At Igot Falls, ship- and shark-shaped rocks are among the area’s mysteries: to this day, no one knows how they formed. Along with rock formations, waterfalls, mangroves and islands, discoveries like these define Northern Samar—a province bordered by the San Bernardino Strait and the Pacific Ocean.
Rock Formations and Waterfalls
Seven major rock formations make Biri a special destination; Bel-at and Magasang are among the best known. From Lavezares, you can reach Biri Island by bangka in about an hour. The crossing time depends on conditions. A municipal ordinance requires visitors to Biri to be accompanied by an accredited local guide. Check the guide requirements before your trip.
Igot Falls is 150 feet high and flanked by two large, densely forested mountain ranges. The unusual rocks resembling a ship and a shark add to the waterfall’s appeal; their origin remains a mystery. Reaching the falls requires a long hike: from the old logging area in Palanit, the only route is a four-hour trek.
Other waterfall destinations have considerably shorter stated walking times. A 15-minute walk from the national highway in Barangay San Juan through cultivated coconut farms leads to Miroy Falls & Lagoon. Comparing it with Igot Falls gives you a concrete point of reference for planning your outings without treating the two destinations as the same. From Barangay Palanit, you can reach Sohoton Cave and Cliff with a five-minute boat ride; boat arrangements may vary.
Kan Pongkol Falls is a series of cascading waterfalls where water from three major rivers, as well as several streams and tributaries, gathers. Bangon Falls offers a different experience: travelers on the national highway often stop there to swim in the cool water. The waterfall destinations therefore differ not only in their landscapes but also in the kinds of visits described.
Mangroves and Island Landscapes
Buenavista Mangrove Eco-Park covers a 90-hectare swampy area at the foot of Looc Bay. Its extensive mangrove forest is visible from Buenavista Causeway. In Lavezares, Lalaguna Mangrove Ecopark is a 300-hectare protected mangrove forest and marine sanctuary. The two sites differ in scale: one is a mangrove forest visible from the causeway, while the other is an expansive protected area with visitor activities.
At Lalaguna Mangrove Ecopark, you can explore a bamboo-and-concrete walkway and climb to a viewpoint on a hill for panoramic views. Boating, kayaking, swimming and nature walks are also among the possible activities; availability may vary. The park is recognized nationally as a model for community-based tourism and has received awards for good practice in this field and for sustainable livelihoods.
Canauayon Island & Fish Sanctuary brings together two areas of different sizes: the island covers nine hectares, while the fish sanctuary, with natural coral cover, extends over more than 13 hectares. White beach sand lies at the northern tip. The island is only a few hundred meters from San Isidro Ferry Terminal and can be reached by rowboat. Boat availability may vary; check arrangements before your visit.
Experience History and Culture
On Capul Island, the centuries-old San Ignacio de Loyola Church and its watchtower are well known. During the Spanish colonial period, the tower once served as a defense against pirate raids. In Lavezares, visitors go to the Statue of the Risen Christ in Barangay Balicuatro to pray, reflect and see the statue.
The Ibabao Festival is Northern Samar’s major provincial festival. It celebrates the province’s history, cultural heritage and shared identity as the ancient land of Ibabao. It takes place every June in connection with the province’s founding anniversary. Street parades, dances and local traditions are among the festival’s featured events; the specific program may vary, so it is worth checking the dates before your trip.
The Pinonayan Festival in Lavezares focuses on the individual barangays, highlighting their history, culture, livelihoods, products and industries. Together with the Ibabao Festival, it offers a different way to experience the province from its natural attractions—through the identity and cultural life of its communities.
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