Basilan Island has been a hotspot for terrorism and clashes between the Philippine army and terrorists, as reported in the national news on a regular basis. Many visitors and explorers were terrified, and they marked it as a danger zone on their maps in bright red. Even some residents of the neighboring island are afraid to visit the island. The vast majority of them have never been to the island. When you mention your plans to visit the island, you will receive a response and safety advice. The fact that these stigmas cloak the paradise that has yearned to be unveiled perplexed my head and hurt my heart. I came to the conclusion that relying solely on hearsay and reports will not adequately represent the island. So, here is my blog about Basilan Island.
Basilan Facts
- Lamitan City is the present capital of Basilan.
- Three ethnic groups live in Basilan: Yakan, Tausug, and Chavacano. As a result, the population is mostly Muslim, but there is also a sizable Christian community.
- Basilan is an island with a large Muslim population, pork and other non-halal foods are unlikely to be readily available.
- The offices of Lamitan City Tourism and Isabela City Tourism are separate. If you intend to visit both locations, you must contact each office prior to your journey.
- Also, Lamitan City is located in the Bangsamoro Region, but Isabela City is located in the Zamboanga Peninsula Region. They are, however, both in the province of Basilan.
- When interacting with the natives, always show gratitude and your brightest grin.
Things to keep in mind before visiting Basilan
- Basilan is safe to visit, according to the tourism officers. However, it is still a good idea to check with the relevant municipal tourism bureaus before going. The tourism office, in particular, is in charge of excursions, and they will supply you with a tour guide during your visit.
- Dressing cautiously is the best option. Beaches and waterfalls in Basilan, on the other hand, accept swimsuits.
How to get to Basilan
Basilan is easily accessible from Zamboanga City. There are regular ferries and fast crafts with daily schedule in Zamboanga sea port to either Lamitan or Isabela City.
Via Lamitan City🛳️
Travel time is 1-1.5 hour. Fare is P100 per person.
* Zamboanga to Lamitan: 6:45 AM | 9:30 AM | 12:30 PM | 3:00 PM | 3:30 PM
* Lamitan to Zamboanga: 6:30 AM | 7:00 AM | 9:30 AM | 12:30 PM | 3:30 PM
Via Isabela City⛵
There are several ferries bound for Isabela City. Regular ferries take 1.5-2 hours (regular P70, aircon P90 per person), while fast crafts via Weesam Express take 1 hour (P170 per person).
* First trip: 6:45AM via Weesam Express
* Last trip: 4:45PM via Weesam Express | 4:30PM via regular ferry
I recommend using the regular ferry back to Zamboanga City for the last trip because the difference is only a few minutes and you'll save approximately P70 apiece.
If you arrive by ferry in Isabela City, you will disembark at Isabela Port, which is within walking distance of commercial businesses and lodgings, as well as the jump-off points for Lampinigan and Malamawi Islands.
Basilan's top sights to see
Lampinigan is one of Basilan's crown jewels. It boasts a breath-taking rock formation in addition to its spotless white and fine sand, making it a one-of-a-kind experience that will entice you to return to the island again and again.
Lampinigan Island is a beach spot in Basilan that lies off the main path. It is largely known by locals, but every now and again, travellers will come to this oasis.
LAMPINIGAN ISLAND CAN BE ACCESSED IN THE FOLLOWING MANNERS:
🏝️ Take a bus, van, or jeepney to Isabela City from Lamitan City.
🏝️ If you purchase a tour package from the Lamitan City Tourism Office, you will be dropped off near Isabela City's harbor.
* You can lease a pump-boat or "bangka" to transport you and your tour guide and escorts to the island from the port. The normal fee per boat is roughly 3,000 pesos.
* The trip takes about 30 minutes on average.
🏝️ I propose calling the island's chief captain and renting his boat. As a result, the captain will be aware that visitors are on their way and will ensure your safety when you arrive on the island.
Malamawi is a small inhabited island about one kilometer from Isabela, Basila's capital city. It is known for its long stretch of white sand beach on its northern coast. With its exotic appeal, exquisite natural beauty, and tranquillity, the area has become a favorite with residents, particularly those from Isabela City and its environs who want to go away for some sea, sun, and sand.
Malamawi Island is, without a doubt, Basilan's happier side. It's a destination that will help you forget about the province's dark side, a worthwhile excursion, and a fantastic treasure! Take the less trafficked road in this part of Mindanao to see Basilan's smile on Malamawi Island.
HOW TO GET TO THE WHITE BEACH OF MALAMAWI:
🏝️ Obtain a boat excursion to Isabela City from Zamboanga City.
* The fare is usually approximately 150 pesos.
* In Zamboanga City, the terminal fee is roughly 11 pesos.
* The terminal cost in Isabela City is only 4 pesos. **Only Isabela to Zamboanga City journeys are charged**
🏝️ Proceed to the port, where the Old Post Office Bldg. is located, from Isabela City.
🏝️ Take a "bangka" (pump boat) to Malamawi Island. The journey takes about ten minutes.
* For 100 pesos, you may book the entire bangka trip.
* Alternatively, you might wait for it to fill up with other people and pay 5 pesos each person.
* When returning to the main Basilan Island, the same charge applies.
🏝️Ride a motorcycle or "habal-habal" to Malamawi White Beach from the Malamawi Bangka Terminal.
* The cost of a "habal-habal" for two passengers is 50 pesos.
* When returning to the terminal, the same rate applies.
🏝️ In Malamawi White Beach, an entrance fee of 45 pesos per head is collected.
Possibly helpful links!
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