it was confirmed as the world’s best, but for me, it was definitely the best I’ve ever had!
AI Gourmet Analysis
Overview of Mangoes from Guimaras Island
Mangoes produced on Guimaras Island in the Philippines are renowned worldwide for their quality and sweetness, and are especially highly regarded among the many varieties of mangoes. Guimaras Island is a small island located at the western tip of the Visayas region, between Panay and Negros Islands, and is often called the “Paradise of Mangoes.” The entire island is known as a production area of high-quality mangoes, and the traditional cultivation methods of local farmers, the rich soil, and the ideal climate together produce mangoes with some of the world’s most outstanding sweetness and rich aroma.
Characteristics and Cultivation Environment
The mangoes from Guimaras Island are mainly of the Carabao (Kalabao) Mango variety, also known as “Philippine Super Mango.” The fruits are oval or slightly elongated, weighing about 200–300 grams, and are characterized by their vibrant golden-colored skin. The flesh is very smooth with little fiber and is noted for being juicy with an intense sweetness.
The soil and climate of Guimaras Island are ideal for mango cultivation, with the warm Pacific climate, moderate rainfall, and fertile volcanic soil imparting a unique sweetness and aroma to the mangoes. Since transportation to the island is mainly by ferry, the risk of insect invasion from outside is low, enabling the possibility of cultivating mangoes with little or no pesticides.
World-Renowned Reputation and International Awards
Guimaras Island’s mangoes are often referred to as the “sweetest mangoes in the world” and have been listed in the Guinness World Records. They have a proven export track record to countries such as the United States, Japan, Australia, and the Middle East, and are sold as premium mangoes in international markets. In Japan, distribution is limited due to strict quarantine regulations, but Guimaras mangoes have attracted attention when they were used as gifts for the Imperial Family.
Harvest and Peak Season
Guimaras mangoes are generally most plentiful from March to June, during the dry season. This period sees the highest sugar content, and a “Mango Festival” is held every April to celebrate this local bounty. Only mangoes that pass strict quality standards are exported after being harvested and selected on the island. Freshly picked mangoes are provided with little or no use of preservatives or chemicals.
Food Culture and Ways to Enjoy
Throughout Guimaras Island and the Philippines, mangoes are most commonly eaten fresh, but there are also many other ways to enjoy them, such as in salads, smoothies, ice cream, cakes, pickles (with green mangoes), and dried mangoes. On the island in particular, mango-based desserts, mango wine, and mango shakes—richly using fresh mangoes—are popular among tourists.
| Main Mango Variety | Carabao (Kalabao) Mango |
|---|---|
| Characteristics | Golden yellow, low in fiber, extremely sweet, highly aromatic |
| Peak Season | March–June (dry season) |
| Main Production Areas | Guimaras Island (Philippines), Panay Island, Luzon Island |
| International Recognition | Guinness World Record, presented as gifts to royalty and dignitaries in various countries, export product |
Nutritional Value and Health Benefits
Mangoes are rich in vitamin C, vitamin A, potassium, and dietary fiber, with antioxidant properties, skin-beautifying effects, and immune-boosting benefits. Mangoes from Guimaras Island are also noted for their unique aromatic components, which continue to attract fruit enthusiasts worldwide due to their exceptional flavor.