Canigao is a small island located off the coast of southeastern Leyte and is not really mentioned in most guide books. It's mostly visited by locals as a weekend destination but this will soon change due to word of mouth and its "off the grid" location preferred by backpackers.
The islet is an inexpensive place well-suited to host a variety of visitors that range from families, nature lovers and adventure seekers looking to "get away from it all". There is a resort that serves fresh catch sold by passing fishermen, with grilling as the most popular way to prepare the seafood.
For accommodations, day trippers can rent nipa huts off the beach for P300 (P500 for overnight) although the wooden benches are not ideal for sleeping. Some folks bring their own tents and set up for a minimal fee of P15 per person.
Exploring the island is easy since it's pretty small and the sand is perfect for walking barefoot. Apart from frolicking on the splended beach (cleaned and raked everyday by the resort staff), one can swim, dive, snorkle and go boating as well as fishing in the marine sanctuary. Please note that visitors are discouraged from taking home shells, sand and coral.
Visitors are urged to bring cameras since Canigao affords incredible sunset views.
HOW TO GET THERE:
From Tacloban City, it's a 3-hour road trip to reach the town of Matalom in the southwest part of Leyte. From Matalom you can take the daily pumpboats (P450, round trip, 15 minutes) that would ferry you to Canigao Island.
From Manila, there are daily flights to Tacloban City from NAIA Terminals a2 and 3 on a daily basis by PAL and Cebu Pacific.
