Samar Province Travel Guide

Discover the must-see attractions, hiking and biking routes, best things to do, food and drink scene, where to stay, culture and customs, and more in Samar Province, Philippines.


Introduction to Samar Province

Samar Province is a hidden gem in the Visayas region of the Philippines. Located in Samar Island, Samar Province is known for its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and friendly locals. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, nature lover, or history enthusiast, Samar Province has something for everyone.

In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll take you through all the must-see places, best things to do, hiking and biking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay, culture and customs, and more in Samar Province.

List of Places to Visit in Samar Province

Samar Province boasts a wide range of attractions, from stunning waterfalls and beaches to ancient churches and historic museums. Here are some of the top places to visit in Samar Province:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Sohoton Caves: These stunning caves are home to a network of underground streams and rock formations. Visitors can ride a canoe or kayak inside the caves and marvel at the unique formations.

  • San Juanico Bridge: Known as the “Bridge of Love”, San Juanico Bridge connects Samar Island to Leyte Island. It is the longest bridge in the Philippines and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding scenery.

  • Leyte Landing Memorial: This historic site commemorates the landing of General Douglas MacArthur in Palo, Leyte, during World War II. The park has a museum featuring artifacts and memorabilia from the war.

  • Sto. Niño Church: Built in the 18th century, this beautiful Baroque-style church is one of the oldest in the Philippines. It features intricate carvings and a stunning altar.

Natural Attractions of Samar Province: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Samar Island Natural Park: This expansive park covers more than 33,000 hectares and is home to a wide range of flora and fauna. Visitors can hike through the park, go birdwatching, or explore the park’s many waterfalls.

  • Calbiga Caves: These impressive caves are part of the largest karst formation in the Philippines. The caves are home to a wide range of wildlife, including bats, swiftlets, and insects.

  • Lulugayan Falls: This hidden gem is tucked away in the middle of a jungle. Visitors can hike through the jungle to reach the falls, where they can swim in the clear water and relax in the tranquil surroundings.

  • Homonhon Island: This small island off the coast of Samar is known for its white sandy beaches and crystal-clear water. Visitors can go snorkeling or diving to explore the vibrant coral reefs.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Samar Province

Samar Province is an ideal destination for hikers and bikers, thanks to its stunning natural beauty and varied terrain. Here are some of the top hiking and biking routes in Samar Province:

  • Mount Huraw, Calbiga: This mountain is a popular trekking destination in Samar Province. Hikers can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding forest and karst formations, as well as a refreshing dip in the nearby river.

  • Villa Abarrategui to Tarangnan: This scenic route takes visitors through lush forests and past traditional villages. The trail follows the Ulot River and offers plenty of opportunities for swimming and picnicking along the way.

  • Lahuy Island to Guiuan: This route takes bikers along the coast of the Pacific Ocean, offering stunning views of the sea and nearby islands. The route can be challenging at times, but the views are well worth the effort.

Best Things to Do in Samar Province: Activities and Tours

Samar Province offers a wide range of activities and tours to suit every traveler’s interests. Here are some of the top things to do in Samar Province:

  • Island hopping: Samar Province is home to a number of beautiful islands, each with its own unique charm. Visitors can take a boat tour to explore these islands and their surrounding waters.

  • Whale watching: The waters off the coast of Samar Province are home to a variety of whale and dolphin species. Visitors can take a guided tour to see these majestic creatures up close.

  • Surfing: The beaches of Samar Province offer some of the best surfing opportunities in the Philippines. Visitors can rent surfboards and take lessons from local instructors.

Week-Long Itinerary for Samar Province

Samar Province is a large and diverse destination, with plenty to see and do. Here is a suggested seven-day itinerary:

  • Day 1: Explore Tacloban City and visit the Leyte Landing Memorial Park and Museum.
  • Day 2: Take a boat tour to the nearby islands of Marabut and Basey.
  • Day 3-4: Go hiking in the Calbiga Caves and Mount Huraw.
  • Day 5: Visit the Homonhon Island for beach activities and relaxation.
  • Day 6: Go surfing at the beaches of Guiuan.
  • Day 7: Visit San Juanico Bridge and Sto. Niño Church before departing.

