All of the province’s marine waters are part of the Verde Island Passage, too, which the California Academy of Sciences has declared the “center of the center of the world’s marine biodiversity.”

This is why it comes as no surprise that Batangas is also home to numerous resorts that not only protect marine life in the area, but offer opportunities for guests to see and experience its beauty through various water activities.

Here are some you should try while you’re in Batangas to make your trip as fun as possible.

Kayaking

If you’re not yet ready to try diving, though, there are other relatively easier activities you can try. Arthur’s Place Dive Resort in Mabini, known as one of the first dive resorts in the area, also offers kayaking.

Through the family-run resort, you and your companions can kayak over the waters of Balayan Bay, which covers the entire shore of the province. The experience allows you to relax while moving over water, enjoy ocean views, and get a glimpse of the fishes, corals, and other underwater beings in the bay that’s part of the world’s center of marine biodiversity.

Just like its well-known diving lessons, the staff provides guidance for guests. Necessary gear such as the kayak, paddle, and a lifejacket are also available.

Arthur’s Place Dive Resort requires guests to present antigen test results taken within 24 hours before admission, or RT-PCR test results taken within 72 hours.

Day tours for adults cost Php 200, while children 12 years old and below can enter for free. The rates for their 12 fully-furnished accommodations—beachfront, air conditioned, or fan rooms—are available upon request.

To get there from Manila, head to SLEX and take the Calamba exit. Keep driving to STAR tollway and at the roundabout, take the third exit onto Bauan-Batangas Provincial Road and turn right to Palico-Balayan-Batangas Road. Turn left onto Bauan-Mabini Road and continue driving until you reach Brgy. Bagalangit, where the resort is located.

For public commuters, board a Batangas City-bound bus and transfer to a Mabini-bound jeep going to Anilao Port. From there, ride a tricycle and ask the driver to take you to the resort.

Total travel time takes two to three hours.

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/arthursplacediveresort
• Contact Information: +63917 777 9341 / +63919 312 3938 / +63939 913 5718; info@arthursplacediveresort.com
• Website: http://www.arthursplacediveresort.com/index.html

Diving

When in Anilao, you should grab the opportunity to go diving. The area, after all, is one of the country’s prime diving spots frequented by foreign and local divers for its diverse marine life.

Whether you’re a beginner or a certified diver, you can give it a try through the premium diving services at Solitude Acacia Resort (formerly Acacia Resort and Dive Center).

The 25-room resort is only a boat ride away from Verde Island, where you can experience seeing rare muck diving critters or fascinating reef walls.

A certified instructor will give you a theory lesson and a practice pool session before diving into the ocean. If you don’t have diving gear, fret not. The resort can provide to you a wetsuit, and an Enriched Air Nitrox (EAN) or breathing gas.

Solitude Acacia resort requires guests to bring proof of booking confirmation, negative antigen or PCR test within 48 hours prior to check in, and a health declaration form you will fill out by scanning the Safe Pass PH QR code.

Room rates start at $260 (roughly Php12,500) for Single Rooms and $320 (roughly Php15,380) for Twin/Double rooms per night. There’s also an option for Room Packages which start at $660 (roughly Php31,730) for four days and three nights.

All-Inclusive AIR Dive Packages are available, too, starting at $855 (roughly Php41,100) for four days and three nights inclusive of six dives and more. You can book a stay for as long as 15 days and 14 nights or longer.

To go to the resort via public transport, board a Batangas-bound bus in Cubao or Buendia. Upon arrival at the bus terminal in Batangas, board a jeepney headed for Mabini. Tell the driver to drop you off at Mabini Crossing, then subsequently board a tricycle upon arrival. Tell the driver that the drop-off is Solitude Acacia Resort.

If traveling via private car, get on the Metro Manila Skyway from Magallanes EDSA. Take South Luzon Expressway / Calabarzon Expressway / Star Tollway and take Batangas City exit at the end of Star Tollway. Take Diversion Rd. in Batangas then take Bauan–Batangas Provincial Rd. Take Palico–Balayan–Bauan–Mabini Rd/Mabini Circumferential Rd in Mabini.

