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ExperienceTandag Holidaysin 2026/2027
Tandag is the capital of the province of Surigao del Sur, Philippines.A remarkable fact is that farming and fishing are the main economic activity for most people in Tandag. Also, top farm products are rice, corn and coconut. Livestock and poultry raising are also important sources of income.
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Top 10 Reasons to Visit Tandag
Reason 01
A Sneak Peak into Tandag
- Holidays to Tandag is a city located in the Surigao del Sur province of the Philippines.
- It is known for its pristine beaches, beautiful waterfalls, and stunning natural landscapes.
- Tandag is a popular tourist destination for those who enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, surfing, and diving.
- The city has a rich history and culture, with many historic landmarks and cultural festivals that attract visitors worldwide.
- Tandag is home to several beautiful beaches, including Mabua Pebble Beach and Bitaugan Wharf Beach.
- These beaches are popular for their crystal clear waters, white sand, and breathtaking views.
- The city is also home to the Hinatuan Enchanted River, a popular spot for swimming and snorkelling.
- The river is said to be enchanted due to its unique clear blue waters and is one of the most visited attractions in the city.
- Other popular attractions in Tandag include the Tinuy-an Falls, a three-tiered waterfall known as the "Niagara Falls of the Philippines," and the Tago River, a popular spot for river tubing and kayaking.
- With its natural beauty and rich history, the Tandag holiday is a must-visit destination for anyone travelling to the Philippines. Our Holiday Vibes are Good Vibes Only!
- Capital: Tandag City
- International airport: Bancasi Airport (BXU)
- Currency: Philippine peso (PHP)
- Time: UTC+8
- Driving side: Right-hand side of the road
- Main electricity: 220V/60Hz
- Official languages: Filipino and English
- Religion: Predominantly Roman Catholicism
Reason 02
Highlights
- Hinatuan Enchanted River: A stunning crystal-clear river that is said to be enchanted due to its mesmerizing beauty.
- Britania Islands: A group of 24 islands that offer white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and stunning rock formations. It is a perfect destination for island hopping and snorkelling.
- Cabgan Island: A small island off the coast of Tandag known for its powdery white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters.
- Lanuza Surfing: Tandag is also known for its great surfing spots, and Lanuza Bay is one of the most popular destinations for surfers.
- Dayasan Falls: Located in the nearby town of San Miguel, Dayasan Falls is a must-visit attraction for nature lovers.
- Balangaw Rice Terraces: This UNESCO-recognized site features stunning rice terraces that are over a thousand years old.
- Cantilan Bridge: A picturesque bridge that offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and is a popular spot for taking photos.
Reason 03
Seasons to Travel
- The best time to visit Tandag is during the dry season from November to April when the weather is generally sunny and pleasant.
- However, it's also worth noting that Tandag can be visited year-round as it enjoys a fairly consistent climate throughout the year.
Reason 04
Worth A Visit
Britania Islands
- Consists of 24 small islands with beautiful turquoise waters, white sand beaches, and stunning rock formations.
- A perfect spot for swimming, snorkelling, and island-hopping, with plenty of opportunities to see marine life.
- Offers breathtaking views of the surrounding sea, making it a great place for taking photos.
- Some islands are accessible by boat only, and several tour operators in the area offer island-hopping tours.
- One of the most popular islands is Hagonoy Island, which has a beautiful sandbar that emerges during low tide.
- The islands are relatively undeveloped and have limited facilities, so visitors are advised to bring food and drinks.
- Best time to visit is during the dry season, from December to May.
Tago River
- Known for its crystal-clear waters and beautiful scenery along its banks.
- A popular spot for swimming, kayaking, and other water activities.
- Offers a tranquil escape from the city, with plenty of natural beauty.
- The river is surrounded by lush vegetation, including mangrove trees and other tropical plants.
- Several tour operators in the area offer boat tours of the river, including stops at nearby villages and other attractions.
- Best time to visit is during the dry season, from December to May when the water is at its clearest.
- Visitors are advised to bring sunscreen and insect repellent, as the area can be quite hot and humid.
Cabgan Island
- Located just off the coast of Tandag, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding sea.
- A popular spot for snorkelling and diving, with plenty of opportunities to see marine life.
- The island is relatively undeveloped and has limited facilities, so visitors are advised to bring food and drinks.
- Best time to visit is during the dry season, from December to May.
- several tour operators offer boat tours to the island and other nearby attractions.
