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| Kalanggaman Island is a popular destination in the Philippines, known for its stunning scenery, white sand beaches, and crystal-clear waters. It is considered one of the best places to visit. Learn more about Kalanggaman Island and how to get there. Photo: Exec8, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons |
Kalanggaman Island, located in the municipality of Palompon in the province of Leyte, is a picturesque destination that boasts stunning crystal-clear waters and pristine sandy shores. With its 753-meter length and remote location, the island provides a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
The island's name, Kalanggaman, is derived from the local language's word for "bird (langgam)," reflecting the island's shape, which resembles a bird taking flight. The island gained international attention in 2013 when a European cruise ship visited and allowed its passengers to relax under the shade of coconut trees for a few hours.
It is an unspoiled paradise that boasts breathtaking beauty, making it a must-visit destination for anyone who loves adventure and scenic views. The island is known for its crystal-clear waters and long, white sandbars that stretch out into the sea, providing visitors with an idyllic beach experience. It is the perfect place for swimming, sunbathing, snorkeling, and kayaking, making it an ideal destination for those seeking an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Despite its growing popularity, access to Kalanggaman Island is still limited to protect its delicate nature. Only a limited number of visitors are allowed to visit the island daily, giving it a sense of exclusivity and making it feel like a special club to belong to.
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How to get there?
Located in the western region of Leyte, Philippines, Kalanggaman Island is a stunning destination worth the effort to reach. If you're planning a trip to this beautiful island, here are the essential steps you need to follow to make the most of your journey:
Step 1 – Fly to Eastern Visayas
If you're planning a trip to Kalanggaman Island, the first step is to fly to Eastern Visayas. Tacloban City is the most convenient entry point to this stunning island and is easily accessible from both Manila and Cebu. Several airlines operate flights to Tacloban City, and the flight duration is typically around an hour, making it a quick and efficient way to reach your destination.
Step 2 –Take a van to Palompon
After arriving in Tacloban City, the next step is to make your way to the New Bus Terminal near the North Robinsons Mall. This is where you'll find the vans that will take you to Palompon, the jump-off point for Kalanggaman Island.
Vans are a popular mode of transportation for travelers headed to Palompon, and you'll have a choice of different operators. Fares typically range from PHP 150 to PHP 250, depending on the van you choose and the time of day.
The journey from Tacloban to Palompon takes around 1 hour and a half, depending on traffic and road conditions. During the trip, you'll have the opportunity to admire the scenic views of Eastern Visayas and get a glimpse of local life.
Step 3 –Pay the fees at the Ecotourism Office
When you arrive in Palompon, head to Freedom Park and visit the Ecotourism Office beside the Municipal Town Hall. Before you embark on your journey to Kalanggaman Island, you'll need to pay the mandatory entrance and conservation fees. These fees are crucial in supporting the preservation and maintenance of the island and its natural resources, and the amount may vary depending on the season and other relevant circumstances.
It's important to note that these fees help keep the island in its pristine state and contribute to the livelihood of the local communities who depend on the island's ecotourism industry. So, not only will you be able to experience the island's breathtaking beauty, but you'll also be doing your part to ensure its sustainability for generations to come.
It's highly recommended to call the Palompon Ecotourism Office ahead of time to confirm the current fees and ensure that the office is open. You can reach the office through the following contact numbers: (+63)912-571-4961 or message them on their Facebook page.
Step 4 – Arrange for a Boat Ride to Kalanggaman Island
The final step in reaching Kalanggaman Island is arranging a boat ride. Visitors can choose from different sizes of boats, with rental fees ranging from PHP 3000 for 15-seater boats to PHP 4000 for larger 30-seater motorboats. Renting an entire boat for your group is more cost-effective if you travel in a large group. The boat journey to the island takes approximately 1 hour, during which you can enjoy the breathtaking views of the Visayan Sea.
Step 5 – Arrive at Kalanggaman Island
Once you arrive at Kalanggaman Island, you'll be struck by its stunning beauty. The island is surrounded by crystal-clear waters and boasts some of the most beautiful sandbars in the Philippines. Take a moment to take the view and snap a few photos before exploring all this island offers.
What to do in Kalanggaman Island?
Visitors to Kalanggaman Island can enjoy various activities, including sunbathing on the stunning sandbars, swimming in crystal-clear waters, and exploring the island's diverse wildlife. Some must-see attractions include the picturesque lighthouse and the island's lush vegetation.
