DiscoverHadji Muhtamad
Discover the natural beauty, culture and heritage of Hadji Muhtamad.
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Top 10 Reasons to Visit Hadji Muhtamad
Reason 01
A Sneak Peak into Hadji Muhtamad
- The most exciting holidays to Hadji Muhtamad, Basilan - start with a silent morning stroll in a shoreline where gulls gossip and the blue water laps the coast, preparing one on a day of adventure.
- As the sun rises higher, the traveller is lost in a bunch of little islands with their own mysterious lagoon, and a vow of unsullied loveliness.
- The island of Lanhil, the principal one, is a mariner laboratory, in which fishermen should welcome the visitor with a friendly smile and the smell of fresh sea salt in the air.
- When the sea is calm the wind is blowing through the palms and the cry of a lone bird is heard in the distance and it gives a feeling of calmness that makes each excursion almost a mystical experience.
- Evening excursions show a sky changing cobalt to amber and where the locals sit round a blaze and tell tales of the sea and the stars are particularly bright over the Sulu archipelago.
- In such a casual atmosphere, every tourist will be welcome to enjoy the uncomplicated pleasure of seeing the waves crashing in a quiet manner, and this is to know that the gimmick of this place is in its very modest nature.
- Capital (of the province): Isabela City (de facto; Basilan’s official seat of government is Lamitan City)
- International airport: No international airport in Hadji Muhtamad
- Nearest commonly used:
- Zamboanga International Airport (Zamboanga City) – the primary gateway to Basilan
- Travel continues by ferry/boat to Basilan
- Currency: Philippine Peso (PHP)
- Time zone: UTC+8 (Philippine Standard Time)
- Driving side: Right-hand side
- Main electricity: 220 volts, 60 Hz
- Official / local languages: Tausug, Yakan, Sama, Chavacano, Filipino, English
- Major religion: Predominantly Islam
Reason 02
Highlights
- Beaches of Lanhil Island have a fine, white sand that seems to be powdered sugar to the naked feet and form a cool playground to the sun-seeker as well as beachcombers.
- The crystal-clear waters which surround the municipality boast of an incredible number of marine animals which means a snorkelers will get a perfect underwater scene of coloured corals and curious fish.
- A quick glance at the ancient fishing technology shows that the wooden boats slowly move without a sound through the water, and the expert hands are turning the nets, which possess the knowledge of the sea rhythm.
- These tiny sandbars, which are scattered across the waters are ideal picnic spots during daytime as one gets to enjoy fresh fruits and local delicacies in perfect harmony with the soft sea breeze.
- Besides the natural marvels, the tourists are plunged into the colourful world of the local community where the combination of the Tausug and the Sama traditions creates a rich culture pallet.
- Lastly, the tranquilly of the island life will also make the traveller slow down and take in the natural rhythm of the Sulu Sea, making each moment memorable.
Reason 03
Seasons to Travel
- The dry season is the most appropriate time to visit this remote island cluster as it is between November and May, the sky is clear, and the waters are calm enough to be safe during island-hopping.
- In these months, the humidity is pleasant and balances the heat, and in the evenings, there are cool breezes, which after spending a day in the beach cools.
- On the other hand, the period between the months of July to October is also a sign of a typhoon period that might lead to erratic storms and so travelling or the waters could be very unsafe to even the most seasoned kayaker.
- The fishing season of the locals is also an aspect that should be noted by the tourist looking forward to visiting the area, since the fresh catch is a lot only before the rainy season, and this is an added bonus to the tourist when it comes to visiting the area during the dry months.
- Climate tracking applications and weather reports on the ground are very important because a delay of as little as a few minutes in a departure can spell the difference between a dream day and a storm-filled adventure.
- This is because planning holidays to Hadji Muhtamad ahead with the help of local tourism officials would mean you do not have to miss the pristine beaches and marine life on your holidays to Hadji Muhtamad, Basilan.
Reason 04
Worth A Visit
Hidden Sandbar Sanctuary
- It is a remote sandbar that can only be reached by a small paddle and has an untouched white-sanding beach that seems a hidden sanctuary in the middle of nowhere.
- The adjacent crystal waters are perfect in snorkelling and a viewer sees a kaleidoscope of coral reefs that appear to be glowing under the sun.
- The sand becomes warm amber as the sun rises and this forms a natural background to pictures that are memorable and capture the untouched beauty of the islands.
- Local guides will usually tell of the history of the sandbar and how it was used as a safe haven by generations of fishermen.
- Such a presence of minimum human impact translates to the fact that the flora and fauna are virtually undisturbed and therefore provide a unique experience of nature.
- Tourists walk away satisfied and refreshed as they understand that this secret place is a peaceful retreat off the regular chaos of the mainstream tourist spots.
Lanhil Community Village
- The traditional wooden houses in the village line the shoreline with their thatched roofs murmuring with the storeys of the craftsmanship of the ancestors that have taken centuries to being present.