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SolitudeAcacia/
• Contact Information: emailus@solitude-acacia.com
• Website: https://solitude-acacia.com/

Swimming

While swimming is a common water activity and the province is teeming with resorts where you can enjoy it. But doing so at Aquaria Water Park just elevates the experience.

The resort, designed, and developed by Millennial Resorts Corporation for family, friends, and travelers who want to enjoy a leisurely break, is a water playground.

As it’s nestled along Calatagan South Beach, where a 525-meter stretch of fine white sand awaits you, you can easily enjoy a quick swim at the beach, try beach games such as soccer and volleyball, or even brave a banana boat ride.

The water park, meanwhile, has pools for people of all ages. Its Kiddie Pool is only three feet deep, allowing kids to play around and have fun safely.

Guests can also swim to their heart’s content in five other pools, including the Cove Pool and Sunken Pool Bar.

The highlight, however, is the water park’s Landing Pool. Here, you can feel the exciting rush of going down a giant three-story slide and landing in a six-feet deep pool.

A day tour pass for adults is at Php370 during weekdays and Php510 on weekends. For kids, it’s at Php185 and Php255, respectively.

Aquaria requires an RT-PCR Test, a valid ID, and that all guests wear a face mask and face shield in all public areas.

For maximum convenience, it’s recommended to go by private vehicle. From Manila, take SLEX until the Santa Rosa Exit. Continue until the Tagaytay Rotonda and drive through Tagaytay-Nasugbu Highway and turn left at the Balayan-Calatagan Highway.

Finally, turn left at M. Apacible near the Calatagan Municipal Hall; keep going and you’ll see the water park before long.But if you’re going to commute, ride a bus to Tagaytay-Lian. Get off the bus once you’re at 7-Eleven in Lian. From there ride an ordinary bus to the Calatagan Public Market, then a tricycle directly to Aquaria.

Overall, the trip should take around 3-4 hours, depending on traffic.

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aquariawaterpark
• Contact Information:+6388365055/+639992253333/aquaria@millennial-resorts.com
• Website: https://aquaria.millennial-resorts.com/

Travel safely!

All tourist destinations in Batangas have health and safety protocols in place to protect locals and visitors alike. Everyone is expected to comply by wearing face masks and face shields, regularly washing their hands, and practicing physical distancing.

To check out up-to-date information regarding local destinations that are open and the safety protocols and requirements needed for each location, you may visit www.philippines.travel/safetrip or download the Travel Philippines app at app.philippines.travel or the Google Playstore.

The post All the Water Adventures to Try While in Batangas appeared first on 7641 Islands of the Philippines.

But did you know that many of these important destinations offer immersive experiences beyond historical education?

From riding on the highest zipline through cultural landscapes in Mindanao to being in awe of one of the most photographed streets in our country, to appreciating the wide expanse of sea and sky at an observation deck, here are experiences at heritage sites recommended by the Department of Tourism (DOT).

Take a tour of the tombs and columbary of San Agustin Church in Intramuros

Three centuries of Spanish occupation is seen and felt all over our country until today, and many of these hispanic influences are easily visible in Intramuros. The 60-hectare block of land was built and fortified by Miguel Lopez de Legazpi, the first Spanish governor-general of the Philippines, in the 16th century.

Many important landmarks have persisted from the time of The Walled City’s construction, not the least of which is the 400-year-old San Agustin Church. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the structure is one of the oldest Catholic churches here, and the first built by the Spaniards in Luzon.

The church, as it stands now, is the third time that its Augustinian friars rebuilt it. First made of bamboo and nipa in 1607, it was brought down by a fire. The wooden structure that came after also burned down.

Besides being a place of worship, the ancient structure is also a Museum and Cultural Center filled with centuries-old artifacts. A tour here includes a visit to the tomb of governor-general de Legazpi, who is buried within the holy grounds. You can also pay your respects to renowned Filipino painter Juan Luna, whose remains are kept in the church’s columbary.

