Southern Leyte spots, located in the eastern part of the Philippines are a hidden treasure that is waiting for discovery. It has breathtaking natural beauty and impressive cultural heritage that will amaze every visitor.
These are the top 10 spots to go to within Southern Leyte:
1. Sogod Bay – Southern Leyte
A sought-after place for snorkelers and divers. There is a varied marine ecosystem as well as stunning coral reefs. Scuba dives into the clear waters and you will see a variety of vibrant schools of sea turtles, fish, and many other marine animals.
Sogod Bay is a popular destination for diving and snorkeling in Southern Leyte, Philippines.
Here are some ways to get to Sogod Bay:
By Air:
The nearest airport to Sogod Bay is the Tacloban Daniel Z. Romualdez Airport, which is around 3-4 hours away by land. You can take a domestic flight to Tacloban from Manila or Cebu.
By Land:
From Tacloban, you can take a bus or van to Sogod town. The travel time is approximately 3-4 hours. Once in Sogod town, you can hire a boat to take you to Sogod Bay.
By Private Vehicle:
You can also rent a car or hire a private vehicle to take you to Sogod Bay. This is a more convenient option if you are traveling in a group or with a lot of luggage.
By Tour Package:
There are several tour operators that offer packages to Sogod Bay. These packages usually include transportation, accommodation, and activities like diving and snorkeling.
Once you reach Sogod Bay, there are several resorts and dive centers that offer accommodations and diving services. It is best to book in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure availability.
2. Limasawa Island – Southern Leyte
It is a place that was the location that was the site of the initial Christian ceremony that was held in the Philippines. Visit the historical Magellan’s Cross and explore the beautiful beaches of the island and its clear waters.
Limasawa Island is a small island located in Southern Leyte, Philippines. It is known as the site of the first Christian mass in the country.
Here’s how you can get to Limasawa Island:
On Air:
closest airport to Limasawa Island is the Tacloban Daniel Z. Romualdez Airport. It is about 3-4 hours by air. It is possible to take an international route from Cebu to Tacloban via Manila and Cebu.
By Land By Land:
From Tacloban, there is the option of taking an auto or bus up to Maasin City. The travel time is around two hours. After arriving you arrive in Maasin City it is possible to take an auto or jeepney ride towards Padre Burgos town. Once there, it is possible to could charter a boat that will take passengers on a trip to Limasawa Island.
A Private Vehicle:
If you prefer, you can take a taxi or rent an individual vehicle to drive into Padre Burgos town. This is a better alternative if you’re traveling with your family or have lots of baggage.
package by Tour Package:
There are many tour operators offering packages for Limasawa Island. The packages typically include accommodation, transportation, and guided tours.
When you get to Limasawa Island, there are various accommodations to choose from that range from budget-friendly to luxurious resorts. There is also the possibility of exploring the island’s cultural and historical landmarks, like The Limasawa Shrine and the old Spanish fort. This island is famous for its gorgeous beaches and crystal-clear water which makes it an ideal location for snorkeling, swimming, and diving.
3. Tangkaan Beach – Southern Leyte
It is a hidden treasure a hidden gem in Southern Leyte. It’s a quiet beach that has crystal clear waters and clean sand. The beach is covered in lush greenery, making it the perfect place to unwind.
Tangkaan Beach is a secluded beach in Southern Leyte, Philippines. It is a popular destination for those looking for a quiet and relaxing beach experience.
Here’s how you can get to Tangkaan Beach:
By Land In the direction of Maasin City:
you can travel by jeepney or bus towards Hinunangan town. It takes approximately 1 to 2 hours. When you arrive you arrive in Hinunangan town you can rent tricycles or motorcycles to transport you towards Tangkaan Beach.
In a private vehicle:
If you want to, you can rent an automobile or charter a private car for a trip towards Hinunangan town. This is a better option for those traveling with a group or has lots of baggage.
Through Tour Packages By Tour Package:
There are a variety of tour operators who offer packages that take you to Tangkaan Beach. The packages typically comprise accommodation, transportation as well as guided tours.
Once you have reached Tangkaan Beach, there are various accommodations that are available that range from basic to luxurious resorts. The beach is renowned for its clear waters and clean sand, making it a perfect spot to swim and relax. There are also nearby attractions, including The Hinunangan River and the picturesque Tangkaan Point.
4. Maasin Cathedral – Southern Leyte
This beautiful church displays the Spanish colonial influence that was felt in the Philippines. It is adorned with exquisite details and stunning stained glass windows, sure to blow your mind off.
The Maasin Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption, is a Roman Catholic church located in the city of Maasin, Southern Leyte, Philippines.
