Biliran Travel Guide

Discover the natural and cultural beauty of Biliran, and find the best things to do, where to stay, and what to eat in this hidden gem of the Visayas in the Philippines.


Introduction to Biliran

Biliran is a province located in the Eastern Visayas region of the Philippines. Boasting lush green forests, pristine waters, and scenic vistas, Biliran is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. The province is also steeped in fascinating history and culture, with ancient traditions and customs still being practiced to this day.

List of Places to Visit in Biliran

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Agta Beach - a historical site where traces of the first Filipino settlers were found as well as ancient trade relics. The beach is also known as a prime surfing destination.
  • Biliran Provincial Capitol - the seat of government of the province, featuring an old-fashioned architecture which can also be seen in most of the provincial government buildings in the country.
  • Tingkasan Bat Sanctuary - a sanctuary for bats that is also home to a cave system dating back to the Japanese Occupation era.
  • Naval Marker - a historical landmark commemorating the Naval Battle of Biliran during World War II.

Natural Attractions of Biliran: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Sambawan Island - a small island north of Biliran that offers some of the best diving and snorkelling spots in the region. The island is also famous for its powdery white sand and a gorgeous view of the sunset.
  • Tinago Falls - one of the most visited waterfalls in Biliran, locally known for its crystal clear and refreshing water, perfect for swimming and cliff diving.
  • Ulan-Ulan Falls - a 90-foot waterfall located in the dense forest of Sampao, Caibiran, which requires a challenging trek along the river to get there.
  • The Biliran Volcano Island and Hot Springs - a relaxing geothermal vacation spot that emits natural hot water from vents at the bottom of the lake.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Biliran

  • Mount Tres Marias - the highest peak in Biliran, where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the province and neighboring islands. Trails can also be done by Mountain Bikers, preferring the adrenaline and off-road experience.
  • Mount Panamao - an ideal spot for trekking where you can enjoy a majestic view of the Philippine Sea and the lush scene of the surrounding forest.
  • Karawisan Dayhike- a perfect outdoor activity for beginners to intermediate trekkers. Tourists can experience a nice climb surrounded by tall and tropical trees and end with a view of Karawisan Mountain Range.
  • Maripipi Island Circumferential Trail- a trail that takes you around the circumferential coastline of Maripipi Island.

Best Things to Do in Biliran: Activities and Tours

  • Island Hopping - take a boat tour and explore some of Biliran’s beautiful islands, including Sambawan Island, the Higatangan Island sandbar, and the uninhabited Dalutan Island.
  • Snorkelling and diving - explore the rich marine biodiversity of Biliran’s beautiful reefs and see an array of fish, coral, and other underwater creatures.
  • Hot springs and spas - relax at one of the many resorts that offer hot spring or spa treatments that use Biliran’s natural geothermal resources.
  • Heritage and cultural tours - learn about Biliran’s fascinating history and culture by taking a tour of its museums, temples, and old buildings.

Week-Long Itinerary for Biliran

Day Activity
1 Visit Biliran’s Provincial Capitol and Naval Marker
2 Trek to Tinago Falls and Ulan-Ulan Falls
3 Relax at the Biliran Hot Springs and Spa
4 Island Hopping around Sambawan Island and Dalutan Island
5 Explore the Karawisan Dayhike and Maripipi Island Circumferential Trail
6 Snorkelling or Diving exploring Biliran’s Marine Biodiversity
7 Visit the Tingkasan Bat Sanctuary and wrap up the trip with a sunset view at Agta Beach

Food and Drink Scene of Biliran

Must-Try Dishes

  • Dumplings - or “lumpia” as they are known locally, these delicious snacks filled with vegetables or meat can be found in most local eateries.
  • Kaxag or Tinumpi - Biliran’s signature dish, made with rice, coconut, and ginger wrapped in banana leaves and grilled.
  • Binagol - a popular sweet treat made of taro, coconut, condensed milk, and chocolate or vanilla flavoring all wrapped in coconut husk.
  • Minanok - a traditional soup made from fish, ginger, and vegetables, usually served with rice on the side.

Local Beverages

  • Tuba - a locally made alcoholic drink that comes from the sap of the coconut tree, a unique experience for tourists who want to learn more about local customs.
  • Suman Latik - a sweet dessert made of sticky rice and coconut milk that is usually served with a cup of hot coffee.
  • Barako Coffee - a type of coffee popular in the Philippines and made from the beans of coffee bushes grown in the lowlands of Batangas and Cavite.

