Sohoton Caves and Natural Bridge

Sohoton Caves

A spectacular cave system in Samar featuring limestone formations, underground rivers, and a natural stone arch bridge surrounded by lush jungle. Visitors can explore multiple cave chambers and swim in emerald pools within a pristine natural environment.

Things to do

• Cave Exploration Tour — Guided trek through multiple limestone chambers including the Cathedral Cave, Crystal Cave, and Payew Cave, featuring stalactites, stalagmites, and underground passages.
• Natural Stone Bridge Crossing — Walk across the naturally formed arch bridge spanning the underground river, surrounded by dense jungle vegetation and dramatic rock formations.
• Underground River Swimming — Swim in the crystal-clear emerald pools within the cave chambers, a refreshing experience in the cool underground environment.
• Jungle Trekking — Hike through pristine tropical forest surrounding the cave system, observing native flora and fauna endemic to Samar.
• Photography Tour — Capture the stunning interplay of light filtering through cave openings onto limestone formations and emerald waters.
• Birdwatching — Spot endemic and migratory bird species that inhabit the cave entrances and surrounding jungle canopy.

Food to try

• Tinutungan — A savory rice porridge cooked with fish or chicken and ginger, a warming comfort dish popular in Eastern Visayas.
• Binagol — A sweet sticky dessert made from taro root, brown sugar, and coconut milk wrapped in banana leaves, a regional delicacy from Samar.
• Fresh-caught Freshwater Fish — Locally sourced fish from nearby rivers and springs, grilled or cooked in vinegar-based preparations reflecting provincial cooking traditions.
• Coconut-based Stews — Rich viands prepared with freshly harvested coconut milk, often featuring local vegetables and seafood from surrounding waters.

Local customs & good to know

• Hire Local Guides — Using guides from nearby barangays ensures respectful exploration, supports the local community, and provides authentic knowledge of cave systems and safety protocols.
• Respect Environmental Conservation — The caves are a protected natural environment, so visitors should avoid touching formations, removing rocks, or leaving waste to preserve this pristine ecosystem.
• Visit During Dry Season — June to November offers the safest and most accessible conditions for cave exploration, as underground rivers can be treacherous during monsoon season.
• Learn Samareño Hospitality — The local Samareño people are famously warm and welcoming; accepting offers of local refreshments and engaging respectfully enriches your cultural experience.

Nearby

• Sambawan Island — 28 km
• Mahagnao Volcano — 77 km
• San Juanico Bridge — 80 km
• Tacloban City — 95 km