Melo Villareal
Tawi-Tawi: Tourist Spots, Places to Visit, Experiences, and Food to Try
Gone are the days when Tawi-Tawi was just known as the southernmost province in the Philippines. Now, it’s becoming one of the tourist hotspots to watch out for. With its pristine beaches, seafood and delicacies, and extraordinary experiences, Tawi-Tawi positions itself as a must-visit tourism destination in Mindanao.
View from Bud Bongao
To know more about this off-the-beaten-path, we’ve listed some exciting experiences you can have in Tawi-Tawi for every type of traveler.
Hike Bud Bongao
Bud Bongao is the tallest peak in the mountains of Tawi-Tawi. It’s known as a holy mountain where visitors trek to see a wraparound view of the Zamboanga Peninsula and the great Bongao view. Concrete stairs are available to make the trail bearable. It’s a popular viewpoint to see the glorious sunset too!
Eat Breakfast at Sameera Coffee Shop
Enjoy coffee and breakfast options at Sameera Coffee Shop, the town’s go-to cafe. Aside from their coffee, you’ll enjoy delicious Tausug fare you’ve never had before. The place is serene and peaceful, perfect for morning quiet time.
Visit Sheik Karim al Makdum Mosque in Simunul
Did you know that the oldest mosque in the country is in Tawi-Tawi? Make sure to visit the Sheik Karim al Makdum Mosque in Simunul, which dates back to the 17th century. It’s a National Cultural Treasure where Muslims go to worship. Inside, you’ll see the original remnants of the old mosque.
Visit the Old Chinese Port
The Old Chinese Port is the primary trading site for Tawi-Tawi and Sulu traders, as well as for neighboring Sabah and Indonesia. Still a prevalent way of transaction, these two neighboring islands exchange agricultural and marine products. When in Tawi-Tawi, drop by this busy port area to witness barter trading.
Hunt for local street food
Looking for cheap eats? Try the street food that locals have for an afternoon snack. Aside from the usually grilled innards, they have local street food that you can only try in Tawi-Tawi. Tip: Don’t forget to dip it in their special homemade sauce for extra flavor!
See mat weaving art in Badjao Village.
In many Badjao communities, mat weaving is their livelihood. The Badjaos weave mats for worship or decoration from dried pandan leaves cut into strips and dyed in various colors and patterns. Buy one to support their income; it’s also a perfect souvenir idea!
Sama Dilaut and Tausug Stilt Houses in Sitangkai
The Sama Dilaut and Tausug communities in Tawi-Tawi are known to live in the shallow coastal waters with their house on stilts. They’re also known as sea gypsies because they depend on marine life for shelter and livelihood. Some indigenous people also dwell in boats. A visit here will teach you more about the cultures of these IPs. With respect to local communities, refrain from taking photos of their community without consent.
Tawi-Tawi Provincial Capitol
You can also visit the Tawi-Tawi Provincial Capital, which showcases beautiful architecture. In front of the capitol is a people’s park, where locals go sunset-viewing, relaxing, dancing, and even skateboarding.
Day Trip to Panampangan Island
Panampangan Island is located in Basibuli Shoal and is one of the most magnificent islands in Mindanao. Its powdery white sandbar surrounded by crystal-clear waters is a spot a beach lover shouldn’t miss.
Visit Bihing Tahik Resort
Looking for a family-friendly resort during your Tawi trip? Bihing Tahik is the answer. They have beautiful modern clam-shaped cottages by the sea where you can relax, swim, and enjoy a getaway with your family and friends. It’s the most recommended accommodation if you want top-notch accommodation on the island.
Visit Sangay Siapuh Island
If you’re a fan of secluded islands, you’ve got to see Sangay Siapuh. It’s an island accessible by boat ride. It’ll remind you of the Maldives, with its white sands and blue-green waters. Apart from just chilling by the shore, it’s a place to go swimming and snorkeling too.
Visit Hja. Uppay Eco-Rubber Farm
Know more about the eco-rubber farms in Tawi-Tawi! This farm lets you see how rubber is harvested and processed, which is one of the farmers’ livelihoods. It’s a sustainable livelihood that you should support when in town.
