10 Best Things To Do In Calbayog City, Philippines

things to do in calbayog city philippines
Angela
Angela 
Updated
| 6 min read

Calbayog city is located in the province of Samar, in the Philippines. It ranks as the third largest city in the Philippines when it comes to land and water area. Calbayog is also known as the city of waterfalls (with more than twenty of them), and as the gateway to the north. It contains a little under 25 percent of the population of Samar province, and it is a city for a lot of businesses and trading. Calbayog measures about 880.74 square kilometers (340 square miles). In earlier times, this city was linked to the spread of Catholicism and was home to some prominent missionaries. It was also one of the first places of civilization for Samar. Its climate mainly consists of hot weather and a rainy season, although heavy downpours occur do not occur that often.

1. Visit the Bangon-Bugtong Falls

Bangon Falls
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Hope Estheim used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Since, from the short introduction above, we learned that Calbayog is famous for its waterfalls, it’s only right that we start with one. The Bangon-Bugtong Falls are one of the biggest and most beautiful waterfalls in Calbayog. This fall is close to 60 meters (197 feet) high, and right at the top, there is a pond big enough for you to go swimming, with a 30 meter (98 foot) diameter.

This fall is very important to Calbayog since it is also seen as a prospective power source for the city and others around. Therefore, it is a place useful to tourists and the general community. Around the falls is a great atmosphere, surrounded by trees and flying birds. Once you get to the top, you will not regret coming here. This should be a must visit.

Bangon Falls

Address: Calbayog City, 6710 Samar, Philippines

Price: Free

Duration: around 3 hours required.

Access: 50-minute drive north of Calbayog City via Pan-Philippine Hwy/AH26

Contact: +63 905 892 8186

Near by Food: Carlos n Carmelo’s Restaurant, Su Chef Chinese Restaurant

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2. Go to Nijaga Park

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Nijaga Park is a sweet little park, near the Calbayog river, where you can stop by for some quiet time or eat some ice cream. There is a fountain in the middle of the park which brings a sense of peace and serenity. When you go to Nijaga Park, you will have the opportunity to witness a lovely view of the river and take some pretty great pictures too! Although it is undergoing a bit of construction, it is truly a nice spot to go and relax. Apart from all this, its a great place for kids, who can enjoy just playing around the park.

Nijaga Park

Address: Gomez St, Calbayog City, Samar, Philippines

Price: Free

Opening Hours: Always open

Duration: around 2 hours required.

Access: Along Gomez Street, Calbayog City

Near by Food: Doce Restaurant and Lounge, Carlos and Carmelo’s Restaurant

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3. Calbayog Zip line and Malajog Ridge Nature Park

ZIPLINING ADVENTURE
Source: Photo by Flickr user whologwhy used under CC BY 2.0

This is a very new tourist attraction, opened in March 2016, and is one for the thrill-lovers. The zip line covers about 850 meters (2789 feet), from the start, which is the Malajog Ridge Point, all the way across the ocean to the destination, which is right across Malajog Beach. It is considered the longest zip line in the country and it is no surprise why. This will be an experience you will not forget. Of course, there is an age limit of 15 years and older. The ride takes an average of a whole minute and ten seconds!

To get to the top, you have to walk along a nature trail which has areas for picnics and a rest shelter, since the trail is 1.8 kilometers (1.1 miles) long. I would be thrilled to do something like this as should you!

Malajog Ridge Zipline and Nature Park

Address: Calbayog City, Samar, Philippines

Price: from 4 USD

Opening Hours: 8am - 5pm.

Duration: around 2 hours required.

Access: 20-minute drive west of Calbayog City via Pan-Philippine Hwy/AH26

Contact: +63 906 548 8839

Near by Food: Marcial’s Grille

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4. Explore Daraga Island

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Daraga Island is a small island off Calbayog, that you can reach by boat and do some hiking. You can also do some snorkelling on the trip over. For those of us who like hiking, and want to do so on Daraga island, there is nothing stopping you. Here you can explore the area and try to discover new things and places, never uncovered before. This place is for adventure seekers and those who like the thrill of trying something new.

Daraga Island

Address: Calbayog City, 6710 Samar, Philippines

Price: Free

Duration: around 3 hours required.

Access: 10-minute boat ride from Malajog Beach

Near by Food: JC Food Spot

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5. View the Tarangban Falls

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Now, how exciting does this sound? I think that any type of waterfall, regardless of where they are, are one of the most beautiful makings of nature and Tarangban Falls is one of these amazing places. To get here from the city, you will need a car, since it’s a bit far - about an hour away from the city. However, this is what makes it a great escape from the noisy city.

