A First Timer’s Guide to Tawi-Tawi

First time to the land of untouched beaches? Whether planning a weeklong vacation or a day trip on the fly, there are a few essentials everyone ought to know before traveling to the southernmost part of the Philippines.

The name ‘Tawi-Tawi’ originated from jawi–jawi which is Malay for the Banyan tree which they had an abundance of back then. Tawi-Tawi used to be a part of Sulu but they are a region of their own now. Not a lot of people talk about this place but the thing that’s worth traveling here are their BEACHES that have remained unspoiled to this day. This region has innumerable natural tourist attractions yet to be discovered. Check out my Photo Journal for more interesting takes!

Tawi-Tawi is a backpacker’s adventure suited for the brave of heart. It is a tourist destination not everyone will be inclined to travel due to its negative reputation in the past. But don’t let this stop you from completing your Philippine Travel Challenge. Safety and security has always been a priority for the government. That’s why I strongly advice for those wanting to go to Tawi-Tawi to head to the tourism office.

How to Get to Tawi-Tawi

Zamboanga is the drop-off point if you want to get to Tawi-Tawi by land, sea and air.

BY AIR
Sanga-Sanga airport is the only airway to get to Tawi-Tawi by plane. Cebu Pacific is currently the only airline which offers direct flights from Zamboanga daily. The airport is only 15 minutes away to Bongao’s city proper.

BY SEA
Aleson Shipping offers ferry trips from Zamboanga to Bongao and vice versa thrice a week during Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Travel time is approximately fifteen hours and fare is at least P1,000.

BY LAND
As someone coming from Iligan city, the total travel time would be at about 12 hours give or take. This includes stopovers and waiting. The bus fare is at about 700PHP for airconditioned Rural Transit buses.

Language

A majority of the people living in Tawi-Tawi speak Tausug. Same as the rest of the provinces in the Sulu Archipelago. Another local language is Sama. Chavacano, Bisaya, and Yakan are also spoken. Many locals and barter traders can also speak Malay. One can also speak in Tagalog or English if you can’t speak either of those since its understandable with one being a tourist and all.

Where to Stay

Accommodations with various amenities at Tawi-Tawi are slightly limited since their tourism sector is still currently being developed. A night in Tawi-Tawi will cost you between 700php for a fan room to 1500php which can accomodate a group depending on the hotel.

Beachside Inn Hotel & Restaurant
Sowangkagang, Bongao, Tawi-Tawi
Contact Number: 09204815447

Rachel’s Place and Restaurant
Bongao, Tawi-Tawi
Contact Number: 09495071001

Sandbar Lepa Beach Hotel and Restaurant
Pasiagan, Bongao, Tawi-Tawi
Contact Numbers: 09177243214, 09359790413, 09206109477

Getting Around

The main mode of transportation at Tawi-Tawi would be with motorcycles or tricycles. There are jeepneys as well that leave daily from Bongao’s Public Market. Their minimum fare is at 10-20php.

If you want to travel to the other islands like Simunul, Sibutu, Sitangkai, Sipangkot and Liyaburan. Use a public ferry or charter a boat.

More Tips!

• Check out my TO DO LIST for activities you can do, places to go and what to eat when in Tawi-Tawi!
• Register at the Tawi-Tawi tourism office before starting on your journey so they can inform you of the do’s and don’t of places including the safety precautions. Share them your travel plans within Tawi-Tawi so they may give you advice on how you can do this.
• Internet connectivity isn’t that good especially when you’re outside of the city proper. This is the best time to connect with others and just simply go on a social media fast.
• Bring your own water always.
• Most establishments do not accept cashless transactions. Better do a withdrawal in advance.
• Slather on some sunscreen before getting out of the house.