Things To Do
in Tacloban
Tacloban is a city located in the Eastern Visayas region of the Philippines. It is known for its vibrant culture and friendly locals. The city is also famous for being the site of MacArthur Landing Memorial National Park, commemorating General Douglas MacArthur's return to the Philippines during World War II.
Tacloban is a bustling hub of commerce and tourism, with beautiful beaches and historical sites to explore.
- "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: $20 - $35
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the San Juanico Bridge for stunning views. Capture beautiful morning photos and enjoy a local breakfast nearby.
Head to the MacArthur Landing Memorial National Park to learn about the history of World War II in the area. Explore the park's monuments and beachfront.
Enjoy a delicious dinner at a local seafood restaurant. Take a stroll along the bay and enjoy the sunset.
Spend your morning at Calicoan Island, known for its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters. Relax on the beach or try some water sports.
Enjoy a picnic lunch on the beach while soaking in the sun. Optional surfing lessons are available for adventure seekers.
As the sun sets, enjoy a beach bonfire with friends or fellow travelers. Feast on fresh grilled seafood for dinner.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and local traditions.
- Beautiful natural landscapes, including beaches and mountains.
- Warm and friendly local community.
- Affordable cost of living compared to many urban areas.
- Growing tourism industry with potential for economic development.
- Vulnerability to natural disasters, such as typhoons and earthquakes.
- Limited access to healthcare facilities and services.
- Infrastructure challenges, including transportation and utilities.
- Job opportunities may be limited in certain sectors.
- Post-disaster recovery can be slow and challenging.
Best Activities in Tacloban
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the iconic San Juanico Bridge, which connects the islands of Samar and Leyte. Enjoy the scenic views and take memorable photographs.
Visit the Sto. Niño Shrine and Heritage Museum to appreciate its architecture and learn about the history and culture of the region.
Take a trip to Samar Island for outdoor activities such as hiking, beachcombing, and exploring its natural attractions.
Pay a visit to the McArthur Landing Memorial National Park, a historical site commemorating General Douglas MacArthur's return to the Philippines during World War II.
Tours
Uncover the best of Tacloban with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Tacloban
Visit one of these nice places.
Connects the islands of Samar and Leyte, offering stunning views of the strait and surrounding landscapes.
Located on a hilltop, this shrine provides panoramic views of Tacloban City and the San Juanico Strait.
A vantage point that offers a picturesque view of Tacloban and its surroundings.
Food in Tacloban
Tacloban Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A comforting soup made with chicken, ginger, and green papaya, best enjoyed at local eateries like Ayo's Cafe and Restaurant.
Must-Try!
A Filipino classic featuring meat (often chicken or pork) marinated in soy sauce, vinegar, and garlic, then simmered to perfection. Visit Ocho Seafood and Grill for a delightful rendition.
A sticky sweet treat made from coconut, glutinous rice, and sugar, typically found at the Santo Niño Shrine and Heritage Museum.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Tacloban better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling food hall is a treasure trove of street food delights like barbecue skewers, freshly grilled seafood, and local delicacies such as Balut and Kwek-Kwek.
A vibrant night market offering an array of street food options, from grilled meats to pancit, lumpia, and halo-halo desserts.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Tacloban, it is important to show respect for elders by using respectful language and gestures, such as addressing them with 'po' or 'opo' and showing deference to their opinions and decisions.
The culture in Tacloban is centered around family, and it is important to show respect for family values and prioritize spending time with family members. Family gatherings and celebrations are significant events in the community.
When communicating with others in Tacloban, it is important to maintain a polite and diplomatic approach. Expressing oneself with consideration for others' feelings and using tactful language is valued in interpersonal interactions.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Tacloban with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Tacloban
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Tacloban, Philippines. However, in some high-end hotels and restaurants, a service charge of 10% is often added to the bill, so tipping is generally not necessary.
Cash is widely used for payment in Tacloban, and credit card acceptance may be limited, especially in smaller establishments. It's advisable to carry enough cash when visiting Tacloban as not all places may accept card payments.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Tacloban.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Tacloban, with warm and sunny weather. Good for outdoor activities and beach visits.
Expect heavy rainfall and potential typhoons. Outdoor activities may be limited, but it's a good time for experiencing local culture and festivals.
Tacloban at Night
Hiking in Tacloban
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking destination offering scenic views and a challenging trail. It is located a few kilometers outside of Tacloban.
Known for its lush greenery and beautiful landscapes, Sankinand Mountain is a great hiking spot for both beginner and experienced hikers.
This mountain provides an adventurous trail with stunning panoramas at its summit. It is a favorite among local hikers.
Offering diverse flora and fauna, Bulwagan Mountain is ideal for nature lovers and those looking for a peaceful hiking experience.
While not a traditional hike, the viewpoint provides a moderate trek and incredible views of the San Juanico Bridge and surrounding areas.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Tacloban through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Tacloban by plane.
Located in Tacloban City, this is the primary airport serving the region.
An international airport located in Gorontalo, Indonesia.
Located in Cebu City, this is the second largest airport in the Philippines, approximately 100 km from Tacloban.
An international airport located in Kalibo, Aklan, around 300 km from Tacloban.
The main international airport serving Manila and the surrounding areas, located approximately 600 km from Tacloban.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Tacloban, predominantly speaking the Waray-Waray language.
Significant presence, often involved in various sectors such as government and education.
A demographic group found in Tacloban, primarily from neighboring regions.
A smaller group in Tacloban, originating from northern Luzon.
A minority group involved in business and trade, contributing to the local economy.
Includes various ethnic groups who maintain their cultural practices and traditions.
The Soul of Tacloban
Discover the essence of Tacloban through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball is one of the most popular sports in Tacloban, enjoyed by people of all ages. Local tournaments and street games are common, reflecting the vibrant basketball culture in the region.
Volleyball is widely played, especially among women and in schools. The sport is popular for both casual play on the beach and organized competitions.
Football is gaining popularity in Tacloban, with various local leagues and community events. The sport draws interest from the youth, inspired by national and international football events.
Badminton is a favored sport in Tacloban, often played in schools and community sports centers. It offers a fun and competitive way to stay active.
Sepak Takraw, a traditional Southeast Asian sport that combines elements of soccer and volleyball, is also popular in Tacloban. It is typically played in open spaces, showcasing agility and skill.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tacloban.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While meat-heavy dishes are predominant, many restaurants and cafes in Tacloban, such as Yolks Flower Cafe, offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes like fresh salads, vegetable curries, and meatless pasta.
While traditional Filipino cuisine heavily features rice and wheat-based ingredients, some establishments, like Yolks Flower Cafe, provide gluten-free alternatives and are accommodating to dietary requests.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Tacloban with these cultural adventures.
