Catbalogan Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Catbalogan, Samar Island with this detailed guide covering everything from places to visit, hiking routes, food scene to safety and health tips.


A Comprehensive Travel Guide to Catbalogan, Philippines

Located in the heart of Samar Island, in Visayas, the town of Catbalogan is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. With its rich history and natural beauty, it offers a perfect blend of culture and adventure for travelers of all ages. From museums and historical landmarks to scenic views and hiking trails, there’s something for everyone in Catbalogan. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you plan your trip.

Introduction to Catbalogan

Catbalogan, the capital of Samar Island, is a quaint town that boasts of a long and rich history. To truly appreciate this place, it’s important to understand its culture and traditions. The locals are friendly and welcoming, which is evident in the food, customs, and festivals.

List of Places to Visit in Catbalogan

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Samar Provincial Capitol: A majestic structure with a history dating back to the Spanish colonial era.
  • Samar Archeological Museum: A treasure trove of artifacts and antiques highlighting the island’s rich cultural heritage.
  • St. Bartholomew the Apostle Church: A Baroque-style church with a history dating back to the 18th century.

Natural Attractions of Catbalogan: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Mount Alto Peak: Offers a stunning view of the town and surrounding areas. Offers the perfect hiking experience for adventure enthusiasts.
  • Bangon-Bugtong Falls: Features crystal-clear water that cascades down several natural rock formations and offers a tranquil and peaceful experience to visitors of all ages.
  • Pan-as Falls: Features a picturesque waterfall surrounded by lush greenery, offering a peaceful respite from the hustle-bustle of the town.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Catbalogan

Catbalogan offers several hiking and biking trails around the town and surrounding areas. Some of the popular routes include:

  • Alto Peak climb: A challenging climb that offers breathtaking views of the town.
  • Biking along the Samar island scenic route: An exciting ride that takes you through some of the most beautiful sceneries in the town, including beaches, forests, and hills.

Best Things to Do in Catbalogan: Activities and Tours

  • Fiesta sa Catbalogan: A festival held in honor of the town’s patron saint, featuring street dancing, food fests, and cultural exhibits.
  • Guided Island Hopping tour: take a tour to the other islands neighbouring Catbalogan, and enjoy activities like swimming, snorkelling, and kayaking.
  • Explore the town on foot: There are numerous hidden gems in Catbalogan which can only be discovered on foot. Taking a stroll in the town is always an adventure in itself.

Week-Long Itinerary for Catbalogan

Day Itinerary
Day 1 Visit the Samar Archeological Museum and St. Bartholomew
Day 2 Hike Mount Alto Peak
Day 3 Explore the town on foot
Day 4 Relax at the Bangon-Bugtong Falls
Day 5 Guided island-hopping tour
Day 6 Explore the Pan-as Falls
Day 7 Visit the Samar Provincial Capitol

Food and Drink Scene of Catbalogan

Must-Try Dishes

  • Binagol: A sweet delicacy made from grated taro and coconut, wrapped in banana leaves, and roasted.
  • Inun-unan: A fish dish cooked in vinegar and spices.
  • Humba: A sweet and savory pork dish, cooked in soy sauce and sugar.

Local Beverages

  • Tuba: A refreshing coconut wine, perfect for hot summers.
  • Kasoy Juice: A refreshing juice made from cashew fruit.

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

Catbalogan has a variety of accommodation options, depending on your budget and needs.

  • Ciriaco Hotel and Resort: A luxury hotel situated in the heart of the town, overlooking the Samar sea.
  • Casa Cristina Hotel and Resort: Offers comfortable accommodation options, including an outdoor pool, an in-house restaurant, and a fitness center.
  • Fatima’s Transient House: If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, this guesthouse offers clean and comfortable rooms.

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

  • Banig and Handcrafted Woven Products: The town’s weaving industry produces a variety of items, including banig (mats), baskets, and bags, made by local weavers.
  • Handcrafted Wooden Products: From carved statues to furniture, the town offers exquisite wooden products, made by local artisans.

Local Culture and Customs of Catbalogan

The locals are friendly and respectful people who adhere to their customs and traditions. The town has a rich cultural heritage, tightly woven into the identity of its people. Respect the customs and traditions while in the town.

Best Time to Visit Catbalogan

The best time to visit Catbalogan is between November and April, when the weather is cool and dry, and the town is buzzing with activity.

Do’s and Don’ts of Catbalogan

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and traditions.
  • Try the local delicacies.
  • Engage with the locals and learn about their way of life.

Don’t:

  • Litter on the streets or beaches.
  • Disrespect the locals and their customs.
  • Engage in any illegal activities.

Safety and Health

Safety in Catbalogan

Catbalogan is a safe town, but still, some safety precautions that travelers should follow are:

  • Keep your cash and valuables secure.
  • Stay in well-lit areas at night

Health in Catbalogan

Ensure that you have the required vaccinations before making the trip. The town has a district hospital that provides basic medical care.

Getting to Catbalogan: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Catbalogan

The nearest airport is the Daniel Z. Romualdez Airport in Tacloban City, which is approximately 3 hours by bus from Catbalogan

Bus Stations Near Catbalogan

The town has a bus terminal with regular bus services to Manila, Cebu, and Tacloban City.

Other Options

There are also ferries available from Cebu and Manila to the island of Samar.

How to Get Around in Catbalogan

The town is small and can be easily explored on foot. For longer distances, you can take a tricycle or rent a motorbike.

Where to Go Next from Catbalogan: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Calbayog: A neighboring town with a beautiful beach and historical landmarks, including the Bangon-Bugtong Falls and the Danao Cave.
  • Tacloban City: A bustling city with numerous attractions, including the Santo Nino Shrine and Heritage Center and the Leyte Landing Memorial.

Conclusion

Catbalogan is a unique destination that provides a perfect balance of culture and adventure. Visit this hidden gem and experience the town’s rich history and natural beauty.

Skyline of Catbalogan City. Skyline of Catbalogan City. Perspective view of Catbalogan City. Perspective view of Catbalogan City. Location of Catbalogan City in Samar Province. Location of Catbalogan City in Samar Province.