To make the most of your visit, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Pack plenty of food and water. The island has a basic convenience store, but for a wider range of options, you can purchase supplies from the nearby wet market close to the Palompon Ecotourism Office.
- All reservations for Kalanggaman Island must be made through the Palompon Ecotourism Office using the provided contact numbers. If you're traveling with a group, you can rent a private boat to accommodate your size. However, if you're traveling solo, you can share a boat with other solo travelers to reduce costs.
- Cottages are available for rent for beachgoers. If you're planning to stay overnight, bring your own sleeping gear.
- It's important to check the weather advisory before traveling to the island, as travel to the island may be prohibited during rough weather conditions. You can seek advice from the Palompon Ecotourism Office if you have any concerns.
- Remember to bring snorkeling gear! The island's beaches are beautiful, but the real magic lies underwater. If you don't have your own gear, you can rent one on the island for P300 daily.
- Day tour cottages are not free and must be rented for P250-700 daily, including a table and four chairs. If you're planning to stay overnight, be sure to bring your own camping gear and tents.
- No electricity is on the island, so fully charge your gadgets before leaving.
- If you're interested in visiting Kalanggaman and Malapascua Islands, consider consulting with travel agencies for a combined tour package.\
Where to Stay?
Currently, accommodation options on Kalanggaman Island are quite limited, with JeTer Resort, Kalanggaman Westside, being the only available option. This resort offers private rooms for guests, but their official social media page does not currently have any updates.
If you need more options, consider staying in nearby towns such as Palompon, Ormoc, or Tacloban. These locations provide a variety of accommodation choices to suit all budgets, including budget-friendly guesthouses and luxury hotels:
| Name | Location | Contact No. |
|---|---|---|
| Bayview Inn | Ormoc City | (052) 255-5908 | 832-7789 |
| ZPAD Residences | Tacloban City | 0917-773-8009 | 0925-304-4688 |
| Hotel XYZ | Tacloban City | (053) 523-3888 | 321-3888 |
| Ironwood Hotel | Tacloban City | (053) 321-9999 |
| Sabang Daguitan Surf Camp | Dulag, Leyte | 0950-587-2066 | 0955-917-1879 |
| The Loft Hotel | Tacloban City | (053) 832-4911 |
| Etsu Hotel | Tacloban City | (053) 321-4165 |
| Hotel Canelsa | Tacloban City | (053) 325-2342 |
| Basic Rooms Hotel | Tacloban City | (053) 832-5045 | 0915-306-3283 |
| The Oriental Leyte | Palo, Leyte | 0995-788-4430 |
| Ocean Pearl Cover Resorts | Tabango, Leyte | 0999-884-7127 |
| Ormoc Villa Hote | Ormoc City | 0917-825-6384 |
| Peach Tree Lodge | Ormoc City | (053) 560-8852 | 0949-373-8142 |
| Oriental Pension Plaza | Ormoc City | (053) 561-0728 | 0917-110-5986 |
| Hotel Don Felipe | Ormoc City | (053) 560-8089 |
| Narra Hotel & Restobar | Ormoc City | (053) 561-2662 | 0920-207-3151 |
| Casa Ormoc | Ormoc City | (053) 560-8089 |
| Cristobal's Inn | Ormoc City | (053) 561-6417 |
| Baybayon ni Agalon | Albuera, Leyte | 0935-134-3150 | 0917-705-0691 |
| Pongos Hotel | Ormoc City | (053) 255-3540 |
Tour Operators
Several tour operators offer packages and tours to those who want a hassle-free trip to Kalanggaman Island. However, it is important to note that we do not endorse nor promote any of the following tour operators, and booking with them is at your own risk. Below is a list of tour operators that you can consider:
When booking with a tour operator, it is advisable to research, read reviews, and compare packages to ensure you get the best value for your money.
Conclusion
Kalanggaman Island is an exceptional and captivating destination that offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The island boasts stunning sandbars and crystal-clear waters, making it a perfect destination for those seeking to escape the bustling city.Visitors to Kalanggaman can indulge in various activities, such as sunbathing, swimming, and exploring the island's diverse wildlife. With its breathtaking natural beauty and endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation, Kalanggaman Island is a must-visit for anyone looking for a truly unforgettable beach vacation.
References:
- "Kalanggaman Island." Biliran Island Tourism, 2021, tourism.biliranisland.com/kalanggaman-island.php.
- "Kalanggaman Island." Department of Tourism, Philippines, 2021, philippines.travel/activities/kalanggaman-island