Years before this island became one of the top destinations in the Philippines, Kalanggaman Island was a place local people doesn't want to visit as they viewed it as enchanted and mystical. It is only in 2013 that this island started to gain local and international fame after MV Europa Cruise Line, a German luxury cruise ship, stopped over and brought almost 400 passengers who stayed on the island for a couple of hours.
In 2013, Typhoon Yolanda hit the Philippines and devastated Kalanggaman Island, affecting the tourism industry. Locals thought the island would never be the same again but they worked hard to restore the beauty of the island and in 2016, it became one of Google's top trending searches.
Kalanggaman Island Location
Kalanggaman Island, located between Cebu and Leyte, is dubbed as the Crown Jewel of Leyte as it is included in the municipality of Palompon in the province of Leyte, Philippines. Kalanggaman Island has a 750m long area and it is blessed with a long stretch of sandbar, made from crushed corals, on both ends.
Where does the name come from?
Langgam is a Visayan word for “bird” and locals used this to name the Kalanggaman Island since it is shaped like a bird with its wings wide open. But most travelers, especially Filipinos, think that the island was named after langgam (ants in English).
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit the island is during the summer season, which is February to May, but you can still visit the island from October to June. Avoid the rainy and typhoon season, which is from July to September. Your best bet is to check the local weather updates for your safety.
If you hate a crowded beach, avoid visiting the island during summer, national holidays, holy week, and long weekends.
How to Go to Kalaggaman Island
There are three ways to get to Kalanggaman Island. One from Cebu, another from Malapascua Island, and another from the Municipality of Palompon.
Bogo, Cebu
You may charter a boat directly from Bogo to Kalanggaman Island. Going to Bogo from Cebu City, catch a bus to Bogo, and proceed to Bantay Dagat near Siocon Elementary School to charter a boat to Kalanggaman Island. This route will take a lot more time as it will take you 2-3 hours to reach Kalanggaman Island.
Malapascua Island
Because the island is a famous dive spot for divers coming from Malapascua, you can also rent a boat to go to Kalanggaman Island. This route will take you 1 1/2 hours to a two-hour boat ride to the island.
Palompon
The town of Palompon is the best way to go to Kalanggaman Island as it is the nearest and fastest route. The boat ride from the town of Palompon is only 45min-1hour.
The town proper of Palompon can be reached by a three-hour journey by van from Tacloban.
Rates and Entrance Fee
Kalanggaman Island Entrance and Conservation Fee (Day Tour Regular Rate)
International Tourist P 500
Non-Palompon Tourist P 150
Non-Palompon College Student P 150
Non-Palompon High School Student P 30
Non-Palompon Elementary Pupil P 20
Non-Palompon Senior Citizen P 120
Palompon Tourist Free
Pumpboat Rates (Roundtrip)
15 Capacity/Persons Below P 3,000
16 Capacity/Persons Above P 3,500
Cottage Rates
Small P 250
Medium P 500
Large P 700
Note: Tables and chairs are also available for rent
Tables P 50
Chair P 30
Where to Stay in Kalanggaman Island
As of writing, Jet Ter Resort, the only place that offers Tipi Huts as accommodation on the island is still close. Overnight stay is still prohibited since the start of the pandemic and only day tour is currently allowed.
Where To Eat in Kalanggaman Island
Due to the pandemic, there are currently no stores on the island. Since it is allowed to bring food on the island, it is recommended that you buy fresh or cooked food in Palompon local market and use the grilling station available for tourists (FREE).
Photography Tips
Be sure to arrive on the island between 8 am – 10 am if you want to capture the beach’s stunning photos and the beautiful sandbar. Early morning sun provides the right amount of light that is perfect for taking pictures of the beach.
Tips and Other information
It is recommended to start your boat trip as early as 6 am if you prefer smooth sailing.
The boatmen will wait for you on the island not later than 4pm but do not travel from 2pm to 4pm if you want to avoid a rocky boat ride.
Clean restrooms and shower areas are available on the island, but there's no fresh water, only saltwater. You can shower upon arriving back in the Palompon Tourism Office.
Bring enough drinking water; there is no potable water on the island.
There is no electricity on the island. Bring power banks for your gadgets and mobile phones.
Smart has the strongest mobile phone signal on the island.
ATM Machines are only available in Palompon town proper.
Be a responsible traveler. bring your own trash back to the mainland.
Prohibited in Kalanggaman Island
Usage of shampoo, conditioner, loud instruments, fishing gears, and portable generator
Making of bonfire
Bringing of pets
Smoking
Where to stay in Palompon, Leyte
Due to the popularity of Kalanggaman Island, the town of Palompon appeared on the tourism map of the Philippines. Since overnight stay is still prohibited on the island, it is recommended to stay for the night in the town of Palompon and catch the earliest boat ride the next morning.
Washington Street, Palompon, 6538 Leyte
Contact No: 0927 228 3044
Pintor Luna Street, Palompon, 6538 Leyte
Contact No: 0935 855 5714 / 555-0112
Important Reminders
Once you arrive in Palompon, tourists must register first at Palompon Tourism Office. The office is located in front of Liberty Park near the Municipal Hall of Palompon.
Palompon Tourism Office Location: Palompon Municipal Hall, Rizal Street, 6538, Palompon, Leyte
Palompon Tourism Office Contact Number:
Landline: (053) 555 9731
Mobile (Globe): +63 926 8164005
Palompon Government Website: www.palomponleyte.gov.ph
Palompon Facebook Page: Facebook Page
Travel Vlog
As always, keep safe and travel responsibly!
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