tourism office zamboanga city

25 ZAMBOANGA CITY Tourist Spots & Things to Do

Whenever we’re asked what our favorite local destinations are, we always include Zamboanga City in the list. And almost always, we get a one-word follow-up question delivered with a lot of curiosity — “Why?”

In my circle of friends, I can count with my fingers those who have set foot in this corner of Mindanao. But what’s in Zamboanga? Why should you visit? As one of the biggest urban hubs in the Philippines in terms of land area (and population), Zamboanga City is brimming with attractions that are worth going the distance.

Zamboanga City’s travel scene has been developing fast over the past few years. It is, after all, Region IX’s primary gateway. Tours are becoming more organized. Promotion of the city has been relentless, especially after travel restrictions have eased. Most tourists flock to the islands and the beaches, but the local food scene is steadily drawing in more visitors, too.

The team has been to Asia’s Latin City five times already, but each time we felt like there was still more to see and discover! On our most recent trip, AirAsia , which now flies daily to Zamboanga, toured us around the city and we got to visit some attractions for the first time!

If you’re curious about what awaits you there, here’s a full rundown of the things to do and places to visit in Zamboanga City.

WHAT'S COVERED IN THIS GUIDE?

SANTA CRUZ ISLANDS

Pink beach (sta. cruz grande island).

Off the coast of Zamboanga Peninsula lies an island that, when kissed by the sun, glows with a natural rosy blush. Hailed by the National Geographic as one of the World’s 21 Best Beaches in 2017, Pink Beach is Zamboanga City’s most popular tourist attraction.

To manage your expectations, the pink hue isn’t vivid or bright. From afar, the sandy shore looks like the usual white beach, but the closer you get, the pink taint becomes more apparent. The sand’s pale pink tint is the result of the weathering of the red organ-pipe corals (tubipora musica) that were brought to the shore by the waves.

Punctuating the southeastern side of the peninsula, Zamboanga City’s Paseo del Mar is the main jump-off point to the island and its Pink Beach. Visitors can hire a tricycle from the city center to Santa Cruz Island Ferry Terminal in Paseo del Mar. The boat ride takes about 20 minutes.

Because the number of visitors is strictly regulated, you need to register in advance before going. Registration and boat service start at 7:00 AM. Overnight stay is not permitted and only day tours are allowed.

Boat fee is P1000, good for up to 10 passengers. If your group is smaller, you’ll still need to pay the same amount.

Jump-off Point: Paseo del Mar (Santa Cruz Island Ferry Terminal) Day Tour Schedule: 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM (Tuesday-Thursday, Saturday – Sunday); CLOSED (Mondays & Fridays). Note that the schedule might change without prior notice, so check first before going. Entrance Fee: P20 + P5 (Terminal Fee) Boat Fee: P1000 (good for up to 10 pax) Cottage Rental Fee: P100 – P500 (depending on the size)

Mangroves Boat Tour (Sta. Cruz Grande Island)

While Grande Santa Cruz Island allures with its pink radiance, its beauty goes beyond appearances. It also keeps a trove of natural wonders. On the other side of the island is a lagoon fully adorned with mangroves, nourishing wildlife and promoting biodiversity.

The lagoon actually dominates the whole island, occupying most of the surface. The best way to explore it is to take a guided boat tour. As your boatman paddles, a guide will lead you to a number of spots to explain just how important it is to protect this site. You’ll learn about the types of mangroves and meet upside-down jellyfish . Don’t worry, they’re not dangerous at all. They’re virtually stingless. But please don’t get them out of the water.

To join a lagoon boat tour, tell the boatmen that brought you to Pink Beach that you want to explore the lagoon. They will take you to a small community near the entrance to the lagoon. This transfer will cost you an additional P200.

Here, you’ll be transferring to a smaller “yellow boat.” Rental of each yellow boat costs P300, good for 2 passengers. Any given boat will be accompanied by 2 paddlers, each from a different family. (It’s a way of making sure everyone in the community benefits from the program.)

Tour guide fee is P300. A tour guide can lead up to 5 boats max. You can team up with other boats so you could split the guide fee.

Important: you can only arrange a tour before 12 noon! They won’t be accepting any booking beyond that time. Please follow the rules and regulations when exploring. The Grande Santa Cruz Island, together with the smaller Little Santa Cruz Island, is a protected area.

Here’s a summary of the lagoon tour expense.

Boat to entrance: P200 (boat can accommodate up to 10 pax) Yellow paddle boat rental: P300 (good for 2 pax) Tour guide fee: P300 (good for up to 5 boats)

Vinta Rowing

The vinta is the traditional outrigger boat that is common in Mindanao, especially in the areas of southern Mindanao, Sulu archipelago, and the Zamboanga peninsula. It is famous for its vividly colorful rhombic sail, adding a splash of color to the waters of Sulu Sea.

The vinta plays an important role in the livelihood of the locals — economy, trade, and transportation. It is historically used as a fishing vessel. Today, it also serves as a mode of transportation for people, as a cargo vessel to deliver products/goods, and as a tourist attraction.

If you want to experience rowing or riding a vinta , you may charter one in any of the barangays along the city’s coastlines or you can do it when you visit Grande Santa Cruz Island.

Little Sta Cruz Island & Sandbar

Sitting northwest of Santa Cruz Grande Island, Little Santa Cruz Island is like a quick dash of paradise off the coast of the Zamboanga peninsula. The most recognizable feature of the island is the sandbar trailing on the easternmost point.

Although the island is fringed with fair sand, it is a mixture of fine and broken shells and corals. There are small lagoons, but tourists are not allowed to venture beyond sandbar. The surrounding waters are mostly deep, sea-grass-covered, and are not recommended for leisure swimming.

Visitors are only allowed to stay here for 10 minutes. But if you really want to make a stop here, a detour will cost you an additional P200.

Jump-off Point: Paseo del Mar (Santa Cruz Island Ferry Terminal) Additional fee if making a stop here: P200

ONCE ISLAS CRUISE (11 Islands)

A steadily rising tourist attraction is Once Islas (11 Islands), a string of islands and islets off the eastern coast of Zamboanga City. Not all islands are open to the public, but those that are accessible are great for swimming, sunbathing, and further exploring. There are designated snorkeling spots for those who want to take a peek into the underwater scene. Buh-Buh, Bisaya-Bisaya, Baung-Baung, and Sirommon are those that are accessible to the public.

The islands are only open for day trips. A limit of 200 visitors per day is implemented, so advance registration is required. You need to book online through [email protected] one week before your planned visit. Guidelines and steps will be emailed upon booking inquiry. Walk-ins are not entertained.

The jump off point is the Panubigan Ferry Terminal, roughly 1.5 hours from the city center.

Jump-off Point: Panubigan Ferry Terminal in Barangay Panubigan Operating Hours: 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM (Tuesday – Thursday, Saturday – Sunday); CLOSED (Mondays & Fridays). Note that the schedule might change without prior notice, so check first before going. Boat Rates: P1,200 (BiBa or Bisaya-Bisaya and Baung-Baung Route, good for 5 pax); P2,000 (Island Cruise, good for 5 pax) Fees: P100/head (Entrance Fee); P100/head (Environmental Fee); P300 (Guide Fee; good for 5 pax); P150 (Cottage Fee)

Below are the accessible islands:

Bisaya-Bisaya Island

Bisaya-Bisaya Island is a two-faced island, with steep cliffs on one side but blanketed with fine white sand on the other. Its northern face is where you’ll find the sandy stretch, fringed with palm trees. From above, the beach area resembles a boomerang on patch of grass. In between the trees are a few huts where you could stay and enjoy coconut juice, which is for sale on site.

Not too far away is a smaller islet often dubbed a child of Bisaya-Bisaya. This one’s generally more rocky and jagged. It features a small natural pool that gets filled by the waves at high tide.

Our guide Sirna shared with us a folk tale about two fishermen, a Christian and a Muslim, who once stumbled upon the island that blessed them with fish. But the two did not agree on how they would divide the ocean bounty — since one of them caught much more than the other — so they decided to go their own way. According to our guide, “bisaya-bisaya” is the local term for “kanya-kanya” or not sharing.

Baung-Baung Island

Baung-Baung Island is an almost rectangular island whose southwestern end shimmers with its fine white sand. It’s usually the stop right after Bisaya-Bisaya because of its proximity to it. In fact, Baung-Baung has a trekking trail that will lead you to a viewpoint that affords a majestic view of Bisaya-Bisaya and the other islets around it. On Google Maps, it’s marked “Baong Island”.

Sirommon Island

Sirommon Island is the usual lunch stop for boat tours; thanks to its spacious huts. It also has a wide strip of white sand and a sand bar, which is probably why most tourists spend the most time here. It’s also a great snorkeling stop.

Buh-Buh Island

Buh-Buh Island is best known for its beachfront mosque. Pre-pandemic, tours would make a stop here, but we’re not sure whether or not it’s still the case. We didn’t set foot here, though.

ZAMBOANGA CITY HERITAGE TOUR

El museo de zamboanga.

El Museo de Zamboanga should be the first stop of any city tour. It offers a quick overview of the history and heritage of Zamboanga City, which explains much of what you’ll see as you visit more places through the day.

It has two galleries — the main gallery, housing the permanent exhibition, and another one for the temporary or seasonal exhibits. It showcases historical items and artifacts that narrate the colorful story of the region, its people, and its rich culture from the pre-colonial period to the more recent decades. The museum is nestled in the extensive Pasonanca Park.

Location: Hardin Maria Clara Lobregat Complex, Pasonanca Park, Pasonanca Road, Zamboanga City Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Monday – Saturday); CLOSED (Sundays). Note that the schedule may change, so check the official Facebook page for the latest update before going. Entrance Fee: P10 (Adults); P5 (Minors/Students/Seniors)

Pasonanca Park & Scout Limbaga Campsite

Opened to the public in the 1910s, the Pasonanca Park is another green space for nature lovers and those who want to have a quick escape from the much busier city center. It houses the Camp Limbaga (Scout Limbaga Campsite) with a convention center, an amphitheater, an aviary, a floral garden and butterfly sanctuary, and public swimming pools — a kiddie pool, a natural pool, and an Olympic-size pool.

Probably the most famous attraction is the Pasonanca Treehouse. Constructed in 1960, it was originally built to serve as the Youth Citizenship Training Center. Today, visitors come here to take photos, but if you want to spend more time here, you can rent the treehouse too! Make sure to contact the LGU’s admin first to coordinate. You can buy food along the way from the sidestreet restaurants, stores, and BBQ stands.

Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 6:30 PM (Daily). Note that the schedule might change without prior notice, so check first before going. Admission Fee: FREE. The park itself is free, but the attractions impose their own entrance fees, usually ranging from P10 to P25 per head.

Climaco Freedom Park

Formerly known as Abong-Abong Park, the Climaco Freedom Park is situated about seven kilometers north of the city center. Named after the late Zamboanga City Mayor Cesar Climaco, a local hero who was assassinated in 1984. The park also serves as his final resting place.

The freedom park is a popular weekend destination for the locals and one of the rising tourist spots, attracting nature lovers of all ages. It encompasses a garden, Chrislam Pool, Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts campsite, Heroes Hill, and the Holy Hill, which is the endpoint of the Station of the Cross trek.

Some of the things to do here are swimming, hiking, trekking, biking, having a picnic, and going on a religious pilgrimage and retreat.

Location: Climaco Freedom Park (Abong-Abong Park), Zamboanga City Opening Hours: 24/7 Admission Fee: P5-10

Fort Pilar Shrine and Museum

Also called Fortaleza del Pilar , Fort Pilar dates back to the 17th century, originally serving as a Spanish military defense post. Fast forward to the present, this bastioned fort is a major historical landmark of the city. Recognized as a National Cultural Treasure in 1973, the fort underwent restorations and is regularly maintained by the city.

It cradles an open-air 18th-century Marian shrine — Our Lady of the Pillar — with an altar and stone seating for the devotees who want to pray and reflect. On Sundays, monoblock chairs dot the area for the regular mass.

The fort also houses a regional branch of the National Museum of the Philippines, the bells of the Sanctuary to the Lady of the Pillar, and a fountain. The fort is located near Paseo del Mar and Zamboanga State College of Marine Science and Technology.

Location: N.S. Valderosa Street, Santa Barbara, Zamboanga City Opening Hours: Fort Pilar Shrine 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Daily); National Museum 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Monday – Friday), CLOSED (Saturdays & Sundays). Note that the schedule might change without prior notice, so check first before going. Admission Fee: FREE

ZSCMST Bird Sanctuary

Tucked within the Zamboanga State College of Marine Science and Technology , just a stone’s throw from Fort Pilar and Paseo del Mar, the bird sanctuary is a haven for nature lovers, particularly bird watchers.

The vast mangrove-fringed pond is a protected area, where great white egrets breed and thrive. Other migratory birds also frequent the site.

Two designated view decks are accessible for those who want to spend some time here. The best time for birdwatching is early morning or late afternoon, while the best months are November to March.

Location: Zamboanga State College of Marine Science and Technology, Zamboanga City Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 7:00 PM (Daily). Note that the visiting hours might change without prior notice. Check with the ZSCMST management for the updated schedule. Entrance Fee: FREE

Paseo del Mar

Just across Fort Pilar is Paseo del Mar , a waterfront recreational park facing the Basilan Strait. Aside from the souvenir shops, local food vendors, and eateries, the newly renovated park added a children’s playground and a skatepark, making it a favorite hang-out place for the locals.