Experience Barter Trade at Panglima Sugala Market
See barter trading in action when you visit the Panglima Sugala market! You’ll be amazed at how the locals transact by exchanging agricultural and marine goods without using money. It’s the best way to see the tradition being kept alive in Tawi-Tawi.
Have Snacks at Salakot Beach Eco-Diner
This alfresco diner is another must-try restaurant in Bongao. Their charming traditional huts make the eco diner more appealing as you come here for an afternoon snack. Situated by the beach, it’s a place where you can enjoy good food and great views.
Buy Kahawa Sug Coffee in Bongao
Coffee lovers will be delighted to know that they can buy local single-origin Sulu Robusta coffee, known as Kahawa Sug. If you love your coffee rich and robust, try Kahawa Sug as your morning fuel to jump-start your day. It’s good to purchase as a souvenir too!
Buy Baulu and other delicacies at Awal St in Bongao
Find delicious Tawi-Tawi delicacies at Awal Street in Bongao. It’s where you can get the famous Baulu pastry, a sweet kind of biscuit that you can munch on while on a trip. These snacks make for a great pasalubong too.
Snacks at Tawi-Tawi Martabak
Eating local snacks is definitely a must-try activity in Bongao. They have many unique and flavorful dishes that you can only try in Tawi-Tawi. From their own versions of roti and mei goring, you’ll love the budget-friendly dishes they offer here.
Experience riding colorful tricycles
Try riding their colorful tricycles a la local! They have bright, beautifully designed, eye-catching tricycles that you can only find in Mindanao. It’s bigger than the usual trikes you see in Luzon. Ride one to go to nearby destinations on the island.
How to get there
From Manila, book a flight bound for Cotabato via Philippine Airlines. PAL also flies directly from Cotabato City to Tawi-Tawi every Monday and Thursday at 7:30 AM and from Tawi-Tawi to Cotabato on the same days at 9:40 AM.
We’re so excited for you to discover the unspoiled wonder of Mindanao! Share your Tawi-Tawi experience by sharing your stories in the comment section below!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best things to do in Tawi-Tawi?
Some of the best things to do in Tawi-Tawi include exploring Bongao Island, hiking Bud Bongao, visiting Panampangan Island, swimming in crystal-clear waters, experiencing Sama-Bajau culture, island hopping, visiting traditional markets, and enjoying fresh seafood. Tawi-Tawi is ideal for travelers looking for beautiful beaches, marine adventures, cultural experiences, and destinations that remain relatively off the beaten path.
What are the best places to visit in Tawi-Tawi?
Popular places to visit in Tawi-Tawi include Bud Bongao, Panampangan Island, Sanga-Sanga Island, Simunul Island, Boloboc Cave, and various sandbars and smaller islands around the province. Each destination offers something different, from hiking and sightseeing to swimming, snorkeling, cultural immersion, and photography.
Is Tawi-Tawi a good destination for tourists?
Yes. Tawi-Tawi is an excellent destination for adventurous travelers seeking a less commercialized part of the Philippines. The province offers beautiful islands, turquoise waters, rich marine life, and a distinct cultural heritage. Travelers should, however, plan their trip carefully and check current local travel and security advisories before visiting.
What is the most famous attraction in Tawi-Tawi?
Bud Bongao is one of the province’s most recognizable attractions. Located on Bongao Island, the mountain provides panoramic views of Bongao town and the surrounding islands. The hike is also known for its resident long-tailed macaques and scenic viewpoints.
Is Bud Bongao difficult to climb?
Bud Bongao is considered a manageable hike for travelers with reasonable fitness, although the trail can be steep and challenging in places. Allow several hours for the round trip, depending on your pace and how often you stop for photos. Wearing comfortable hiking shoes, carrying water, and starting early are recommended.
What can I do at Panampangan Island?
Panampangan Island is known for its long white-sand beach and clear turquoise waters. Visitors can swim, relax on the beach, take photographs, enjoy a picnic, and explore the surrounding waters. It is one of the most scenic destinations in Tawi-Tawi and is particularly appealing to travelers interested in beaches and island hopping.
Can I go island hopping in Tawi-Tawi?
