surigao del norte — Caraga rising paradise

Bucas Grande Islands – On my way to Sohoton Cove

June 10, 2012 8 Comments

photos and words by Guest Blogger Clark Jayoma on June 9, 2012

Hi guys! It’s been quite a while since the last time I wrote something about Britania Islands, which is for me, a really gorgeous place to put in your escape list. But I can’t help it, I just want to share it with you also the last escapade that we had before summer ends of this year. It’s totally a blast! My way to Sohoton Cove, an amazing paradise in Caraga.

Sohoton Cove is part of Bucas Grande Islands which the whole islands is owned by Socorro town. We started our trip at Hayanggabon port located at the town of Claver in the mainland Surigao del Norte province. Yes, at the front you can see then Bucas Grande Islands for exhilarating 30 minutes boat ride.

When I heard the engine pumped-up and moved forward across the blue sea my excitement started to grind my heart. Reaching Bucas Grande Islands with mountains covered with lushed vegetation forest, islands and islets, and tempting white sand beaches.

Almost the same island I met in the now famous Britania islands…and there are many to be discovered.

Most common captivating scene in a paradise not yet spoiled by human behavior and conducts.

Reaching the shorelines of Bucas Grande Islands, a clear jade water in a fine white sand beach greeted me as I moved out from the boat.

So be it. It’s me again engulfed with Mother Nature.

By the way, if you’re planning to go all of these places, like Britania islands, Hinatuan Enchanted river, Tinuy-an falls, etc. in a day, If you’re going to ask me, It would be best if you go to these places one day at a time. I tell you that it is an indescribable feeling from one place to another. You have to consider also the time of travel to these places, expect some road repairs and bumps along the way. And one thing also, If you’re too worried about huge church-like waves, sharks, relatives of lolong, NPA’s, anaconda, corazon, shokoy, etc., don’t let fear of the unknown overcome you.

This is supposed to be your comfort zone. Reward yourself some quality time and a peace of mind. And yes, you have to ask and implore Him that you’re out there not just to have fun with your family or peers, but to witness it to yourself also and appreciate the beauty and wonder of His beautiful and wonderful creations. If you’re up to team building or upgrading, don’t miss this spot also because they have cottages that can provide you for an overnight stay.

And if you have cool gadgets, like an underwater cam, don’t hesitate to bring it with you. Because aside from snorkeling, there’s this awesome underwater cave, I don’t know exactly how to describe it or express it in words, but once you’re there, it’s really such a nice feeling. It’s like partying in the water with glitters of light coming from the outside.

One of the panoramic views that captivates the eyes of the beholder.

I’m not yet into caving but this one mystified me with shining crystal of stalagmites and stalactites which they called Crystal Cave.

Entrance into the now famous Sohoton Cove the mother of all Mother Nature…be sure it’s low tide!

Horseshoe shape rock welcomes your journey from the entrance.

Sohoton Cove once get inside was a masterpiece of God’s creation. The clear jade waters serenaded the untainted thick green mountains of forest in different forms nestled you the most quiet and lovely place on earth.

And they have this Magkukuob Cave also wherein it is stiff to climb, or let me say not that easy to climb, and difficult or near impossible to go back down the same way, so you have to jump into the water! If you don’t know how to swim or if you feel like you’re not comfortable with it, of course you have the option not to go. But if you are physically fit, you don’t have to worry that much because your tour guide (you have at least 2 tour guides in your group) is already in the water waiting to assist you and give you your life vest after your jump or dive.

And still, if you’re still too scared to go down, they will even jump with you. These tour guides by the way are local residents in the area. They make this somehow their way of living so they have to make it in a way that the visitors are safe as well as their personal belongings. But yes of course you have to be extra careful also and not just totally rely on them.

The enticing Hagukan Cave when swimming inside makes your skin toned into white. Don’t miss also the jellyfish sanctuary. And for the record, these jellyfish are not itchy!

