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Top 10 Reasons to Visit Tacloban
Reason 01
A Sneak Peak into Tacloban
- Holidays to Tacloban is a vibrant and culturally rich city located on the northeastern coast of the island of Leyte in the Philippines.
- With a population of over 250,000 people, it is the capital of the Eastern Visayas region and is considered the hub of commerce, education, and culture.
- The city is known for its historical significance, having played a major role in the liberation of the Philippines during World War II, and for its beautiful natural landscapes, including stunning beaches and scenic mountain ranges.
- Despite being hit hard by Typhoon Haiyan in 2013, Tacloban has made significant progress in recovery and rebuilding efforts, making it a popular destination for tourists seeking to explore the beauty and history of the Philippines.
- Tacloban offers a wide range of attractions and activities for visitors, from exploring historical landmarks and museums to relaxing on the beach and indulging in the local cuisine.
- Visitors can explore the Santo Niño Shrine and Heritage Museum, which houses historical artefacts and exhibits about the region's culture and history, or visit the MacArthur Landing Memorial National Park, a tribute to General Douglas MacArthur and the American troops who landed on the shores of Leyte during World War II.
- The city is also a gateway to nearby natural wonders, such as the San Juanico Bridge, one of the longest bridges in the Philippines, and the stunning Kalanggaman Island, with its crystal-clear waters and white sand beaches. Our Holiday Vibes are Good Vibes Only!
- Capital: Tacloban City
- International airport: Daniel Z. Romualdez Airport (TAC)
- 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: Roman Catholic
Reason 02
Highlights
- Leyte Landing Memorial Park: This park is a tribute to the American and Filipino soldiers who liberated the Philippines from Japanese occupation during World War II. Visitors can see a statue of General Douglas MacArthur, the landing site, and a museum that displays artefacts from the war.
- San Juanico Bridge: This bridge connects the islands of Leyte and Samar and is one of the longest bridges in the Philippines. Visitors can enjoy scenic views of the strait and the surrounding mountains.
- Sto. Niño Shrine and Heritage Museum: This museum showcases Tacloban's rich history and culture and the Eastern Visayas region. It features various exhibits, including religious artefacts, local arts and crafts, and historical documents.
- McArthur Park Beach Resort: This beach resort is popular for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. It offers visitors the chance to relax and enjoy the stunning view of the ocean.
- Kalanggaman Island: This picturesque island is known for its crystal-clear waters, white sand beaches, and stunning coral reefs. Visitors can take a day trip to the island to swim, snorkel, and sunbathe.
- Leyte Provincial Capitol: This colonial-era building serves as the seat of the provincial government and features unique architecture and a beautiful garden.
- Festivals: Tacloban celebrates several festivals yearly, including the Sangyaw Festival, which showcases the local culture and traditions through street dancing and parades.
Reason 03
Seasons to Travel
- Holidays to Tacloban experiences a tropical climate characterized by hot and humid weather throughout the year.
- The city has two distinct seasons - the wet season and the dry season.
- The wet season typically runs from June to November, with the highest rainfall in August and September.
- During this time, the city may experience typhoons, heavy rains, and strong winds, sometimes flooding and landslides.
- While the wet season may not be the best time to visit Tacloban for outdoor activities, it is a great time to experience the city's lush and green landscapes.
- The dry season in Tacloban runs from December to May, with January and February being the coolest months.
- This season is characterized by sunny and warm weather, with occasional rain showers.
- It is the best time to visit Tacloban for outdoor activities such as beach-going, hiking, and exploring the city's landmarks and attractions.
- Overall, Tacloban can be visited throughout the year, but visitors should know the weather conditions and plan accordingly.
- If you prefer cooler temperatures and less humidity, consider visiting during the dry season.
- However, if you enjoy lush landscapes and don't mind occasional rain showers, the wet season can be a great time to experience Tacloban's natural beauty.
Reason 04
Worth A Visit
Leyte Landing Memorial Park
- Commemorates the historic landing of General Douglas MacArthur in Leyte during World War II.
- Features a MacArthur statue and a museum displaying artefacts from the war.
- The park is a popular destination for history enthusiasts and tourists.
- It is a great place to learn about the role of the Philippines in World War II.