• Address: San Agustin Church, Gen. Luna St., Intramuros, Manila
• Hours: 8 a.m. to 12 noon and 1 p.m. to 6 p.m., Wednesday to Sunday
• FB pages: https://www.facebook.com/sanagustinmuseum/, https://www.facebook.com/OfficialIntramurosAdministration
• Entrance fee: Php200 (regular) / Php 160 (students, senior citizens, frontliners, PWDs)

Immerse in Spanish architecture at the most photographed streets of Vigan

Slices of pre-colonial Spanish rule also exist outside of our country’s capital, and one notable example of this is Vigan in the northwestern province of Ilocos Sur. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the 400-year-old Ilocano city is renowned for its well-kept ancestral homes and buildings, and is and one of CNN’s “most picturesque towns in Asia.”

Much of the immaculate architecture here can be found near Plaza Salcedo, which is named after Vigan’s founder, the Spanish conquistador Juan de Salcedo.

From there, you can easily explore the rest of the picture-perfect location on foot, beginning with St. Paul’s Cathedral across the street. Built in 1800, the baroque church stands on the same spot where de Salcedo established the community’s first wood and thatch chapel in the 16th century.

About five minutes away is Calle Crisologo, the city’s most photographed street and most popular tourist attraction. Like a postcard come to life, the thoroughfare is lined with the homes of Vigan families who rose to prominence in the town’s heydays as a trading hub.

You can easily walk around the cobblestoned stretch, but a kalesa ride, which costs Php150 an hour, might give you a more immersive experience. Many of Crisologo’s antique residences have been converted into museums, hotels, souvenir shops, and restaurants, allowing you to go on a deep dive of the Vigan’s history.

Vigan only allows pre-booked tours with accredited agencies and operators. We suggest booking your accommodations in advance as well to ensure a smooth and safe trip to and around the Ilocano capital.

Look far and wide from the Memorial Cross observation deck at Bataan’s Shrine of Valor

The United States of America also occupied our country, but just for a fraction of time than the Spaniards’ centuries-old rule. While the Americans still met fierce opposition, their 48-year-old occupation did allow for gradual independence and the formation of a commonwealth government.

This US-Philippine alliance was strengthened by the events of World War II, which saw American Armed Forces fight alongside Filipino soldiers against Japanese invaders. The months-long battle came to a head in Bataan in Northern Luzon, where the allied troops surrendered.

Today, the Shrine of Valor stands near the peak of Mt. Samat, the US’s last stronghold on the island, in remembrance of the fallen heroes who bravely defended the country’s freedom.

Inaugurated in 1970, the 72-hectare Shrine consists of a Colonnade decked with sculptures, murals, and stained glass displays that depict the Battle of Bataan. Behind this marble hall stands the Memorial Cross, a 92-meter-high structure of reinforced steel and concrete that stands watch over the province.

Its base is clad with an 11-meter-tall relief designed by our National Artist Napoleon Abueva, which illustrates historical events and icons like Jose Rizal and Datu Lapu-Lapu. You can ride an elevator up to an observation deck on the Cross’s 30-meter-wide arms that opens to 360-degree views of the peninsula and nearby Corregidor Island and Manila Bay.

The Shrine currently only accommodates pre-booked visits. You can reserve your slots at least two days before your intended travel date.

• Address: Shrine of Valor, Mt. Samat, Brgy. Diwa, Pilar, Bataan
• Contact number: +63 949 413 0762
• Website: https://www.facebook.com/mtsamatftez
• Entrance fee: Php40

Appreciate Mindanao’s cultural landscape on the highest zipline in Southeast Asia

First and foremost, our country is a land of diverse ethnicities. Before the Spaniards came, a variety of indigenous tribes thrived across the archipelago. Many of these groups were able to repel these would-be foreign conquerors and, as a result, managed to uphold their own values and traditions until today.

The island of Mindanao, in particular, is home to a total of 18 indigenous tribes. Four of them—the T’boli, Ubo, Tiruray, and Manobo—continue to flourish in the municipality of Lake Sebu in South Cotabato.

