The first image that would come to mind when the Philippines is mentioned, would always be the beautiful beaches on its many tropical islands. Crystal clear turquoise blue water and soft white sand on beaches lined with tall coconut trees. The perfect setting for a tropical island getaway. Masbate may not be as known as Cebu or Boracay, but sometimes these hidden gems may offer something even more wonderful than what travellers are expecting. Masbate itself is an island province located near the middle of the nation’s archipelago and consists of three major islands which are Masbate, Ticao and Burias.

Airports in Masbate

1. The Moises R. Espinosa Airport (MBT)

The Moises R. Espinosa Airport or also known as the Masbate Airport is a domestic airport serving the general area of Masbate province and is located within Masbate City. Officially known as Moises R. Espinosa Airport, the Airport was named after Moises Espinosa, Sr., the then-Representative of Masbate who was assassinated at the airport in 1989. Masbate airport is a single terminal airport which processes flights operated by Zest Air, Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airline, connecting Masbate to the capital city of Manila.

How to Get Cheap Flights to Masbate?

Traveloka is a travel search engine that makes it easy for travellers to find the cheapest flights to Masbate.All you need to do is key in the information in the search box, and the application will recommend the best trip according to your budget. It compares flight prices across some trusted airlines to help you to get the best possible deal. Use Traveloka's price alert feature to be notified of flights in your desired price range to get the best flight price to Masbate.

When is the Best Time to visit Masbate?

Masbate City, the capital of the province with the same name, is known as "The Rodeo Capital of the Philippines." Mention Masbate and the images of cowboys, rolling hills and the laid back ranch lifestyle will be the first things to mind. If you're looking for something different, the best time to pay Masbate a visit would be in the month April as this is when the annual Rodeo Masbateño Festival is held. This rodeo show which is said to be the only rodeo show in Asia will definitely show you a different side of the Philippines.

Located in South East Asia, Masbate, Philippines has a tropical climate all year round with temperatures usually varying from 23 degrees Celsius to 34 degrees Celsius. The drier months of the year would be the best time to visit Masbate which is from January to Mid-April as these few months will give visitors clearer skies. If you’re planning to spend time lounging on the beach under the sun, the month of December would be the month to avoid as this will be the month with the highest precipitation.

Have you ever wanted to see a rodeo, but didn't want to travel outside of Asia? Well, say no more as the Rodeo Masbateno is an annual Rodeo festival right here in the Philippines. Known as the only rodeo show in Asia, the Rodeo Masbateno showcases competitive rodeo events like cow wrestling, lassoing on horseback and carambola. Throughout April you will see the residents of Masbate dressed in checker shirts, leather vests, boots and even a cowboy hat. During the grand parade, you'll see locals riding on horseback and rodeo-themed floats while the restaurants and resorts go all out with their western themed décor and displays.

What are The Top 3 Things to Do in Masbate?

Masbate is not only known for the Rodeo Masbateno festival. Here are some other places that you could visit when in Masbate.

1. Sese Brahman's Ranch - If you are in Masbate for the Rodeo festival and want to dive into the rodeo lifestyle, Sese Brahman's Ranch is the place you should head to. A cattle farm and ranch located at San Juan, Mandaon, Masbate, at Sese Brahman's Ranch you will be able to experience being a haciendero or local farmer through the many ranch tours and visits that they offer. You can also spend the night at the ranch in their glamourous campsites, next to a bonfire and enjoy the beautiful night sky. Go all out and have a barbecue while camping and experience the cowboy lifestyle.

2. Buntod Reef Marine Sanctuary - Masbate is not only about the Rodeo, being in the beautiful Philippine Archipelago will almost guarantee a stunning beach just around the corner. The Buntod Reed Marine Sanctuary is a small islet and mangrove area just 15 minutes by boat off the coast of Masbate City. The 250 hectares protected area has vibrant coral reefs and is an ideal getaway for swimming, kayaking, snorkelling, scuba diving or just lazing around while perfecting your tan. If you are looking for a quick day-trip from Masbate city, this is a beautiful spot for a refreshing nature getaway.

3. Mayong-payong - Amongst one of the newer attractions in Masbate, Mayong-payong is a hilltop area near the coastal area of Masbate city. The hilltop area is around 20 minutes from the city and is a popular destination amongst locals and visitors to Masbate to enjoy the view overlooking the city. The best time to visit Mayong-payong would be during sunset as visitors will be able to watch the city be covered in the beautiful warm sunlight. You can also rent a cottage to stay overnight, or if you're feeling more adventurous, camp outside under the moonlight.