First of all, it is located in the middle of the mountains, so you can imagine the beauty that surrounds it. Secondly, you can swim, go trekking or just enjoy the nice scenery. It is truly a magical place.

Tarangban Falls

Address: Calbayog City, Samar, Philippines

Price: from 6 USD

Duration: around 3 hours required.

Access: 30-minute drive from Malajog Beach via Pan-Philippine Hwy/AH26

Near by Food: Linda’s Restaurant

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6. Visit the Samar Archeological Museum

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

History lovers should definitely make an effort to visit the Samar Archeological Museum, in Calbayog. It was first opened in 1970 on the 11th of April, and up until this day, it is still standing strong. The museum displays a collection of archeological objects from the region, such as cups, saucers, old coins, old household items and chalices. All of these artifacts date back to the 14th century, and were used by people in the local area. The display ranges from religious artifacts to normal household items. Another crazy fact about this museum is that it was the first to be opened and currently stands as the only museum on the island.

Samar Archaeological Museum

Address: Christ the King College Compound, Magsaysay Blvd, Calbayog City, Samar, Philippines

Opening Hours: 9am - 6pm. Closed on public holidays.

Duration: around 2 hours required.

Access: 10-minute walk east of Calbayog City via Umbria St and Magsaysay Blvd

Near by Food: Demetrius, Carlos and Carmelo’s Restaurant

More Information: Province of Samar

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7. Isla Pawikan

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Turtle Island or locally known as Pawikan Islet resembles the shape of a turtle, hence its name. It’s measuring approximately one hectare and is surrounded by uniformly and equally spread aquifers. Beneath the deep waters, you will see a luminescent underworld teeming with exotic marine life. It is a home to varieties of sea corals, various types of seashells, rare white pebbles, and ornamental aquamarine species. Embark on an adventure and put yourself on deep-sea diving to be amazed by the underwater wonders. For those who are not into diving, you may still enjoy the island by marveling at the island’s pristine rock formations that surround the islet.

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8. Muro-Puro Snorkeling Site

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Get ready for an astonishing aquatic experience at Muro-Puro. Feel as though you are swimming in a real aquarium and admire the aquatic flora and fauna. This underwater world presents you with fascinating marine life, colors, shapes, and unexpected encounters. As long as you know how to swim and you are moderately comfortable in the water you can glide over coral gardens and shoaling and schooling tropical fish. Take the time to visit Muro-Puro while it’s still untouched and isn’t too populated yet with divers and snorkelers. Spend a day here and discover numerous underwater wonders and enjoy the freedom beneath the waters.

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9. Dried fish Shopping

Tinapa being cooked at Calbayog City
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Jojit fb used under CC BY-SA 3.0

One of the famous delicacies in Calbayog is Tinapa or smoked fish. It is a Filipino local food that goes well with garlic fried rice. This salty and smoky flavored treat is a favorite item among tourists to bring back home for their loved ones. To get some tinapa, you may visit Ping ping’s store which is the famous producer of Tinapa in town. Both tourists and locals buy here due to its distinct taste. However, you may also see these smoked fish at the stalls on the market, and even at the airport. Meanwhile, to get that full native experience of eating tinapa, you may also try it while in town and eat it the way locals enjoy it.

Ping Ping's Tinapa & Pasalubong

Address: National Highway corner Rono St., Purok 4, Calbayog, Samar

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10. Mapaso Hot Spring

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

‘Mapaso’ means hot in Filipino hence the name of this hot spring. The water here may reach extreme temperature but it’s definitely a great antidote for sore muscles. This may not have a fancy spa facility but nonetheless will provide you a relaxing and invigorating hot spring experience. Soak and enjoy the natural and hot water therapy and feel your nerves loosen up a little. Moreover, you’ll see fresh Pokot or crustaceans that are naturally pinkish due to the high temperature of the water. During the colder months, this is frequented by locals as well as tourists to warm up and relax their muscles.

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Visit Calbayog for an unforgettable experience!

Calbayog from above
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Itsme hope19 used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Calbayog is a city full of history. There is so much you can learn about how it came to be and how the people used to live. And, it’s not called the city of waterfalls for nothing! There are many more waterfalls to be visited besides the ones mentioned above. All of them have their own unique look and beauty. Exploration is just about the most exciting part about visiting a new place. You might even discover something that has never been unveiled before!

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Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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Meet Angie, a talented freelance writer and avid traveler. Her primary objective is to transport her readers to the enchanting blend of serenity and beautiful chaos found in diverse cultures and...Read more

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