Yes. Island hopping is one of the best ways to experience Tawi-Tawi. Depending on your itinerary, boat trips can include beaches, sandbars, snorkeling areas, small islands, and cultural destinations. It is best to arrange trips through a trusted local guide or a tourism-accredited operator and to confirm current conditions before departure.
What is special about Simunul Island?
Simunul Island is significant for its cultural and historical heritage. It is widely associated with the arrival and spread of Islam in the Philippines and is home to the Sheik Karimul Makhdum Mosque, traditionally regarded as one of the country’s oldest mosques. Visitors should be respectful of local customs and religious sites.
What cultural experiences can travelers enjoy in Tawi-Tawi?
Travelers can learn about Sama, Sama-Bajau, and Tausug traditions through local communities, traditional crafts, food, music, markets, and everyday life. A visit is more meaningful when travelers engage respectfully with residents and ask permission before photographing people, homes, or cultural activities.
What is Tawi-Tawi famous for?
Tawi-Tawi is famous for its beautiful islands and beaches, rich marine biodiversity, traditional Sama-Bajau culture, Islamic heritage, fresh seafood, and stunning tropical landscapes. Its location in the southern Philippines also gives the province a distinct cultural identity compared with many other Philippine destinations.
What food should I try in Tawi-Tawi?
Fresh seafood is one of the highlights of a visit to Tawi-Tawi. Travelers can look for freshly caught fish, shellfish, seaweed-based dishes, and other seafood prepared using local cooking traditions. Local markets are also good places to discover ingredients and dishes that reflect the province’s coastal culture.
When is the best time to visit Tawi-Tawi?
The generally drier months are more favorable for island hopping and outdoor activities, but weather can change quickly. Travelers should check the forecast and local sea conditions before booking boat trips. It is also important to check current travel and security advisories before traveling to the province.
How do I get to Tawi-Tawi?
Most travelers fly to Tawi-Tawi through Sanga-Sanga Airport in Bongao. Flights and schedules can change, so check the latest airline schedules before planning your trip. From Bongao, boats and local transportation can be arranged for trips to nearby islands and municipalities.
How many days do I need in Tawi-Tawi?
A 3- to 5-day trip is a practical starting point for first-time visitors. This allows enough time to explore Bongao, hike Bud Bongao, visit cultural attractions, and dedicate at least one day to island hopping. Travelers who want to explore more remote islands and municipalities should consider staying longer.
Is Tawi-Tawi expensive to visit?
Tawi-Tawi can be more affordable than highly commercialized Philippine beach destinations, but transportation costs can increase when traveling between islands. Boat rentals, guides, accommodation, and meals should be factored into your budget. Traveling with a small group can also make private boat trips more economical per person.
What should I wear when visiting Tawi-Tawi?
Travelers should dress modestly and respectfully, particularly when visiting communities, mosques, and other cultural or religious sites. Lightweight clothing is practical in a tropical climate, while swimwear should be limited to appropriate beach and resort settings. Bring comfortable shoes for hiking and island exploration.
Is Tawi-Tawi suitable for first-time travelers to Mindanao?
Tawi-Tawi can be rewarding for first-time visitors to Mindanao, especially those comfortable with independent travel and less-developed tourist infrastructure. However, travelers should research transportation, accommodation, local customs, and current security conditions before going. Hiring a reputable local guide can make the experience easier and more informative.
What makes Tawi-Tawi different from other Philippine destinations?
Tawi-Tawi combines spectacular island scenery with a distinctive cultural and historical heritage. Beyond its beaches, the province offers opportunities to learn about the traditions of the Sama-Bajau and Tausug communities, explore Islamic heritage sites, and experience a quieter side of the Philippines. For travelers seeking destinations beyond the country’s usual tourist circuit, Tawi-Tawi offers a memorable experience.
What should I know before traveling to Tawi-Tawi?
Before traveling, check current government and local security advisories, confirm flight and boat schedules, arrange accommodation and transportation in advance, and coordinate island tours with reliable local operators. Respect local Islamic customs, dress appropriately, ask permission before taking photographs of people, and avoid traveling to areas that authorities or local officials advise against visiting.
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Read:
- Zamboanga City Travel Guide
- Tawi-Tawi Delicacies: Must-Try Dishes In Tawi-Tawi, And Where To Eat
- Where to Eat in Puerto Princesa City, Palawan