It caters not just to families, friends, and couples but also to those who want to spend their alone time or me-time. Several tables and chairs are arranged for those who like to go food tripping here. Local dishes, snacks, and street fare are available. Benches also line the boardwalk, where sunset revelers lounge to watch the sunlight paints the sky with a beautiful gradient of colors as the day turns into night.

Location: N.S. Valderosa Street, Santa Barbara, Zamboanga City Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 12:30 AM (Daily). Note that the schedule might change without prior notice, so check first before going. Admission Fee: FREE

Canelar Barter Trade Center

OK, first things first, despite the name, you need cash when shopping here so please put down whatever it is you plan to trade. 🤣 The name is a nod to the trading system of exchanging goods that was widely practiced in this part of the world back in the day.

Today, however, it functions just like any other shopping center. Time to brush up on your haggling skills when you dive into this shopping paradise, tempting you with its cheap imported offerings from the neighboring countries Indonesia and Malaysia.

Alongside local products, a wide array of imported goods are sold here — souvenirs, food, clothes, fabrics, gadgets, accessories, among others. Get a hold of your favorite Malaysian or Indonesian chocolates, coffee brands (Old Town Cofee and others), and milk tea (teh tarik) at relatively cheaper prices. Lastly, don’t forget to pause and breathe. Good? Okay. Let the second wave of haggling and negotiating begin!

Location: Canelar Barter Trade Center, Zamboanga City Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM (Tuesday – Sunday), 7:30 AM – 6:30 PM (Mondays). Note that the schedule might change without prior notice, so check first before going.

Zamboanga City Hall

Smack at the very heart of the city center, where well-preserved colonial structures are clustered, the Zamboanga City Hall is considered one of the important heritage sites in the city.

Recognized as a National Historical Site, it was originally used as the official residence of the US Military Governor of the then Moro Province. Later on, it became the government seat of the former Zamboanga Province. It has been serving as the administrative seat of Zamboanga City since 1937. Rizal Park or Plaza Rizal is just across the city hall.

Location: N.S. Valderosa Street, Zamboanga City Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Monday – Friday), 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM (Saturdays), CLOSED (Sundays). Note that the schedule might change without prior notice, so check first before going.

Yakan Weaving Village

While in Zamboanga City, don’t pass up the opportunity to take home the best tangible souvenirs you can buy — products made from the exquisite Yakan fabric, which takes time to finish, depending on the intricacy of the designs and patterns. The Yakan are the traditional inhabitants of Basilan and other areas in this part of Mindanao.

Here in Zamboanga City, you’ll find the Yakan Weaving Village , which harbors local shops selling traditional products and practical accessories including bags, purses, pencil cases, and even yards of Yakan fabrics. You can also watch (or try for yourself!) the traditional process of Yakan weaving.

Location: Upper Calarian, Labuan – Limpapa National Road, Zamboanga City Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM (Daily). Note that the schedule might change without prior notice, so check first before going.

ZAMBOANGA FOOD TRIP

Curacha (spanner crabs).

Nope. We are not talking about the Filipino femme fatale movie character played by Rossana Roces nor actual cockroaches! Curacha means cockroach in the Chavacano language, but — before you lose your appetite — we’re not asking you to go full Fear Factor here. Instead, we’re inviting you to have a taste of the most mouth-watering crustaceans that Zamboanga has to offer — spanner crabs! (It got its name because of its spiky appearance.)

So what is it exactly? We are talking about Zamboanga’s gastronomic gem. Curacha looks like the love child of a huge crab and a hairy lobster. Known for its consistent red appearance, whether raw or cooked, it is sought after because it’s meatier than other crabs and packs more flavor. Thankfully, they thrive in the bosom of the Sulu Sea.

Your trip won’t be complete without trying a dish or two. Alavar’s Seafood Restaurant is famous for its curacha dish cooked in its equally popular specialty sauce.

If you want to take some home, head over to Aderes Flea Market in Guiwan, where you can purchase fresh fresh, uncooked curacha at a lower price. Lobsters are also available!

Moro Cuisine

The Filipino Muslims, also known as the Moros, take pride in their distinct cuisine. Although sharing some similarities with other parts of the country in terms of seasonings and ingredients like garlic, onions, and ginger, what make Moro cuisine different are other spices like turmeric, lemongrass, galangal, and kaffir lime — which are more commonly used by our ASEAN neighbors. It also utilizes burnt or blackened coconut meat in some dishes.

Some of the Moro faves are beef randang, piaparan, bakas, chicken pyanggang, pater, dodol, and lukatis. If you want to sample several dishes in one sitting, the latal is your best choice. It is a platter of some native dishes of the region.

Both Bay Tal Mal (at SM Mindpro) and Dennis Coffee Garden (near the airport) have latal on their menu.

Knickerbocker

After a sumptuous native Moro food fest, end it “sweetly” with a tall serving of Zamboanga’s iconic dessert — the knickerbocker.

A what? A hybrid of fruit salad and halo-halo, Zamboanga’s knickerbocker usually combines slices of fruits, gelatin, and shaved ice. It is then doused in milk and topped with a scoop of ice cream.

The Palmeras , also known as Hacienda de Palmeras , is said to be the home of the original knickerbocker and is credited for inventing this refreshing dessert.

Satti and Street Food

Of course! Any TPT trip isn’t complete without delving into the street food scene! These everyday accessible munchies tell a lot about the place, its people, and its culture. You can find street food anywhere, especially in busy areas like the public market and around the city hall.

Paseo del Mar has its share of street grubs and snacks. R.T. Lim Boulevard also hosts a number of street food peddlers. Some of the streetfood choices are satay or “ihaw-ihaw”, pastil, sicalang, and lokot-lokot. But our favorite is mi goreng!

But perhaps the most iconic of all is satti , a breakfast favorite among locals. Satti is usually skewered beef or chicken, grilled and then served half-dipped in a bowl of spicy sauce with rice shaped into cubes!

When we asked the locals where to find the best satti in the city, all fingers pointed at Jimmy’s Satti . Unfortunately, we weren’t able to try it, but we had our helping from Dennis Coffee Garden, which also serves satti.

OTHER WORTHY ATTRACTIONS & ACTIVITIES

Zamboanga hermosa festival.

The city’s annual celebration of the Zamboanga Hermosa Festival is dedicated to its patron saint La Virgen Nuestra Señora del Pilar . It’s a month-long festivity that takes place in October; the first two weeks of which are usually packed with activities, peaking in the second week, particularly on the feast day of the patron saint, which is on the 12th day of October.

One of the main events is the Regatta de Zamboanga , a vinta race participated by hundreds of vinta owners and operators. All the participants are residents of Zamboanga.

Festival Date: Month of October

Taluksangay Mosque

If you trace the roots of Islam in Zamboanga, they will most likely lead you to the coastal village of Taluksangay on the southeast coast of the city. Here, just next to the barangay hall, stands a historic mosque. It is believed that it is here that Islam began to spread in the peninsula.

Constructed in 1885 by Hadji Abdullah Maas Nuno, the Taluksangay Mosque is said to be the oldest in Western Mindanao and the first in Zamboanga Peninsula. The mosque’s most recognizable features are the two minarets.

This off-route destination is mostly visited by Muslims and history buffs.

Location: Taluksungay Mosque, Barangay Taluksungay, Zamboanga City Opening Hours: Visitors can enter the mosque anytime EXCEPT during prayer times, which happen five times a day. It’s best to drop by the barangay hall, which is located just beside the mosque. Please observe visiting rules and protocols.

Merloquet Falls

Located about two hours away from the city center, near the boundary with Zamboanga Sibugay in the north and Zamboanga del Norte in the west, the magnificent two-tiered Merloquet Falls is regarded as one of the most beautiful not only in the region but in the country. The most photographed is the wide terraced drop, creating magical, intricate textured cascades instead of just a smooth straight drop.

The path leading to the falls is quite developed with concrete roads and a designated parking area for vehicles. On foot, the trek to the falls entails many cemented pathways and steps. Nonetheless, this may still be quite difficult for those who are physically challenged.

There are several swimming areas, but mind your steps because some parts are slippery. The best time to visit is in the wet/rainy season.

Location: Merloquet Falls Road, Barangay Sibulao, Zamboanga City Admission Fee: FREE Parking Fee: P20

Learn Chavacano

Zamboanga is often called Asia’s Latin City because of the heavy Hispanic influences. And it’s most apparent in its most dominant language — Chavacano (or Chabacano), the only Spanish-based creole in Asia. It is like a combination of Spanish and local languages, and it’s quite fascinating!

Why not learn Chavacano while in Zamboanga? Start from the basics such as greetings and useful phrases that you can use while in the city. It is also a good way to interact with the locals and learn more about their culture.

• Welcome! = Bienvenidos!
• Thank you very much. = Muchisimas Gracias.
• Good morning! = Buenas Dias!
• Good afternoon! = Buenas Tardes!
• Good evening! = Buenas Noches!
• I’m sorry. – Perdona mi.
• How much is this? – Cuanto esté?

How to Get to Zamboanga City

AirAsia flies daily to Zamboanga City from Manila and offers some of the most budget-friendly fares. Each booking comes with a complimentary 7kg carry-on baggage allowance.

For a worry-free and more comfortable journey, you can also add a Value Pack , which includes 20kg check-in baggage allowance, standard selection, a meal, and Tune Protect insurance (for baggage delay & 1 hour on-time guarantee protection). Meanwhile, their Premium Flex option allows you to change the date and time of your flight up to two times.

If you’re coming from Manila, AirAsia’s Zamboanga flights operate from NAIA Terminal 4.

Where to Stay in Zamboanga City

Accommodations in Zamboanga is much more affordable than in other highly urbanized cities in the Philippines. Average rate for a double or twin room at a business hotel should play within P1500-P1800 per night. But you can find a room for less than PhP 1500, even lower when there are ongoing promos.

We have tried three different hotels in Zamboanga and all of them were decent and pleasant:

• Ever O Business Hotel. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Winzelle Suites. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• L’ Meridian. Check Rates & Availability! ✅

If you have a bigger budget, you may also check out these other properties in the area:

• Marcian Garden Hotel. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Hotel Primera. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• W Hotel. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Grand Astoria Hotel. Check Rates & Availability! ✅

Search for more Zamboanga Hotels!

Words by: Asta Alvarez Additional words by: Yosh Dimen Photos by: Yosh Dimen & Vins Carlos

Disc: Parts of our trip (particularly El Museo de Zamboanga, Zamboanga City Hall, Taluksangay Mosque and Once Islas) were made possible by AirAsia through a media tour.

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Philippines is really the “Pearl of the Orient”. Its is blessed with rich natural resources, scenic, cultural and heritage spot, really full of history and Zamboanga City is one of the place. The Zamboanga City Pasonanca Natural Park is currently nominated as an Asean Heritage Park should it be finally declared as one it would be another spot in the city worth mentioning. The place encompasses the protected areas of the Pasonanca park which is a watershed and a virgin forest rich in fauna and flora.

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Zamboanga City Travel Guide: Tourist Spots, Itinerary, Hotels

Best Time to Go to Zamboanga

How to get to zamboanga, getting around zamboanga, where to stay in zamboanga, types of accommodations, accommodation highlights, what to see and do in zamboanga city, go island hopping at once islas (eleven islands).

• Explore Sta. Cruz Island's Pink Beach and Mangroves

Swim in Merloquet Falls

Pray at the fort pilar shrine, shop at canelar barter.

• Watch the Weavers of Yakan Weaving Village

Feed Birds at Pasonanca Park

Visit camp limbaga, marvel at the architecture of zamboanga city hall.

• Go Bird Watching at ZSCMT Bird Sanctuary

Visit the Metropolitan Cathedral of Zamboanga

Hang out at paseo del mar, visit the taluksangay mosque.

• What to Eat and Drink in Zamboanga

Local Cuisine

Recommended best restaurants and bars, practical information and tips, sample itinerary in zamboanga city.

• Day 1: Arrival + City Tour

Day 2: Sta Cruz Island (Pink Beach, Mangroves, and Vinta Ride)

• Day 3: Once Islas

Day 3: Merloquet Falls + Canelar Barter

Explore Zamboanga City, known as the “City of Flowers,” and one of the most important and busiest port cities in the Philippines. Bursting with a diverse culture and rich history, Zamboanga City possesses a charm that would satisfy the curious traveler. 

According to a widely accepted claim, the Philippines ' Zamboanga City got its name from the Malay word "Jambangan", which means "flower garden". It's also referred to as "Asia's Latin City" due to traces of Hispanic influences as evidenced by the Spanish-colonial establishments that can still be seen around.

• Book a helicopter ride at Dakak Park & Beach Resort

The city’s main language of Chavacano, a Spanish-based creole language, is said to be based on 80% Spanish and the rest from a mixture of Tagalog, Hiligaynon, Portuguese and Italian.

See our popular Zamboanga Tours and Activities

Zamboanga pink sand sta. cruz island private tour with vinta ride, lunch & transfers, zamboanga city private historical day tour with transfers, aliguay island zamboanga del norte day tour with boat transfers.

Zamboanga City is geographically part of the province of Zamboanga del Sur but is governed independently as a Chartered City.

Surrounded by a rich ecosystem thriving in the waters of Zamboanga Peninsula, the city has seen a steady increase in tourism arrivals in the last several years.

If you are into culture, tradition, history and local culinary exploration—then you’re in for a wonderful sensory feast when it comes to tours in Zamboanga City . 

For first-time travelers planning a vacation to Zamboanga City, this travel guide should help you decide where to go, where to stay, and what to do while you’re there.

Situated in Southern Mindanao, Zamboanga City usually avoids most of the typhoons that land in the Philippines all year-long, making it a sunny-weathered city. However, when a typhoon hits, expect flooding to occur in major roads.

