Jump to: About | History | What to See | What to Do | How to Get There | Where to Stay | Local Delicacies | Travel Tips
About
Samar, the third largest island in the Philippines, is an eco-adventure playground situated in the Eastern Visayas region. Surrounded by the Samar Sea, Pacific Ocean, and San Juanico Strait, the province of Samar (formerly Western Samar) serves as the vibrant heart of the island’s rich Waray-Waray culture, historic provincial towns, and untamed wilderness.
Dubbed the "Caving Capital of the Philippines," Samar is renowned for its subterranean karst cave systems, cascading multi-tiered waterfalls, and expansive mangrove forests. From the bustling coastal capital of Catbalogan City to the historic streets of Calbayog City and the natural wonders of Basey, Samar offers travelers an off-the-beaten-path escape filled with outdoor thrill and cultural heritage.
History
Samar holds deep historical significance in Philippine history. When Ferdinand Magellan arrived in the archipelago in 1521, his expedition first sighted the island of Samar before landing on Homonhon Island. During the Spanish colonial era, Spanish Jesuits and Franciscans established mission towns across the island, building fortified stone churches that doubled as defensive bastions against naval raids.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Samar became a key theater during the Philippine Revolution and the Philippine-American War, most notably remembered for the 1901 Balangiga Conflict. Originally governed as a single province, the island was officially divided in 1965 under Republic Act No. 4221 into three independent provinces: Samar, Northern Samar, and Eastern Samar. Today, Samar continues to celebrate its resilient heritage through colorful festivals like the Manaragat and Baduya events.
 |
| Samar Provincial Capitol |
What to See
From towering limestone formations to roaring waterfalls, Samar’s natural landscapes are nothing short of breathtaking. Here are five iconic sights you must include in your Samar itinerary:
1. Sohoton Caves and Natural Bridge National Park (Basey)
A protected national park featuring cathedral-like subterranean caves, ancient stalactite subterranean galleries, and a massive natural stone bridge straddling an emerald river.
2. San Juanico Bridge
Spanning over 2 kilometers across the San Juanico Strait to connect Samar and Leyte, this iconic truss bridge offers stunning views over coastal waters and islets.
3. Tarangban and Bangon Falls (Calbayog City)
Dramatic multi-tiered waterfalls hidden in lush forests, renowned for their wide curtain-like water cascades and natural swimming basins.
4. Ulot River Rapids (Paranas)
The longest river system in Samar, featuring crystal-clear rushing waters bordered by primeval rainforests and limestone cliffs.
5. Calbayog Cathedral (Sts. Peter and Paul Parish)
The mother church of the Diocese of Calbayog, boasting classical Spanish colonial architecture, restored brickwork, and rich religious history.
 |
| Most unique Jose Rizal Monument |
What to Do
Samar is tailored for travelers who love extreme outdoors and immersion in local tradition. Here are five unforgettable activities to experience during your visit:
1. Take the Ulot River Torpedo Boat Extreme Ride
Hop on a motorless wooden "torpedo" boat manned by skilled local guides to navigate the white-water rapids of the Ulot River, ending with a plunge into Deni's Point rapids.
2. Go Kayaking and Cave Spelunking in Sohoton
Paddle along the quiet Golden River into Sohoton Cave to marvel at glowing ceiling formations, sleeping bats, and natural acoustics.
3. Trek to Pinipisakan Falls and Sulpan Cave
Embark on an off-grid wilderness trek in San Jorge to witness the turquoise four-tiered cascades of Pinipisakan Falls and the underground cave river above it.
4. Watch Traditional Tikog Mat Weaving in Basey
Visit local women weavers in Basey to see how native tikog reeds are dyed, dried, and hand-woven into colorful mats, bags, and wall crafts.
5. Catch the Sunset Along Catbalogan Boardwalk
Take a scenic late-afternoon stroll along the seaside promenade in Catbalogan City, enjoying local street food stalls while watching fishing boats return to port.
How to Book Activities
Discover and book unforgettable tours and activities in Visayas and beyond. Secure your spot easily and enjoy hassle-free reservations through GetYourGuide:
 |
| Crossing the San Juanico Bridge |
How to Get There
Samar is accessible via air, sea, and land transport routes depending on your starting location:
- By Air (Fastest Route):
- Fly directly from Manila to Calbayog Airport (CYP).
- Alternatively, fly from Manila or Cebu to Tacloban Airport (TAC) in Leyte, then take a 1.5-hour van or bus ride across the San Juanico Bridge into Samar.
- By Sea (Passenger Ferries):
- Board overnight passenger ferries (Cokaliong or Roble Shipping) running routes from Cebu City directly to the ports of Calbayog or Catbalogan.
- By Land & RORO Bus:
- Take an overland bus from Metro Manila (Pasay or Cubao) bound for Tacloban, Catbalogan, or Calbayog via the Maharlika Highway, crossing by RORO ferry at Matnog, Sorsogon to Allen, Northern Samar.
Where to Book Your Flight
Trip.com can give you huge discount if you book your flight to Calbayog Airport. Check the rates and book your flight here.
Discover amazing travel deals with Trip.com! By signing up using my referral link, you'll get up to $68 off flights, hotels, and more — and I'll earn rewards too. It's a win-win! Sign up here .