- In this case, hand woven baskets and detailed shellwork will be made by local artisans and can be bought as a unique souvenir, which will keep the island spirit with him.
- The everyday activities, including the pre-dawn fish harvest and the community seafood preparation also present a real-life peep into the experiences of the locals in the area.
- The main square of the village is a hub of vibrant interactions and the visitors are able to savour in the taste of freshly grilled prawns roasted in open fires.
- The community people are very welcoming of tourists, they narrate the history of the island and also give them folklore which adds more flavour to the historical experience.
- The cohesion that it evokes is also quite striking about this village, demonstrating how much of a cohesive culture a relatively small population can maintain.
Coral Reef Conservation Zone.
- The reef system around it is a marine biologists laboratory, a living marine ecosystem comprising a wide variety of species in a very delicate ecosystem that makes conservation worthy.
- Trainers take beginners through underwater tunnels where host of colourful fish are found and every time one goes out diving, it is an experience of a lifetime.
- These intricate designs of the reef provide shelter to not only widespread species, but also rare species and the space is conserved to maintain this delicate ecosystem to the generations to come.
- Educational signs provide explanations about the significance of each species and their contribution to the well being of the sea which makes visitors respect it.
- The reef close to the shore is surrounded by shallow waters that enable the families with children to easily explore the reef and this is a lifetime experience that the families will always remember.
- Practitioners who join reef clean-up days go back to their homes with a better insight into environmental stewardship, a fact that supports the idea that each action counts.
Sunset Vista Point
- An easy ascent to this place will provide sweeping scenes of the sun setting into the Sulu Sea, and bathe the sky in the colours of orange, pink, and violet.
- The faraway islands are seen as silhouettes on the horizon, which is burning and creates a feeling of wonder that is ideal to reflect on.
- At this place, the local residents meet each other during festivals held by the community, and a person can observe these happy events despite his or her social distance.
- The salt and seaweed air that blows off the water is added to the visual sensuality of the experience.
- Various picnic areas in the area motivate the tourists to have a light bite and enjoy the breathtaking views.
- The stars are seen as the night sets in, and the silence of the island tempts one to reflect, and this view is therefore a must-see destination to anyone who wants to have peace.
Reason 05
Discover More
Remote Island of Tindalo
- Tindalo is mostly undeveloped, and there are some huts in the coastline that are made of thatch, and its beach is flawless and has the impression of being a million miles off any tourist route.
- The waters of the island are also rich in crayfish and it provides a special dining experience to the adventurous tourists who explore the local cuisine.
- A small walk through mangrove forests could show the fine roots and concealed creatures, and this brings a close experience to the nature.
- Tindalo community is famous in the traditional boatbuilding industry whereby they make boats that have endured numerous trips.
- The visitors are able to see how the building takes place, and even join small workshops that showcase sustainable practises.
- The isolated nature of the destination also guarantees the traveller a real seclusive holiday, with the only sound that can be heard is the waves crashing on the beach in rhythm.
The Lanhil Marine Sanctuary
- The calm waters are home to sea turtles that are a source of reminiscence of the marine biodiversity that flourishes in the area.
- Guided tours make the visitors aware of the life cycle of these turtles and the need to ensure the sanctuary is not polluted.
- The coral structures found in the sanctuary serve as natural philtres and so the waters remain clear and bright to the marine creatures and human pleasure.
- Seeing a turtle in the wild makes it feel like you are in awe and you cannot get the same feeling in any other water body.
- Community outreach is also part of the management of the sanctuary whereby local fishermen can enjoy the benefits of sustainable practise.
- Tourists walk away with a new found awareness on the fragility of the ecosystems and the contribution that every person can make in conserving the ecosystems.
The Panoramic Trail Around Lanhil
- This is a meandering path that leads hikers through thick vegetation that supports colourful birds, and each step is a surprise.
- There are scenic views of the whole island along the route, which show the stratified landscape of cliffs to shoreline.
- The rugged nature of the trail promotes physical exercises as well as giving the visitors the full experience of the natural beauty of the island.
- The local guides help along with legends of the history of the area and it is quite possible to trace the history of each trail segment to the storeys which have been transmitted down the ages.
- Another thing is that the trail cuts right through some hidden coves where a person can take a moment to reflect and get his mind calmed by the sound of the waves.
- To people who complete the trail, the sense of achievement is equal to the spectacular views that are the reward of hard work.
The Historical Maroon Lighthouse
- The lighthouse is located on a high cliff, which offers a historical perspective through which the maritime history of this area can be seen and which helped lead thousands of sailors out into the night without any harm.
- The red and white stripes of the lighthouse are brighter than any other building around the place and it has become a significant landmark to both the locals and the visiting tourists.
- There is also an exhibit of old nautical maps and tools inside and it enables the visitor to gain an insight into the history of navigation and shipbuilding.
- The nearby cliffs provide the dramatic scene of the sunrise, experiencing the golden light, which illuminates the silhouette of the lighthouse.