If you love nature, adventure, rejuvenation, one-of-the-experiences-of-my-life-that-I-don’t-want-to-forget escapades, then I must encourage you to please include this place also in your wish list! And before I forget, I would like to thank and express my gratitude to my support group, to which I consider my closest friends because without them, this will be barely possible to happen.

I feel blessed to have them also because it’s really fun if you go there with your pack, not to mention that you can divide among yourselves the expenses of the whole trip. But if you want to impress your special someone with such a wild-get-away adventure also, I bet this place would make her fall for you even more. If you are too fed up with papers, numbers, screens, faces, deals, pressures or problems, etc. then consider this also your quick escape to reality. This is such an awesome place..so mystical, so enchanting, and an amazing place to be.

We went there as early as 3 in the morning and went back heading home at around 6 in the evening. You can do this as a whole day trip. But if you have the luxury of time, it is way much cooler if you can have an overnight stay.

We are devoured too much by the idea or thought of those highly recognized and very popular, well recommended tourist spots that sometimes we overlook these wonderful places near us. Don’t be a foreigner of your own land, because kidding aside, it is truly indeed more fun in the Phillipines. Welcome to Caraga folks!

Caraga: A Wonderful Paradise on Earth

October 13, 2011 Leave a Comment

Top class surfing beaches, an amazingly blue lagoon, a mysterious tree aging 500 years old, unique caves, sanctuary marsh wildlife, extraordinary rock formations, magic whirlpool, spectacular falls, picturesque Britania Islands as well as “Jurassic Park.” These things are just some of the top tourist destinations in Mindanao, popularly known as Caraga Region. Caraga is being particularly readied for tourism by the local governments and private groups in some Mindanao provinces. And truly, Caraga tourist spots are world class and must see.

The government agencies in the locality, like Department of Environment and Natural Resources and the eco-tourism in the region, have already recognized the 127 Caraga tourist spots and are now working to attract more foreign and local tourists to experience this wonderful paradise on Earth.

Caraga is made up of several provinces including Surigao del Norte and Surigao del Sur, Agusan del Norte and Agusan del Sur, the newly created province of Dinagat Islands, with cities such as Butuan, Bislig, and Surigao. Last February, the Supreme Court approved the creation of another three new cities of Caraga Region, Cabadbaran, Bayugan and Tandag. Butuan which became the capital of Caraga Region houses history as one of Caraga tourist spot destinations.

Every year, there are surfing tournaments conducted in General Luna town of Surigao del Norte’s Siargao Island called Cloud 9. All tilts are meant for both foreigners and locals. Here, competitors and visitors are equally enjoying the playful waves and winds from the astonishing sea advantageous for the sport. Well, this is without mentioning the unspoiled and spectacular beaches and homelike tourist inns that only Caraga can offer.

Tourists are also being lured by Agusan Marsh wildlife haven with 19,196.588 hectares which stretch the rich shores of six municipalities in total. The country’s marsh lands used to suffer a dismal state because of depressing human spoilage. But the improved efforts of private entities and the government have led to full rejuvenation of several areas of marsh wildlife and made them into one of Caraga tourist spots.

Marsh lands can be regarded as important for keeping the marine life, particularly the thriving, propagating and endangered. The marine life only thrives in the natural habitats like the areas of the marsh wildlife. Agusan Marsh wildlife teems with marine life of the tropic that are not seen in other areas in the world.

First on the list of the wonders in the southern part of Caraga is Bucas Grande’s well acclaimed Sohoton Cove. This is in Socorro town of Surigao del Norte. There is also Catadman’s interesting rock formation that is naturally sculptured, known as Punta Calabera. Another of the Caraga tourist spots is Zaragoza’s rock formation that is definitely a wonder of nature and Bitaugan’s magic whirlpool, both of which are found in the city of Surigao.

Other Caraga Region’s tourist spots can be seen in northern and southern parts of Surigao and Agusan yet most of these are still awaiting discovery, harnessing as well as promotion. All of these natural wonders in Caraga are being protected and conserved by units of the local government as well as businessmen.