- Visitors are advised to bring their snorkelling or diving gear, as rentals may not be available on the island.
- The island is also a great spot for taking photos, with stunning views of the sea and surrounding islands.
Hinatuan Enchanted River
- A beautiful river with clear blue-green waters that are said to be enchanted.
- A popular spot for swimming and snorkelling, with plenty of opportunities to see marine life.
- Visitors can also explore the nearby caves and other natural attractions.
- The river is surrounded by lush vegetation and offers a tranquil escape from the city.
- Best time to visit is during the dry season, from December to May when the water is at its clearest.
- Several tour operators offer boat tours of the river and other nearby attractions.
- Visitors are advised to bring sunscreen and insect repellent, as the area can be quite hot and humid.
Reason 05
Discover More
Tinuy-and Falls
- A majestic three-tiered waterfall that offers a refreshing swimming experience and a stunning backdrop for photos.
- Located in Bislig, about an hour's drive from Tandag.
- One of the largest and most beautiful waterfalls in the Philippines.
- The area surrounding the waterfall is lush and tropical, with plenty of opportunities for hiking and exploring.
- Best time to visit is during the rainy season, from June to October, when the waterfall is most powerful.
- Visitors can enjoy rafting and other water activities in the nearby rivers and streams.
- several tour operators offer guided tours of the waterfall and surrounding attractions.
Lake Bababu
- The lake is surrounded by lush greenery, providing a tranquil setting for relaxation and meditation.
- Fishing enthusiasts can rent a boat and try catching tilapia and other fish species.
- Visitors can rent paddle boats and kayaks to explore the lake and enjoy the scenery.
- The lake is a popular spot for birdwatching, with several bird species in the area.
- During the town's fiesta celebration, a fluvial parade featuring beautifully decorated boats is held on the lake.
- A boardwalk lines the lake's shore, offering a picturesque spot for a stroll or jog.
- The lake is easily accessible from Tandag town proper, with several tricycles and motorbikes available for hire.
Diatagon Matin-ao Spring
- The spring's crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming and cooling off on a hot day.
- The surrounding forest provides a peaceful and secluded setting for picnics and relaxation.
- There are several bamboo huts and picnic tables available for visitors.
- The spring is believed to have healing properties and cure skin ailments.
- The area is also a popular spot for camping, with several campsites nearby.
- Visitors can explore the nearby trails and other natural attractions, such as waterfalls and caves.
- The spring is easily accessible from Tandag, with several public and private vehicles available for hire.
Reason 06
Culture Traditions
- Tandag, like many other cities in the Philippines, has a rich and diverse culture shaped by its history, traditions, and religion.
- The majority of the population in Tandag is Roman Catholic, which plays a significant role in the city's cultural events and traditions.
- One of the most significant cultural events in Tandag is the city's fiesta, celebrated every January in honour of the city's patron saint, Señor Sto.
- Niño.
- The fiesta is marked by street parties, parades, religious processions, and various cultural performances, including traditional dances and music.
- Tandag is also known for its handicrafts, particularly the weaving of abaca fibres into various products such as bags, hats, and mats.
- Visitors to Tandag can visit local shops and markets to see these handicrafts and purchase them as souvenirs.
- The city is also home to various museums and cultural centres, such as the Surigao del Sur Museum and the Baybay Beach Cultural Village, where visitors can learn more about the region's history and culture.
Reason 07
Food Fun Fashion
Food
- Tandag, like most of the Philippines, has a rich and diverse food culture.
- Seafood is a staple in Tandag because it is near the coast.
- Some popular seafood dishes include kinilaw (raw fish marinated in vinegar and spices), grilled squid, and sinuglaw (a combination of grilled pork belly and kinilaw).
- Other popular dishes include adobo (meat marinated in vinegar, soy sauce, and spices), lechon (roasted pork), and pancit (stir-fried noodles with vegetables and meat).
- One of the unique food experiences in Tandag is the tiyula itum, a flavourful black soup made with beef or goat meat, ginger, and burnt coconut meat.
- Another local delicacy is the binakhaw, a seaweed often used in salads or soups.
- For those with a sweet tooth, Tandag is known for its kakanin (rice cakes) and bibingka (a type of rice cake made with coconut milk and topped with cheese and salted egg).
- Visitors to Tandag can also sample local fruits, such as durian, pomelo, and lanzones, all grown in the region.
