Kapurpurawan Rock Formation: Ilocos Norte, Philippines

Before Burgos was named after the martyr priest, the invading Spaniards once called the town, Nagparitan, which means “prohibit”. Early inhabitants of the coastal town, bound by hills and mountains, were called Mumbari, a fierce group of natives who antagonize the Spanish missions. The Mumbari made Burgos  a tough town for conquistadores. Today, Burgos is easily accessible to both local and foreign visitors, welcoming them to their town’s famous tourist attractions. Coincidentally during our trip, we’ve encountered slight “prohibitions” but, unlike the conquistadores, circumstances weren’t really made to be a pain in the “a”.

A sign before Kapurpurawan Rock Formations

Established trail to the rock formations.

Dust rose from the ground as we drove through a dirt road flanked by trees and hills on both sides. We were off to the jagged coastline of Burgos when a spectacular rock formation was said have outshone its neighbors, and that's what we were about to find out, beginning with a short and easy hike.

Horseback riding also an added feature to Kapurpurawan Rock Formations

Riding a horse from Kapurpurawan Rock Formations.

According to a friend who once visited the rock formations, the newly-built path made the hike more convenient and much accessible than before where tourist have to walk on rough terrain made of rocks, shrubs, and small pools of water. And if you’re not the hiking type, a horseback ride is a good alternative. Either way, both routes offers a scenic view of the South China Sea on the way to the rock formation.

Kapurpurawan Rock Formations surrounded by different kinds of rocks

Kapurpurawan came from the Ilokano root word, “puraw“, which means pure or white, such as the creamy white color of Burgos’ Kapurpurawan Rock Formations. Limestone made up this stunning bizarre-looking rock sculpted by oceanic forces and weather conditions and finished with smooth streamlines. Some say it resembles a sleeping dragon, others say its a submarine, I say its simply an amazing sight to look at.

“Bawal Pumasok” sign to Kapurpurawan Rocks.

Climbing Kapurpurawan Rock Formations was now prohibited for rehabilitation and avoid vandalism on the natural attraction. Dictating the permissible distance was the rope tied on two rock. However, walking on the rocks, picture-taking, and probably, climbing are allowed on the other face of this rock. The bizarre appeal of the this rock has increased the number of visitors, but I think it would be best seen from a slightly distant vantage point or in any way further damage could beautiful rock could be avoided.

Added man-made rock formations shaped like an igloo in Kapurpurawan.

A large sculpture in Kapurpurawan Rock Formations.

= = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = =

Here are some fast facts that may help you on your trip:

1. Going to Kapurpurawan Rock Formations. If you're driving from Laoag, watch out for the dirt road on your left, a few kilometers past Burgos Lighthouse, then just go straight to the coast. I think signs are already posted in the area so tourist could easier locate Kapurpurawan Rock Formations. 45 kilometers north of Laoag, 10 kilometers after Cape Bojeador.

2. Hiking to Kapurpurawan Rock Formations from the jump off point is an easy 15-20 minute hike.

3. Bring water. It was kind of hot during our visit.

4. Entrance is FREE.

5. Drive safe and happy travels to everyone.

= = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = =

Watch my vlog below... 😊

Horse back-riding fees:

back and forth = P100

start to finish and never go back with a horse still = P100

but from the finish to the start is only = P50

By the way I haven't took a video on the rock formations.
Sorry for that mate.