Burauen

Welcome to Burauen, the eco-adventure capital of Leyte! Nestled at the foot of the majestic Mt. Lobi, this peaceful municipality is blessed with untouched forests, crystal-clear springs, mystical caves, and a culture deeply rooted in Waray-Waray pride. If you’re seeking a destination that blends raw nature, rich tradition, and soulful food, Burauen deserves a spot on your Philippine travel bucket list

Burauen is home to Mahagnao Volcano Natural Park, a haven for nature lovers. The park features Lake Mahagnao, hot springs, scenic hiking trails, and bubbling mud pools all tucked away within a lush forest. Other eco-treasures include Matin-ao Spring, a perfect place to cool off, and the lesser-known yet magical Kapas-an Falls, a hidden gem for the curious explorer.

Don’t miss Mt. Camaiyak, a rising ecotourism favorite for its panoramic sunrise views and breathtaking sea of clouds!

The people of Burauen are warm, humble, and deeply respectful of their natural surroundings. The community is guided by the principle of “Pagkamapasalamaton” the art of being thankful. Local arts and crafts are often inspired by nature, and storytelling remains strong through folk songs and epic recitations during town gatherings.

The locals primarily speak Waray-Waray, but you’ll also hear fluent Cebuano, Filipino, and English, especially from the youth and tour guides.

A visit to Burauen isn’t complete without tasting Tinolang Isda sa Bayabas, a guava-based fish soup that’s both tangy and refreshing. Also worth a bite are kalamay-hati, moron (chocolate rice cake), and locally grown root crops like gabi and cassava turned into hearty native delicacies.

Farm-to-table is not a trend here it’s a lifestyle.

Burauen bursts with color every Buraburon Festival (held in honor of St. John the Baptist every June). Expect tribal dance competitions, street parades, music, and spiritual rituals that reflect the town’s vibrant identity and connection to nature. The festival’s name comes from “Burabod,” the local word for spring, paying homage to the town’s numerous freshwater sources.

Traditional Waray music still echoes through the hills with bamboo instruments and indigenous chants. During fiestas, expect a lively blend of folk ballads, local choir performances, and acoustic guitar sessions. Lately, younger residents have infused modern OPM into town fiestas, creating a unique rural-urban musical fusion.

Burauen is celebrated for its eco-tourism, abundant freshwater springs, Lake Mahagnao, and its strong environmental advocacy. It’s a town that invites you to unplug, wander, and reconnect with both culture and the earth.