Palawan-like Destination in Daram, Samar

Kandiwata Rock Formation
Palawan-like Destination in Daram, Samar

Have you ever been to Palawan? The ultimate caliber destination here in the Philippines?

Well if you haven’t explored it yet, here’s one destination in Daram, Samar that will give you a glimpse of how the rock formations in Palawan actually look like. If you’re from the outlying areas near Samar, surely this spot would give you Palawan feels!

We took the morning trip to Kandiwata by taking the nearest route via Babatngon, Leyte. Upon arriving at the town proper, we booked a boat that costs P2,000 (pakyawan rate) which has the capacity of 6 to 8 persons.

The sea was calm but it was a somnolent 2-hour sea travel from the port of Babatngon. However, few good sceneries on neighboring towns will knock you senselessly approaching Kandiwata. You’ll pass by few stunning rock formations and white sand beaches.

There is no port area so boats dock wherever they can securely unload their passengers. We actually swam meters away from the boat to get there since other vessels had already occupied the surrounding areas.

Just like the beautiful outcrop formations in Palawan, Kandiwata is a rock formation of limestone walls (some portions were vertically or horizontally stratified structures) that were formed from thousands of years ago – maybe through weathering, erosion and impact of waves. This isolated and scenic rock outcrop which was only discovered by few now becomes a hot tourist destination in Visayas.

Do-it-for-the-gram!

This gigantic rock formation makes a magnificent Instagram-worthy backdrop so do-it-for-the-gram peeps (especially travel influencers and bloggers) will surely love it here.

The waters were clear shades of green and blue; white powdery sand and coral species lie underneath and in surrounding areas; and cliff diving sites of different heights were available for leaping warriors and adventure enthusiasts.

Some had gone inside this rock formation through a small hole which is only accessible by submerging one’s self into the water. However, small-size individuals can go through just by positioning their bodies or adjusting their bodies into the size of the hole. According to locals, you are not allowed to be brash and loud inside since Kandiwata is home for supernatural beings. Bizarre things usually happen here which are all beyond scientific understanding or beyond law of nature.

There are native versions of how this rock formation was named Kandiwata:

1. These were ships struck by lightning and became Rock Formations.
2. Home of supernatural beings. It was named Kandiwata because of deities and spirits who reside here for a very long time. Some locals said you may ask for material things and they will give some to you. These inexplicable beings are understood as the guardian spirits of nature: emits blessings or maledictions upon those who brought welfare or harm to this rock formation.
3. Other locals claimed that bright lights are seen hovering at Kandiwata and some said loud parties often heard during at night or during full moon.

Notes:

• The best time to visit is during Amihan season (Northeast Monsoon) or during summer. Rough seas occur en route to Kandiwata during Habagat season.
• Entrance Fee is P10.00.
• Bring your own food or snacks.
• Please DO NOT THROW YOUR GARBAGE INTO THE SEA. Bring everything back to mainland or back to port. Let’s preserve this beautiful creation and be a responsible individual in conserving the ocean and the environment.

TRAVEL GUIDE

IF YOU ARE FROM MANILA

There are actually daily flights from Manila to Tacloban. The flight takes at least an hour or so. After you arrived at Tacloban Domestic Airport (San Jose, Tacloban City), go to Tacloban City Bus Terminal/Terminal via taxicab or transfer service.

Tacloban City

At Tacloban City Bus Terminal, find vans, buses, or jeepneys that transport to Babatngon, Leyte 

NOTE: Make sure you'll drop at town proper or at Babatngon's public market where the port area is located. There are many boats that lined up at the port available as service vessel to Kandiwata. 

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