Jump to: About Samar | How to Get There | Top Tourist Spots | Suggested Itinerary | Travel Budget | Where to Stay | Travel Tips
About Samar
Samar is the third largest island in the Philippines and home to stunning natural wonders, including caves, waterfalls, rivers, and unspoiled coastlines. Located in Eastern Visayas, Samar is also known for its extreme adventures, especially caving and river trekking, making it a paradise for outdoor lovers.
How to Get to Samar
- By Air: Fly to Tacloban (Leyte), then cross San Juanico Bridge to Samar
- By Land: Buses from Manila to Catbalogan or Calbayog via Eastern Visayas route
- By Sea: Ferries available from Cebu to Ormoc or Tacloban
Top Tourist Spots in Samar
- 🌉 San Juanico Bridge – The longest bridge in the Philippines
- 🪨 Sohoton Caves & Natural Bridge Park – Giant caves, lush forests, and river views
- 🏝️ Calicoan Island (Guiuan) – Surfing, white sand beaches, and clear waters
- 💦 Lulugayan Falls (Calbiga) – Often called the “Mini Niagara” of the Philippines
- 🧗 Langun-Gobingob Caves (Calbiga) – One of Southeast Asia's largest cave systems
- 🏖️ Marabut Rock Formations – Dramatic limestone cliffs along the sea
Suggested Samar Itinerary (3 Days / 2 Nights)
Day 1: Arrival + Western Samar Tour - Arrive in Catbalogan - Visit San Juanico Bridge - Explore Calbiga: Lulugayan Falls, local town tour Day 2: Extreme Adventure Day - Cave exploration at Langun-Gobingob Caves - Boat trip to Sohoton Natural Bridge Park - Overnight in Basey or nearby eco-lodge Day 3: Eastern Samar Exploration - Travel to Guiuan - Beach hopping in Calicoan Island - Return to Tacloban or fly homeSample Travel Budget
- Bus/Ferry/Flight (RT): ₱1,200–₱3,000
- Accommodation (2 nights): ₱800–₱2,000
- Food & Water: ₱600–₱1,000
- Entrance Fees & Guides: ₱300–₱1,000
- Total Estimated: ₱3,000–₱6,000+
Where to Stay in Samar
- Catbalogan: Fame Hotel, GV Hotel
- Calbayog: Baypark Hotel, Ciriaco Hotel
- Guiuan/Calicoan: Calicoan Villas, Surf Camp
🏨 Book Samar hotels via Trip.com here
Travel Tips for Samar
- Coordinate with local tourism offices for guides
- Bring waterproof bags and dry clothes for caving
- Mobile signal may be limited in rural areas
- Best months to visit: November to May (dry season)
- Always practice Leave No Trace when visiting natural sites
Final Thoughts
Samar is a raw, rugged, and underrated destination in the Philippines. With its mix of caves, waterfalls, surf spots, and cultural charm, it’s a dream spot for backpackers and adventurers. Plan your itinerary well and expect to be amazed by its untouched natural beauty.
Also read: My Solo-Backpacking Journey Across Eastern Visayas