- Visitors can take a guided tour to learn more about the events that took place.
- The park also offers a beautiful view of the Leyte Gulf and the surrounding mountains.
- The park is open to the public, and admission is free.
San Juanico Bridge
- Connects the islands of Leyte and Samar and is one of the longest bridges in the Philippines.
- The bridge is a popular destination for sightseeing and photography.
- It offers stunning views of the San Juanico Strait and the surrounding mountains.
- Visitors can enjoy the view from the bridge's observation deck or take a boat tour underneath the bridge.
- The bridge is illuminated at night, creating a beautiful sight.
- It is considered an engineering marvel and an important part of Philippine infrastructure.
- Visitors can access the bridge by car or by taking public transportation.
Sto. Niño Shrine and Heritage Museum
- Showcases Tacloban's rich history and culture and the Eastern Visayas region.
- Features exhibits, including religious artefacts, local arts and crafts, and historical documents.
- The museum is housed in a beautiful mansion that was once the Marcos family's residence.
- The mansion's architecture is a blend of Spanish and Filipino influences.
- The museum is great for learning about the region's art, culture, and history.
- Visitors can take a guided tour to learn more about the exhibits.
- The museum is open to the public, and admission is free.
McArthur Park Beach Resort
- A popular beach resort in Tacloban that offers a range of activities and amenities.
- Visitors can swim, sunbathe, and enjoy water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding.
- The resort features a restaurant that serves local and international cuisine.
- It offers stunning views of the ocean and the surrounding landscape.
- The resort is great for relaxing and unwinding after exploring Tacloban's attractions.
- Visitors can access the resort by car or by taking public transportation.
- The resort offers various accommodation options for different budgets.
Reason 05
Discover More
Kalanggaman Island
- A picturesque island known for its crystal-clear waters, white sand beaches, and stunning coral reefs.
- Visitors can take a day trip to the island to swim, snorkel, and sunbathe.
- The island is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.
- It offers a relaxing and serene environment that is perfect for unwinding.
- The island is accessible by boat from Tacloban or nearby municipalities.
- Visitors can rent a cottage or a tent on the island for a day or overnight stay.
- The island is well-maintained and offers facilities like restrooms and picnic areas.
Leyte Provincial Capitol
- A historic colonial-era building that serves as the seat of the provincial government.
- Features unique architecture that blends Spanish and Filipino influences.
- The building is surrounded by a beautiful garden that is open to the public.
- Visitors can take a guided tour of the building to learn more about its history and architecture.
- The building is a popular destination for sightseeing and photography.
- The garden is a great place to relax and enjoy the view of the surrounding landscape.
- The building and the garden are open to the public, and admission is free.
Red Beach
- A significant historical landmark that was the site of the first American landing in the Philippines during World War II.
- The beach is named after the sand's red colour caused by the soil's iron oxide.
- Visitors can learn about the events that took place and the role of the beach in the liberation of the Philippines.
- The beach is a great place to relax and enjoy the view of the ocean and the surrounding landscape.
- The beach is accessible by car or by taking public transportation.
- Visitors can access nearby resorts and restaurants that offer local cuisine and amenities.
- The beach is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.
Santo Niño Church
- A significant religious landmark in Tacloban and is considered one of the oldest churches in the Philippines.
- Features unique architecture that reflects Spanish and Filipino influences.
- The church is home to a statue of the Sto. Niño is a revered religious figure in the country.
- Visitors can attend mass and participate in religious ceremonies.
- The church is a popular destination for sightseeing and photography.
- The church is surrounded by a plaza open to the public.
- The church and the plaza are great places to relax and enjoy the view of the surrounding landscape.
Reason 06
Culture Traditions
- Festivals: Tacloban celebrates several festivals yearly that showcase the local culture and traditions. One of the most popular festivals is the Sangyaw Festival, which features colourful street dancing and parades. Other festivals include the Pintados-Kasadyaan Festival, which celebrates the region's ancient warrior culture, and the Pasaka Festival, which showcases the traditional dances and music of the Waray people.
- Religion: Tacloban is a predominantly Roman Catholic city with several historic churches and religious landmarks. One of Tacloban's most significant religious landmarks is the Santo Niño Church, considered one of the oldest churches in the Philippines. The church is home to a statue of the Sto. Niño is a revered religious figure in the country.
- Local Cuisine: Tacloban is known for its unique cuisine influenced by its coastal location and abundant natural resources. Some popular local dishes include binagol, a sweet coconut and taro dessert, and moron, a sweet rice cake wrapped in banana leaves. Visitors can sample these dishes at local restaurants and markets.
- Arts and Crafts: Tacloban is home to several local artists and artisans who produce various unique and traditional products. Visitors can explore local markets and shops to find handmade crafts like woven baskets, pottery, and woodcarvings. These products make for great souvenirs and gifts.
- Natural Environment: Tacloban has a diverse and beautiful natural environment, including white sand beaches, lush forests, and crystal-clear waters. The city's natural beauty is reflected in its culture, with many traditional dances and music inspired by the local flora and fauna. Visitors can better explore the city's natural attractions to understand the local culture and way of life.
Reason 07
Food Fun Fashion
Food
- Binagol: This sweet coconut and taro dessert is a popular treat in Tacloban. It is made by mixing grated coconut, taro, and sugar and then wrapping the mixture in banana leaves before baking it. Binagol has a unique texture and a sweet and nutty flavour.
- Moron: Moron is a sweet rice cake wrapped in banana leaves. It is made by mixing rice flour, coconut milk, sugar, and chocolate and then steaming the mixture until it forms a solid cake. Moron has a rich, chocolatey flavour popular among locals and tourists.
- Adobo: Adobo is a popular Filipino dish that is made with meat (usually chicken or pork) that is marinated in a mixture of vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, and other spices. The meat is then simmered in the marinade until tender and flavorful. Adobo is a staple dish in Tacloban and can be found at many local restaurants and food stalls.
- Suman: Suman is a traditional Filipino snack made from sticky rice in banana leaves. It is usually served with coconut jam or sugar and has a sweet and chewy texture.
- Kinilaw: Kinilaw is a type of ceviche made with raw fish or seafood marinated in vinegar, lime juice, and spices. It is a popular dish in Tacloban, known for its abundant seafood.
- Lechon: Lechon is a roasted whole pig staple at Filipino celebrations and fiestas. The skin is crispy and flavorful, while the meat is tender and juicy. Lechon is often served with a variety of sauces and side dishes.
- Calamansi Juice: Calamansi juice is a popular Tacloban drink made from the local calamansi fruit. The juice is sweet and tangy and is often served as a refreshing drink on hot days.
Fun
- Explore Historical Landmarks: Tacloban has several landmarks that glimpse the city's past. Visitors can explore the Leyte Landing Memorial Park, commemorating General Douglas MacArthur's landing during World War II or the Sto. Niño Shrine and Heritage Museum showcases the region's art, culture, and history.
- Visit Beautiful Beaches: Tacloban is known for its beautiful beaches that offer a range of activities, including swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. Some popular beaches include Cancabato Bay, San Juanico Beach, and Red Beach.
- Attend Festivals: Tacloban celebrates several festivals yearly that showcase the local culture and traditions. Visitors can attend the Sangyaw Festival, which features colourful street dancing and parades, or the Pintados-Kasadyaan Festival, which celebrates the region's ancient warrior culture.
- Take a Boat Tour: Visitors can take a boat tour to explore the San Juanico Strait and its beautiful scenery. The boat tour offers stunning views of the San Juanico Bridge, one of the longest bridges in the Philippines.
- Try Local Cuisine: Tacloban is known for its unique and flavorful cuisine influenced by its coastal location and abundant natural resources. Visitors can try local dishes like binagol, moron, and kinilaw at restaurants and food stalls.
- Shop for Local Crafts: Tacloban is home to several local artists and artisans who produce various unique and traditional products. Visitors can explore local markets and shops to find handmade crafts like woven baskets, pottery, and woodcarvings.
- Enjoy Nightlife: Tacloban has a vibrant nightlife scene, with several bars and clubs that offer music, drinks, and entertainment. Visitors can enjoy live music and performances at popular venues like The Kanto Bar or Night Cafe.
Fashion
- Traditional Clothing: Tacloban is home to several indigenous tribes, including the Waray people, who wear traditional clothing. Visitors can see traditional clothing like the Balintawak dress, a formal dress worn for special occasions like weddings and fiestas.
