Biri Island Series: The Hills are Alive in Magaspad

After exploring the Magasang Rock Formation in Biri Island in Samar, we decided it’s time to move on to the nearest rock formation in this island. We no longer retraced our steps after exploring the back part of Magasang. Since it was still safe to cross near the cliff, we used this route to get to Magaspad while our guide carefully watched and timed the tides as it angrily pushed all its might spitting sea water all over this small island of Samar.

We could see the soaked Magaspad rock formation from a distance. Some parts of the rock bed were still drenched in both rain and seawater while others looked dry. If not careful, those unassuming dry ground might send your butts flying all over the place as they were actually slippery.

the drenched Magaspad Rock Formation

When crossing the two rock formations, one should also be careful since the whole place is surrounded with small and huge natural pools. Some of those pools are knee-high while others are waist-deep and chest-deep. Some are too deep that one can go diving in there. No kidding.

carefully wading the slippery floor on our way to Magaspad

The dangers of slipping in one of those deep pools is the reason why a guide is needed to explore the area. The guides are also useful as they know the landscape too well. Our guide, Kuya Jun, was very helpful in showing us the safest grounds to explore the whole rock formation here in Biri Island in Samar.

Christian carefully crossing the area coming from the Magasang rock formation

the hill top of Magaspad

Although climbing the rocks to get to the top of Magaspad would promise any thrill-seeker that adrenaline rush, our guide told us there’s a safe path at the back of the rocks to reach the top. Once we got to the area, green grasses greeted us.

Our guide told us that during the summer months, a lot of travellers would camp out on this area to catch the first light of the day. Stargazing is also one activity that shouldn’t be missed if you want to know what to do in Biri Island. Although I didn’t get the chance to see some stars all throughout our stay in Biri, I bet one could see a glimpse of the milky way here on a cloudless night.

wild flowers and grasses cover the top of Magaspad

Climbing the hill top of the Magaspad rock formation was easy. Too easy that our cat guide followed us all the way to the top too.

Our guide claimed that the locals used to herd carabaos and goats in the area. However, other locals would snatch them as they get their boats to the Biri rock formation while some slaughter them on the spot taking with them the meat and leaving the lifeless bodies there.  When we climbed the hill, we even saw goat poop and remnants of the chains of those animals.

reaching the top of Magaspad

Once you reach the top of the Magaspad rock formation, you will see a bird’s eye view of the mainland Biri Island in the Visayas along with the neighboring rock formations. You’ll also hear the cacophony of the crashing waves on different directions.

overlooking mainland Biri

Christian resting; from a distance – Makadlao, Puhunan, Bel-at and Caranas rock formations

resting my travelling feet

If only not for the short time we had left before the sun sleeps, it would be wonderful to graze on those grasses and rest for a while. I’d have to say that Magaspad is my favorite rock formation in Biri island.

our descent to catch the sunset back at Magasang

Because of the bad weather, time got wasted as we took shelter to avoid getting soaked. Before we know it, it was time to leave the hill top to make sure we catch the sunrise. We hurriedly descended the hill and took more photos of the other surrounding areas.

Christian went gaga as he approached the cliff. It was as if he found Willy Wonka’s Chocolate Factory when he reached the cliff that separates us from those ferocious waves as he became inseparable with them.

the Magaspad Rock Formation

For the short time we got to know our guide, a sudden surge of envy came to us knowing that our guide grew up in such a magical place, the enchanting Biri Island of Northern Samar. What’s worse is that they don’t even realize that they are sitting on a natural treasure. To the local’s eyes, those rock formations weren’t that spectacular. I guess it’s because they got used to seeing those grand landscapes all their lives and got the chance to swim on those numerous natural pools that they can’t grasp the idea why other people would dig at the thought of visiting those majestic rock beauties. And to an outsider like me, I couldn’t count the number of times I complimented him and his hometown for having those stunners.

This post is part of my Biri Island Adventure series.
For more information on the previous posts and to know more information of things to do in Biri Island, please refer to the links below:

Majestic Rock Formations: The Hidden Gems of Biri Island
Biri Island Series: En Route Cebu to Calbayog
Biri Island Series: Looking For Affordable Places to Stay in Allen?
Biri Island Series: Side Trip to Spice of Life Beach in Allen
Biri Island Series: Waking Up Biri Early Morning
Biri Island Series: Biri Rock Formations Tour Activate!
Biri Island Series: The Hills are Alive in Magaspad    <— you are here now 😉
Witnessing the Sunset at Magasang in Biri Island
Waiting for Sunrise at the Bel-at Rock Formation in Biri
On Being Stranded at the Caranas Rock Formation
Learning How To Drown in the Natural Pools of Biri Island

For more photos of this trip, please visit my Facebook Page Album 😉