Fun
- Island-hopping: Take a boat tour of the Britania Islands and explore the stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters.
- Snorkeling and diving: The waters around Tandag are teeming with marine life, making it an ideal spot for snorkelling and diving.
- River kayaking: Enjoy the scenic beauty of the Tago River while kayaking through its clear waters.
- Waterfalls adventure: Take a trip to Tinuy-an Falls, one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the Philippines, for an unforgettable swimming and photo experience.
- Local festivals: Tandag is known for its colourful festivals, including the Kasadyaan Festival, which celebrates the town's history and culture.
- Beach day: There are plenty of beaches around Tandag where you can relax, soak up the sun, and swim in the warm waters.
- Cave exploration: Explore the Hinatuan Enchanted River cave system, which features stunning rock formations and crystal-clear waters.
Fashion
- Tandag Public Market: This market offers a variety of fresh produce, seafood, meat, and other local products. Visitors can find local delicacies, such as dried fish, snacks, sweets, souvenirs, and handicrafts.
- Gaisano Capital Tandag: This small shopping mall in Tandag offers various stores selling clothing, electronics, and other goods.
- Tandag City Pasalubong Center: This centre is a good place to find souvenirs and local products, such as keychains, shirts, bags, and other handicrafts made by local artisans.
- Palengke sa Tandag: This is a weekend market held every Saturday and Sunday in Tandag. Visitors can find local products, such as fresh produce, seafood, meat, and handicrafts.
- Convenience stores: Visitors can find several convenience stores in Tandag, such as 7-Eleven and Mini Stop, where they can buy snacks, drinks, and other necessities.
- Street vendors: Visitors can also find street vendors selling local snacks and delicacies, such as fish balls, kwek-kwek, and banana cue, as well as souvenirs and other goods.
Reason 08
Nature Safari
- Britania Islands: This group of 24 small islands features stunning turquoise waters, white sand beaches, and rock formations, making it an ideal spot for swimming, snorkelling, and island-hopping.
- Tago River: Known for its crystal-clear waters, it is a great spot for swimming, kayaking, and enjoying the beautiful scenery along its banks.
- Hinatuan Enchanted River: This beautiful river is famous for its clear blue-green waters, which are said to be enchanted. Visitors can swim and snorkel in the river and explore the nearby caves.
- Tinuy-an Falls: Located in the town of Bislig, about an hour's drive from Tandag, Tinuy-an Falls is a majestic three-tiered waterfall that offers a refreshing swimming experience and a stunning backdrop for photos.
- Lake Bababu: This serene lake is located in the heart of Tandag and offers a peaceful escape from the city. Visitors can rent a boat or go fishing on the lake.
- Diatagon Matin-ao Spring: This natural spring is located in the nearby town of Lianga and is a popular spot for swimming and picnicking. The spring's crystal-clear waters and beautiful surroundings make it a must-visit attraction in Tandag.
- Libuacan Cold Spring: Located in the nearby town of San Miguel, Libuacan Cold Spring is a refreshing natural swimming pool surrounded by lush greenery. It is a perfect spot to relax and cool off from the hot weather.
Reason 09
Events Fiestas
- Tandag City Charter Day: Celebrated every 20th of June, the Tandag City Charter Day commemorates the city's founding anniversary with parades, live music, and cultural performances.
- Kahimunan Festival: Held every 29th of September, the Kahimunan Festival showcases the indigenous culture of the Surigaonon people through music, dance, and traditional games.
- Bonok-Bonok Maradjao Karadjao Festival: This colourful festival is held every 9th of September and features street dancing, tribal music, and cultural performances to honour the city's patron saint, San Nicolas de Tolentino.
- Kaimunan Festival: This festival is held every 1st of May in the nearby town of Cagwait, about an hour's drive from Tandag. It features a street parade, cultural shows, and a beauty pageant.
- Sinulog sa Kabataan: Celebrated every 2nd Sunday of January, the Sinulog sa Kabataan is a religious and cultural festival that features street dancing, colourful costumes, and live music.
- Kamote Festival: Celebrated every 14th to 16th of October, the Kamote Festival celebrates the humble sweet potato, a major crop in Tandag. The festival features cooking contests, street dances, and a beauty pageant.
- Pasko sa Tandag: Held every December, the Pasko sa Tandag is a month-long celebration of the Christmas season with parades, live music, and a grand fireworks display on New Year's Eve.