Biliran – The Province of Nature and Adventure (Travel Guide + Tips)

BILIRAN PROVINCE

Biliran is an island province located in the region of Eastern Visayas. Before, it belonged to the province of Leyte. Now, it has become an independent province that boasts an identity as a tourism hub for adventurers and nature lovers.

There is a lot to explore in the province from mountains, falls, and caves to islands. The province will surely capture your heart like mine.

GOING THERE

As part of my Eastern Visayas Trip, I chose Biliran as my second destination. I was intrigued by photos of Sambawan Island and Tinago Falls located in the province.

Before going there, I came from Kalanggaman Island in Leyte.  I rode a van going to Lemon, and from there, rode another van going to Naval, the capital of Biliran. Leyte and Biliran are connected by the Biliran Bridge, so there’s a need for boat transfers.

Just as the van entered Biliran, I took a glance at the window and the landscape caught my attention. The sea, the rice fields, and the mountains all came together and formed this magnificent landscape of greens and slopes.

I arrived at Naval around 4:00 P.M. and looked for a place to stay in. I chose to stay at El Roman Pensionne for cheap and simple accommodation. As part of my trip, I explored the town of Naval and watched the sunset before ending my Day 1 in Biliran.

EXPLORING BILIRAN

I started my Biliran Tour around 7 A.M. I told my guide, Kuya Elmer, to bring me to the falls of the island. Some of the falls can only be accessed by trekking deep into the forest/mountain. Visiting them all will consume a lot of time. Instead, he brought me to places that I didn’t know about but also a place to visit in Biliran.

I rode on the back of his motorcycle and saw this beautiful landscape of rice terraces and the mountains being hit by the sun. It was a view I won’t forget. Just seeing it makes me stare in awe.

Below are the destinations I’ve visited in Biliran:

Paradizu Bayview Resort

Paradizu Bayview Resort is a resort that offers a view deck where everyone can see the west coast of Biliran. Sadly, it’s hard to swim there because of the rocky beach. It’s a starter for my Biliran exploration.

Acaban Cave

Different stories surround Acaban Cave, like:

1. Japanese Soldiers used the cave as a hiding place during World War 2 and hid a lot of gold treasures inside which attracted treasure hunters.
2. It is very long that it reaches up to the mountains in the middle of the island.
3. The water coming from the spring inside is said to have healing powers.
4. Enchanted spirits dwell in the cave.
5. Two lovers spent some “time” inside but tragedy struck and they got swallowed by the sea.

These stories may be true or not but it is a fact that this cave is a place worth visiting. 

Take a dip into its clear and cold waters or take a rest at its cottages and watch the sea and sunset.

Tinago Falls

Tinago Falls is probably one of the most amazing falls I’ve ever seen. It can be accessed by a paved road and picnic areas are also available.

Canaan Hill Farms

Canaan Hill Farms is a 6-hectare organic uphill farm owned and managed by the Espinazo Family. They raise different livestock from chickens, and goats to sheep. They also have a variety of produce such as turmeric powder, peanut butter, lemon honey, organic eggs, etc. They have cottages and viewpoints at the top of the farm and the view from there is breathtaking. You’ll get relax and experience peace.

Kasabangan Falls

The rain started to pour when we reached Kasabangan Falls. Before reaching the falls, we made a short trek through a man-made bridge. It is located deep in the forest. Seeing it felt mysterious as it was hidden and enclosed in rocks.

Cabucgayan Boardwalk

Cabucgayan Boardwalk is a pathway surrounded by mangroves and the sea. One can relax on the bamboo benches built there for you to eat and breathe fresh air. We ate our snacks while sharing stories about life.

Biliran Bridge

Biliran Bridge is much like the San Juanico Bridge but shorter.  It connects the province to Leyte. It is made of steel and built above Poro Point, an island between the two island provinces. Sadly, I didn’t have any photos because my action cam got drained and I couldn’t use my camera because it was raining hard. From there, you can see the Biliran Strait & Carigara Bay and feel the strong wind coming from the sea.

One day is not enough to explore the whole province and discover its wonders, but just by seeing the landscape and the destinations of the province, I can say that it is a haven for adventurers and nature seekers.

I will surely come back to see the other wonders that Biliran offers, especially Sambawan Island and Ulan-ulan Falls.

Please also check out my next post about my adventures in Biri Island. 🙂 Keep Chasing!

Check out my KALANGGAMAN ISLAND – LEYTE POST for the start of my itinerary and expenses.

Or

Check out my BIRI ISLAND – NORTHERN SAMAR POST for the continuation of my itinerary and expenses.

Or

Check out my EASTERN VISAYAS TRAVEL GUIDE for the whole itinerary and expenses.

TRAVEL GUIDE & TIPS

ITINERARY:

DAY 3 (LEYTE-Kalanggaman Island-Palompon-Lemon-BILIRAN-Naval)

DAY 4 (BILIRAN-Naval-Biliran Island)

EXPENSES:

DAY 3

DAY 4

LOCATION:

• Eastern Visayas, Philippines

FEES:

Entrance Fees:

• Acaban Cave: ₱10
• Tinago Falls: ₱20
• Canaan Hill Farms: ₱50
• Cabucgayan Boardwalk: ₱20

ACCOMMODATIONS:

• BETHANY HILL BROWN ROOM ALMERIA
• BETHANY HILL BLACK ROOM ALMERIA
• MIDPOINT SUITES
• HOTEL BENJAMIN NAVAL
• FRAGOCH TOURIST INN
• MARVIN’S SEASIDE INN
• GV HOTEL NAVAL
• EL ROMAN PENSIONNE
• BILIRAN PARADISE SEA HOUSES
• THE GOLDEN PEARL
• House for Rent (Elmer Samuray): 0915-269-8650 / 0929-713-8940

POWER PACK:

• 2-3L of water
• Bandana/Cap
• Arm Sleeves
• Umbrella/Raincoat
• Sun Block
• Swim Wear
• Aqua Shoes
• Dry Bag

CHECK OUT THESE DISCOUNTED/PROMO RATES IN KLOOK:

• Bluewater Sumilon Day Tour
• Plantation Bay Day Use with Lunch
• Cebu Ocean Park Ticket
• Cebu Safari and Adventure Park Ticket

Klook.com

CONNECT:

• For guide and motorcycle rentals, contact Kuya Elmer Samuray: 0915-269-8650 / 0929-713-8940

NOTES:

• The best way to explore the island is with the use of motorcycles. A bus line operates in the area, but it is limited and may take a long time for you to reach your destination.
• Some falls are located deep into the forests and can only be accessed by trekking. Make sure you are prepared to travel long and elevated distances.
• Please practice LNT/Leave No Trace. I believe that the island is very beautiful and keeping it clean and natural will maintain its charm and continue boosting its tourism industry.
• Don’t travel alone or if you are a solo traveler, be accompanied by a guide.
• Other places to visit: Sambawan Island, Higatangan Island, Ulan-ulan Falls, Bagongbong Falls, and Dalutan Island.

©CHASEJASE