Biliran
,Biliran is a small island province located in the Eastern Visayas region of the Philippines. It is known for its natural beauty, with stunning beaches, lush mountains, and cascading waterfalls. The province is also rich in cultural heritage, with historical sites and traditional festivals that showcase the local culture.
Biliran is a popular destination for nature lovers and adventurers looking to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations in the Philippines.
- "Kumusta ka?" - How are you?
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Paalam" - Goodbye
- "Oo" - Yes
- "Hindi" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.25 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $20
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Exploring Biliran's Natural Wonders
morning
:Start your day with a visit to the beautiful Sambawan Island, where you can enjoy the stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters. Snorkeling or swimming here is a must for nature lovers.
afternoon
:Head to the nearby Mar ipipi Island and enjoy a delicious lunch at a local eatery. Explore the island's hidden coves and possibly spot some unique bird species.
evening
:Return to the mainland and enjoy dinner at a waterfront restaurant in Naval. Take a relaxing stroll along the shore while watching the sunset.
Waterfalls and Hiking Adventures
morning
:Begin your day with an early trek to the breathtaking Maria as Falls. The sound of cascading water and the lush surroundings will invigorate your spirit.
afternoon
:Enjoy a picnic lunch near the falls, surrounded by nature. After lunch, hike to the nearby Guindulman Falls for a refreshing dip.
evening
:Head back to your accommodation to freshen up and relax. Enjoy a quiet dinner while sharing stories of your day’s adventures.
Highlights
Good
- Beautiful natural scenery including beaches, waterfalls, and mountains
- Less crowded tourist spots compared to other Philippine destinations
- Rich cultural heritage and local festivals
- Opportunities for outdoor activities such as trekking, diving, and snorkeling
- Friendly and welcoming local communities
Bad
- Limited access to healthcare facilities and services
- Infrastructure may not be as developed as in larger cities
- Internet connectivity can be unreliable in some areas
- Less availability of international cuisines and amenities
- Transport can be challenging with fewer options for getting around the island
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Island Hopping
Explore the beautiful islands surrounding Biliran, such as Maripipi and Sambawan, featuring stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters.
Waterfall Trekking
Visit the various waterfalls in Biliran, including Bunga Falls and Guinhaloan Falls, perfect for hiking and enjoying nature.
Snorkeling and Diving
Discover the vibrant marine life and coral reefs by snorkeling or diving in the waters around Biliran.
Hiking to Mt. Puhon
Take a trekking adventure to the summit of Mt. Puhon, offering panoramic views of Biliran and the surrounding sea.
Kayaking and Paddleboarding
Enjoy a peaceful day on the water kayaking or paddleboarding in Biliran's serene bays and coastal areas.
Beach Camping
Set up camp at one of Biliran's beautiful beaches, such as Naungan Beach, and enjoy a night under the stars.
Caving Adventures
Explore the caves in Biliran, such as the Tinago Cave, for a unique spelunking experience.
Adventures
Uncover the best of Biliran with these unforgettable adventures.
Attractions
Visit one of these nice places.
Higatangan Island
Known for its sandbar and pristine waters, offering stunning views and great photo opportunities.
Sambawan Island
A picturesque island with panoramic views of the surrounding clear turquoise waters, perfect for photography.
Tinago Falls
A majestic waterfall surrounded by lush greenery, providing beautiful scenery and photo opportunities.
Cuisine
Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Dinugu-an
A savory stew made of pork meat and offal, cooked in a rich sauce with vinegar, garlic, and spices. It is a must-try for those who enjoy bold flavors. Best enjoyed at local eateries and street food stalls.
Must-Try!
Kurilaw
A traditional Filipino ceviche, prepared with fresh fish or seafood marinated in vinegar, calamansi juice, and coconut milk, then seasoned with onions, chili, and spices. You can savor this refreshing dish at seaside restaurants and food markets.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Biliran better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Naval Public Market
A bustling market where you can sample a variety of local delicacies, fresh produce, and street food such as grilled skewered meats, fried fish, and tropical fruit shakes. It's a great place to experience the vibrant food culture of Biliran.
Agta Beach Food Stalls
Located along the scenic Agta Beach, these food stalls offer an array of seafood dishes, grilled meats, and refreshing beverages. It's an ideal spot to relish authentic street food while enjoying the coastal ambiance.
Weather
How To Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect for Elders
In Biliran, showing respect to elders is a significant cultural norm. Greeting older individuals with proper titles like 'Tatay' or 'Nanay' is customary, and younger people should offer a hand to elders before shaking hands as a sign of respect.
