From Cape Bojeador Lighthouse, we now proceeded to the most anticipated part of our Ilocos Norte adventure, into Kapurpurawan Rock Formation.  This is not included in my former company outing in 2010 because the road leading to this stunning rock formation was rough and bumpy, not accessible yet to visit. But now, there’s a lot of development done. The reason why I was so thrilled to see Kapurpurawan this Lenten Season.

the iconic head

From the turn-off point, we were greeted by a well-paved road. Seeing several windmills, we hastily hopped out of our van for a photoshoot. And that includes our jump shots! hahaha!

Kapurpurawan is only a few minutes away from the Burgos Lighthouse. The parking lot was so wide. A roving staff approached us for the entrance fee (P20/head). Quite good for it lessens time queuing at the Tourist Center. The driver is free of charge.

At the jump-off point, there were sari-sari stores selling refreshments, food, souvenir items, t-shirts, hats, and umbrellas. There was also an e-loading area too.

nice concrete pathway

We headed down through the concrete stairways leading to a vast open field. Some visitors opted to ride a horse for P100. We chose to navigate the area on foot, anyway, the pathway was also concrete. We did not mind the scorching heat of the sun because we enjoyed walking around. It was a ten-minute trek passing small pools, shrubs, bonsai plants, seaweeds, and sari sari stores.

the open field leading to the stunning rock formation

I was so thrilled as we got closer to the strange but magnificent Kapurpurawan Rock Formation. By the way, kapurpurawan was derived from Ilocano word “puraw” which means white. There were other rock formations in the vicinity but the most stunning is obviously, the unique iconic creamy white Egyptian Sphinx that watches over the entire coast.

Unfortunately, the rock formation is now off-limits to the visitors due to its delicate condition. Vandalism is also one of the reasons why a boundary (a long rope?) was set up around it. Anyway, a view deck was constructed to see the iconic sphinx from afar.

me and my family at the view deck

We were deprived of getting into a close encounter with the rock formation. But for the brighter side, it was just fine. Just imagine lots of visitors walking on its soft rock. It might lead to erosion which sooner or later will greatly affect the beautiful Kapurpurawan a few years from now.

Awe-stricken, we just let ourselves enjoyed watching this magnificent wonder which was said to be sculpted through strong forces of ocean waves and wind. Such a beautiful and unique sight to behold.

I thank the local government for the restriction done on the rock formation and for the cleanliness of the whole area. I hope they will continue this discipline despite the numerous tourists visiting Kapurpurawan. This is not only for now but also for the future generation, so they can witness one of Mother Nature’s wonderful creations.

Definitely, my family and I will go back here in the future.

Next stop – Bangui Windmills and Pagudpud

Note: 

• Bring hats or an umbrella because it is so hot in the area.
• Wear comfortable clothes and shoes.
• Bring water.
• The driver is free of charge.