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Philippines

Kalanggaman Island Travel Guide (2024)

After a grueling journey from Sambawan Island in Biliran, my friends and I finally set foot on this beautiful paradise in early March. The best part? The weather was perfect even though the forecast was not in our favor. It felt like the universe was on our side! Join me as I take you through my amazing experience in Kalanggaman Island.

Where is Kalanggaman Island located?

Kalanggaman Island is a pristine island located in the municipality of Palompon in the province of Leyte. In 2013, a German luxury cruise ship with almost 400 tourists and over 200 crew members first made a stop over on a then isolated island. It was a trip that ended up putting the island on both the local and international travel map.

How to get to Kalanggaman Island

From Manila

Getting to Kalanggaman Island from Manila is easy. The closest airport to Kalanggaman Island is the Daniel Z. Romualdez Airport (TAC) in Tacloban City, Leyte. It’s an hour from Manila to TAC by plane, then 3-4 hours from Tacloban Downtown to Palompon by land. Finally, an hour of boat ride from Palompon Tourism Office to the island.

From Tacloban City

From Tacloban Downtown, you can take a van or bus to Palompon and then take a boat from there. Another option is to arrange for a private transfer or join a tour.

From Ormoc City

From Ormoc City, you can take a van or bus to Palompon and then take a boat from there. The travel time by land and boat can take around 3-4 hours.

From Biliran

From Naval, take a van or bus to Brgy. Libongao, and from there take another van to Palompon town. Alternatively, you can take a van to Ormoc City then another van to Palompon. This is what we did on our trip.

Kalanggaman Island at first sight

The age-old question before any trip to a new destination – will it live up to the hype? I had the same question in mind as we made our way to Kalanggaman Island from Palompon. But as I watched the island emerge from the distance, my doubts were quickly put to rest. This place is truly a sight to behold!

view of Kalanggaman Island from the boat

I couldn’t believe my eyes! It was the paradise I’ve been dreaming of – a quiet and undeveloped island that exudes a laid-back vibe. Its natural beauty was breathtaking, and I loved that it had no hotels, cafes, or bars. It was just us, the sun, sand, and sea!

Kalanggaman Island Sandbar

Upon our arrival, we wasted no time and headed straight to the stunning sandbar on the left side of the island facing Palompon. Despite the blazing sun, I was in awe of the view. The crystal clear waters and blue skies were a sight to behold. However, we were warned by the tourism officer that swimming in the sandbar area is not advisable due to strong currents. So take this advice seriously when planning your visit, no matter how inviting it may seem.

While the sand may not be as fine as in other popular beach destinations in the Philippines, the natural beauty of the island more than makes up for it. Lucky for us, we arrived on a Monday when most weekend tourists had left. Although there were a couple of other groups on the island, it felt like we had the place almost entirely to ourselves.

Kalanggaman Island is such a beauty. I just hope that ALL visitors will follow the ‘Leave No Trace’ rule all time.

Things to Know Before You Go

What is the best month to go to Kalanggaman Island?

The best time to go to Kalanggaman Island is during the summer months (March to May). Expect many tourists during weekend, so better schedule your trip on weekdays.

Can I stay overnight in Kalanggaman Island?

Yes! Although there are no fancy resorts, you can stay in a nipa hut or a tent for about 500-750 pesos. You can also pitch your own tent and pay a minimal fee.

The restrooms and shower areas in the island are primitive, so if you are maarte like me, expect the unexpected. Lol. Don’t fret, though! There are shower facilities in the tourism office, which you can use once you get back the next day to Palompon.

Where to eat in Kalanggaman Island?

There are no restaurants and carinderia, so make sure to buy your food supplies in Palompon Market. There is no source of potable water in the island, so make sure to bring enough drinking water to last until the next day. Also, you will be given a few gallons of water by the tourism office (depends on how many people in your boat), which you can use for cleaning utensils, bathing etc.

Is there electricity in Kalanggaman island?

There is no electricity in the island. They have generators used mainly for lighting at night. Don’t forget to bring power banks for your gadgets.

Is there a signal in Kalanggaman Island?

There is mobile phone signal in the island. We used my friend’s Globe Pocket WIFI when we were there and we were surprised we could surf the net! We could even upload pictures on Facebook and Instagram! Real time update, it is!

4D/3N Sambawan Island – Kalanggaman Island Itinerary

Day 1: Chasing Waterfalls in Biliran

  • Arrival in Tacloban City
  • Travel to Biliran
  • Waterfall Chasing in Mainland Biliran or Maripipi Island

Day 2: Sambawan Island

  • Morning boat transfer to Sambawan Island from Naval or Maripipi Island
  • Overnight stay in Sambawan Island

Day 3: Kalanggaman Island

  • Early morning travel to Palompon
  • Board the boat to Kalanggaman Island and set up tent
  • Overnight stay in Kalanggaman Island

Day 4: Back to Tacloban City

  • Wake up early to catch sunrise
  • Morning boat transfer back to Palompon
  • Travel back to Tacloban City and fly out

Should you be interested in visiting Kalanggaman Island, you may contact Palompon Eco-Tourism.

Where to stay in Tacloban City

If your flight is scheduled the next day, you can stay in Tacloban City. After three days of non-stop moving, you can rest in a nice hotel and sample delicious seafood at Ocho Seafood and Grill Restaurant. It’s the perfect way to cap off an amazing trip to Sambawan Island and Kalanggaman Island. Here are some of the top-rated hotels in Tacloban City:

Ironwood Hotel

Summit Hotel Tacloban

Have you been to Kalanggaman Island? What other tips would you add to the list? Let me know in the comment section below!

By Project Gora

Hey there! My name is Milet Miranda, and I'm a full-time corporate employee during weekdays and a traveler during weekends (and holidays...you get the picture). I'm a foodie at heart and I love joining food tours. When I'm not traveling, you'll find me walking my dogs or biking around my neighborhood.