So, please check the 7-day weather forecast before planning your trip. Rains do still occur during the monsoon months from June to early October. Climate conditions averages from a low of 24 °C to a high of 33 °C.

October | Hermosa Festival and Regatta Festival 

If you want to time your visit to cultural revelries, there are three major festivals held in Zamboanga City for you to choose from: 

Hermosa Festival, one of the biggest festivals in the Philippines, held all throughout the month of October. It features a colorful street parade merriment honoring the city's patron saint Nuestra Señora del Pilar (Our Lady of the Pillar).

Also called as "Fiesta Pilar", the celebration also comprises of different events such as art fairs, musical concerts, sporting events, Chavacano singing contest and a cultural program called "Wow Zamboanga" which aims to promote local culture, cuisine and talents.

Also held every month of October coinciding with the Hermosa Festival, the Regatta Festival or Regatta de Zamboanga features a fluvial racing contest comprising of the colorful iconic vintas of Zamboanga City.

A traditional outrigger boat of used by Mindanaoans for many centuries, a Vinta is highlighted by a vibrant hull with imaginatively sewn sails—truly personifying the Chavacano word of “Hermosa”, which means “beautiful”.

Spectators on this festival will get to witness these beautiful vintas sail on the waters of the Zamboanga Peninsula. In recent years, more than 1,000 vintas manned by two people has participated in this festival every year.

May | Flores de Mayo 

Likened to most "Flores de Mayo" held all over the country, but more grandiose, this month-long festival known also as "Flowers of May" is celebrated in Zamboanga with much fervor and enthusiasm.

Honoring the Virgin Mary, the festival reaches its climax on the last day or May when beautiful women and their dashing escorts parade through the streets of the city in what is known as the "Santacruzan".

This spectacle is made more beautiful by the presence of colorful floral decorations. As part of the festivity, flower offerings are done every day in every church.

As a major port city, Zamboanga City serves as one of the main transportation hubs of Mindanao and is easily accessible by land, sea, and air. 

While there are still no international flights available, Zamboanga International Airport (ZAM) is well-connected to other domestic cities by air.

Philippine Airlines flies daily to Zamboanga from Manila and Davao while Cebu Pacific Air has flights from Manila, Davao, Cebu, Tawi-Tawi, and Cotabato City.  

Daily buses from Ozamis, Dapitan, Cagayan de Oro, Iligan, and Pagadian takes travelers to Zamboanga Integrated Transport Terminal. The main bus line plying the route of Zamboanga City to other places in Mindanao is Rural Transit Bus .

Their buses are painted with a reddish and orange livery. Bus travel from Cebu and Bacolod is also possible on a Ceres Bus Liner via a RORO ferry connection. 

2GO Travel ferries passengers every Sunday from Manila's Pier 4 to Zamboanga City. Travel time is around 40-45 hours. 2GO also have passenger ships sailing to Zamboanga from Cebu, Dumaguete, Davao, Dipolog, Iloilo and General Santos. Schedules from these destinations vary from weekly to bi-weekly only.

The Port of Zamboanga is considered as an international port of entry. It services sea routes from Sandakan, Malaysia via the Aleson Shipping Company. Other sea travel options include Weesam , Montenegro and Aleson passenger ferries from Jolo in Sulu, Bongao in Tawi-Tawi and Isabela City in Basilan.

Zamboanga City is located at the southern end of the Pan-Philippine Highway or the Asian Highway 26. This means you can reach the city by car via this highway connecting to Pagadian, Cotabato, Davao, General Santos, and Surigao—basically linking to most of Mindanao. If you're coming from Davao, you can rent a car in Davao and drive yourself to Zamboanga City.

Zamboanga City is easily navigable and accessible to all sorts of vehicles. The leading mode of public transportation here are the jeepneys and tricycles, with some buses connecting commuters to neighboring cities.

In some areas, UV shuttle vans are also available the city center is located very near the airport making it easier for any traveler to get around the city upon arrival. 

Photo by Vista del Mar Resort and Recreation Center

Contrary to its incorrect perception that Zamboanga City is a danger zone for travelers, the city has seen steady growth in the number of tourist arrivals during the last several years.

As a result, several new hotels, resorts, and family-own inns and bed and breakfast started operations to meet up with the growing demand.

In Zamboanga City, you can find a wide number of accommodation options that will fit your budget from vacation home rentals, inns and hotels, beach resorts, and even luxury ones. 

Zamboanga has a variety of accommodations to choose from ranging from vacation home rentals to budget inns, beach resorts, and upscale hotels. Traveling to Zamboanga shall meet all your budget restrictions when it comes to choosing an affordable place to stay. 

Vacation Home Rentals

If you are traveling to Zamboanga for a bit longer time or for a working stint, it is advisable to look for a vacation home rental instead of staying per night at a hotel. Check out leading vacation home listings online to find the best one suited for yourself or your group.

Also, when traveling by a big group, you can save money when you opt to rent a vacation home from a few days to a week or even a month.

The rate for these vacation home rentals can prove cheaper if you consider the number of people in your group and divide among each the total cost and compare it to booking a private room in a posh beach resort. 

Budget Hotels and Inns

The most prevalent type of accommodation in Zamboanga are the budget hotels and inns. These are very affordable compared to the ones found in more populous cities like Manila, Cebu, or Davao.

While most of these budget hotels and inns still aren’t listed online, you can ask any locals for directions or have your tour operator or tricycle driver direct you to one. Most of these budget inns offer the basic amenities of single or double beds in small private rooms. 

Beach Resorts

Geographically facing the Moro Gulf and Sulu Sea, Zamboanga City is blessed with a surrounding shoreline dotted with several beach resorts. This is one of the most popular accommodations of choice by tourists staying in Zamboanga City.

Most beach resorts in Zamboanga have their own websites, so it is wise to reserve a room in advance to avoid the stress of scampering to look for one during your trip. 

Luxury Hotels

Currently, most luxurious hotels in Zamboanga are rated 3- to 4-stars at most. These are the favorite among business travelers and settings for various industry conferences and conventions. 

To help you prepare for your trip to Zamboanga City, here are some accommodation highlights divided into three budget categories to make life easier for you in planning your Zamboanga getaway. 

Luxury Accommodations

Garden Orchid Hotel

Photo by Garden Orchid Hotel

Located strategically across the Zamboanga International Airport, the 4-star Grand Orchid Hotel is the city's biggest and most upscale accommodation. It has more than 200 rooms, a swimming pool, physical fitness gym, sauna room, business center and a travel agency.

Vista Del Mar Beach Resort

First envisioned by the late Maria Clara Lobregat—the first lady mayor of the city—as a place where locals "can come and spend the weekend with family", has now become the most popular beach resort in Zamboanga City.

This 7-hectare property provides accommodation options of cottages by the beach, Acacia tree-houses and private rooms. The beach resort also doubles as a farm destination thanks to its organic farm located within the property.

Mid-Range & Budget Accommodations

Grand Astoria Hotel

Photo by Grand Astoria Hotel

Located right smack at the city center near Metropolitan Cathedral of Immaculate Concepcion and Fort Pilar, Grand Astoria Hotel provides the ideal mid-range option for travelers to stay at. The hotel features a total of 145 rooms, a conference center, restaurant, free WiFi and 24-hour room service. 

Casa Canelar Pension House

Photo by Casa Canelar Pension House

Located near the airport and KCC Mall De Zamboanga, Casa Canelar is another solid choice for mid-range and budget accommodation. 

Cityinn Hotel

Photo by Cityinn Hotel

Another hotel that meets traveler's mid-range and budget criteria is this hotel that has become a favorite of business travelers and tourists alike. Cityinn Hotel provides 24-hour front desk service, luggage storage, Wi-Fi and car park to guests. 

W Hotel 

Photo by W Hotel

Simple, laid-back and situated near Fort Pilar, W Hotel is another good choice for any mid-range and budget traveler exploring the city of Zamboanga. 

Spanish-era Forts, old churches and mosques, spacious parks, heritage buildings, historic plazas, waterfalls, white sandy beaches and islands, living tradition centers, and local markets are just some of the many fascinating places to see in and around Zamboanga City.

• Book a  Dakak Park & Beach Resort day pass

Selected by the Department of Tourism as a flagship destination to promote the area of Zamboanga Peninsula, the city has seen continuous growth in tourism arrivals in the last several years.

To help you list down the places you might want to visit in Zamboanga here are some of the must-visit places to see in the city.

Zamboanga City is becoming a known destination for beach-goers because of this emerging eco-cultural tourism destination known as the "Once Islas" (pronounced as "On-se").

This group of islands is composed of eleven mostly uninhabited islands located off the coast of Barangays Dita and Panubigan, was first groomed as a tourist destination in July 2018.

Today, the Once Islas is a site of an eco-tourism program where low-impact activities such as kayaking, swimming and hiking are practiced. An island-hopping tour in Once Islas is highly recommended.

• Check out other destinations where you can experience island hopping in the Philippines
• Book an  Aliguay Island Zamboanga day tour

Strict carrying capacity of 200 people is enforced to ensure sustainable tourism development in all the white sandy islands of Once Islas.

Explore Sta. Cruz Island's Pink Beach and Mangroves

Known for having a beach with sand that glistens with hues of pink (the Pink Beach), especially during sunrise and sunset, Sta. Cruz Island is a nature protected island with visitors only allowed until 4PM. They're also strictly implementing the no-plastic and no-waste rule for visitors of the island. 

But during the day, visitors who try a Pink Beach excursion  can enjoy swimming in the surrounding crystal-clear waters and explore the island's mangrove forest and lagoon where one can see hundreds of non-stinging jellyfish. You can also ride a colorful vinta boat after your mangrove tour .

There is also a small group of Sama-Bangingi community residing in the island. A century old Muslim burial site can also be found on the island called Badjao Cemetery. An excursion in Pink Beach usually includes this in the itinerary.

Sta. Cruz island is around 20 minutes away by boat from the port near Paseo Del Mar in Zamboanga City.

It is highlighted by a spectacular wall of chiseled rock formations where you can climb up to enjoy the streaming cool waters. It can be reached by a short 15-minute hike from the highway in Sibulao. An excursion in Merloquet Falls is worth the time and budget.

Built in 1635 by the Spanish as La Fuerza Real de San Jose garrison, Fort Pilar is now named after Our Lady of Pilar—the patroness of the Archdiocese of Zamboanga and transformed into an open-air park and shrine commemorating Zamboanga's glorious past.

Inside the fort, a National Museum branch can be found where you can see an extensive collection of historical artifacts, memorabilia, and paintings. 

This market is the drop-off place of products imported from Indonesia and Malaysia coming from the country's backdoor route of Sulu Sea.

Inside you will find several interesting products comprising of colorful batik shirts, sarongs and dresses, hats, bags, scarves, souvenir items and even staple Malaysian grocery items such as Mie Goreng noodles and White Coffee.

Don't leave Zamboanga City without joining a guided day tour and buying pasalubongs at Canelar Barter Trade Center.

Watch the Weavers of Yakan Weaving Village

Get to know the living heritage weaving of the Yakans, an indigenous group of people from Basilan. Watch mostly women weavers hand-wove colorful clothing, table runners, brassware, and batik adorned with old-style geometric patterns.

• Book this Basilan Tour to Bulingan Falls, Tulip Garden, and Wee Siu Tuy Museum

It's a highly-recommended cultural site included in a whole day tour in Zamboanga . You can also buy their works as a souvenir and as a means of supporting their traditional weaving. 

Built during the rule of the Americans, Pasonanca Park remains an idyllic setting right smack in the city center of Zamboanga.

Located approximately 7 kilometers from Fort Pilar, the park is also where the Instagrammable Zamboanga Tree House can be visited or spend the night in—on a reservation basis.

The park has an aviary, a botanical garden, a zoo and butterfly park, and three public swimming pools.

Located within the vicinity of Pasonanca Park is Camp Limbaga. Here, you will find 24 boy scout huts that appear like taller versions of the wigwam dwellings of Native Americans. These huts made of aluminum tins and concrete floorings are used boy scouts who want to go camping at the Park.

Camp Limbaga was named in honor of Zamboanga resident Scout Antonio Limbaga. He was one of the 24 Filipino boy scouts who died in a plane crash on their way to the 11th World Jamboree in Greece on July 28, 1963. 

Considered by the National Historical Commission of the Philippines as a National Historical Site, Zamboanga City Hall was first built in 1905 and finished in 1907. The Zamboanga City Hall is a perfect example of a Filipino Colonial Architectural design.

One of the many still surviving heritage structures in the city, it was first used as the official residence of the US Military Governor of the then Moro Province before becoming Zamboanga's City Hall since 1937.

Across the city hall is Plaza Rizal, where a white statue of Dr. Jose Rizal stands. This cultural landmark is included in a heritage tour in Zamboanga .

Go Bird Watching at ZSCMT Bird Sanctuary 

A wetland located inside Zamboanga State College, the ZSCMST Bird Sanctuary welcomes visitors who are up for a bird watching activity.

ZSCMST, which stands for Zamboanga State College of Marine Sciences and Technology, manages the marsh where a variety of migratory bird species can be seen—just like in Candaba Swamp in Pampanga.

Photo by Metropolitan Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception

Built in early 2000, this cathedral is famous for its candle-like design and the marble statue of Immaculate Concepcion designed by Napoleon Abueva—a Philippine National Artist for Sculpture.

Beside the cathedral, you can enter a columbarium where you will see stained-glass images of the 12 apostles. Metropolitan Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception is located at La Purisima Street in downtown Zamboanga.