Here’s how you can get to Maasin Cathedral:
By Land:
Maasin City is easily accessible by land transportation. From Tacloban, you can take a bus or van to Maasin City. The travel time is approximately 2-3 hours. Once you arrive at Maasin City, you can take a tricycle or jeepney to the Maasin Cathedral.
By Private Vehicle:
You can also rent a car or hire a private vehicle to take you to Maasin City. This is a more convenient option if you are traveling in a group or with a lot of luggage.
By Tour Package:
There are several tour operators that offer packages that include a visit to Maasin Cathedral as part of their itinerary.
Once you arrive at Maasin Cathedral, you can explore the church and its surroundings. The cathedral is known for its beautiful architecture and rich history. It was first built in the 18th century and was reconstructed several times after being destroyed by natural calamities. The church also houses several religious artifacts and works of art. Visitors can attend mass or other religious services, or simply admire the beauty of the church’s interiors and exteriors.
5. San Juanico Bridge – Southern Leyte
The longest bridge is longest bridge in the Philippines spans 2.16 kilometers. It links the two islands Samar with Leyte and provides a breathtaking panorama over San Juanico Strait. San Juanico Strait.
The San Juanico Bridge is a long-span bridge connecting the islands of Samar and Leyte in the Philippines. It is considered as the longest bridge in the country, spanning 2.16 kilometers.
Here’s how you can get to the San Juanico Bridge:
By Land:
The San Juanico Bridge is accessible by land transportation. From Tacloban City, you can take a jeepney or van going to the town of Basey in Samar. The travel time is approximately 30-45 minutes. Once you reach Basey, you can hire a tricycle to take you to the San Juanico Bridge.
By Private Vehicle:
You can also rent a car or hire a private vehicle to take you to the San Juanico Bridge. This is a more convenient option if you are traveling in a group or with a lot of luggage.
By Tour Package:
There are several tour operators that offer packages that include a visit to the San Juanico Bridge as part of their itinerary.
Once you arrive at the San Juanico Bridge, you can take a walk or drive through the bridge and enjoy the scenic view of the sea and the surrounding islands. There are also several viewpoints along the bridge where you can take photos and enjoy the view. If you want to learn more about the history and significance of the bridge, there is a San Juanico Bridge Park and Viewdeck located near the Samar end of the bridge where you can explore and take in the sights.
6. Agas-Agas Bridge – Southern Leyte
It is the most elevated bridge in the Philippines with a height of 292 feet above the ground. It provides a stunning panorama over the surrounding mountains as well as lush greenery.
The Agas-Agas Bridge is a viaduct and cable-stayed bridge in Southern Leyte, Philippines. It is considered the highest bridge in the country, standing at 292 feet tall.
Here’s how you can get to the Agas-Agas Bridge:
By Land:
The Agas-Agas Bridge is accessible by land transportation. From Tacloban City, you can take a van or bus going to Sogod town in Southern Leyte. The travel time is approximately 2-3 hours. Once you reach Sogod town, you can hire a motorcycle or tricycle to take you to the Agas-Agas Bridge.
By Private Vehicle:
You can also rent a car or hire a private vehicle to take you to the Agas-Agas Bridge. This is a more convenient option if you are traveling in a group or with a lot of luggage.
By Tour Package:
There are several tour operators that offer packages that include a visit to the Agas-Agas Bridge as part of their itinerary.
Once you arrive at the Agas-Agas Bridge, you can enjoy the view of the bridge and the surrounding mountains. There is a viewing deck near the bridge where you can take photos and enjoy the scenery. You can also try ziplining, which is available in the area, to experience a more exciting way to view the bridge.
7. Hinunangan Beach – Southern Leyte
is a peaceful beach that has serene waters and a long strip of white sand. It is ideal for snorkeling, swimming, and beachcombing.
Hinunangan Beach is a beautiful destination located in the town of Hinunangan in Southern Leyte, Philippines.
Here’s how you can get to Hinunangan Beach:
By Land:
Hinunangan is accessible by land transportation. From Tacloban City, you can take a van or bus going to Hinunangan town. The travel time is approximately 4-5 hours. Once you reach Hinunangan town, you can take a tricycle or motorcycle to take you to Hinunangan Beach.
By Private Vehicle:
You can also rent a car or hire a private vehicle to take you to Hinunangan Beach. This is a more convenient option if you are traveling in a group or with a lot of luggage.
By Tour Package:
There are several tour operators that offer packages that include a visit to Hinunangan Beach as part of their itinerary.