Mindanao is one haven in Philippines of various astonishing yet curiously natural picturesque sceneries, and most of these can never be surpassed by other spots of the world. Caraga is among the many regions that vividly illustrate this outright tourism fact as the Caraga Region combines challenge, beauty and mystery into one complete package.

Caraga ‘Oh my God’ Photo – Naked Island, General Luna, Siargao

September 21, 2011 Leave a Comment

Living in an exquisite place that is far away from modern world like living in a place where Adam and Eve exist. We called such place paradise that was never been touched and exploited. Adventurers who have gone witness the beauty of Naked Island of General Luna, Siargao, province of Surigao del Norte a priceless one growing into stardom. This cannot be denying a home grown gift of Mother Nature to Caraga Region becoming a hot property.

The beach of Naked Island of General Luna was luscious white when someone witness the powdery white sands surrounded the clear blue water from the ocean. How will a drifter imagined drifting in an island that was white and less colors combined, added treasures were group of migrating birds from the sky landed the soft sand Naked Island of General Luna.

The paradise seems to offer human kindness when landed your feet in a cotton-like character forms a sweet tingling when walking. This is just one quality of naked coral island that is too small to abuse and explore but interesting. Your priceless destination dictates the human nature that opportunity is rare as you discovered the beauty of nature.

The Naked Island of General Luna shows that she is not alone in the middle of the sea. The neighboring group of tempting islands like the lush green land with white coastlines in a distance calling it Dako Island. Sensing another paradise closer was a cute neat white line with coconut trees called Guyam Island. In the distance was another adventure calling for Corregidor Island. Standing the Naked Island of General Luna seems you have everything before the curious naked eye.

In front witness the mainland attraction in the town of General Luna is a long stretch of white sand beach going to the surfing capital of the Philippines called Cloud 9.

This is how Mother Nature takes place Caraga as favorite haven to all creatures in the world. Living from the edge of the world away from modern civilization untouched and untamed by human conduct.

naked island, general luna, siargao — Credit: Department of Tourism Caraga

What Makes Siargao Adventurous, Without The Surf Board?

January 4, 2011 2 Comments

photos and words by Guest Blogger Jocelyn E. Morano on January 4th, 2011

A surfer’s dream destination, famous as the world’s great frontiers for surf exploration, visiting Siargao is a whole new experience for so many local and foreign tourists.

Some 5 years ago, only a few resorts mostly owned by foreigners who married locals and dwellings can be seen.

Now, resorts are sprouting everywhere to accommodate the increasing tourists, alongside with this comes with the also steadily increasing of inhabitants around the area.

What were truly worth coming back to Siargao are the beautiful white sand beaches with tempting crystal clear waters and Siargao Island prides itself with friendly people.

Siargao offers solace and tranquility perfect for those who want to escape the hassle and busy life from the metropolis.

Siargao Related: see launching the 1st Cloud 9 Night Surfing

Going to Siargao may take several hours but setting foot to the so called gem of Mindanao, everything is worthwhile.

From Manila it will take 1 and a half hour flight to reach Butuan City and three hours bus ride to Surigao City.

From Surigao City, one can choose between taking the two-hour fast craft ride to Dapa (Siargao’s main port) or by 4 hour ferry travel (RORO) from the port of Lipata to Dapa.

Once in Dapa, you’ll have a 45-minute tricycle ride to reach Siargao, General Luna for only 30 pesos per person during off season.

Surfing competition usually held in September, having a vacation during off season would be very enjoyable because there’s still plenty to do like island hopping, diving, kayaking, biking and sun bathing.

Siargao Related: see different spectacular surfing sites

It is best to experience the “three-island boat tour,” for those who prefer swimming and leisure walk by the beach.

Our first stop is the farthest island called “Naked Island” because it is a dome of sand in the middle of the lagoon, it has no vegetation, no coconut trees, no inhabitants, and one can walk around the island with so many washed up shells of different shapes and types. The local name of this sandbar is Pansukian.