Food and Drink Scene of Samar Province

Samar Province has a rich culinary scene, with plenty of delicious local dishes to try. Here are some of the must-try dishes and drinks in Samar Province:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Binagol: A sweet dessert made from mixed root crops, coconut meat, and condensed milk, cooked in a coconut shell.

  • Suman: A sticky rice cake wrapped in banana leaves and served with coconut milk.

  • Tinuom: A traditional soup made from chicken or fish, cooked with ginger, onions, and lemongrass, and served in a bamboo stalk.

Local Beverages

  • Tuba: A traditional alcoholic drink made from fermented coconut sap.

  • Buko Juice: A refreshing drink made from young coconut juice, often served with ice and a straw.

Where to Stay in Samar Province: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Samar Province offers a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels. Here are some of the best places to stay in Samar Province:

  • The Oriental Leyte: This luxury hotel offers modern amenities and stunning ocean views. It is located in the heart of Palo and is well-positioned for exploring the region.

  • Gloria de la Cruz Guesthouse: This affordable guesthouse is located in the town of Lavezares and offers comfortable rooms and a warm welcome from its friendly owners.

  • Trail Adventours Campsite: This outdoor campsite is located in Basey and offers a unique glamping experience. Visitors can camp out under the stars and enjoy the natural beauty of the surrounding area.

What to Buy in Samar Province: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Samar Province is known for its traditional crafts and handmade products. Here are some of the best souvenirs and local products to bring home:

  • Banig: A traditional mat made from pandan leaves, used for seating and sleeping.

  • Bangkaw: A traditional bamboo hunting spear, used for fishing and hunting.

Local Culture and Customs of Samar Province

Samar Province has a rich and diverse culture, with a mix of indigenous and Spanish colonial influences. Here are some of the local customs and cultural practices to be aware of:

  • Respect for elders: Elders are highly respected in Samar Province, and it is customary to greet them with a bow or nod.

  • Religious festivals: Samar Province is home to a number of religious festivals throughout the year, including the Pintados-Kasadyaan Festival and the Waray Sáulog Festival.

Best Time to Visit Samar Province

The best time to visit Samar Province is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. During this time, the weather is warm and dry, making it perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Samar Province

Here are some important do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Samar Province:

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Try the local cuisine and delicacies.
  • Explore the natural beauty of the region.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the environment.
  • Disrespect elders or cultural practices.
  • Engage in illegal activities.

Safety and Health

Safety in Samar Province

Samar Province is generally a safe destination for travelers. However, visitors should take standard safety precautions, such as avoiding unlit areas at night and not carrying large amounts of cash.

Health in Samar Province

Visitors to Samar Province should be up to date on routine vaccinations, such as measles, mumps, rubella, and tetanus. It is also a good idea to discuss any necessary travel vaccinations or medications with a healthcare provider before visiting.

Getting to Samar Province: Transportation Options and Logistics

Samar Province is accessible by land, sea, and air. Here are some of the transportation options for getting to Samar Province:

  • Air travel: The nearest airport to Samar Province is the Daniel Z. Romualdez Airport in Tacloban City. From there, visitors can take a bus or hire a taxi to reach Samar Province.

  • Land travel: Samar Province is connected to the rest of the Philippines by a network of highways and roads. Visitors can take a bus or rent a car to reach the province.

  • Sea travel: There are regular ferry services that connect Samar Province to other parts of the Philippines. Visitors can also hire a private boat for island hopping or exploring the coast.

How to Get Around in Samar Province

The best way to get around Samar Province is by car or public transportation. Visitors can take buses, jeepneys, or tricycles to reach different parts of the province.

Where to Go Next from Samar Province: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Samar Province is located in a region of the Philippines with many other interesting destinations. Here are some of the nearby places to visit:

  • Leyte Island: Located just across San Juanico Bridge, Leyte Island is home to a number of historic sites and beautiful natural attractions.

  • Biliran Island: Known for its hot springs and waterfalls, Biliran Island is a popular destination for nature lovers.

  • Ormoc City: Located on the western coast of Leyte Island, Ormoc City is known for its beaches and historic landmarks.

Conclusion

Samar Province is a beautiful and diverse destination, with something for every traveler. Whether you’re looking to explore the region’s natural beauty or immerse yourself in its rich culture and history, Samar Province has it all. With this comprehensive guide, you’re now well-equipped to plan your perfect trip to Samar Province.