Possible Tourist Destinations in Villaba, Leyte

Unlike its neighboring town, Villaba has probably been underrated when it comes to tourism. The town has been less explored from travelers who wanted a getaway of unequaled experience, thus making their way to the more famed and mainstreamed destination. Yet being off from the main tourist circuit, still, Villaba has something remarkable to offer, just waiting, unless if you'd prefer an off-the-beaten-path nature trip. Its coastline sprawls some quieter beaches, the hinterland promises an extraordinary adventure and the people? They're amazing!

So here, I have listed good places I've visited around Villaba whom I believed having the potential to be the next local destination. And does really, captivated my adventurous heart.

1. Buga-buga Hills – The place was heavily involved in the tragic history of the 2nd World War. The last natural fortress of Japanese soldiers where military camps are built surrounding the imposing rock. Many Japanese, as well as American soldiers, had lost their lives during the intensive battle in the area. Today, this is a remarkable destination that totally depicts a 100% true adventure. The passage to the peak lies between two towering limestone walls clung with creeping flora and toppled trees. For me, it seems that I am in a set of adventure films like Jurrasic Park or Journey to the Center of the Earth.

source: Heilmann Farm

2. Busay Falls – Not one but five waterfalls are waiting for those thrill seekers who ponder higher adventure. An overwhelming site showcasing a series of waterfalls that will surely give you a relaxing natural massage from its cold cascading water while listening to the sounds of the surrounding nature. Truly a hidden treasure of Villaba.

3. Sy Breeze Resort and Mangrove Bay – This resort, located in a mangrove area in barangay Silad, is the newest pick among locals from a nearby town. You can wander along their boardwalk, which is surrounded by the cool shade of mangrove trees, rest in their hut, and enjoy a peaceful ambiance at sunset time.

Screen-grab from Clint C. Cebuano's Facebook video

4. Jordan Spring – The cold natural water from spring, the man-made waterfalls and the green surroundings will be a perfect place for barkada and family outings. Situated just a few meters from the national road, this site is really a well visited for its refreshing pool of running waters.

5. Abijao Beach – Barangay Abijao is famous for its beautiful coastline. That is why people of all ages have flocked here to enjoy a fun and relaxing weekend by the sea. Composed of sand and pebbles, the beachfront of Danmar Resort and Lane Beach Resort are a good spot for sunset viewing.

6. Jalas Cave – Locals who have seen and explored the caves said that there’s a deep lagoon, plenty of bird’s nests, enormous cavern, many passages and of course lots of precious stalactites and stalagmites inside. They believed that the caves here are somehow connected to that majestic cavern underneath the Buga-buga hills.

Photo courtesy of Mark Engelbert Labay

7. Puting Bato Rock Formation – Sculpted by time, this geological landmark off the coast of barangay Suba is a long time natural attraction fronting the Visayan sea. The rock is made up mostly of hard clay, and the shore that surrounds here is rocky and slippery.

Photo courtesy of Mark Engelbert Labay 

8. Hibulangan Pineapple Plantation – the farm entrance is just a few meters away from the national road and the wide area where pineapples are grown can be seen directly at the right side when your ride is bound to Villaba town. You can also buy their produce displayed in their shed where freshly picked pineapples are sold in whole or you could ask them to slice it to your desired bits at a reasonable price.

9. Bondari Peak – Situated far east of barangay Abijao, this striking grassy hills is also locally known as little Batanes and serves as the boundary between the municipality of Villaba and Matag-ob. This place is a wonderful retreat with breathtaking views and landscapes. At the top, you'll get a chance to see the popular Kalanggaman Island, the historical Buga-buga Hills, the progressive Ormoc city and the steaming Tongonan mountain ranges.

10. Carancanan Beach - A simply public beach yet uncrowded and peaceful, this half-kilometer coastline of barangay Tagbubunga is just waiting here patiently for you to enjoy sand, sea, and serenity in one. Also, residents here will offer you to try their fun activities like kayaking, snorkeling, and banana boat ride - all to add your day with a delightful experience.

11. Pulambato Beach - This promising place I fell in-love with offers both adventure and tranquility combined. This spot has interesting rock formations on both edges while in the middle lays a quieter stretch of sandy beach.

Actual photo of a Philippine tarsier found wandering in Tubod, Abijao
Photo courtesy of Van Avilo

12. Villaba Tarsier - Did you know that Philippine tarsier can also be found here in Abijao rainforests? Yes! but it's hard for me to find one in the wild especially during daylight time because these untamed tiny creatures are usually active and come out only at night. The small creature with big eyes are considered as endangered in Southeast Asia, and the tiniest species are can only be found here in Bohol and Leyte islands.

There! Hopefully, this will convince you to add Villaba on your next travel bucket list and hop into these secluded yet amazing destinations. :-)