Things To Do
in Surallah
Surallah is a rural agricultural town in South Cotabato, Mindanao, Philippines, set amid rolling hills and farmland. It sits near Lake Sebu and the Tboli highlands, offering scenic views and a gateway to Indigenous culture. Life here centers on markets, farms, and close-knit communities, where warmth and hospitality greet visitors.
From bustling markets to nearby waterfalls, Surallah provides an accessible base for exploring southern Mindanao.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Surallah, Philippines, and check into your accommodation. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring traditional Filipino dishes. Afterward, take a stroll around the town to get acquainted with the scenic views and local culture.
Visit the Surallah Municipal Park where you can relax and enjoy the greenery. Take pictures and observe local life as you enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. Consider trying some street food from nearby vendors for a true taste of the area.
Dine at a local restaurant, sampling famous dishes like sinigang or adobo. Engage in conversations with locals to learn more about their heritage and traditions. After dinner, take a peaceful evening walk, soaking in the calm ambiance of the town.
Start your day by visiting the local market during its bustling hours. Explore the various stalls filled with fresh produce, handicrafts, and local delicacies. Engage with vendors to learn about their crafts and perhaps buy some souvenirs.
Head to a local artisan's workshop where you can watch craftsmen at work. Participate in a workshop to create your own handicraft as a memorable keepsake. This afternoon will deepen your understanding of Surallah's rich cultural heritage.
Join a cultural show or festival if available, where you can witness traditional dance performances. Enjoy the local music and vibrant colors that showcase the community spirit. Return to your accommodation and reflect on the day's experiences.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| ☕Coffee or local drink | $1-2 |
| 🚕Local transportation (short ride) | $0.5-2 |
| 🛍️Souvenir or market purchases | $2-10 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel room per night | $15-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Relaxed, safe environment with friendly locals
- Affordable and delicious farm-to-table food
- Proximity to Lake Sebu and rich Indigenous culture
- Good base for exploring waterfalls and highland scenery
- Limited nightlife and urban amenities
- Some roads can be rough in the rainy season
- Fewer large-scale attractions compared to bigger cities
- Language barriers in very remote communities
- "Kumusta ka?" - How are you?
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Palihug" - Please
- "Asa ang banyo?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Pila ni?" - How much is this?
Places to Visit in Surallah
Visit one of these nice places.
Panoramic views of Lake Sebu with rolling hills and forested edges, ideal for sunrise shots.
A cluster of waterfalls with easy-to-access viewpoints and a lush backdrop for nature photography.
Golden rice terraces and banana plantations offering wide-angle landscape shots, especially at golden hour.
Food in Surallah
Surallah Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A comforting chicken soup with green papaya and leafy ginger; found in most carinderias.
Must-Try!
A vegetable stew with squash, beans, eggplant, and bagoong (fermented fish sauce) for a savory finish.
Grilled freshwater fish seasoned with salt, calamansi, and local herbs.
Fresh fish cured with lime juice, onions, and chilies; best with river fish when available.
Caramelized fried bananas skewered on sticks, a popular street snack.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling center to sample local produce, snacks, and everyday meals.
Market stalls offering fresh fish, fruits, and crafts from the Lake Sebu area.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet elders with po/opo and a polite tone; use courteous language in conversations.
Ask for permission before photographing people or Indigenous communities; respect privacy and cultural norms.
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites or traditional communities; remove hats in some places upon entering.
Safety
Tipping in Surallah
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for good service; 5-10% is common in nicer settings.
Cash is widely used; many small stalls and eateries operate on cash; some larger establishments accept cards or mobile wallets (GCash, PayMaya).
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry season with sunny days and lower humidity; great for outdoor activities, but carry water and sun protection.
Heavy rains from May to October; trails can be muddy and some roads may be impassable after storms; bring rain gear.
Surallah at Night
Hiking in Surallah
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular short hike to a set of waterfalls with accessible viewpoints and photo opportunities.
Scenic trails around the Lake Sebu area offering panoramic views of water and mountains.
Hiking routes around the Tboli community lands with cultural stops and natural scenery.
Airports
How to reach Surallah by plane.
The nearest major airport serving Surallah; provides domestic and international connections via Manila and Cebu, with taxi or bus links to the town.
A larger hub farther away but useful for longer connections; requires a longer land transfer to Surallah.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Mainstream language group and culture in the area; widely used in daily life.
Traditional communities with distinct customs and crafts near the Lake Sebu area.
Smaller communities focused in border areas and markets; respectful engagement is appreciated.
Numerous families who migrated for work or farming; language mix in markets.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most widely played sport in schools and communities, with informal games in barangay courts.
Common in local recreation centers and school teams.
Popular among youth and in some barangays; local matches and pickup games occur on community fields.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Surallah.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes can be made without meat; ask for vegetable-based pinakbet or fried tofu with rice; communicate dietary needs clearly.