During day time, one can view Sta Cruz and Basilan Island from here as well as the spectacular sunset. Come nighttime, the place becomes a lively spot with live bands, food stalls and vibrant street lamps lighting up the night. It's a well-known attraction included in a day trip in Zamboanga .

An hour and a half outside of Zamboanga City in Barangay Taluksangay, situates the oldest mosque in Western Mindanao.

Taluksangay Mosque is a must-see side trip destination in Zamboanga City because of its historical significance as the "first center of Islamic propagation in Zamboanga Peninsula”. Most of the residents of Barangay Taluksangay are from the Sama Banguingui people.

What to Eat and Drink in Zamboanga

As a major port city dating back prior to the arrival of the Spanish, Zamboanga became a melting pot of various cultures. Muslims from the Middle East, Indonesia and Malaysia, Chinese and later the Spanish and even Visayan settlers, all made their way to the city.

The resulting effect to the local cuisine was a medley of flavors and textures, that up to now has made Zamboanga City a very underrated culinary destination.

Molded by centuries of cuisine fusion among many food influences, Zamboanga has become a place where one must set out on a gastronomic exploration to fully savor its local taste. 

Zamboanga City is among the many cities in the Philippines where you can easily fill up a top 10 list of "must-eat local food" because there are so many cuisines that originated from this region. If you are a certified foodie, then here are some must-try local food in Zamboanga. 

Sama Bangingi Muslim Delicacies

When in Zamboanga city, one must try a plateful of assorted Muslim delicacies such as the ones passed from one generation of Sama-Bangingi ethno-linguistic group from the Greater Sulu Archipelago. These are Baulo—a baked rice delicacy usually served during Eid al-Fitr.

It also includes the Lokot-lokot which is made from rice flour pounded into powder and friend and formed into crunchy rolls. Other snack items included in these platters are the panganan, kalling, pitis patani, baulo tapung, and panyam bangingi.

Baked Imbao

In Zamboanga, clams are prepared in several diverse ways and one of the most popular is by baking it. Baked Imbao clams are made more tasteful with garlic and butter. It is the perfect appetizer to any dish.

Latal (Moro Cuisine)

What better way to get a taste of local Zamboanga cuisine than having a plateful of "Latal". Latal is a platter of a variety of Tausug native delicacies consisting of tiulah itim – a goat and beef stew dipped in black broth made from roasted coconut, beef kulma, beef piyassak, chicken piyanggang, kiyaliyah kapayah, fried fish and chicken kiyaliya. You can order this at Bay May Tal.

A bowl of Chupa Kulo is always expected to be served in the dining tables of houses located in the coastal towns and islands surrounding Zamboanga City. Chupa Kulo are snails simmered in coconut milk and squash. Eating it is a bit tricky though as you will need to suck the slimy yet scrumptious meat from the shell’s tiny hole. 

Chicken Piyanggang

A Tausug chicken curry dish cooked with burnt coconut paste making it appear color black. Don't be fooled by its un-appetizing appearance because it pops with a rich flavor.

As a melting pot of various Southeast Asian, Chinese and even Spanish cultures, Zamboanga is filled with a variety of food options.

From staple seafood dishes cooked with added twist to Muslim delicacies bursting with rich flavors and the rest of local cuisine prepared Chavacano-style, there’s lot to crave for and taste in the city of Zamboanga.

For many, the city’s gastronomic scene is very underrated and should be considered as among the best in the Philippines. It's why a lot of travelers focus on doing a  food and cultural tour in Zamboanga .

To help you plan your food exploration of Zamboanga City, here are some of the city’s finest and highly recommended dining places:

Alavar Seafood Restaurant

Photo by Alavar Seafood Restaurant

No visit to Zamboanga City is complete without trying out Alavar Seafood Restaurant’s Curacha, a deep-sea giant crab that’s almost the size of a child’s face.

Using your bare hands, crack the shell open to reveal the thick and juicy meat inside. Don’t forget to smother it in the restaurant’s signature Alavar sauce!

You will be surprised at how many crabs you’ve licked clean, as the Curacha is a delight to the taste buds. Other must-try dishes at Alavar include the dinuguan cooked Chavacano style, prawn curry, grilled tuna jaw, pinakbet Chavacano, Paella Chavacano and many more.

Paseo del Mar and Palmeras Restaurant

Paseo del Mar and Hacienda Palmeras are popular spots to try the Knickerbocker. If compared to the halo-halo, one will find similarities as both are composed of diced assorted fruits topped with milk and crushed ice.

What makes it different though is the Knickerbocker is served with fresh fruits (usually: watermelon, apple, mango, pineapple and melon) and topped with milk cream, jelly cubes, and ice cream. It’s a bowl of refreshing dessert concept.

Tsokolate Restaurant

Photo by Tsokolate Zamboanga

Aside from sweet cakes, pies and pastries, Tsokolate also serves hot plated meals to partner with their sweet-smelling and flavorful brewed coffee.

Mixing great food with a laidback ambiance, you also get to feast your eyes on the place’ cool interiors adorned with decorations like vinyl records and pop culture mementos. This amiable nook is the perfect spot to spend time with friends while enjoying a satisfying meal.

Dennis Coffee Garden

Photo by Dennis Coffee Garden

People come here for their perfectly brewed coffee, Tausug cuisine and traditional native pastries that originated from Sulu archipelago.

Don’t forget to try out a platter of Daral (comparable to a crepe but with a sugary coconut filling), Jualan (fried bananas that come with a sweetened dip), Pulihmandi (purple colored balls made of rice and covered with coconut shavings) and Sulu’s version of a pancake called apam.

Dennis Coffee Garden has locations at Labuan-Limpapa National Rd. and KCC Mall along Gov. Camins Rd. (near the airport), Zamboanga City.

Country Chicken 

One of the oldest restaurants in the city, Country Chicken serves arguably the best seafood paella in Zamboanga. So, don't skip this one. Aside from Filipino-Spanish cuisines, they also serve Italian inspired pizzas and pasta.

Harley’s Food and Craft Beers

The craft beer culture has also reached Zamboanga City. Thanks to this motorcycle-themed pub, diners can now enjoy Asian Halal Food and pair it with craft beer varieties from Fat Fauly's Handcrafted Ales and Lagers—a local brewery based in Iligan City. 

Bay Tal Mal

No 'Where to Eat in Zamboanga City' list is complete without the inclusion of Bay Tal Mal. Coined from the Arabic word ‘Bayt-ul Mal’ which means ‘House of Wealth’, Bay Tal Mal serves traditional Tausug and Halal Moro cuisines.

The Moroccan inspired interior sets an idyllic mood that’s perfect for feasting on Latal—a platter of a variety of Tausug native dishes. These go great with rice and other favorites such as chicken piyanggang and kiyaliya. 

Jimmy’s Satti and Johnny’s Morning Sun Satti

In Zamboanga, the Satti Ayam is considered as the “breakfast of champions”. Come sunrise and you will see locals flock to Jimmy’s Satti and Johnny’s Morning Sun Satti to start their day with a filling meal.

The Satti Ayam or Sati is a flavored barbecue (chicken, pork or liver) that’s eaten with a soupy, sweet and spicy sauce and rice wrapped in coconut leaves.

If you are a tourist arriving in the morning, you can head straight to either Jimmy’s Satti or Johnny’s Morning Sun Satti because both eateries are located just on the side of the road not far from the airport.

La Vista del Mar

A favorite among seafood lovers, this seaside restaurant serves many of the region’s heritage cuisines. A scene-stealing dish here is a healthy bowl of goodness called Ensalada Chamba.

It’s an appropriate play on the word chamba, which means ‘stroke of luck’ because the combination of the ingredients (namely diced mangoes, sliced eggplants, salted egg, cucumber and others) just happened to blend perfectly well.

If you want to mix a good meal and some live entertainment care of talented local musicians, then head out to Bar Code. They serve Filipino and local Tausug cuisines. 

For a hassle-free and convenient trip to Zamboanga City, it's important to read up on these practical tips. These will be very useful especially if it’s your first time in Zamboanga:

Philippine Peso (PHP) is the main currency used in Zamboanga City. Money Changers such as Sitti's Money Changer, MOHD Money Changer and Hesham's Money Changer can be found in the downtown area of the city as well at the airport and in SM City Zamboanga and KCC Mall.

Withdrawing money from an Automated Teller Machine (ATM) isn’t a problem in Zamboanga City, as leading banks such as BDO, BPI, Metrobank and Security Bank have several ATM outlets all over the city center. 

The language in Zamboanga is Chavacano (a Spanish-based Creolo language), but English, Tagalog and Hiligaynon are also widely spoken in all of Zamboanga City. However, it is still music to the ears of the locals if tourists exert effort in speaking their language.

Here are some useful Chavacano phrases you could use in conversing with residents of Zamboanga City. 

"Bienvenidos" - "Welcome"

"Buenas Dias and Buenas Noches" - "Good morning" and "Good evening"

"Muchisimas Gracias" - "Thank you very much"

"Cosa, Porque, Onde, Quando, Paquelaya" - "What, Why, Where, Where, When, How"

"Que tal lu" - "How are you?"

"Buen dia" - "Have a nice day"

"Cuanto esti" - "How much is this?"

Safety Concerns

Zamboanga City has been unfairly portrayed as an unsafe city. Truth is, Zamboanga City is considered a generally safe city no different than other cities in the Philippines.

Of course, be wary of isolated incidents of scammers and pick-pockets. Also, don’t let the sight of military checkpoints frighten you. 

Zamboanga City is a destination where you can enjoy the best of both worlds—nature and culture— plus a feast of culinary delight.

If you want to get a feel of what the place can offer to travelers, then you must at least allot three to four days of exploration. Here is a sample 4-day itinerary to Zamboanga City: 

Day 1: Arrival + City Tour

06:00 AM - Arrival at Zamboanga International Airport

06:30 AM – Breakfast at Jimmy’s Satti or Johnny’s Morning Sun Satti

07:00 AM - 12:00 PM – City tour before checking in at the hotel. You can drop your things at your hotel and try a heritage tour in Zamboanga  (Fort Pilar Shrine, Zamboanga City Hall, Plaza Rizal, Metropolitan Cathedral of Zamboanga, Pasonanca Park, Camp Limbaga, El Museo de Zamboanga)

12:00 PM – Lunch at Alavar Seafood Restaurant 

02:00 PM – Check-in at the hotel and freshen up

03:30 PM – Continue city tour (Yakan Weaving Village, ZSCMST Bird Sanctuary)

06:30 PM – Dinner at Bay Tal Mal

08:00 PM – Cap your night with a Knickerbocker dessert at Paseo del Mar

07:00 am - Wake-up call and breakfast

08:30 am – Head to Paseo del Mar port to register, listen to orientation, and rent a boat to Sta. Cruz

09:00 am – Arrival at Sta. Cruz Island (Beach bumming, lunch at the island, tour the lagoon and mangrove forest to see the stingless jellyfish and ride a vinta boat)

03:00 pm – Depart Sta. Cruz Island

03:30 pm – Back at Paseo del Mar

04:00 pm – Rest at the hotel and freshen up

06:00 pm – Dinner at Dennis Coffee Garden

08:00 pm – Enjoy the nightlife at Bar Code or at Harley's Food and Craft Beers

Day 3: Once Islas 

08:30 - 03:00 pm – Whole day of Once Islas island hopping

06:00 pm – Dinner Dennis Coffee Garden

08:00 am – Travel to Merloquet Falls

09:00 am – Swim and chill at Merloquet Falls

11:00 am – Travel back to Zamboanga City

012:00 pm – Lunch at La Vista del Mar

02:00 pm – Continue city tour, food tripping, and shopping at Canelar Barter

07:00 pm – Dinner

Start Planning Your Zamboanga Trip!

A melting pot of crisscrossing cultures and tradition—yet Zamboanga City retains a character still unique to others. This and the city’s other hidden charms make exploring this place a more wanderlust-satisfying endeavor.

• Book a  Dapitan Zamboanga day tour

From tasting a wide range of local cuisine covering Filipino, Spanish and Muslim delicacies, to stepping foot on heritage sites bursting with history, to wading into crystal-clear waters of the surrounding sea and islands, you'll find endless wonder and excursions in Zamboanga City .

If you are looking for a place to travel where you will learn more of local culture, then Zamboanga City should be on top of your list. Start planning your Zamboanga trip now!

Be sure to bookmark this Zamboanga City travel guide to plan your trip accordingly. Check out our Zamboanga tours and activities that you can add to your itinerary.

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Zamboanga City: Exploring Asia’s Latin City

Discovering zamboanga city.

As one of Mindanao’s major cities, Zamboanga still has its “softer side” when it comes to giving tourists a fair share on what to experience in the city. As it is known as Asia’s Latin City, Zamboanga is also home to one of the oldest and still-surviving Spanish creoles in the world – the Chavacano dialect. “ Chavacano ” is a hybrid dialect that combines the Spanish language with that of the Visayan dialect.

Downtown Zamboanga City ( photo by www.ilovepagadian.com )

Zamboanga City, I can say, is very rich in history and cultural preservation, as manifested by the tourist spots that will be explained and described in detail below. I have also listed some tourist spots that I have not visited due to time constraint that gives me a more valid reason to go back as soon as I can (because of distance ‘issues,’ too.)

——————————————————————————————————————————————————————

So here you go – here are some of the places I have been to in the city and the things I did there, too!

Zamboanga International Airport

Zamboanga International Airport from my window (from Tawi-Tawi)

Zamboanga International Airport at night

Zamboanga International or simply “ ZAM ” is one of the major airports in Zamboanga Peninsula together with Pagadian Airport in Zamboanga Del Sur. It services routes to and from Cebu , Manila , Davao , and Tawi-Tawi until it ceased several international operations. Two of the country’s largest air carriers – Philippine Airlines and Cebu Pacific fly through this airport as of posting.

