Curious about rock formations? Come and see the natural formations in Samar!
The Sohoton Caves and Natural Bridge Park, located in Barangay Guirang, Basey, Samar, is a geological and ecological wonder situated within the Samar Island Natural Park, the Philippines’ biggest contiguous forest and protected terrestrial area, covering approximately 841 hectares. This verdant expanse is noted for its limestone caverns, underground rivers, towering karst formations, and the iconic natural stone bridge that delicately spans the Kadak-an River.
What’s In Sohoton?
Let me tell you, the attraction has multiple activities to offer. And the Sohoton caves offer a view of the cathedral like caverns that are brimmed with dramatic stalactites and stalagmites with some even producing musical tones when tapped. You get to see limestone formation that connects to two mountain ridges that forms a natural paddage over the river where you can kayak beneath it for a closer look. You can also look at the surroundings as the park is also home to endemic flora and fauna, with dense forests, and crystal clear streams that is ideal for nature lovers and eco-tourists. During the American colonial period, it was once used as a hideout.
Stalactites and Stalagmites in Samar
Stalactites and Stalagmites are mineral formations found inside caves, created by the slow dripping of mineral rich water over thousands of years. What differs them from each other is that Stalactites hang from the ceiling of a cave like icicles. They form when water carrying dissolved calcium carbonate drips from the roof, leaving behind tiny mineral deposits that build downward overtime. Stalagmites however, rise from the cave floor. They form when those same drips hit the ground and deposit minerals upward. When both meet in the middle, they can form a column or pillar.
How To Get There?
Exact Location: Barangay Guirang, Basey, Samar, Eastern Visayas
- By Commute: If you are in Tacloban, go to the terminal, ride a jeepney or van bound to Basey Samar. The trip takes up to 45 minutes depending on traffic. You can ask the driver to be dropped off at the Basey Tourism Office that is located at the ABC Hall Building. Once at the Basey Office, register and arrange a guided tour. They’ll help you book a motorized boat to the park. The boat ride takes 25 minutes along the Golden River.
- By Car: If you are in Tacloban, drive to Basey, Samar via the San Juanico Bridge. You can get help from Google maps or waze and search for “Sohoton Caves and Natural Bridge Park. It takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour to get there. You can then park near the Basey Tourism Office that is located at the ABC Hall Building. Once at the Basey Office, register and arrange a guided tour. They’ll help you book a motorized boat to the park. The boat ride takes 25 minutes along the Golden River.
