Balikbayan Adventure: A 4-Day Itinerary for Butuan City and Surigao City

Day 1: Cultural Immersion

Butuan City, Philippines

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café de Liza

Kick off your adventure after arriving from San Diego by enjoying local favorites like Butuan longganisa and fresh fruits at Café de Liza.
Located 10 minutes from your hotel; a short car ride will get you there.
PHP 250, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore the Butuan National Museum

Immerse yourselves in the rich history of Butuan at the National Museum, where you can see artifacts that depict the city's ancient past.
A swift 5-minute drive from the café.
PHP 100, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Bada's Halamanan

Relish delicious local cuisine in a tranquil garden setting at Bada's Halamanan, a perfect stop for families or couples.
A quick 12-minute drive from the museum.
PHP 300, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit the Ma. Cristina Ancestral House

Take a trip back in time at the Ma. Cristina Ancestral House and discover the lifestyle of Filipino ancestors.
A short 5-minute drive from the restaurant.
PHP 50, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Coffee Break at Balay Ni Mayang

Unwind at Balay Ni Mayang café with a cup of local coffee and sample some puto and kutsinta for a sweet treat.
Just a 10-minute drive from the ancestral house.
PHP 200, 1 hour

5:00PM

Evening Walk Along the Agusan River

Take a leisurely evening stroll along the Agusan River, a romantic setting against the backdrop of the sunset and local fishermen at work.
5 minutes away by car.
Free, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Hainanese Chicken Rice

Indulge in the flavorful Hainanese chicken with rice and a variety of sauces at this beloved restaurant, perfect to wrap up your first day.
A short 7-minute drive from the river.
PHP 350, 1 hour
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Day 2: Natural Wonders

Butuan City, Philippines

7:00AM

Breakfast at The Coffee Shop

Enjoy a delightful breakfast at The Coffee Shop, known for its blueberry pancakes and locally brewed coffee, a great way to start Day 2.
A 10-minute taxi ride from your hotel.
PHP 300, 1 hour

8:30AM

Butuan Eco Park Tour

Experience nature firsthand at Butuan Eco Park, where you can hike and immerse yourselves in the lush surroundings.
20-minute drive to the park entrance.
PHP 150, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Greenhouse Restaurant

Refuel with fresh salads and grilled dishes at Greenhouse, a local favorite spot for lunch.
15-minute drive from the Eco Park.
PHP 400, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Enchanted River

Take a scenic drive to Enchanted River, famous for its stunning turquoise waters, where you can take some memorable photos.
An hour’s drive from the restaurant.
PHP 200, 2 hours

4:00PM

Swim and Relax

Enjoy a refreshing swim in the river's crystal-clear waters or simply laze on the riverbanks for some relaxation time.
Already at the Enchanted River.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Return to Butuan City

Drive back to your hotel in Butuan City to freshen up and prepare for dinner.
Approximately 1-hour drive back.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Aling Kika's

Enjoy a plateful of Filipino comfort food at Aling Kika's, perfect to end your day filled with adventure.
7-minute drive from your accommodation.
PHP 350, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Journey to Surigao

Surigao City, Philippines

8:00AM

Breakfast at VJ’s Restaurant

Start your day with a fulfilling breakfast buffet at VJ’s Restaurant, providing both local and international choices for a family style meal.
A 10-minute drive from your hotel in Butuan.
PHP 400, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Surigao City

Depart for Surigao City, enjoying stunning views of the countryside as you go, adding to your memories from home.
Travel by bus or private vehicle, taking about 2 to 3 hours.
PHP 150, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Check-in to your hotel

Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and take some time to rest after your journey and freshen up.
Hotel accommodation will be pre-arranged in Surigao City.
Free, 30 minutes

12:30PM

Lunch at Lolong’s Lechon

Taste the legendary lechon at Lolong’s restaurant, famous for its flavorful roast pig – a must-try for pork lovers!
Only a 5-minute walk from your hotel.
PHP 350, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore the Surigao City Tagana-an Mangrove Eco-Park

Discover the beauty of the mangrove forest and take a leisurely boardwalk stroll while taking in the sights and sounds of nature.
A 20-minute drive from the restaurant.
PHP 100, 2 hours

4:30PM

Local Market Visit

Wander through the local market to shop for fresh produce, unique souvenirs, and engage with the friendly local vendors.
10-minute drive from the eco-park.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Sizzling Plate

Finish your day with a visit to Sizzling Plate, a popular dining option serving an array of grilled meats and sides.
A 10-minute drive from the market.
PHP 400, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Island Hopping Expedition

Surigao City, Philippines

7:00AM

Breakfast at Resto Cafe

Savor a variety of breakfast options such as pancakes and omelets at Resto Cafe, a cozy spot not to be missed.
A 10-minute walk from your hotel.
PHP 300, 1 hour

8:30AM

Exciting Island Hopping Trip

Join an island-hopping adventure to picturesque islands like Bucas Grande and Sohoton Cove, where adventure awaits!
Secured by booking a group boat tour from the coastal area.
PHP 2000 (for the tour), 4 hours

12:30PM

Lunch on the Island

Enjoy a delicious beachside lunch with fresh seafood, a highlight of your island experience.
Meals are included in the tour.
Included, 1 hour

1:30PM

Continue Island Hopping

Resume your journey hopping between idyllic islands for more opportunities to swim and explore.
Already on the boats.
Covered in the tour cost, 2.5 hours

4:00PM

Return to Surigao City

After a fantastic day of island adventures, make your way back to Surigao City.
Head back to the coast.
Included in tour cost, 1 hour

5:00PM

Freshen Up at Hotel

Return to your hotel to relax and prepare for your farewell dinner, reflecting on your unforgettable adventure.
Head back to the hotel.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Farewell Dinner at Zamboanga Restaurant

Conclude your trip with a memorable farewell dinner featuring a feast of flavorful local dishes at Zamboanga, known for its hospitality.
A 10-minute drive from your hotel.
PHP 500, 1.5 hours
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