One thing I also noticed when I was there when I was en route to Tawi-Tawi is that the airport closes after the last flight in the evening and resumes operations at around 0400 H. Although highly guarded, passengers are left waiting outside the airport to sleep until the airport opens for business the next day. It just surprised me that an international airport such as ZAM would “close” and resume operations the next day.

Canelar Barter Trade

The Canelar Barter Trade

The Canelar Barter Trade is more of a myriad of souvenir shops that sells affordable and quality stuff for me. Most of Zamboanga’s products are showcased here – from weaved products, keychains, souvenir shirts, bags, sarongs/shoals, and even products from nearby Malaysia . Their products are relatively cheap compared to the major shopping centers in the city.

Kape Zambo!

When I first came into Kape Zambo, it gave me that feel that it is more to something. It converts into a chill bar at night with live bands on stage! How cool is that? But if you want a more relaxed setup, go there for breakfast or lunch and enjoy its simple interiors.

Atilano Compound

Atilano Compound is famous for offering affordable accommodations especially to backpackers exploring Zamboanga City. It has at least 5 different pension houses offering cheap room rates for the thrifty backpacker:

(1) N. Atilano New Pension House

N. Atilano New Pension House ( photo by www.blissfulguro.com )

Room Rates:

(2) casa don atilano.

Casa Don Atilano ( photo by www.blissfulguro.com )

(3) Chang V Atilano Pension House

Chang V Atilano ( photo by www.blissfulguro.com )

(4) Atilano New Pension House

Atilano New Pension House ( photo by www.blissfulguro.com )

(5) KNC Atilano Pension house

KNC Atilano ( photo by www.blissfulguro.com )

These accommodations offer rooms for as low as PhP 280 per person per night. And as a standard, check-in time is at 1400 H and check-out time is at 1200 H.

All conversions to US$ are rounded up: US$1 = PhP 50. Rates are on a per-night basis. Prices and other information are subject to change without prior notice. Once a change is made, I will do my best to edit it as soon as possible!

Zamboanga City Hall

Given that it is my first time in Mindanao, the Zamboanga City Hall is one of the most iconic City Halls I have seen so far. With still having that Hispanic influence on its architecture, the city hall never loses its Filipino touch. Being one of the city’s symbols, vinta sails are also adorned and attached to the city hall when I visited, adding to that “Filipino flavor” everyone is excited to see.

Military presence is evident from the City as it serves as an additional security while exploring Zamboanga. As they have experienced from the past, they now take extra precautionary measures in order to protect the safety and security of everyone – locals and tourists alike.

BPI Zamboanga Main Branch and Lifestyle Museum ( photo by www.langyaw.com )

One of its kinds in the Philippines, the Bank of the Philippine Islands ’ Museum in Zamboanga City showcases the peninsula’s rich culture coinciding with the bank’s history in the region as well. Built on a mestiza-type house, this branch of BPI, I can say, is one of the most picturesque in the country. You can actually visit the museum to know more about Zamboanga.

As part of the historic branch’s opening on August 17, 2012, the foundation unveiled the lifestyle museum on the 2 nd floor to celebrate the Zamboanga office’s centennial celebration. The museum takes people back to the beginning of the 20 th century and depicts the life and culture of Zamboangueños during the Spanish and American colonial periods. Antique furniture, vintage photographs, and an exhibit are found all throughout the six rooms also featuring a grand sala. There is an array of material on BPI history and the Zamboanga branch’s history as well.

(Information from http://www.bpifoundation.org )

City Tourism Office

Zamboanga City Tourism Office

Located in Paseo Del Mar and just in front of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Complex, it is the seat of all the tourism activities in the City.

National Museum

National Museum – Zamboanga (Fort Pilar)

Housed within Fort Pilar, the National Museum -Zamboanga City cradles some of the artifacts that are borne from the peninsula and nearby provinces of Muslim Mindanao. It will give you a taste of the perfect combination between Islam and Christianity, also giving you a glimpse of the cultures and traditions of the different peoples living in the region. Picture-taking is also allowed while inside the museum.

Entrance Fees:

Inside Fort Pilar

This is the stronghold of the City against the Spanish forces during the Spanish Colonial Period. Although small for its size, the fort is the symbol of the City’s “strength and valor” as it withstood several wars before succumbing to the colonizers’ rule.

Fort Pilar Bastion

Strategically located fronting the Basilan Strait, you can see the mountains of nearby Basilan province which is only 30 minutes away via a public marine vessel (access through the Zamboanga port). If you are lucky enough to see vintas strung ashore, grab the chance to ride on one of them. In some of my readings, they only charge PhP 50 (US$ 1) per person per ride on Friday to Sunday! You’re welcome!

Plaza Del Pilar

Inside Plaza Del Pilar

Plaza Del Pilar is just adjacent to Paseo Del Mar and Fort Pilar. This is a plaza of different shops offering different finds from food, beverages, and clothing among anything else.

The plaza is Zamboanga’s first-ever all-in-one pasalubong center where locals and visitors alike can buy souvenir items, eat out or simply pass time. Plaza del Pilar also makes an interesting haven for food enthusiasts of all ages in acknowledgment of the Zamboangueños’ love for food.

Interestingly, Plaza del Pilar is another thing that Zamboanga shares with its sister-city, Zaragoza, Spain .  The Spanish city’s Plaza del Pilar is a square which includes, among others, the Basilica of the Lady of the Pilar, the Catedral de Salvador de Zaragoza, Lonja de Zaragoza (the city’s civil building), City Hall, Francisco de Goya monument, and the Fuente de la Hispanidad. While our local version of the plaza is located along the same street as the City Hall and Fort Pilar, Zamboanga’s Plaza del Pilar is independent of the said landmarks.

(Information from http://zamboangatimes.ph )

Fort Pilar Shrine

Nuestra Señora del Pilar a.k.a. Pilar Shrine ( photo by www.zamboanga.com )

Located behind the fort, it is a shrine that was built to venerate Nuestra Señora La Virgen del Pilar de Zaragoza, Zamboanga City’s Patron Saint. It is a one-of-a-kind quaint shrine because it is open-air and is located opposite the entrance to Fort Pilar. From afar you can see the Great Sta. Cruz Island and the mountains of Basilan .

Paseo Del Mar

Overlooking Paseo del Mar

Paseo del Mar from Fort Pilar

Paseo Del Mar opens at around 1500 H every day and it features food stalls across the Baywalk. At night, too, there is a dancing fountain show set up as an added attraction.

Jimmy’s Satti House

Jimmy’s Satti Haus exterior ( photo by www.langyaw.com )

Meat portions in satti sauce (Only at PhP 6 per stick!)

Chicken barbecue with tamuh (glutinous rice wrapped in banana leaves)

As recommended by fellow bloggers who have been to Zamboanga City, Jimmy’s Satti is really one to remember – it is overflowing! Their satti has the perfect balance between sweet and spicy and it compliments every food item on their menu. Not to mention, their food items are very affordable, too! Its humble space makes it feel more like home for me – it is just a typical karinderya (eatery) but their food is what you would be surprised of. I swear!

Plaza Rizal and Plaza Pershing

Plaza Rizal

Plaza Pershing

Built in honor of the country’s national hero, Jose P. Rizal and John Joseph Pershing (Governor of the Moro Province, 1909-1914) respectively, these plazas are strategically located just near and in front of the Zamboanga City Hall in the Central Business District.

Zamboanga Public Market

Zamboanga City Public Market ( photo by www.flickriver.com )

It is where you get to find various products found in Mindanao and sometimes from Malaysia. From food items, garments, equipment and the like, you name it they probably have it. It just like any other public market in the country.

Pasonanca Park

(Pasonanca Aviary, Jardin Maria Clara Lobregat, Paseo De Jardin)

Pasonanca Park Aviary ( photo by www.tripadvisor.com.ph )

Jardin Maria Clara de Lobregat ( photo by www.akrosdayunibers.com )

Paseo de Hardin (a series of bars and restaurants usually open from early afternoon to late night)

Pasonanca Park is one of the ‘more peaceful’ parks in the City. Located in Barangay Pasonanca, this park house the Aviary, Jardin Maria Clara Lobregat, Paseo De Jardin, Zamboanga Museum, Boy Scouts’ Camp and Tree House. Although they open by midday, the shops at Paseo De Jardin open in the late afternoon (to give you a taste of their nightlife). By foot, the park can be reached in an hour and if you’re riding a Pasonanca-signed jeepney, the trip will be around 15-20 minutes.

The park is also considered to be the main attraction in the City. With many park divisions, it is one-of-its-kind in the country. It is adorned with trees, flowers, different plants, and roughly 600 species of orchids.

This project was initiated by John Joseph Pershing in 1912 and was finished during Frank Carpenter’s term.

Cawa-Cawa Baywalk at R.T. Lim Boulevard

R.T. Lim Boulevard during the Vinta Regatta (photo by www.inpinaysfootsteps.blogspot.com )

Similar to that of the famous Roxas Boulevard in Manila, Zamboanga City has their own version, too. Overlooking the Great Sta. Cruz Island and just beside the Zamboanga port, the boulevard is named after Roseller T. Lim , who is the first and so far the only politician from Zamboanga to be elected to the Philippine Senate . While the project is still half finished (with all the retiling and lighting projects), the boulevard is scenic especially at dusk.

Alavar’s Seafood Restaurant

Alavar’s Seafood Restaurant, Bed & Breakfast

Debatably home to the best curacha recipe in Zamboanga City, Alavar’s Seafood Restaurant is the product of a lovely family with a deep love for culture and food, of course. With their famous and secret “alavar sauce,” this restaurant gained the reputation for serving the finest seafood dishes in the City.

Shrimp Dish

One of their bestsellers is a quite rare variety of crab, locally known as ‘ curacha ’ or the deep-sea crab. Sourced mainly in the peninsula’s waters, these crabs give a distinct taste making it one-of-a-kind.

Turista Boy Tip :

Better eat here in groups so you can try every seafood item because food items here are quite expensive.

Ateneo de Zamboanga University

Ateneo de Zamboanga University façade ( photo by www.marshmary.com )

Founded in 1912, Ateneo de Zamboanga University ( AdZU ) is a Jesuit-run university in Western Mindanao. It is one of the prominent universities in the region. AdZU is also an annex of the Ateneo in Quezon City (as part of the system.) To know more about AdZU, click here !

Metropolitan Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception

Zamboanga Cathedral Exterior

Also known as the Zamboanga Cathedral and located just beside the Ateneo de Zamboanga University, the Metropolitan Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception is a modern-type cathedral in a white façade. The design of the cathedral itself is striking and unique because it is not a typical kind of a church’s structure. It is also one of the seats of the Catholic faith in Zamboanga City.

Myrna’s Bake House

One of Myrna’s Bakehouse Branches (Gov. Alvarez Branch)

One of the famous bakehouses in the City, a taste of Myrna’s baked goods should not be missed. What I have tried during my visit are their cookies and cream miniature cake and blueberry smoothie. Eats yummy! 🙂

KCC Mall de Zamboanga

KCC Mall de Zamboanga ( photo from www.sunstar.com.ph )

So far the biggest mall in Mindanao that I have visited, the KCC Mall de Zamboanga is the biggest mall in the Zamboanga Peninsula. It got a lot of things to offer – from food, clothing, lifestyle, and entertainment. Security is quite tight upon entering the mall.

It is like you are entering an airport with the x-ray scanners and metal detectors right at their doorstep. The mall is also easily seen when coming from Pasonanca or from the airport. Dispatch areas for tricycles and jeepneys are also right in front of the mall.

Halal Foods are separated from non-Halal Foods (pork, and other non-Halal) in the mall’s food court and in most of the food establishments inside the mall (and in the City, I suppose.)

ITINERARY and EXPENSES:

Day 1 (26 may 2016), day 2 (27 may 2016), about aldrick 'chiki' agpaoa.

• Pingback: Zamboanga City: Turista Boy Travel Guide | Turista Boy

I’ve never heard of Zamboanga City and actually there’s not a lot of information online about Mindanao either. Is southern Philippines safe to visit at the moment?

Yup, it’s generally safe to go in Mindanao, Christina. Just avoid (for the meantime) visiting Sulu and Basilan, even some parts of Cotabato. 🙂

I have always been fascinated by the region of Mindanao. It seems so different from the rest of the Philippines. Zamboanga City looks like it will be a great introduction into the region. I would especially like to try all the different foods. The deep-sea crab looks amazing!

I haven’t heard much about Zamboanga city, so this is a fresh and new city and post for me. The city looks charming and colourful. This is a detailed post with a information that is pretty helpful for visitors.

What a detailed elaborate post! With this info I doubt if anybody can ever get lost there. I like such tried and tested ready itineraries. Thank you! 🙂

I’ve never heard of Zamboanga City but this is a very comprehensive guide for anyone planning to visit, including me one day I hope!

Wow, how detailed. 🙂 I’m planning to go to Zamboanga and explore the city a bit then go to its beaches. I’m just waiting for a seat sale, but so far there hasn’t been cheap promos yet. 🙁 The cheapest I saw was P2k per way.

Wow. I’ve been to zambo twice in 2012 and really enjoyed it despite some situation that time. Seems there’s a lot more to discover and explore there.

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In its commitment to continue the efforts in rebuilding back tourism amidst the pandemic, the Department of Tourism IX will be conducting “ Development of Country Brand and Integrated Marketing Communications Plan for International and Domestic Markets : Branding and Communications Plan Workshop” intended for Tourism Officers of the Local Government Units in the region on 24-26 August 2022. The activities will be done on-site at Garden Orchid Hotel, Zamboanga City.

