Kapurpurawan Rock Formations and Cape Bojeador Lighthouse: The Pride of Burgos

Two attractions that should not be missed when in Ilocos Norte are the amazing Kapurpurawan Rock Formations and the timeless Cape Bojeador Lighthouse, both located in the quiet town of Burgos.

Kapurpurawan Rock Formations is one of the attractions in Ilocos Norte I was most excited to see. Just by looking at pictures of the formations on the internet, I knew it was unlike any other. And I was just as pleased when I finally saw it in person. As I walked along the established trail towards the view deck, several locals offered me horse rides for 50 pesos. The thought of riding a horse on the way to the formations sounded cool and even dramatic, but I opted to walk so that I can set my own pace.

The view towards the formations was really stunning. There were a lot of things going on, a lot of sights to appreciate. The heat of the sun was quite intolerable, but thanks to the cool wind coming from the waves that balanced the temperature. The white rock formations were glistening from afar, and the surrounding views were equally beautiful. Aside from the white formations which are the main attraction in the area, there are also other interesting rock formations nearby. Upon reaching the view deck, I set up my camera and tripod and started taking pictures of the Kapurpurawan rock formations, so named because the Ilocano word puraw means white.

It was just amazing how God employed nature to shape the rock formations over time. I can just imagine how the roaring waves of the South China Sea, along with other elements of nature, sculpted the rocks and created interestingly unique shapes out of them.

It was just recently when visitors were prohibited to climb up the front part of the rock formations. I was told that the local government aims to preserve the attraction so they set up a rope barricade right at the base of the rock formations. If you want to have your picture taken with the white rocks at the background, you may go to the back part of the formations. At this side, you can get as close as you want to the white rocks.

Structures from a Vic Sotto movie were retained

Remnant of the Enteng Kabisote movie

The other attraction which is just a few minutes away from Kapurpurawan Rock Formations is the Cape Bojeador Lighthouse. It was named as such because it overlooks Cape Bojeador. Built in the late 1800’s by the Spanish Government, the 20-meter lighthouse still operates at present and is being run by solar panels. The lighthouse is made of bricks and the surrounding structure is decorated with iron grills. The antiquity of the structure gives visitors an eerie feeling.

The view of the South China Sea from one side of the upper balcony was simply breathtaking while the sight of the green mountains on the other side was relaxing.

Brick walls

Visitors are allowed to go on top of the tower. You just have to request the caretaker to assist you. During my visit, the tower gate was unfortunately locked and the caretaker who holds the key was not around.

View of South China Sea

There is no entrance fee to see the Kapurpurawan Rock Formations and the Cape Bojeador Lighthouse. If you are availing of the South Pagudpud Tricycle Tour, these attractions are both included. If you are going DIY, both attractions are easy to find since the lighthouse can already be seen from several kilometers away and signages are strategically placed along the highway. 

This way to the top

The lighthouse as seen from Maharlika Highway