Hospitality
Filipinos are known for their warm hospitality. When visiting someone's home, it is polite to accept food or drinks offered by the host, even if you are not particularly hungry, as it shows appreciation for their generosity.
Modesty in Dress
Wearing modest clothing is important, especially in rural areas like Biliran. Visitors and locals alike are encouraged to dress appropriately, particularly when attending religious services or significant community events, to show respect for local customs and values.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Biliran with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
In Biliran, as in many parts of the Philippines, tipping is generally appreciated but not strictly required. It is common to leave small tips for service workers such as waitstaff, tour guides, and hotel staff. A typical tip ranges from 10-15% of the bill, but rounding up the bill or giving a small amount is also considered courteous. However, in smaller establishments or local eateries, tipping may be less common, and customers often simply round up to the nearest peso.
Payment
Payments in Biliran typically can be made in cash, as many establishments may not accept credit or debit cards, especially in rural areas. Local currency, the Philippine Peso, is used for all transactions. Mobile wallets are also gaining popularity, especially in urban areas, allowing residents to make payments easily. Tourists are advised to carry sufficient cash, especially when visiting remote areas or local markets.
Best Activities
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Biliran.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry Season (March to May)
The best time to visit Biliran is during the dry season when the weather is hot and perfect for beach activities. You can expect clear skies, calm seas, and vibrant vegetation.
Wet Season (June to November)
During the wet season, expect frequent rainfall, high humidity, and the possibility of typhoons. It's not the ideal time for outdoor activities, but you can still experience lush greenery and fewer crowds.
Cool Season (December to February)
The cool season is a pleasant time to visit Biliran, with mild temperatures and occasional light showers. This is a good time for trekking and exploring the natural beauty of the region.
Nightlife
Hiking Spots Nearby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Mount Puhag
A popular hiking destination offering a moderate trek with scenic views of the surrounding landscape and Biliran Island.
Mount Panungdan
Known for its challenging trails and stunning panoramic vistas, this mountain is suited for experienced hikers seeking adventure.
Samar Island Natural Park
While primarily located in the nearby island of Samar, this park offers trails that can be accessed from Biliran, providing lush forests and diverse wildlife.
Tinago Falls
A beautiful waterfall that involves a short hike down to the falls, perfect for a refreshing swim and enjoying nature.
Balaquid Island
A lesser-known spot with hiking opportunities, offering a serene atmosphere and beautiful views of the surrounding waters and islands.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Biliran through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports Nearby
How to reach Biliran by plane.
Daniel Z. Romualdez Airport (TAC)
Located in Tacloban City, approximately 75 km from Biliran.
Cebu Airport (CEB)
Located in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu, around 180 km from Biliran.
Iloilo International Airport (ILO)
Located in Iloilo City, about 200 km from Biliran.
Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA)
Located in Mactan, Cebu, approximately 180 km from Biliran and serving as the main airport for the Cebu region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Visayan
The predominant ethnic group in Biliran, primarily speaking various Visayan languages.
Waray
A significant demographic group in Biliran, especially in areas close to Eastern Samar, speaking Waray language.
Tagalog
Present in Biliran as a result of migration, primarily due to urbanization and education.
Other Indigenous Groups
Includes smaller indigenous communities native to the region, contributing to the cultural diversity of Biliran.
The Soul of Biliran
Discover the essence of Biliran through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball
Basketball is highly popular in Biliran, with outdoor courts and community leagues, drawing large crowds for local games and tournaments.
Volleyball
Volleyball is widely played, especially among women and youth, with many schools and barangays hosting tournaments.
Sepak Takraw
This traditional sport, similar to volleyball but played with a rattan ball, is enjoyed in many local communities.
Football (Soccer)
Football has a growing following in Biliran, with various schools and clubs promoting the sport among the youth.
Running and Athletics
Various running events and marathons are organized, encouraging fitness and community participation in athletics.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
While Biliran's cuisine predominantly features seafood and meat, many restaurants and eateries offer vegetarian options like vegetable stir-fries, fresh salads, and fruit-based desserts. Inform the staff about your dietary preferences for personalized recommendations.
Gluten-free Choices
Though gluten-free options may be limited, dishes like grilled fish, steamed vegetables, and rice-based delicacies are generally safe choices. Communicate your dietary needs to the chefs, who can often accommodate gluten-free requirements.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Biliran with these cultural adventures.