Things To Do
in Calapan
Calapan is a bustling city located in the Oriental Mindoro province of the Philippines. Known for its vibrant markets and delicious local cuisine, it offers a mix of urban amenities and natural beauty. The city is surrounded by lush mountains and stunning coastlines, making it a popular destination for eco-tourism.
Calapan is also known for its colorful festivals and warm hospitality, welcoming visitors with open arms.
- "Kumusta ka?" - How are you?
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Paalam" - Goodbye
- "Oo" - Yes
- "Hindi" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $10
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.30 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing swim at Calapan's beautiful beach. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café while taking in the coastal views.
Explore the nearby Hundred Islands for some island hopping and snorkeling. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy on one of the pristine beaches.
Head back to Calapan and savor a seafood dinner at a beachfront restaurant. Relax with a stroll along the shore as the sun sets.
Rise early and hike up to Mt. Iglit to catch a breathtaking view of the sunrise. After the hike, enjoy a packed breakfast at the summit.
Descend and visit the Calapan Science and Nature Center. Learn about the local flora and fauna while taking a guided tour.
Finish the day with a traditional Filipino family dinner at a local restaurant. Share stories of your adventures with fellow travelers.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history.
- Beautiful natural scenery, including beaches and mountains.
- Friendly and welcoming locals.
- Growing economy with opportunities in tourism and agriculture.
- Access to fresh local produce and seafood.
- Limited infrastructure and public transportation options.
- Occasional issues with natural disasters like typhoons.
- Healthcare facilities may be below urban standards.
- Limited job opportunities in specialized fields.
- Higher poverty levels compared to major cities in the Philippines.
Best Activities in Calapan
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Relax on the white sand beach, swim in the clear waters, and enjoy water sports such as snorkeling and kayaking.
Hike to Tukuran Falls and enjoy the natural beauty of the waterfalls and surrounding tropical forest.
Embark on a challenging hike to the summit of Mount Halcon, the highest peak in Mindoro, for stunning views and a rewarding outdoor experience.
Places to Visit in Calapan
Visit one of these nice places.
A picturesque lake offering stunning views and great photo opportunities
A high vantage point with panoramic views of Calapan and its surrounding landscapes, perfect for photography enthusiasts
A resort with breathtaking views of the Verde Island Passage, ideal for capturing stunning seascapes and sunsets
Food in Calapan
Calapan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A slow-cooked dish made with tuna, kamias (bilimbi) fruit, and spices. It's a local specialty and best enjoyed at the public market or in local eateries.
Must-Try!
A seafood dish combining three cooking styles: sugba (grilled), tuwa (soup-based), and kilaw (raw in vinegar). It's a must-try at beachside eateries and seafood restaurants.
Fresh anchovies marinated in vinegar, calamansi juice, and spices. Look for this dish at seafood stalls along the coastal areas or in traditional Filipino eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The Calapan Public Market offers a diverse selection of fresh produce, local delicacies, and street food. It's a great place to sample kakanin (rice cakes) and various snacks.
Located along Lakatan Street, these stalls offer a variety of grilled meats, seafood, and Filipino street food such as isaw (chicken intestines) and barbecue skewers.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Calapan, it is important to show respect to elders, whether it's addressing them using titles such as 'po' or 'opo' or demonstrating polite behavior when interacting with them.
When visiting churches or attending formal events, it's important to dress modestly and appropriately. This shows respect for the religious and cultural norms of the community.
Hospitality is highly valued in Calapan, and visitors are often welcomed with warmth and generosity. It's important to reciprocate this hospitality and show gratitude for the kindness extended.
Safety
Tipping in Calapan
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping in Calapan, Philippines is not mandatory but appreciated. In restaurants, a service charge of 10% is often included in the bill, so additional tipping is not required. However, rounding up the bill or leaving small change as a token of appreciation is common.
Cash is the predominant form of payment in Calapan, Philippines. Credit and debit cards are accepted in larger establishments, but it's always advisable to carry cash, especially when visiting smaller shops or local markets. ATMs are available in the city for convenient cash withdrawals.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Calapan is during the dry season when the weather is hot and ideal for outdoor activities. This period typically experiences less rainfall and lower humidity, making it perfect for beach vacations and exploring the region's natural attractions.
During the wet season, Calapan experiences heavy rainfall and occasional typhoons. Travelers should expect higher humidity and wetter conditions, but this time of year can still be rewarding for those interested in lush, green landscapes and experiencing traditional Filipino festivals.
Calapan at Night
Hiking in Calapan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A challenging hike that offers breathtaking views of Mindoro and a chance to see diverse flora and fauna.
A scenic mountain that is part of a national park, known for its unique landscapes and rich biodiversity.
These mountains provide excellent hiking trails and are ideal for both novice and experienced hikers.
Though a bit further from Calapan, it offers picturesque hiking opportunities around the lake and up to the volcano.
A park with various trails that lead to beautiful views, historical sites, and the chance to explore rich wildlife.
Aiports
How to reach Calapan by plane.
Located approximately 140 km northwest of Calapan, it is the main international airport serving Manila, the capital of the Philippines.
Located about 170 km northwest of Calapan, it serves the Central Luzon region and is a hub for international and domestic flights.
Situated approximately 580 km southeast of Calapan, it is the second largest international airport in the Philippines, serving the Cebu area.
Located around 650 km southeast of Calapan, this airport serves the Davao region and has significant domestic and international operations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant ethnic group in Calapan, primarily speaking Tagalog and its dialects.
An indigenous group in the region, known for their distinct culture and language.
A significant population in Calapan, including various groups from the Visayas islands.
Another demographic group present, particularly among migrants from northern Luzon.
A smaller, historical demographic that reflects the colonial past, with mixed Filipino and Spanish ancestry.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball is a widely popular sport in Calapan, often played in local communities, schools, and parks. Local leagues and tournaments are common, attracting many participants and spectators.
Volleyball is also popular, especially among women and youth. Various tournaments take place throughout the year, and it is played in schools and local organizations.
Football has been gaining popularity in Calapan, with more youth getting involved in the sport. Local clubs and schools often participate in matches and tournaments.
Badminton is a popular indoor sport in Calapan, enjoyed by people of all ages. Many local facilities offer badminton courts for recreational play and competitive matches.
Boxing has a significant following in the Philippines, and Calapan is no exception. Local gyms train aspiring boxers and hold events to promote the sport.
This traditional sport is played in Calapan and combines elements of volleyball and soccer, using a rattan ball. It's particularly popular among younger players in neighborhoods.
As a coastal city, Calapan also embraces dragon boat racing, promoting team spirit and community involvement in water sports.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Calapan.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Filipino cuisine heavily features meat and seafood, many restaurants in Calapan now offer vegetarian and vegan alternatives, especially in cafes and eateries with a health-conscious focus.
Locally, it may be a bit challenging to find dedicated gluten-free establishments; however, certain dishes like grilled seafood and fresh fruit options can be suitable for those with gluten intolerance.