Things To Do
in Alangalang
Alangalang is a small municipality in Leyte, Philippines, set among rice fields and riverine landscapes along the San Juanico Strait. It offers a friendly, relaxed pace with easy access to Tacloban City and Leyte's coastal sights. The town blends agricultural life with modest heritage churches, local markets, and scenic rural routes.
Visitors can experience Waray hospitality, golden sunsets, and convenient day trips to nearby attractions.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at the Tacloban City Airport and take a scenic drive to Alangalang. Breathe in the fresh air as you settle into your accommodations and enjoy a welcoming breakfast of local delicacies. Spend the morning unpacking and getting acquainted with your new surroundings.
Stroll around the charming town square and visit the local market bustling with colorful produce and vibrant local crafts. Engage with friendly locals and try traditional snacks that give you a taste of the region's rich culture. Take in the sights, sounds, and smells of Alangalang as the sun begins to dip behind the horizon.
Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, savoring the flavors of authentic Filipino cuisine. After dinner, take a leisurely walk under the stars, where you can hear the distant sounds of local festivities. Wind down your day with a nightcap at your accommodation, reflecting on your first impressions of Alangalang.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast before heading out to explore the historical landmarks of Alangalang. Visit the local church, a beautiful example of architecture that showcases the town’s history. Engage with a guide to learn more about the heritage and stories behind each site.
After lunch, embark on a guided tour to the nearby San Juanico Bridge, the longest bridge in the Philippines that connects Leyte and Samar. Capture stunning photos as you walk along the bridge, taking in the breathtaking views of the sea and surrounding landscapes. Return to Alangalang for a refreshing snack at a local eatery.
Dinner tonight features a popular local dish, 'Lechon,' which is known throughout the Philippines. Spend your evening mingling with locals at a nearby community event, learning traditional crafts or dances. Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture that Alangalang has to offer, concluded by the warm smiles of its residents.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| 🛒Groceries for a week | $20-50 |
| 🚗Short taxi ride | $2-6 |
| 🏨One-night hotel | $25-60 |
| 🎟️Museum/attraction entry | $1-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Calm, less-touristy vibe with authentic local life
- Good base for day trips to Tacloban, Palo, and nearby Leyte sights
- Limited nightlife and hotel options in the town center
- Some attractions require travel to Tacloban or other towns; transport may be slower in peak hours
- "Kumusta ka?" - How are you?
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Magkano ito?" - How much is this?
- "Pwede ba ako kumuha hin litrato?" - Can I take a photo?
Places to Visit in Alangalang
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic bridge spanning the San Juanico Strait; ideal for sunrise or golden-hour photography with sea backdrops.
Quiet waters and palm-fringed banks along the river offer reflective moods and simple rural scenes.
Short trips to Tacloban provide cityscapes and sunset shots over the bay.
Scenic lake setting with distant hills and calm water for landscape photography.
Food in Alangalang
Alangalang Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Roasted pig with crispy skin; widely available at local eateries and celebrations.
Must-Try!
Ginger-based fish soup with leafy greens and peppery notes.
Sweet cassava-based dessert cooked in coconut milk and palm sugar.
Sticky rice cake often served with sweet coconut or cocoa.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Local market offering fresh fish, vegetables, and ready-to-eat snacks.
Grilled fish, kinilaw, fried bananas, and other quick bites around the town plaza.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet elders with a polite hello and use po/opo when speaking to older people; dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
Ask for permission before photographing people or private homes; respect local customs.
Safety
Tipping in Alangalang
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; round up in restaurants and leave small tips for service.
Cash is widely used in markets; smaller vendors may accept only cash. Some establishments in Tacloban accept credit/debit cards; always carry a bit of cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
March to May; hot and humid with clear skies. Best for outdoor activities early in the morning or late afternoon; stay hydrated and use sun protection.
June to November; frequent rain showers and possible storms. Plan indoor activities and keep rain gear handy; expect higher humidity.
December to February; comfortable temperatures and lower rain chances; great for walking tours and outdoor markets at night.
July to October; higher risk of typhoons. Monitor weather advisories, secure accommodations in advance, and have contingency plans.
Alangalang at Night
Hiking in Alangalang
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular forested trail with scenic views and opportunities to spot wildlife; a day trip from Leyte towns.
Rugged trails and forested hills around the lake area offering panoramic views and photography opportunities.
Airports
How to reach Alangalang by plane.
Daniel Z. Romualdez Airport, the main gateway to Leyte; domestic flights to Manila, Cebu, and other Philippine cities; ~1-2 hours drive depending on traffic.
Ormoc City airport offering limited domestic services; useful if combining Leyte coastal trips; longer road transfer to Alangalang.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of residents speak Waray-Waray, with Tagalog and English commonly understood in tourist areas.
A large share of the population works in agriculture, fishing, and local trades.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular pastime and local leagues are common across Leyte communities.
Traditional Filipino martial arts practiced in schools and community centers.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Alangalang.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for vegetable-based entrées, tofu dishes, and soups; ask for sauces to be prepared without fish sauce. Many local eateries can tailor dishes if you request 'walay isda' (no fish).