Day 1 (24 August 2022)

Day 2 (25 August 2022)

Day 3 (26 August 2022)

The workshop is a strategic priority of the DOT Region 9 to strengthen and equip Local Government Units with the use of marketing strategies to maximize the effectiveness of the campaign marketing and promotion efforts with the existing connectivity with other destinations.

Guests of Honor

Hon. John M. Dalipe

City Mayor, Zamboanga City

Usec. Shahlimar H. Tamano

Office of the Tourism Regulation , Coordination and Resource Generation, Department of Tourism

Usec. Myra Paz V. Abubakar

Office of the Mindanao Affairs , Department of Tourism

Resource Speakers

Eloisa A. Romero

Events, Marketing and Services Division, MICE Department,

Tourism Promotions Board

Crisanta Marlene P. Rodriguez

Regional Director, Department of Tourism Region 9

Giselle A. Machutes

Supervising Tourism Operations Officer Department of Tourism Region 9

Eden Josephine David

Consultant, EJLD Consultancy Services

Alvin P. Gorit

Deputy Chief

Licenses, patents & deeds division, denr regional office 9, zamboanga peninsula.

Victor Hugo A. Eslao

Georgina L. Fernandez

Chief, Conservation Development Section, PENRO Sibugay

VENUE: GARDEN ORCHID HOTEL, ZAMBOANGA CITY

Governor Camins Ave., Zamboanga City, 7000

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Zamboanga City hopeful for tourism recovery amid border relaxation

Tourism frontliners in Zamboanga City are optimistic that Asia’s Latin City will continue to recover as more tourists come in amid relaxed quarantine restrictions.

The tourism industry in the city is among the badly hit sectors due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Majority of travelers come to the city for vacation or leisure, according to the tourism office.

Huraida Malik, a tour guide and native of the city’s Once Islas (Eleven Islands), said the lockdowns had greatly affected their livelihood. She said she’s lucky to have enough savings, which she used to put up a little sari-sari store at the height of the pandemic. But for many of her fellow tour guides, it was difficult for them because their source of income had shut down. 

“Malaking epekto kasi nahinto ’yung pangkabuhayan namin tapos ’yung mga bangka namin, wala ding kita, natambay din,” she said in an interview with GMA News Online.

“’Yung iba, nahirapan po talaga ’yung mga kasamahan ko kasi ’yung iba may apat na anak, may limang anak, nahirapan talaga sila,” added Malik, who is also a single mother.

As president of the Once Islas tour guide association, Malik said she and her fellow tour guides were thankful and excited now that more and more guests had been visiting the islands as this meant their livelihood was back on its feet.

“Hopeful po talaga kami, nasayahan po kami kasi dumarami na ulit ’yung mga turista na pumupunta sa amin. At saka malaking opportunity sa amin ’yung tulad niyo na bumisita sa amin kasi malaking tulong na ma-promote,” she said.

Once Islas is among the top tourist destinations in Zamboanga City. It is an eco-cultural and tourism destination situated off the Moro Gulf. The jump-off point is at a mini-pier in Barangay Panubigan, just about an hour away from the city proper. The tour is open daily from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. except on Mondays and Fridays. Prior coordination with the local tourism office is required before going on a tour as the city limits the number of guests in a day.

As the name suggests, Once Islas is composed of 11 islands: Sallangan, Lambang-lambang, Kabugan, Lampinigan, Panganak, Baguias, Buh-buh, Simaddang, Sirommon, Baung-baung, and Bisaya-bisaya. Of the 11, only the last three are open to tourists.

Each island is surrounded by fine white sand shores and pristine blue waters, and the area also boasts rock formations and natural infinity pools. Guests can enjoy activities such as kayaking, trekking, swimming, and snorkeling. The islands are mostly inhabited and maintained by members of the Sama-Banguingui tribe, who can prepare meals for guests upon request. 

Making ends meet

More than 30 kilometers away, Vanessa Taup of Great Santa Cruz Island relied on crafting and selling souvenir items to make ends meet for her family of eight. However, when border restrictions were imposed and consequently hampered tourism operations, she and her husband had to look for other means to support the family.

She said she had to collect seashells and seaweeds, some for their meals and others to make into accessories and sell in the city mainland. Meanwhile, from being a boat operator for tourists' trips to the island, her husband Hairal had to go fishing for them to survive. 

“Apektado lahat ’yung mga operators, ’yung mga guide at mga paddlers din. Wala talaga. Damay kami dito lahat. Pareho talaga lahat, walang hanapbuhay,” Taup said.

“Naramdaman namin na parang na-down talaga kami. Na-realize ko na kung ganito na lang palagi hanggang ilang taon pang matigil [tourism operation], kawawa kami. Apektado kami lalo na sa pagkain, kumakain na lang sa umaga tapos gabi na ulit kakain,” she said in her native language.

Now that the city is easing its restrictions on tourists, Taup said she was relieved and hopeful that more tourists would come and visit the island and that the tourism operations would resume.

“Happy talaga parang ’yung dumaan na pandemic sa amin parang nahimasmasan din ’yung mga lungkot namin at mga problema namin. Kasi alam namin sa ganitong sitwasyon na bumabalik na ulit ang turista, parang nararamdaman na namin at hindi na kami mahihirapan ulit.”

A 15- to 20-minute boat ride from Paseo del Mar in the city proper will take you to Santa Cruz Islands, which are made up of two: Great and Little. As both are declared protected landscape and seascape, a ban on single-use plastics is strictly implemented by the Protected Area Management Office (PAMO) and the number of guests allowed is limited. Great Santa Cruz Island is open to tourists from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. while Little Santa Cruz Island is off-limits.

Both islands are surrounded by pinkish-white sands and crystal-clear blue waters. The famous pink beach is a result of pulverized red organ pipe corals washing up on the shore and mixing with the fine white sand. Great Santa Cruz Island was recognized one of the 21 best beaches in the world by National Geographic in 2017, and it is considered the banner destination of Zamboanga City. 

Keeping the culture alive

Local indigenous weavers were also among the affected groups because they relied on tourists as their customers. Evelinda Otong-Hamja, a fourth-generation weaver at the Yakan weaving village, said it was difficult for them to survive until they decided to weave face masks to not only sustain their living but also to keep their culture alive. 

“Malaki [ang epekto ng pandemya]. Kasi una ’di namin alam kung ano ang gagawin until na dumating ’yung mga naghahanap ng [face] mask. Ayun gumawa na kami tapos marunong na rin po kami magbenta sa social media,” said Otong-Hamja, who learned the intricate process of tennun weaving at the age of 7.

The Yakan weaving village, among the must-visit places in Zamboanga City, is a small community located in Upper Calarian, just within the city proper. When Yakans settled in Zamboanga City from Basilan, they brought with them their traditional art of tennun weaving.

The Yakan tapestry is known for its colorful traditional patterns. Ontong-Hamja said the inspiration behind their designs came from nature as Yakans were known to be nature lovers. The village isn’t just a place to buy souvenir handcrafted products, but it is also home to tradition and culture passed on and kept alive by hardworking Yakans.

Otong-Hamja said she kept the art alive by teaching her children as young as 7 years old the process of weaving. She said she wanted her children to understand the tradition of her people. 

Traveling to Zamboanga City

The local tourism office of Zamboanga said the city was prepared for the influx of tourists as the city remained under COVID-19 Alert Level 1. 

Zamboanga city tourism officer Sarita Sebastian said the city was hopeful that it would achieve total recovery of its tourism industry. She said her office was boosting their social media campaign to invite local and foreign tourists alike. 

“Because of the pandemic, we tried another strategy that has been implemented by the city—of boosting the social media campaign. And apart from that, we try to get in touch with my counterparts, the other tourism officers in the country, and also, we get in touch with different embassies so that telling them that Zamboanga City is very much ready as far as visitors and tourists are concerned,” Sebastian said in an interview with the media.

Among the COVID-19 safety precautions being implemented by the local government is making sure that tourists’ vaccination cards are checked from their point of origin. Meanwhile, a negative RT-PCR test result is required for unvaccinated individuals. Tourists who will show COVID-19 symptoms upon arrival will undergo quarantine.

“I had a meeting with the different airline operators, especially their managers. I really tell them to make sure sa counters from the point of origin, they should check the vax card,” Sebastian said. “One of our programs is that we really remind our hotels, our tourism providers, different tourism providers to really make it a point to remind our guests to practice the health and safety protocol,” she added.

The tourism office is targeting about 15,000 to 20,000 monthly tourist arrivals and full recovery of their tourism industry before yearend. All of the city’s tourist destinations are now open to the public under COVID-19 Alert Level 1, according to Sebastian.

She also assured that security in the city should not be a problem for tourists as her office was in constant communication and coordination with the local police and military. 

Jessica Fabrigas of the city tourism office said the office was conducting capacity building and evaluation on tourism frontliners as it prepared its campaign, especially for the Zamboanga Hermosa Festival, the annual celebration in honor of Our Lady of the Pillar, the patroness of Zamboanga City.

Fabrigas hoped that the upcoming festival in October would draw more local and foreign tourists to the city and surpass the almost 300,000 travelers recorded in 2021. 

“Ipagpapatuloy namin ang massive campaign namin especially sa Zamboanga Hermosa Festival. That is the best time to come to Zamboanga every October kasi nandiyan si Regatta [de Zamboanga], nandiyan ’yung sardines eating sa kalye, so [is] our street dance depicting the different cultures of Zamboanga,” she said.

Among the city’s top tourist destinations include Museo de Zamboanga, Fort Pilar, Taluksangay Mosque, and the Merloquet Falls.

For queries and more information, visit the Facebook page of Zamboanga City Tourism . 

This story is produced through AirAsia Philippines’ Route Story Conference which aims to promote destinations and aid in the recovery of tourism hubs across the country.  – RC, GMA News

A travel & adventure blog by Kara Santos

Sta. Cruz Island, Zamboanga’s Pink Sand Beach

Sta. Cruz Island is a small island in Zamboanga City famed for having a pink sand beach. I was awed by the island’s beauty when I first visited in 2013 . I was a bit worried when it started gaining popularity because National Geographic included it in a list of the best beaches in the world. While such a distinction can ruin a place and put it in danger of over-development, I was glad to see that the island remained as beautiful and pristine as ever when I returned several years later for in time for their Summer Festival.

Sta. Cruz Island gets its unique color from bright red organ-pipe coral (tubipora musica) dissolved by the waves . Surf erosion causes the corals to turn into tiny red particles which gets mixed in the existing white sand, giving the beach a rosy hue. From afar, the sand looks more cream than pink, but if you look closely you can see the pink effect clearly. If you walk down the beach, you can find a lot of pieces of the red corals that have washed up on the shore. Please don’t try to take home any of the corals and sand from the island.

There are two Santa Cruz Islands: Great Santa Cruz Island and Little Santa Cruz Island. Only Great Santa Cruz is open to the public and tourists as the smaller island serves as a military installation. The whole area surrounding both are considered a protected landscape and seascape. Efforts are underway to rehabilitate the coral reefs which suffered from illegal coral reef mining in the past.

Aside from the unique color of the sand here, one reason I think it deserves to be in a “best beach list” is because it provides some best practices on how  to preserve a tourist destination. All visits must go through the tourism office.  The number of visitors are limited per day to ensure the island’s proper carrying capacity. Before boarding the boat to visit the island, guests are oriented on how to protect and island while enjoying its beach and natural beauty. While on the island, visitors can enjoy low-impact eco-tourism and cultural activities handled by the local community. Tour guides and visitors are also expected to bring out their trash by the end of the day. 

There are no hotels or resorts on the island and o vernight camping is not allowed. Bringing of l iquor and alcoholic drinks is also not allowed.  I’ve seen the effect of irresponsible tourists who camp out on beaches, get wasted and leave their trash behind, so I think it’s a wise decision of the local tourism to regulate this. There are several cottages, huts and tables that day trippers can use. 

The reason why people go to islands and beaches is because they want to enjoy natural surroundings. There’s really no need to develop artificial structures here since you can easily get the city comforts a short boat ride away. This island really offers a taste of the vibrant culture and beauty of Zamboanga City. Just seeing the colorful vintas or traditional boats on the beach makes visiting the island worth it. For those interested to visit, here’s a quick guide to help you out.

Table of Contents

Sta. Cruz Island is located in the Basilan Strait just 4 km south of the downtown area of Zamboanga City, a city in the Zamboanga Peninsula Region in Southern Philippines. The island can be reached by a 20 minute boat ride on motorized boats.

How to get there

The jump-off to Santa Cruz Island is Paseo Del Mar in Zamboanga City. Boats are licensed by the LGU and can accommodate up to 10 people for Php 1,000. If you’re a solo traveler, try joining with a group to save on costs. Our trip here was arranged by  ITravel Tourist Lane,  a tour agency offering hassle-free tours in and around Zamboanga City. They can handle everything from hotel pick up and drop off, boat transfers, entrance fees and optional tours. Special arrangements can also be made for food (highly recommended!).

For Tour Booking/Reservation: Call (062) 991-1174 Text/Call (0917) 7226410 / (0917) 3929474 / (0995) 6993274 or visit them at Mayor Jaldon St., Canelar, Z.C. (near DHL Office) Email: [email protected] m Website:  www.itraveltouristlane.com

You can also avail of packaged tours from the Asociación de Guia Turístico del Zamboanga (AGTZ), an association of tour operators in Zamboanga City. Contact them at 0917-724-3199.