Once you arrive at Hinunangan Beach, you can enjoy the clear waters and the beautiful scenery. The beach is also known for its fine white sand and clear blue waters. You can relax under the sun, swim, snorkel, or try other water activities such as kayaking or paddleboarding. There are also several resorts and restaurants in the area where you can stay and dine.
8. Camp Danao Forest Park – Southern Leyte
It is a nature preserve with camping sites, hiking trails, and zip lines. The park is home to a wide variety of fauna and flora and rare bird species.
Camp Danao Forest Park is an ecological reserve within Ormoc City, Leyte, Philippines. It’s an ideal location for nature enthusiasts and those who love adventure.
Here’s how you can get to Camp Danao Forest Park:
By Land In the direction of Tacloban City:
you can use a bus or van heading towards Ormoc City. The journey takes about 3-4 hours. When you arrive in Ormoc City, you can get a jeepney or a multi-cab that will take you up to Camp Danao. It takes around 30 to 45 minutes. You can also rent tricycles or a motorcycle to transport you into the parks.
In a private vehicle By Private Vehicle:
You can also hire a car or lease a private car for transport for a trip to Camp Danao Forest Park. This is a better alternative if you’re traveling with a group or carrying loads of baggage.
By tour package With a Tour Package:
There are many tour operators offering package deals that comprise a trip the Camp Danao Forest Park as part of their tour itinerary.
After arriving at Camp Danao Forest Park, you will be able to enjoy a variety of outdoor activities like hiking and camping, ziplining, rappelling, and many more. The park also has numerous species of flora as well as fauna as well as endangered and rare species. It is also possible to explore the nature trails in the park and waterfalls, and take a picnic or enjoy a barbecue with your friends and family. There are cottages as well as campsites for campers who would like to spend the night at the nature park.
9. Mainit Hot Spring – Southern Leyte
In the midst of Anahawan, a town of a few hundred inhabitants located in Southern Leyte, lies a secret that few people are aware of – it’s the Mainit Hot Spring. The natural wonder has been in existence for a long time and has become the most sought-after destination for those who want to relax and rejuvenate and soak in the warm waters.
Mainit Hotspring is a natural hot spring located in the municipality of Anahawan in Southern Leyte, Philippines.
Here’s how you can get to Mainit Hotspring:
By Land:
From Tacloban City, you can take a van or bus going to Sogod town in Southern Leyte. From there, you can take another van or bus going to Anahawan town. The travel time is approximately 5-6 hours. Once you reach Anahawan town, you can take a tricycle or motorcycle to take you to Mainit Hotspring.
By Private Vehicle:
You can also rent a car or hire a private vehicle to take you to Mainit Hotspring. This is a more convenient option if you are traveling in a group or with a lot of luggage.
By Tour Package:
There are several tour operators that offer packages that include a visit to Mainit Hotspring as part of their itinerary.
Once you arrive at Mainit Hotspring, you can enjoy the relaxing hot water that flows from the natural springs. The water is said to have therapeutic benefits and can help soothe sore muscles and improve blood circulation. There are also several pools in the area where you can soak and relax. You can also explore the surrounding forest and take a dip in the nearby river. There are several cottages and huts available for rent in the area where you can stay and dine.
10. Monte Cueva Shrine – Southern Leyte
It is a holy temple that is situated on an incline. It provides a stunning view of the city in Padre Burgos and the surrounding mountains.
Monte Cueva Shrine is a pilgrimage site located in the municipality of Pintuyan in Southern Leyte, Philippines.
Here’s how you can get to Monte Cueva Shrine:
By Land: From Tacloban City:
you can take a van or bus going to Sogod town in Southern Leyte. From there, you can take another van or bus going to Pintuyan town. The travel time is approximately 5-6 hours. Once you reach Pintuyan town, you can take a motorcycle or tricycle to take you to Monte Cueva Shrine.
By Private Vehicle:
You can also rent a car or hire a private vehicle to take you to Monte Cueva Shrine. This is a more convenient option if you are traveling in a group or with a lot of luggage.
By Tour Package:
There are several tour operators that offer packages that include a visit to Monte Cueva Shrine as part of their itinerary.
Once you arrive at Monte Cueva Shrine, you can climb up the stairs to reach the shrine that is located on top of a hill. The shrine is known for its beautiful panoramic view of the surrounding hills and the sea. You can also explore the cave that is located behind the shrine. The cave has several rock formations and is believed to be a place of meditation and prayer. There are several stalls in the area where you can buy souvenirs and religious items. There is no entrance fee to visit the shrine, but donations are welcome.
Southern Leyte is a destination that must be at the top of everyone’s list of destinations. With its breathtaking natural beauty and rich heritage of culture, it provides a unique and memorable trip that is certain to make a lasting impression.