- Beachwear: Tacloban's coastal location means that beachwear is a popular fashion choice for locals and visitors. Light and breathable fabrics like cotton and linen are common, as well as colourful prints and patterns. Beachwear can be found at local markets and shops.
- Western-Style Clothing: Western-style clothing is also popular in Tacloban, especially among the younger generation. Visitors can find trendy clothing items like denim jeans, t-shirts, and sneakers at local malls and boutiques.
- Handmade Crafts: Tacloban is home to several local artisans who produce a range of handmade crafts, including clothing and accessories. Visitors can find unique items like handwoven baskets, hats, and jewellery at local markets and shops.
- Religious Clothing: Tacloban is a predominantly Roman Catholic city, and religious clothing is often worn during religious ceremonies and events. Women may wear traditional dresses or veils, while men may wear suits or traditional barongs.
- Sustainable Clothing: Tacloban is becoming more conscious about sustainable fashion, and several initiatives promote eco-friendly clothing options. Visitors can find sustainable clothing from organic and recycled materials at local boutiques and shops.
Reason 08
Nature Safari
- Leyte Landing Memorial Park: The Leyte Landing Memorial Park is a historical park where General Douglas MacArthur landed in the Philippines during World War II. The park features a large bronze statue of MacArthur and several monuments and exhibits commemorating the historic landing.
- Mahagnao Volcano Natural Park: The Mahagnao Volcano Natural Park is a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers. The park is home to several hiking trails that lead to the summit of Mahagnao Volcano, which offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The park also has several hot springs and waterfalls that visitors can explore.
- Cancabato Bay Wildlife Sanctuary: The Cancabato Bay Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area that is home to a variety of wildlife, including migratory birds, marine turtles, and mangrove species. Visitors can explore the sanctuary on a guided tour or by boat rental.
- San Juanico Bridge: The San Juanico Bridge is one of the longest bridges in the Philippines and offers stunning views of the San Juanico Strait. Visitors can walk or bike across the bridge and enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding landscape.
- Balyuan Amphitheater: The Balyuan Amphitheater is a beautiful park near Cancabato Bay. The park features a large theatre that hosts cultural events and performances and several gardens and walking paths that visitors can explore.
- Sohoton Natural Bridge National Park: The Sohoton Natural Bridge National Park is a popular destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The park has several caves, waterfalls, and rock formations that visitors can explore on guided tours.
- San Pedro Bay Marine Park: The San Pedro Bay Marine Park is a protected marine reserve that is home to a variety of marine life, including coral reefs, sea turtles, and tropical fish species. Visitors can explore the marine park by snorkelling or diving with a local tour operator.
Reason 09
Events Fiestas
- Sangyaw Festival: The Sangyaw Festival is a religious and cultural festival that celebrates the Feast of the Sto. Niño. The festival features a colourful street parade, cultural shows, and exhibits that showcase the region's art, music, and dance.
- Pintados-Kasadyaan Festival: The Pintados-Kasadyaan Festival is a week-long event that celebrates the region's ancient warrior culture. The festival features traditional dances, music, street parades, pageants, and cultural exhibits.
- Kankabato Festival: The Kankabato Festival is a local celebration held every January in honour of the city's patron saint, the Santo Niño. The festival features street dancing, parades, and a variety of cultural events and performances.
- Pasaka Festival: The Pasaka Festival is a cultural festival that celebrates the indigenous people of Eastern Visayas. The festival features traditional music, dance performances, exhibits, and workshops that showcase the region's cultural heritage.
- Kasadyaan Festival: The Kasadyaan Festival is a cultural event held every June to commemorate the anniversary of the province of Leyte. The festival features colourful street parades, cultural exhibits, and a variety of local food and crafts.
- Leyte Gulf Landing Anniversary: The Leyte Gulf Landing Anniversary is an annual event commemorating the historic landing of American and Filipino forces during World War II. Events mark the anniversary, and exhibits showcase the region's history and culture.
- Buyogan Festival: The Buyogan Festival is a cultural event that celebrates the city's cultural heritage and the importance of bees in the local economy. The festival features street parades, cultural exhibits, and a variety of local food and crafts.