Travel by Bus and Ferry
Skip the long lines and secure the best travel deals instantly — book your Eastern Visayas bound bus, ferry or flight tickets here powered by 12Go — the fastest, hassle-free platform for comparing routes, schedules, and prices in one place.
Where to Stay in Samar
Accommodations in Samar range from functional city hotels in commercial hubs to eco-lodges situated near outdoor adventure parks:
1. Asia Novo Boutique Hotel
Asia Novo Boutique Hotel features stylish interiors and cozy accommodations. Guests enjoy a blend of affordability and comfort, perfect for short stays in Samar. Book Asia Novo here for as low as 1,419 pesos per night.
👉 Find more hotel options on Hotels.com
2. Meaco Hotel
Meaco Hotel Calbayog offers modern facilities and comfortable rooms at reasonable rates. Its convenient location makes it ideal for both business and leisure travelers. Book Meaco Hotel here for as low as 1,100 pesos per night.
👉 Find more hotel options on Trip.com
3. Rolet Hotel
Rolet Hotel provides spacious rooms and warm hospitality. It’s a reliable option for families and groups visiting Catbalogan City. Book Rolet Hotel here and get a discounted price of 1,800 pesos per night.
👉 Find more hotel options on Booking.com
4. GV Hotel
GV Hotel provides budget-friendly rooms with clean and simple amenities. It’s a practical choice for backpackers and travelers seeking affordability in the city center. Book GV Hotel here and get a discounted price of 845 pesos per night.
👉 Find more hotel options on Agoda
5. Go Hotels
Go Hotels Tacloban offers budget-friendly yet modern accommodations with easy access to Tacloban’s attractions. It’s a popular choice for travelers exploring Leyte and Samar. Book Go Hotels here and get a promo price of 1,580 pesos per night.
👉 Find more hotel options on Klook
Unlock travel deals with Klook! Get a ₱250 promo code instantly when you sign up using my referral link: Sign up here .
Please note that rates are subject to change without prior notice. Always confirm prices directly with the booking platform or hotel.
Airbnb
Ready to earn from your space? Sign up as a host through my referral link and start welcoming guests worldwide. Airbnb provides tools, support, and secure payouts to help you succeed. If you're done signing up, message me so I can add your property in this list.
 |
| Manaragat Festival |
Local Delicacies
Samar offers rich culinary flavors rooted in coconut milk, fresh seafood, and traditional rice treats:
- Corocodilos & Baduya: Crispy banana fritters paired with sweet sauces, widely sold by street vendors in Catbalogan.
- Sisi (Fermented Rock Oysters): Salty, tangy pickled oysters harvested along coastal rocks, eaten as an appetizer or rice side.
- Tamalos: A rich Waray variation of tamales made with soft rice dough, thick peanut sauce, and succulent pork belly wrapped in banana leaves.
- Hinatokan na Isda: Fresh ocean fish simmered in thick coconut cream, ginger, chili peppers, and local green vegetables.
Travel Tips
- Bring Cash in Small Denominations: ATMs are concentrated in Catbalogan and Calbayog; remote waterfall and cave sites operate strictly on cash.
- Pack Waterproof Dry Bags: River torpedo rides and cave tours involve heavy water splashes; protect your cameras and phones.
- Book Official Community Guides: Ecotourism sites like Sohoton and Ulot are managed by trained local community cooperatives; always register at municipal tourism desks.
- Wear Sturdy Aqua Shoes: Slippery limestone trails, riverbed rocks, and cave steps require footwear with reliable traction.
- Best Time to Visit: Plan your trip during the dry season (March to August) for calmer river tides and clearer cave waters.
Final Thoughts
Samar is a true paradise for travelers seeking raw nature, warm Waray hospitality, and genuine adventure. Whether navigating white-water rapids on the Ulot River or staring up at natural rock arches in Sohoton Caves, a journey through Samar reminds us how rewarding it is to explore the off-beaten paths of the Philippines. Pack your dry bags, lace up your water shoes, and capture the natural wonders of Samar through your own lens!
Nearby Attractions
If you have extra travel days, extend your journey across neighboring provinces on Samar Island:
- Biri Island Rock Formations (Northern Samar): Seven colossal natural rock formations sculpted by crashing waves from the Pacific Ocean and San Bernardino Strait.
- Capul Island Lighthouse & Church (Northern Samar): A historic Spanish-era fort church and 19th-century lighthouse overlooking vital maritime trade passages.
- Kalanggaman Island (Leyte): A world-famous island reachable via Tacloban, celebrated for its long white sandbar and turquoise waters.
- Lulugayan Falls (San Gabriel, Samar): Frequently called the "Mini Niagara Falls" of Samar due to its wide, roaring curtain wall of water.
- Torres Trading Mat Bazaar (Basey): Heritage weaving shops where you can purchase hand-crafted souvenirs directly from local artisan families.
As someone who has visited all provinces in the Philippines, I’ve created a complete guide to help you explore each one. Check out my Philippines Provinces Travel Guide here.
Related Posts
✈️ Earn While You Travel!
Join Travelpayouts today and start earning from flights, hotels, and travel services worldwide. Whether you’re a blogger, influencer, or simply love sharing travel deals, this is your chance to turn passion into profit.
🚀 Start Earning NowFree to join • Easy to use • Trusted by thousands of travel creators
No comments:
Post a Comment
Enter Comment Below: