Samar
· PH

Samar

Samar, Philippines

Discover the Untamed Beauty of Samar, Philippines Escape the ordinary and embrace the extraordinary in Samar, an island province in the Philippines brimming with raw beauty, rich history, and thrilling adventures. Forget…

#Samar#Philippines#Eastern Visayas#Island#Tropical
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Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Samar.

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Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Samar.

Currency
₱ | PHP | Philippine Peso
Population
The approximate estimated total population of Samar, Philippines, is 1.9 million.
Languages
Waray, Waray, Cebuano, English, Filipino

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Samar.

What people love

Samar, located in the Philippines, is known for its natural beauty and cultural attractions. Here are some of the pros of traveling to Samar:

  1. Stunning Natural Landscapes: Samar is home to diverse landscapes such as pristine beaches, picturesque waterfalls, lush mountains, and caves. Visitors can explore the Sohoton Caves, explore the Ulot River, or relax on the white sand beaches of Calicoan Island.

  2. Rich Biodiversity: Samar boasts a rich biodiversity with various endemic species of flora and fauna. Nature lovers can go birdwatching, trekking in the forests, or explore the diverse marine life while snorkeling or diving.

  3. Cultural Immersion: Samar has a rich cultural heritage with a mix of indigenous and colonial influences. Travelers can visit historical sites such as the Balangiga Church, learn about the local traditions and crafts, and interact with the friendly locals to experience authentic Filipino hospitality.

  4. Adventure Activities: Samar offers a range of adventure activities for thrill-seekers such as surfing in Calicoan, caving in Langun-Gobingob Cave, or hiking to the iconic Lulugayan Falls. There are also opportunities for kayaking, river tubing, and zip-lining in the region.

  5. Serene and Off-the-Beaten-Path Destination: Samar is less crowded compared to other tourist destinations in the Philippines, making it a perfect getaway for those seeking peace and tranquility. Travelers can enjoy the laid-back atmosphere, unspoiled nature, and authentic experiences in Samar.

Overall, traveling to Samar offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, adventure activities, and tranquility, making it a rewarding destination for travelers looking to explore a lesser-known gem in the Philippines.

What to know

Traveling to Samar, located in the Philippines, may have the following cons:

  1. Natural Disasters: Samar, like many parts of the Philippines, is prone to natural disasters such as typhoons, earthquakes, and floods. Travelers should be aware of the weather conditions and potential risks before planning a trip.

  2. Limited Infrastructure: Some areas in Samar may have limited infrastructure, including roads, transportation, and healthcare facilities. Travelers should be prepared for possible challenges in getting around and accessing basic services.

  3. Language Barrier: While English is widely spoken in the Philippines, there may still be some language barriers in more remote areas of Samar where the local dialects are predominantly spoken. Travelers may find it challenging to communicate effectively in these areas.

  4. Safety Concerns: Like any destination, Samar may have some safety concerns such as petty crime and scams targeting tourists. Travelers should take necessary precautions to ensure their safety and belongings are secure.

  5. Limited Tourist Amenities: Samar is not as developed for tourism compared to other popular destinations in the Philippines. This means that there may be fewer tourist amenities such as hotels, restaurants, and attractions. Travelers looking for a more luxurious or convenient travel experience may find Samar lacking in these aspects.

Please note that this information is based on general knowledge and may not reflect the current situation in Samar. It's always recommended to conduct thorough research and consult with local authorities before traveling to any destination.

Samar is the third largest island in the Philippines and is located in the Eastern Visayas region. It is known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and natural beauty. Here's a detailed history of Samar:

Pre-Colonial Period

  • Early Inhabitants: The island was originally inhabited by various indigenous groups, including the Waray people, who spoke the Waray-Waray language.

Spanish Colonization

  • 1521: Ferdinand Magellan, the Portuguese explorer sailing under the Spanish flag, is believed to have sighted the island during his circumnavigation of the globe. However, he did not land on Samar.
  • 1596: Samar was officially colonized by the Spanish when Jesuit missionaries arrived on the island. The town of Palapag became an important mission center on the island.

Significant Events During Spanish Rule

  • 1649-1650: The Sumuroy Rebellion, led by Agustin Sumuroy, was a significant revolt against Spanish colonial rule. It started in Palapag, Northern Samar, and spread to other parts of the Visayas and Mindanao.
  • 1768: The Jesuits were expelled from the Philippines, and the Franciscans took over the missions in Samar.

American Period

  • 1898: After the Spanish-American War, the Philippines was ceded to the United States, and Samar came under American rule.
  • 1901: The Balangiga Massacre occurred, where Filipino insurgents attacked American soldiers in Balangiga, Eastern Samar. This led to a brutal retaliatory campaign by the Americans, which included the infamous "kill and burn" orders.

World War II

  • 1944: During the Battle of Leyte Gulf, one of the largest naval battles in history, American forces landed on nearby Leyte Island, which is connected to Samar by the San Juanico Bridge. Samar served as a strategic location during the liberation of the Philippines from Japanese occupation.

Post-War Period

  • 1965: The San Juanico Bridge, connecting Samar to Leyte, was completed. It is the longest bridge in the Philippines and is a significant infrastructural landmark.

Recent History

  • 2013: Super Typhoon Haiyan (Yolanda), one of the strongest tropical cyclones ever recorded, made landfall in Eastern Samar, causing widespread destruction and loss of life. The island has since been in recovery and rebuilding efforts.

Cultural and Natural Landmarks

  • Samar Island Natural Park: This is the largest contiguous tract of old-growth forest in the Philippines, known for its biodiversity and endemic species.
  • Sohoton Caves and Natural Bridge Park: Located in Basey, Samar, this natural park is famous for its caves, rock formations, and natural bridge.
  • Calicoan Island: Known for its beautiful beaches and surf spots, it is located in Guiuan, Eastern Samar.
  • Biri Island Rock Formations: Located in Northern Samar, these unique geological formations are a popular tourist attraction.

Notable Historical Figures

  • Agustin Sumuroy: Leader of the Sumuroy Rebellion against Spanish colonial rule.
  • General Vicente Lukbán: A Filipino general who led the resistance against American forces in Samar during the Philippine-American War.

Samar's history is marked by its role in various significant events in the Philippines' colonial and wartime history, and it continues to be an important cultural and ecological region in the country today.