Where to Stay in Biliran: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Naval State University Hostel - located in the heart of Naval, Biliran’s largest town, the NSU hostel offers comfortable and affordable accommodation.
  • Agta Beach Resort - a resort in Kawayan, Biliran offering infinity pools, activities, and a sunset view of the beach.
  • Marvin’s Seaside Inn - a budget-friendly guesthouse located in the natural preserve of Bato, Biliran; offering guests an intimate glimpse at the local flora and fauna.

What to Buy in Biliran: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Cloth woven products - made from abaca fiber and natural dye, these in-demand products range from colorful mats, table runners, and cloth bags.
  • Handcrafted accessories - local artists use natural materials to create stunning bracelets, necklaces, and earrings, often inspired by local flora and fauna.
  • Biliran Honey - a honey brand unique to Biliran, harvested from the thick mangroves in the area.

Local Culture and Customs of Biliran

Biliran’s rich cultural heritage is characterized by various traditions, dances, and festivals.

  • Binanog Festival - taking place every first week of January, Binanog is a cultural event that shows off the province’s various traditions and rituals, including indigenous music and dance.
  • Karay-a Festival - this festival is an opportunity for the people of Biliran to express their culture and artistry through dance, music, and exquisite art.
  • Sinulog Festival - Celebrated every third Saturday of January, this religious festival honors the Holy Child Jesus. This is also a major tourist draw for the province, as it is a unique time to witness local culture at its finest.

Best Time to Visit Biliran

The best time to visit Biliran is between the months of November to April when the weather is pleasantly warm, clear, and rain-free. For those who love festivals or are interested in attending cultural events, January is the perfect time to come and witness the Binanog and Sinulog Festivals.

Do’s and Don’ts of Biliran

Do:

  • Respect the locals’ culture and customs.
  • Bring sufficient sunscreen, mosquito repellent, and other similar accessories.
  • Be cautious when it comes to wild animals and the environment.
  • Dress appropriately and conservatively when visiting religious sites.

Don’t:

  • Litter in public places.
  • Become overly aggressive when haggling in local markets.
  • Be disrespectful to the locals.

Safety and Health

Safety in Biliran

Biliran is a generally safe destination for tourists. However, like any other travel destination, it is essential to take necessary precautions. Avoid wearing expensive jewelry or anything that could make you a target for thieves. Also, stay up-to-date on local news and avoid areas with known security risks.

Health in Biliran

Water is drinkable but can also bring an upset stomach. It’s best, especially for foreign visitors, to drink bottled water. Ensure that when you are hiking, you are adequately protected from snakes, and other wild animals. Sunburn and heatstroke are also common issues; visitors should make sure to drink plenty of fluids, wear sunscreen, and take breaks regularly.

Getting to Biliran: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Biliran

The closest airport to Biliran is Daniel Z. Romualdez Airport in Tacloban, located two and a half hours away. There are domestic flights from Manila and Cebu that fly to Tacloban Airport, which connects passengers to Biliran by van or jeepney.

Bus Stations Near Biliran

There are buses that go from Manila to Ormoc City, and from there, you can take a bus or jeepney to Biliran.

Other Options

Ferries travelling from Cebu City to Naval, Biliran are available daily. In addition, there are direct buses to Naval from cities such as Cebu City, Tacloban City, and Manila.

How to Get Around in Biliran

The simplest and cheapest way to get around Biliran is by public jeepneys or habal-habal (motorcycle taxis) often found at the docking areas of the ferry port or bus terminal. Private taxis may be more convenient but are also much more expensive.

Where to Go Next from Biliran: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Kalanggaman Island - approx 2 hours boat ride from Leyte shorelines lies the Kalanggaman Island which boasts a long blinding sand stretch and crystal clear water.
  • Sohoton Cave - located in the Sohoton Natural Bridge National Park on the border of the provinces of Samar and Eastern Visayas.
  • Samar Island - take an excursion to Samar Island, a neighboring province that boasts several waterfalls and natural wonders.

Conclusion

Biliran may not be as well-known as some of the more popular tourist destinations in the Philippines, but it certainly has a lot to offer. From pristine beaches to stunning waterfalls, from rich history and culture to delicious local cuisine, Biliran is a hidden gem that is definitely worth exploring!