Things to do in Sta. Cruz Island

Enjoy the beach. Go swimming, snorkeling or scuba diving. The excellent water visibility makes the area surrounding the island ideal for snorkeling and scuba diving. Bring your own equipment. You can enjoy simple beach games like volleyball.

Take a mangrove / lagoon boat tour. This is an  optional tour on small boats that gives you a look at the local activities for fishermen. You get to cruise through the mangroves in a lagoon, h arvest sea grapes and s ee stingless jellyfish up close.

Sail in a vinta. Tourists can try their hand sailing on small vinta boats, traditionally used by the locals. The boats are icons of Zamboanga City representing the colorful culture and history of the Muslim community.

Visit the Badjao cemetery.  Underneath a canopy of trees in the forest on the Eastern part of the beach is an old Badjao burial site. Badjaos are known as sea nomads or gypsies of Sulu Sea, believe that the journey continues in the afterlife.

Soak in the culture. Our visit coincided with the island’s Summer Festival where we got to witness traditional dances and games on the beach, which added a cultural dimension to the usual beach / island experience.

Stop by a sandbar. If the tidal conditions are right, you can spot and set foot on a small sandbar in the middle of the sea here on your way back to the city.

What / where to eat

Day-trippers can bring their own packed food and drinks or food for grilling. ITravel Tourist Lane who handled our tour prepared a really special lunch for our group. We got to feast on a seafood overload of Zamboanga City specialties like curacha, grilled squid, shrimps, fish and freshly harvested  lato  (seaweed). Vendors on the island were also selling crabs and other seafood specialties.

One of the most interesting dishes we got to sample was oko-oko or rice cooked in sea urchin, typically prepared by the Sama Banguingui tribe.

You can also try snails, locally called “chupa kulo” cooked in coconut milk and squash. The only way to get the meat from the snails is to suck it out of one side of the shell’s opening.

What to bring

This is a small island without any commercial developments or establishments. Just prepare for a day of swimming and enjoying the beach.

• Food and drinks
• Reusable water bottle
• Change of clothes (optional; just shower when you get back to the city)
• Hand Sanitizer
• Personal Toiletries
• Action cameras
• Snorkeling gear

Rates & fees

• Boat: P1,000 (good for 10)
• Entrance Fee – Php 20.00
• Terminal Fee – Php 5.00/pax/pax
• Cottage rental (small good for 6) – Php 100.00
• Cottage rental (large good for 10)  Php 200.00
• Pavilion rental (good for 15-20 persons) – Php 500.00

Travel tips and useful info

• You can only visit Sta. Cruz Island from 7:00 am to 2:00 pm. Visitors are not allowed to camp out or stay overnight.
• Only a limited number of tourists (up to 400) may visit per day. Make sure to book a slot in advance if you plan to go during peak seasons or weekends. For inquiries, you can contact the tourism office at +63 927 283 5684.
• As Zamboanga City’s premier tourist destination, it is safe to visit Sta. Cruz Island. All visits come with military escorts and armed security personnel from the PNP and Armed Forces are stationed at the island when there are tourists during the day.
• There are cottages with grill stations for rent. Bring enough food supplies and drinking water for your stay. Visitors are not allowed to bring liquor and alcoholic drinks.

Group shot with fellow travel bloggers, media and tourism staff at Sta. Cruz Island, Zamboanga City for the coverage of  #Savores2017 . Thank you to DOT Region 9 and ITravel Tourist Lane!

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Once Islas Travel Guide: Zamboanga’s Hidden Gem

Once islas: the eco-cultural tourism destination of zamboanga city.

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Once Islas Travel Guide For First-Time Travelers

Table of Contents

Z AMBOANGA DEL SUR, Philippines — During our PHILTOA Zamboanga – Tawi-Tawi Familiarization trip a couple of months back, the last but definitely the most exciting destination we visited was an island-hopping destination northeast of Zamboanga City called Once Islas.

The tropical haven is an eco-cultural tourism destination rich with majestic rock formations, fine white sand, and pristine blue waters. It is composed of 11 islands along the Moro Gulf, supervised and protected by the Zamboanga Tourism Office and taken under the care of the local community.

Only four islands (Sirommon, Bisaya-Bisaya, Buh-Buh, and Baung-Baung) were officially declared tourism zones by the city government and can be visited by tourists.

The remaining two islands belong to the city villages of Panubigan and Dita, while Sallangan, Simaddang, Lambang-Lambang, Baguias, Lampinigan, Kabugan, and Panganak islands and islets are not accessible yet to the public.

Local Community

The islands are mostly inhabited by the Sama Banguingui tribe, an ethnolinguistic group dispersed throughout the Greater Sulu Archipelago and southern and western coastal regions of the Zamboanga Peninsula. The Banguigui people practice the Islamic religion (they are a part of the wider Moro ethnic group), and depend mainly on fishing and seaweed farming for their livelihood.

Island Hopping Tour

Upon arrival at Zamboanga City Airport from our flight from Tawi-Tawi, we traveled by bus to Panubigan Barangay Hall about 34 kilometers away from the city center. Upon arriving at the barangay hall, we were required to register and were given a tourist briefing afterward. We were also entertained by a group of kids who performed traditional dances.

From the tourist center, we took a short walk toward the wharf. There are tourist-friendly and modern toilets along the road for those who want to change their proper swimming attire. At the wharf, we were subdivided into 9 passengers per boat, the maximum capacity of each tourist boat specially created for the island-hopping activity.

Each boat has one assigned tour guide. The city government trained selected locals to become tour guides to create more jobs for the locals.

After almost 30 minutes, we arrived at our first stop: Bisaya-Bisaya Island.

Like many tropical destinations in the country, Bisaya-Bisaya Island was endowed with beautiful white sand beaches and majestic rock formations that dazzled against the sparkling rays of sunlight amid the greenish-blue sea. One can walk on the sandy and rocky natural walkway during low tide to get to its islet.

Infinity pool

Also on the islet is a natural infinity pool—a tidal pool filled with seawater surrounded by rock formations. The water is warm from the sun’s heat but just enough for a relaxing dip. Visitors must be careful, though, with the rocky and slippery surfaces.

With a rented kayak, the tireless traveler can navigate the waters surrounding Bisaya-Bisaya.

While on our way to our next stop, Sirommon Island, our guide highlighted the only mosque in Once Islas located on the shore of Buh-Buh Island.

Sirommon Island was where we had a scrumptious lunch and short hiking activity. Considered one of the smallest islands in the country, Sirommon Island has a viewpoint where you can see nearby islands.

Unlike its neighbors, Sirommon’s beach is more laid-back, and it is ideal for light outdoor activities like sand bathing, snorkeling, and swimming. There are native cottages available for those who want to have lunch and picnic on the island. The island is also known for its beautiful snorkeling sites.

We were supposed to visit other islands, but we had a flight to catch in the evening, so we had to cut our island hopping activity short.

Nevertheless, this island-hopping destination in Zamboanga is truly a must-visit for beach lovers and adventure seekers wanting to explore the rich tradition of the Zamboanga Peninsula and the warm hospitality of the Mindanaoans. While here, you will also discover that there is so much to see in the region, such as beautiful beach resorts, scuba diving resorts, museums depicting the history and tradition of the southern part of the archipelago, nature parks, mighty mountains and more.

How to get to Once Islas

Travelers can book a flight to Zamboanga via airasia.com, mobile.airasia.com, or the AirAsia Mobile App. AirAsia flies to Zamboanga at the following schedules:

• MNL-ZAM – 2X Per week (Z2 651) with a travel time of 1.4 hours. Flights depart at 8:20AM and arrive at the Zamboanga International Airport at 10;00AM.
• ZAM-MNL – 2x Per week (Z2 652) with a travel time of 1.4 hours. Flights depart at 10:30AM and arrive at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 4 at 12:10PM.

From the city proper, travelers may rent a private vehicle or take public transportation. Visitors can take a bus northbound from the Zamboanga City Integrated Bus Terminal. From Panubigan crossing, visitors can take a tricycle or habal-habal to Panubigan Mini-port, the jump-off point to Once Islas.

Note that advance bookings must be made with the city tourism office because a maximum of 200 guests are allowed per day on the islands, and the trips are strictly regulated. The tour is from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily, except on Fridays, considered a holy day of the week reserved for prayer and rest in Islam.

Going to Once Islas: Pre-Travel Guide

Once Islas is an eco-cultural tourism destination in Zamboanga City. It comprises eleven islands, four of which opened to the public in 2018. The four islands, namely Sirommon, Bisaya-Bisaya, Buh-Buh, and Baung-Baung islands, were declared tourism zones by the city government with beach cottages, trekking trails, and kayaking and snorkeling sites. The other islands are Sallangan, Simaddang, Lambang-Lambang, Baguias, Kabugan, Panganak, Lampinigan.

The name Once Islas, meaning “eleven islands,” is derived from the Chavacano dialect of the locals. The Sama Banguingui, a Moro ethnolinguistic group, mostly inhabited the islands. With the help of the local government and tourism agencies, they manage the eleven islands and promote tourism to create a livelihood for the locals. Once Islas is a great model of what cooperation can achieve.

Once Islas is perfect for low-impact activities like island hopping, kayaking, swimming, snorkeling, and trekking. There are no commercial establishments on the islands, so visitors should expect to enjoy a day full of activities surrounded by the sea. Visitors should be mindful of the local customs and practices and bring modest clothing to respect the community. Beachwear is inappropriate for visiting mosques, be sure to bring a cover-up.

How to Book a Tour to Once Islas

Visitors accommodated are limited to 200, and bookings are closed when that ceiling is reached. This is to ensure responsible and sustainable tourism development in the eleven islands. Bookings are accepted at the City Tourism Office by phone at (062) 975-6341 or by email at [email protected]. Walk-in bookings to the office are not allowed.

Once Islas is open to visitors every day except for Fridays in deference to the locals’ prayer day. Island hopping is open for day tours from 7AM to 2PM. Here are the steps to book your island hopping tour:

• Step 1: Online Booking (1 week before the scheduled trip) – Guests will be accommodated through the email address at [email protected]. Walk-in and impromptu booking will not be entertained.
• Step 2: Secure Booking Acknowledgment Slip (BAS) – Guests must fill out an online booking form. Guests will be receiving Booking Acknowledgment Slip to confirm the booking.
• Step 3: Payment of Entrance Fee and Environmental Fees – Only guests with BAS can pay at the City Treasurer’s office 2 days before the scheduled trip. The Payment collector will not accept the payment in the absence of BAS. The entrance fee costs Php100 per person, while the environmental fee costs Php100 per person.
• Step 4: Upload of Vaccination Card – Only vaccinated guests are allowed on a Sunday Schedule. Sunday guests shall be required to email their vaccination cards to [email protected]. Children below 17 years old and adults 66 years old and above are not allowed unless vaccinated.
• Step 5: Secure Confirmation Slip – After processing payment, email the OR to [email protected] for the issuance of the confirmation slip. No confirmation slip, No Entry.
• Step 6: Health Declaration – Guests are required to accomplish the Health Declaration form upon arrival at the reception area in Barangay Panubigan.
• Step 7: Payment of other Fees – Guide Fees is Php300 per group of 5. Ferry rental for Island Cruise is P2,000 per group of 5, while BiBa route only costs P1,200 per group of 5. The cottage fee is Php150 per cottage
• Step 8: Proceed to the Barangay Panubigan Mini-Pier.

Things to do in Once Islas

The islands are decorated with Vinta sails that make the experience truly Zamboanga. Before proceeding to the islands, visitors are welcomed with a short briefing on the dos and don’ts of the island. These include:

• Overnight stay is not allowed.
• Nudity is not allowed.
• Bringing pork, alcohol, and smoking paraphernalia are not allowed.
• Littering and vandalism are not allowed. Observe cleanliness

Bisaya-Bisaya Island

Popular for its white sand beach and turquoise green waters, Bisaya-Bisaya Island, has great rock formations ideal for trekking. During the low tide season, visitors can take a short walk to an islet with a natural tidal pool. The island has a small community that maintains the island ensuring the place is clean, including the cottages and beach area. They also sell fresh coconut juice upon request.

Buh-Buh Island

Cultural tours are offered at the only mosque in Once Islas, located on the beach of Buh-Buh Island. Beachwear is inappropriate for visiting mosques, so be sure to bring a cover-up or wear modest clothing.

Baung-Baung Island

The calmer waves of the island are ideal for swimming, but the highlight of this island is the 15-minute trek to a view deck overlooking the Bisaya-Bisaya island.

Sirommon Island

Ideal for snorkeling and diving, Sirommon Island has a popular sand bar perfect for beach photos and sunbathing. Visitors can enjoy a warm meal in one of the native cottages with the island’s relaxing atmosphere. Since this is the last stop, this island is the perfect place to have lunch or heavy snacks.

Things to bring to Once Islas

• Snorkeling Gear
• Food and drinks – Because there are no commercial establishments to buy food, visitors should pack their own food, drinks, and utensils for the trip. This should also include reusable water bottles.
• Change of clothes – After a dip on the beach, although visitors can wait until they get back to their accommodations
• Cover-ups – Optional; Beachwear is inappropriate for visiting mosques
• Personal Toiletries
• Electronics – With the likes of cameras and power banks to document the tour

Once Islas Travel Expenses

• Entrance Fee: Php100 per person
• Environmental Fee: Php100 per person
• Cottage Rental Fee: Php150 per day
• Hiking Fee in Sirommon Island: Php50 per person
• Kayak Rental in Bisaya-Bisaya Island: Php300 per hour, 2pax
• Guide Fee: Php300.00 per group of 5pax
• Boat Rental Fee: Php1,200 to Php2,000, 5pax

Upon arrival at the tourism center, visitors are given a detailed orientation of rules (like dressing appropriately out of respect for the local’s customs) that they must abide by while on the island-hopping trip. They can also bring their own food but are discouraged from including pork and alcohol.