Next stop would be a 15 minute boat ride towards “Daku Island”, in Visayan dialect it means ‘big’, it is ideal for picnic with fresh buko juice on the side for only 15 pesos from the locals. In December, the island is not recommended for swimming because of its big waves and deep waters. It still has a powdery-white sand and teeming with coconut trees that provides good shades.

Perfect for swimming, sunbathing and snorkeling is the beautiful “Guyam Islet” a typical uninhabited tropical island with white sandy beach and coconut trees around it. Locals also called the isle: “chill and grill”. The Guyam Island is just across the General Luna beach, that offers a vantage view of Siargao and it can be reached by pumpboat in less than 10 minutes.

Luckily, one will truly enjoy a sumptuous dinner of fresh fish from local fishermen at a very cheap price. One has to wait for them near the shore adjacent to the local market.

I was told, aside from surfing, deep-sea fishing is gaining popularity amongst tourists where one can get a chance to join local fisherman for a day fishing adventure and catch bill fish, barilis (yellow fin tuna), tanguigue (Spanish mackerel) and morang (dolphin fish).

The fresh catch brought by fishermen which is in abundance all year round are the bolis (skipjack) and blue marlin.

Travel time will take you long to reach Siargao, but with its natural beauty and enticing white sand beaches, it’s worth the experience.

Indeed, Siargao, General Luna in Surigao del Norte now publicized as an alternative tourist destination to the world famous Boracay Island.

Surfing Siargao – the scenic goes even at summer for different breaks

February 15, 2009 1 Comment

Surfing Siargao will never cease even at summer. That’s how the beauty of Siargao. If you can’t surf the Cloud 9 then goes for another surfing breaks. Discover the whole breaks in Siargao…until it breaks you.

Be prepared when you go for the action. If you are beginner choose the area that is suit for you, or else go to Tuason Left.

Nevertheless, if you are skilled have some more fun and adventures jump to Barangay Pacifico.

For unisex adventures and good for beginners when small go to Jacking Horse.

Stimpies is a good for left hander, perfect tropical surf.

Rock Island is best for right hander with so much fun.

My friend told me that Dako waves also started gaining ground for neophytes. Yes, possibilities are endless. You can even find out there are other secret breaks that awaits you. Just make a magnificent tour around Siargao and became a breaks discoverer if not a surfer.

When I went to Siargao, of course the famed Cloud 9, I felt so lucky seeing giant waves forming for the first time before my eyes. A lot of Australian surfers getting in with their surfboards and wetsuits make them a pro. The Caraganon are also making big in this field of sports when drawn into competition. Yes, because it is an inborn gift for Caraganon having surfing sites in Caraga.

I have seen surfers with their wetsuits, and it makes my thumbs up. Unfortunately, we don’t have a complete store for surfing equipments unlike the demand for park city ski rentals for snow player, or the professionally sound deer valley ski rentals for winter spree. It is the best treat for online reservations when dealing with the best equipments. I hope we can do the best surfing online for Caraga in regards to surfboards, wetsuits, and other surfing accessories then after that you can jump the surfing water in Siargao.

I dreamed of myself becoming a surfer. When you go to this kind of sports activities, your body drained not just for physical but the excitement when flying above the level of water. The clear blue water splashes you in the midst when you can not make it. And there is nothing else except when you made it you’ll become a star…and healthy…and slimmer.

And when you retire in the late afternoon or even at 6:00 pm, you retire clean and physically sound as well, and have a nice sleep. A true value when you go into surfing.

There are a lot of important things when you go into surfing, and one important thing is that you go with natures. Natures are your best friend this time. Not just the beauty of horizons, the islands, mountains, white sand beaches in Siargao but you played with nature by expressing yourself through surfing. Nevertheless, you can compete yourself happily with natures as well.

I remember the best surfing online for beaver creek ski rentals for snow player, can we have it here for Caraga for water breaks. Gee, I’m dreaming this time for another surfing activity.

Anyway, I am proud I was born in Caraga – a region of never ending adventures. Wish all your luck here!

Photos and infos courtesy from cloud9surf.com