Plan your visit
Plan your visit
Learn how to reach the island from Palompon or Malapascua. See what to pack and review the local rules.
Getting there
Getting to the island requires a boat from Leyte or Cebu.
| How | Time | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Boat: Pumpboat from Palompon Tourism Office to Kalanggaman | 1 hour | 4,500 PHP for up to 20 pax | Must register at the tourism office first; boats are rented privately or shared. |
| Tour: Joiner day tour from Malapascua Island (Cebu) | 1.5 - 2 hours each way | approx 800 - 1,200 PHP for boat + 1,000 PHP environmental fee | Departs around 9 AM and returns by 4 PM; usually includes lunch. |
| Bus: Van/Bus from Tacloban City to Palompon | 3.5 hours | approx 154 PHP | From Duptours or Van Vans terminal in Tacloban. |
| Boat: Fast craft from Cebu to Ormoc City | 3 hours | approx 1,400 PHP | From Ormoc, take a 1.5-hour van ride (150 PHP) to Palompon. |
When to go
- J
- F
- M
- A
- M
- J
- J
- A
- S
- O
- N
- D
QuietModerateBusyPeak
The best months to visit are March, April, and May. The dry summer season brings calmer waters. The long eastern sandbar is most visible at this time of year.
What to bring
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You must register at the Palompon Tourism Office before boarding any boat.
Capacity is capped at 500 visitors per day.
How the day runs
Follow a simple timeline to make the most of your day.
A full-day excursion utilizing private transport and shared boats.
- Depart Cebu
Private car picks you up from your hotel in Cebu City or Mactan.
- Arrive at Maya Port
Transfer to a boat heading toward Malapascua Island.
- Depart for Kalanggaman
Board the shared joiner boat. Travel time is 1.5 to 2 hours.
- Arrive & Explore
Walk the long eastern sandbar. Avoid swimming at the tip.
- Lunch
Eat your packed lunch or the meal provided by your tour.
- Return Journey
Board the boat back to Malapascua, then return to Cebu City.
The shortest route to the island using local pump boats.
- Tourism Office
Register in Palompon and pay your 1,000 PHP or 300 PHP entry fee.
- Board Boat
Rent a private pump boat for 4,500 PHP. Ride takes 1 hour.
- Arrive & Setup
Rent a picnic cottage for 375 PHP to 1,000 PHP.
- Swim & Snorkel
Use the designated calm water zones. Bring your own snorkel gear.
- Clean Up
Pack all trash into bags. Take it back to the mainland.
Important Rules and Packing Needs
You cannot buy food or drinking water on the island. You must bring everything you need for the day. Read Packing List for a full checklist. Essential items include reef-safe sunscreen, a power bank, and trash bags.
Soap, shampoo, and detergents are strictly banned to protect the marine life. The island enforces a Leave No Trace policy. Swimming near the tip of the eastern sandbar is prohibited due to strong riptides.
Easiest way to do it
Kalanggaman Island Day Tour Package from Cebu City or Mactan
17 h 3.0 (6)
- Lunch in the Boat at Kalanggaman Island
- Shared Boat to Kalanggaman Island
- Entrance fee to the Island (Additional P850 per head if Foreign)
- Round Trip Boat Transfer from Maya Port to Malapascua Island (Shared)
From$135per person
Cancellation terms differ by platform and listing. Check them before you pay.
Planning questions
Are there toilets on Kalanggaman Island?
Yes, there are basic public restrooms and wash areas. You must bring your own toiletries. Soaps and shampoos are not allowed.
How much is a cottage rental?
Basic open-air cottages cost between 375 PHP and 1,000 PHP depending on the size. You book them at the tourism office in Palompon.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes. The government limits visitors to 500 per day. Advance booking is highly recommended.