Tourism Contact Info

Zamboanga Tourism Office Address: Paseo del Mar, Zamboanga City Telephone: +63 (62) 975-6341 Email: [email protected]

Once Islas is waiting for you to add them as your next beach destination, with Zamboanga’s Pink Sand Beach and Malamawi Beach in Basilan . Your beach adventures in Once Islas involve exploring Bisaya-Bisaya, Sirommon, and Baung-Baung. Once Islas is another island paradise to see with deep turquoise green waters, white sand beaches, and a local community to welcome visitors with warm hospitality.

Searching for the best hotels and affordable flights? Check out our complete list of affordable hotels and resorts via  Agoda , or you may also see available Airbnb properties in the city.

Want more updates about new resorts in Zamboanga City? Please follow #TeamOutofTown,  on  Facebook , Twitter ,  Instagram , and  Pinterest  for more travel ideas.

• Exploring The Pink Beach Of Great Santa Cruz Island In Zamboanga City
• 10 Stunning Beaches You Need To Experience While Visiting The Philippines

Written by Melo Villareal

Melo Villareal is the Online Publisher of Outoftownblog.com. He is an Accountant by profession who left the corporate world at the age of 23 to explore his beautiful country and the rest of the world. Today, Melo works as a part-time Social Media Manager for local and international clients. His full-time work focuses on discovering interesting culture, explore different cuisines and take memorable photos from local and international destinations he's visiting.

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Preserving Zamboanga’s Wildlife Sanctuary Through Ecotourism

Traveling is not just about enjoyment, education, or enrichment, but also carries with it responsibilities. 

Tourists, for example, are expected to responsibly connect with nature and leave no trace. This includes being mindful of the locals’ well-being. 

In Zamboanga, strong efforts are implemented by the local city government to balance the natural beauty, livelihood, and ecosystem within protected areas. 

For instance, tourists must not bring single-use plastic waste such as wet wipes, zip locks, snack bags, and wrapped candies before visiting the island. Cigarettes, even electronic ones, are not allowed. On top of that, only 500 tourists are allowed to visit per day based on its carrying capacity limit as stipulated in its management plan.  

These strict ordinances may sound a bit too much. But once you set foot in the protected area, you will understand why these efforts made Sta Cruz island one of Mindanao’s prime examples of ecotourism.

One of the most visible expressions of Sta Cruz’s green efforts is its Yellow Boat Adventure.

It is open to the general public but must be arranged by Zamboanga’s Protected Area Management Office (PAMO). An environmental advocacy program that started in 2015, it managed to put an end to illegal fishing and deforestation of mangrove trees. 

“We designed community-centered initiatives. An alternative livelihood for the community. Before, the fishermen would cut the mangroves and sell them as Christmas trees,” says Richard Aliangan, Superintendent of the Protected Area Management Office, managing office of the Great and Little Sta Cruz Islands Protected Landscape and Seascape. 

The local government then partnered with Yellow Boat of Hope Foundation to educate the community about the harmful consequences of mangrove deforestation and dynamite fishing. 

The organization donated yellow boats painted with words, bagong pag-asa (or new hope). The boats addressed a livelihood gap as paddlers were allowed to use them, whether for hunting fish or accommodating tourists visiting the lagoon. 

People residing in Sta Cruz Island were also trained to properly handle ecotourism programs, biodiversity projects, selling of trinkets and souvenirs. These eventually generated sustainable income for the community. 

 Yellow Boat Adventure

“When you talk about nature, sometimes it sounds cheesy,” Aliangan jokes. “But we want people to be close with nature and appreciate its inherent beauty. So we insert humor in the narrative as we showcase the things that the lagoon offers.”

The one-hour Yellow Boat Adventure or Lagoon Tour starts with a guide welcoming tourists to the 100-hectare naturally-grown mangrove territory. 

To preserve the habitat, only a quarter of it is open for guests to explore. The mangrove farm serves as the first line of defense against storm surge. “And on normal days, kindergarten for small fishes,” Aliangan adds.

Fourteen different species of mangrove trees can be found in the lagoon, the most abundant are the “Bakawang Babae” and “Bakawang Lalake.” You will be able to know the difference between the two, as the guide willingly educates tourists about the mangrove species. 

The “Bakawang Babae” or female mangrove trees have wider leaves that produce multiple flowers in a single stem. Meanwhile, “Bakawang Lalake” or male mangrove trees have pointed leaves and they only produce two flowers on a stem. 

As the flowers mature, they asexually reproduce propagules. Once a propagule falls from its parent tree, a new mangrove tree is bound to develop.

The lagoon is visibly teeming with seagrass and one square meter of it is already equal to 10 liters of oxygen literally giving you a breath of fresh air. Also, expect to interact with Cassiopea or Upside-down Jellyfish during the tour. 

This jellyfish swims with their oral arms and tentacles pointing upward, toward the light. No need to worry because Upside-down Jellyfish are non-poisonous and you will be guided on how to properly handle marine life.

“It should be handled with TLC or tender loving care. When getting the jellyfish from the bottom, make sure it only floats from your hand but not above the water. You may flip it if you wish, turn with care, and let go. Don’t flip it like pancakes though,” Aliangan kids.

Tourists will also get to experience proper harvesting of Lato and have a taste of it freshly plucked from the seafloor. Lato, also called Sea Grapes, are like a bunch of tiny green grapes, eaten fresh or as an appetizer mixed with tomato, onion, vinegar, and pepper.

Throughout the tour, you will appreciate the sound of crickets, as if you made a front-row seat reservation to nature’s orchestra. Other species such as Flying Foxes, Blue Starfish, and Egrets can be found at the mangrove farm as well. 

Migratory birds and endangered avian were identified at the lagoon by enthusiasts and ornithologists such as Far Eastern curlew, White-vented whistler, and Beach stone-curlew.

The lagoon also serves as a nesting ground for marine turtles. So expect the Yellow Boat Adventure to end with a traditional Vinta ride. Any watercraft that are disruptive to surface water such as speedboats, jet skis, and banana boats are banned from the island. 

The Yellow Boat Adventure is at Php300, and the boat can accommodate up to two passengers. There is a guide fee of Php 300 for every five Yellow Boats rented.

Richard Aliangan’s Calling

Aliangan has been managing the area for more than a decade and the ecotourism movement not only brought visitors to the area but also provided livelihood to the community. Around 50+ families, from paddlers, boatmen, guides, and operators living in Sta Cruz Island are being assisted by the movement. 

Bringing travelers to appreciate what the local tourism office is doing, while giving the community an opportunity to earn and improve their lives is more than just a job but a calling for Aliangan. 

“Everything you see here in operation comes from the heart, comes from passion. Managing this is really personal. This is more than just a profession because this is something that we started from scratch. And now we are being used as an example for other areas wanting to start ecotourism. It has become a part of me, my passion, my life. For me, Sta Cruz Island is everything,” Aliangan shares.

As Aliangan reminisces how his love for Sta Cruz Island started, he began to share the condition of the island before. He tells how he noticed that there were no guidelines about trash, that hundreds of alcohol bottles were being left by the tourists. 

“I’m too appreciative of nature, I was really affected.” Then Aliangan had the chance to work with the marginalized community residing in Sta Cruz Island. “It was then I saw the opportunity to help.”

Paddles on pause

During the COVID-19 pandemic, while tourism greatly affected the main livelihood of the community, Aliangan is grateful for the solid linking with kindhearted Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) and private individuals. 

“We are thankful for the regular donations. We even have a Zamboangueno diver who owns a shopping center and he would hire our paddlers, knowing we don’t have guests here during the pandemic. And that was very touching,” Aliangan states. In a way, the community was covered in terms of loss.

Mutual protection 

The island’s battlecry can be seen written on sign boards within the island, “Nature protects if she is protected.” 

Aliangan clarifies that the motto started as his personal belief. With mangrove trees, it serves as a protection from tsunamis and storm surge, and if it gets cut, you lose defense from these natural disasters. But if you protect the trees, they will soon protect you. 

“The bottomline, the capital of tourism is nature. Pleasure and nature can co-exist if you know how to manage properly where it ends and where it begins. Luckily, here at Sta Cruz Island, we were able to set the parameters and we are consistent with what we want to implement,” ends Aliangan. 

Other fees and How to Visit

The jump off point to Sta Cruz Island is Paseo del Mar, a 10-minute tricycle ride from Zamboanga International Airport.

Given the safety protocols amid the COVID-19 pandemic, only 100 fully vaccinated travelers are allowed to visit the area every Tuesday to Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday from 7 A.M. to 2 P.M.

Travelers must reserve in advance through the Sta Cruz Island’s registration counter at Paseo del Mar or by calling +63 905 601 6316, preferably 30 days before visit. They may also inquire through Facebook, by visiting  Islas de Sta Cruz.

For the fees, roundtrip boat rental from Paseo del Mar to Sta Cruz Island is Php1,000 good for a maximum of 10 passengers. The Entrance Fee is Php 20 while Terminal Fee is Php 5 per tourist.

Costs are subject to change and government-imposed fees will be given to tourists upon receipt of their reservation schedules.

Manifest forms and a summary of expenses will be sent via email. Each tourist must download the Stay Safe App and submit a copy of their valid ID and COVID-19 vaccination card. Failure to accomplish the form means no reservation. Agreement to Sta Cruz Island’s rules and regulations must be signed as well.

The management of Sta Cruz Island offers different boarding times, 7 A.M to 11 A.M. There is an assembly time of 30 minutes before boarding for reiteration of dos and don’ts.

Travelers may stay at the island from 7 A.M. until 2 P.M.

Outsource the Planning

For a seamless trip, you may leave the planning to DOT’s accredited tour operators in Region 9:

• Itravel Tourist Lane

(062) 991-1174 / 0917-722-6410; [email protected]

• Buenas Travel and Tours

09062087106; [email protected]

• Travel Max Tours

(062) 990-2100; [email protected]

• Happy Campers Tour and Leisure

09177103094; [email protected]

• MTR Travel Specialist

0930-061-1690 / 0997-745-2957; [email protected] or [email protected]

Travel safely!

Explore Zamboanga City responsibly by making sure that you comply with the province’s health and safety protocols, such as wearing face masks and practicing social distancing.

Ensure that you have acquired travel authority at https://s-pass.ph/ prior trip. Bring a copy or screenshot of this along with your vaccination card and valid ID upon arrival. 

For the latest travel information about Zamboanga, you may visit their official website or Facebook page . You may also review updated safety protocols and requirements on Philippine destinations at www.philippines.travel/safetrip or download the Travel Philippines app at app.philippines.travel

City Tourism Office

City government office in Zamboanga

City Tourism Office is located in Zamboanga, Philippines. It's address is W32J+HF9, Paseo Del Mar Exit, Zamboanga, Zamboanga del Sur, Philippines .

Check Time Table for City Tourism Office

Questions & answers, where is city tourism office.

City Tourism Office is located at: W32J+HF9, Paseo Del Mar Exit, Zamboanga, Zamboanga del Sur, Philippines.

What is the phone number of City Tourism Office?

You can try to calling this number: +63 62 975 6341

What are the coordinates of City Tourism Office?

Coordinates: 6.9014032, 122.0812422

City Tourism Office Reviews

I Love Zamboanga City Nice Place

Tourism local government unit is more on bossing local products and local tourism. You cantant at 9756341

Friendly office

i love zamboanga city

I love lamitan

Inquire here for some destination

#SirangLente #AimFor81 - the streets are busy but the building is Spanish inspired. From the airport, I walked on the street to the highway, rode in a jeepney and the driver dropped me off by the street near the city hall. Minimum fare: 7 pesos. The city hall has a unique structural design with a clock tower in the middle.

The place was used as an extension of the city hall's office.

Maganda ang lugar malinis at may mga restaurant

Write a review of City Tourism Office

City tourism office directions, top rated addresses in zamboanga.

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Tourism program highlights tourist attractions in Mimaropa

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• by Juanito Joshua Sugay
• Apr. 12, 2024 10:31 am in News

CALAPAN CITY, Oriental Mindoro (PIA) -- The Philippine Experience Program (PEP), aimed at promoting the nation's cultural and natural attractions, had its latest regional launch in the province of Palawan on April 10.

House Speaker Martin Romuladez, in his message, praised Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco for her leadership in the PEP initiative. “As the caretaker of the third district of Palawan, I commend the Department of Tourism, under the leadership of Secretary Maria Christina Frasco, for this noteworthy initiative.

Palawan is the last ecological frontier in the country and it is precisely for this reason that Palawan remains to be the top of mind destination of many tourists visiting the country,” said in a message, delivered by his representative, Jose Fernando Escalante.

The event in Palawan was participated by over 70 individuals, including distinguished guests such as Thai Ambassador to the Philippines, His Excellency Tull Traisorat.

PEP was first introduced in the Davao Region last year and has since made its mark across various regions including Calabarzon, Bicol, Western Visayas, Zamboanga, and Ilocos.

Each launch focuses on tailoring experiences that highlight the unique characteristics and attractions of the respective regions, thereby boosting local economies and supporting sustainable tourism practices.

The event also included cultural performances and showcases from local artisans, providing a taste of Palawan's vibrant cultural scene. (JJGS/PIA MIMAROPA)

BANNER PHOTO COURTESY OF DOT MIMAROPA

• Philippine Eperience Program

About the Author

Juanito Joshua Sugay

Information Officer II

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