Things To Do
in Leyte
Leyte is an island province in the Eastern Visayas region of the Philippines known for its stunning natural landscapes and historical significance. The province is home to beautiful beaches, lush forests, and picturesque mountains, making it a popular destination for eco-tourism. Leyte is also known for being the site of the historic Battle of Leyte Gulf during World War II, which played a crucial role in the liberation of the Philippines from Japanese occupation.
The province has a rich cultural heritage, with festivals, traditional music, and dances that showcase the local traditions and customs of its people.
- "Kumusta ka?" - How are you?
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Paalam" - Goodbye
- "Oo" - Yes
- "Hindi" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $10
- ☕ Coffee: $1.50 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.20 - $0.50
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the San Juanico Bridge, the longest bridge in the Philippines. Enjoy a scenic walk with beautiful views of the water and surrounding landscape.
Head to the Santo Niño Shrine and Heritage Museum to learn about the rich history of Leyte. Afterward, enjoy local delicacies at a nearby restaurant.
Wrap up your day by watching the sunset at Tacloban Bay. Consider dining at a local seafood restaurant for fresh catches of the day.
Spend the morning lounging on the beautiful sands of Maliton Beach. Take a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters.
Indulge in a delicious beachside lunch of local cuisine. You can also rent a kayak or paddleboard to enjoy the ocean.
Enjoy a beach bonfire while sharing stories with friends or family. The serene night atmosphere makes it a perfect end to your day.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural history and heritage, with numerous historical landmarks and festivals.
- Beautiful natural scenery, including beaches, waterfalls, and mountains, making it ideal for eco-tourism.
- Diverse marine life, attracting snorkelers and divers to explore its coral reefs.
- Warm and welcoming locals who are known for their hospitality.
- Growing infrastructure and development, improving access to amenities and services.
- Vulnerability to natural disasters, particularly typhoons and earthquakes.
- Limited economic opportunities in some areas, leading to out-migration.
- Infrastructure challenges, including road conditions and public transportation availability.
- Healthcare facilities may be limited in rural areas compared to urban centers.
- Environmental concerns regarding deforestation and marine pollution.
Best Activities in Leyte
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the stunning beaches in Leyte, such as Kalanggaman Island, Canigao Island, and Padre Burgos Beach. Enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing.
Visit the beautiful waterfalls in Leyte, including Tinago Falls, Sambawan Falls, and Lintaon Peak and Waterfalls. Take a refreshing dip and admire the natural scenery.
Embark on hikes to scenic spots like Lake Danao, Alto Peak, and Agas-Agas Bridge. Enjoy nature walks, birdwatching, and panoramic views.
Discover the underwater wonders of Leyte through diving and snorkeling at spots like Sogod Bay, Dona Paz Wreck, and Napantao Marine Sanctuary.
Tours
Uncover the best of Leyte with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Leyte
Visit one of these nice places.
A stunning sandbar island with crystal-clear waters and picturesque surroundings, perfect for photo opportunities and breathtaking views.
This small, picture-perfect island offers panoramic views of the surrounding sea and nearby islets, making it a great location for photography and enjoying scenic vistas.
Though not in Leyte but nearby in Bohol, the Chocolate Hills offer a unique and iconic landscape, providing excellent photo opportunities and stunning views of the natural wonders.
Food in Leyte
Leyte Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A sticky, sweet delicacy made from taro, coconut milk, and nuts, traditionally cooked in a coconut shell. It can be found in local markets and along roadside stalls in Tacloban City and Palo.
Must-Try!
A beloved dish made from pork belly braised in a sweet soy sauce mixture with black beans, star anise, and banana blossoms. Look for this savory delight in family-run eateries and restaurants across Leyte.
A sweet treat made of sticky rice, coconut milk, and chocolate, wrapped in banana leaves. It is a popular snack and dessert sold by vendors in Tacloban City and at Hinunangan's market.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Leyte better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling hub of local flavors and street food, featuring stalls offering a variety of Leyte's specialties, from skewered barbecue and fresh seafood to native desserts like moron and binagol.
A treasure trove for food enthusiasts, where vendors showcase an array of fresh produce, local delicacies, and homemade snacks. The market is a great spot to savor Leyte's authentic street food.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Leyte, it is customary to show respect for elders by using
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Leyte with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Leyte
Ensure a smooth experience
In Leyte, Philippines, tipping is not a common practice. However, in some tourist-oriented establishments or upscale restaurants, a service charge may already be included in the bill. If not, leaving a small amount as a tip, such as 10-20 pesos, is appreciated.
Payment in Leyte, Philippines is commonly done in cash, especially in smaller establishments. However, major credit cards may be accepted in larger cities or tourist areas. It's always best to carry sufficient cash for transactions, as not all places may have card facilities available.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Leyte.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Leyte with less rainfall and ideal weather for outdoor activities and beach trips.
Expect higher rainfall, lush green landscapes, and the possibility of typhoons. However, it's a good time for surfing and experiencing local festivals.
Leyte at Night
Hiking in Leyte
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A challenging hike that offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and is rich in biodiversity.
Known for its lush vegetation and beautiful vistas, this mountain is a favorite among local hikers.
Although primarily known for its beautiful sandbars, the trails around the island provide a scenic hike with breathtaking views of the ocean.
A small island with several trails that offer hiking opportunities along its scenic coastline and marine life.
A less-traveled peak that offers a more secluded hiking experience with panoramic views of Leyte.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Leyte through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Leyte by plane.
Located in Cebu, this is the second busiest airport in the Philippines and serves international flights.
Located in Davao City, this is one of the major airports in southern Philippines with several international connections.
Located in Pampanga, this airport serves as an alternative to Manila's main airport, offering various international flights.
Located in Manila, this is the primary international gateway to the Philippines and the busiest airport in the country.
Located in Aklan, this airport serves international flights and is known for access to Boracay.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of the population in Leyte, predominantly speaking the Waray language.
A significant demographic group in Leyte, particularly in certain areas.
A smaller but notable group, primarily in northern Leyte.
Present in various urban centers due to migration.
Includes various indigenous groups and migrants from other regions.
The Soul of Leyte
Discover the essence of Leyte through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball is the most popular sport in Leyte, with many local leagues and tournaments held throughout the province.
Volleyball is widely played, especially among women and in schools, with various competitions organized at different levels.
Football has been growing in popularity, with youth programs and local clubs participating in regional tournaments.
Sepak Takraw, a traditional sport similar to volleyball but played with a rattan ball, is popular in the region and showcases local talents.
Badminton is a common recreational sport, with many playing it at community centers and schools across Leyte.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Leyte.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants and eateries in Leyte offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, with an emphasis on fresh produce, coconut-based recipes, and plant-based proteins such as tofu. Additionally, you can easily find fresh tropical fruits and vegetable-based snacks in local markets.
While Leyte's cuisine heavily features rice, which is naturally gluten-free, individuals with gluten restrictions should be cautious of sauces and condiments that may contain gluten. It's advisable to communicate your dietary needs clearly when dining out, as some traditional dishes may contain hidden gluten sources.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Leyte with these cultural adventures.
