Basic Information
Kalanggaman Island is situated in Palompon, Leyte. It is one of the virgin islands in Leyte that has pure white sand. The ecological atmosphere of the island had been preserved by the municipality. The island has a total area of 5.4 hectares, and it is still uninhabited. There are no hotels or resorts owned privately in the island, but you can put up your own tent because camping is allowed.
Kalanggaman is known for its white sand, clear and blue waters, and magnificent sandbars at both ends of the island. Now, it is one of the top tourist destinations in the Philippines.
It is a perfect place for family bonding or for short weekend trips because of its relaxed ambiance.
Since 2013, the island obtained international exposure after MV Europa Cruise Line stopped by the island with almost 400 passengers who stayed there for a couple of hours.
For comfort and security of the tourists, the Local Government of Palompon built some basic facilities like comfort rooms and shower rooms. The island is secured by tourist police who are stationed there.
Activities
- Swimming
- Kayaking
- Snorkeling
- Aquabiking
- Scuba diving
- Camping
How To Get There
From Tacloban
If you are from Tacloban, you have to ride a van to Palompon; the travel time is three hours. From Palompon, Kalanggaman Island is an hour ride by regular boat and approximately 40 minutes by a speed boat.
From Cebu
From Cebu, you have to ride a boat or a fast craft to Ormoc City. Another option is traveling to Bogo City then taking a boat ride either to Palompon or going directly to Kalanggaman Island. There are daily boat trips from Cebu City to Palompon by Super Shuttle Ferry Pier 8 Private Pier Terminal in North Reclamation Area, Cebu City.
From Malapascua Island
You can ride on a boat directly to the island; the ride will be about 1.5 to 2 hours.
From Manila
You can ride on a plane to Tacloban City, Ormoc City, or Cebu City. Then ride a van bound for Palompon.
Boat Rentals
- P3,000 – for 15 pax maximum
- P3,500 – for 25 pax maximum
- P4,000 – for 30 pax maximum
Day Tour Rates
- International Tourists – P500
- Local Tourists – P150
- College Student Tourists – P40
- High-school Student Tourists – P30
- Elementary Student Tourists – P20
- Senior Citizen Tourists – P120
Overnight Camping Rates
- International Tourists – P750
- Local Tourists – P225
- College Student Tourists – P60
- High-school Student Tourists – P45
- Elementary Students – P30
- Senior Citizens – P180
Tips
The best time to travel to the island is during summer. But you can still visit the island any time of the year, as long as the weather is nice. Just avoid the rainy and typhoon season. If you want to avoid a crowded area, do not visit the island during summer, holidays, and long weekends.
- If you prefer smooth sailing, the best time to start your boat trip is as early as 6 am.
- To avoid rocky boat ride, do not travel in between 12noon to 3 pm.
- You are allowed to bring foods to the island; there are no stores or restaurants in the there.
- Bring drinking water; there is no potable water on the island.
- There is no electricity on the island, so you have to bring power banks for your gadgets.
Reminders
Upon arriving in Palompon, you have to register first at Palompon Ecotours Office. Their office is located in front of the Liberty Park near the Municipal Hall of Palompon.
Photos Captured in the Island