- The dim noise of the sea even in the distance reminds one of the reason why the lighthouse was built, which is to save the sailors against the randomness of the sea.
- It is an experience that takes away the feeling of discontinuity when a traveller visits this beacon of history and connects with the generations of the mariners who used to depend on its beam.
Reason 06
Culture Traditions
- The Muslim communities that are the majority in the island are very faithful in their faith and they practise prayers in their daily lives which make them feel united as they live.
- Another characteristic point is the boat-building that has been a family trade, which shows the respect to the maritime culture and craftsmanship.
- The festive celebrations of the community are characterised by exuberant music played on local instruments like the gung and kaddar whereby festive events are marked by these instruments.
- Marriages and gatherings feast demonstrate complex weaving of fabrics, which depict the way art and celebration are inseparable in everyday life.
- Communal fishing practises are also guided by traditions that make them have responsible practises in harvesting; a virtue that is reflective of the practise of sustainability by the community.
- The elderly people tend to congregate in evening groups and give anecdotes which emphasise the strength of the island and cultural pride.
Reason 07
Food Fun Fashion
Food
- The local food is mainly centred around freshly caught seafood which is cooked without much seasoning to allow the natural taste of fish, crab and shellfish to come out.
- One of its signature dishes, the Piyassak, is made with turmeric rice which does not only provide a vivid colour, but also a light earthy flavour which goes well with grilled fish.
- Other delicacies include, Tyulah Itum, a black beef soup that adds rich and savoury flavours to the palate and which exhibits the diversity in the cuisine of the region.
- These local products such as coconut milk and herbs bring additional layers of flavour and aroma, making each one of the meals well balanced.
- Conserving the original flavour of every dish is done through traditional cooking methods like grilling on open coals or slow cooking in clay pots.
- To the tourists, the dishes are not only a delight to the palate, but also give them a cultural experience of what life is like in the community during their holidays to Hadji Muhtamad, Basilan.
Fun
- The Island hopping tours entail hopping around the seven barangays, each with a different landscape to explore with coves that lie hidden.
- Snorkelling through the turquoise water brings out the underwater world where colourful coral structure extend along the sea floor, and one is tempted to explore it.
- Beachcombing also enables the tourists to gather shells and rocks which can be used as miniature souvenirs of the natural wealth of the island.
- Sunset kayaking also gives an opportunity to enjoy the shimmering sea surface with the changing of the sky colour to gold.
- Evening partying at the beach bars in the town charge with the scent of grilled fish as they create a relaxed ambience of mixing and telling of tales.
- Such family friendly activities as sandcastle building and led nature walks make sure that people of all ages could enjoy the benefits of the island.
Fashion
- Locals and visitors wad in the heat wearing lightweight cotton clothes that are easy to breath in, which make them stay cool at the warm temperatures and are also comfortable.
- The Muslim culture embraced in the island promotes modest dressing particularly in social places where simple sarong and a light jacket is modest and convenient.
- The outfits worn at the beaches tend to be simple and practical which emphasise safety and movement at the expense of dazzling designs.
- It is also crucial to use sun protection, and it is generally accepted that wide-brimmed hats and UV-blocking sunglasses are suitable to cover both the skin and eyes.
- In rustic environment, the locals usually use the home woven belt and caps that both have a functional and decorative role.
- To people travelling, a combination of these simple styles with some comfortable shoes enables them to easily move through the sandy roads and rocky tracks.
Reason 08
Nature Safari
- The coral reefs around the islands are very diverse in nature and harbour thousands of species of fish and coral.
- The isolated beaches are miles long and each beach has its own blend of fine sand and pure waters with the bottling movement of palm trees.
- The horizon of the Sulu Sea is usually a deep blue that goes as far as the world is wide and this makes each sunset an indelible view.
- The mangrove beds surrounding the islands are of vital habitats to the birds, crabs, and the fish, and they also act as the natural nurseries to the marine life.
- The rare species like the Sulu hornbill attracts birdwatchers to the region which perch on the canopy.
- Terrestrial with marine environment forms a fragile and resilient ecosystem where it is possible to experience a wide range of safari.
Reason 09
Events Fiestas
- The religious practises of the community especially, the Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha are characterised by prayers in the community, eating together and exchanging presents.
- Every barangay has their fiesta, and they mark the blessings of the sea dancing, singing, and making a big feast that is a representation of local specialties.
- During such celebrations, traditional boat races are held, which is an exciting observation of skill and camaraderie in neighbouring villages.
- The festivals are also a venue where local crafts are displayed and the artisans display woven fabrics, jewellery and homemade ornaments.
- There are also food stalls along the streets with a collection of cuisines that show the rich food culture of the region, with grilled fish to a preparation of aromatic rice.
- Holidays to Hadji Muhtamad lanterns at night are lit up in the dark sky and it is a magical moment that attracts both locals and visitors to party together.