These groups have resided in this part of the country for centuries, with the T’boli making up more than half of its population. They still live the way their ancestors did, relying on fishing and agriculture for livelihood, and, because of their careful cultivation of the land, UNESCO has recognized the region of Lake Sebu as a cultural landscape.

Once travel restrictions are lifted, you can take a trip down to the Mindanaoan province to visit the museums and centers around the area. You can also observe the tribe’s customs and rituals including musical performances as well as the complex process of T’nalak weaving.

One of these places, the Lake Sebu School of Living Tradition (LST), also serves as a homestay for visitors. While there, you can don traditional T’boli garb for Php200 (women) and Php150 (men).

• Address: Lake Sebu School of Living Tradition, Sitio Lambanig, Brgy. Poblacion, Lake Sebu, South Cotabato
• Contact number: +63 935 456 9359
• Website: https://www.facebook.com/LakeSebuSLT
• Rate: Php350 a night, with breakfast

At Lake Sebu, you can also trek through the “Seven Falls” via hiking trails. But we highly recommend viewing it on the highest zipline in Southeast Asia, a sweeping ride that is 600 feet above the ground.

Only four out of the seven falls can be seen from this point of view, while the rest is only accessible on foot. But at Php300 to Php350 for a two-way ride, it’s an experience you shouldn’t miss.

• Address: 7 Waterfalls Zipline, Brgy. Lake Lahit, Lake Sebu, South Cotabato
• Contact number: +63 65 8281 1761
• Entrance fee: Php20 (adults) / Php15 (senior citizens) / P10 (students) / Php5 (children below 12)
• Zipline rates: Php350 (weekends and holidays) / Php300 (weekdays)

Have a remote travel experience in the secluded village of Batad

Next to Mindanao, Northern Luzon has the second highest concentration of indigenous cultures in the Philippines. The mountainous Cordillera province is home to seven major ethnic groups—the Tinggian, Isneg, Kalinga, Kankana-ey, Ibaloy, Ifugao, and Bontok—collectively known as Igorots, from the Spanish word Igorrotes which means “of the hill or mountain.”

These highland tribes are farmers, distinguished for their ingenious tradition of agricultural terracing. This is the method behind our world-famous, and highly photographable rice terraces.

Not many may know but there are in fact more than 48 of these farming landscape wonders in the Igorot mountains, some even dating back 2,000 years. Five of them are listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the Batad, Bangaan, Mayoyao, Hungudan, and Nagadacan Rice Terraces.

The Banaue Rice Terraces, actually, is not included in this list because of the abundance of contemporary structures in its area. But it remains to be one of the top tourist spots in our country and is considered a National Cultural Treasure.

There are a lot of activities to keep you occupied at Banaue. Apart from hiking up the mountain to observe the terraces from different vantage points, you can drop by the Banaue Museum as well as the Tam-An Village to observe the daily life of an Ifugao tribe.

But if it’s a unique and completely remote travel experience that you’re after, make a beeline for Batad. To get to this secluded village, you’ll need to take another 45-minute jeepney ride from Banaue town proper to a drop off point called the Saddle. From there, you’ll have to trek another 20 minutes until you reach your destination.

Despite its isolation, Batad has several affordable options for accommodation in the area, including homestays in traditional Ifugao huts. In terms of getting around, the area’s unspoiled landscapes mean you’ll have to go on long hikes to visit sites. But it’s worth it for the breathtaking views.

After trekking up the rice terraces, you can venture out to Tappiya Falls for a swim, or head out to Awa View Deck up in the mountains for unparalleled panoramas. You can explore the area on your own, but there are local guides you can hire for around Php600 (max of four people) to tour you around.

Right now, travel to the Cordillera province has been limited in line with nationwide safety protocols. But locals will be happy to welcome visitors back once travel restrictions ease up.

Appreciate cave systems and limestone cliffs on a paddle boat at the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River Park

Palawan’s Puerto Princesa Subterranean River Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the “New 7 Wonders of Nature.”

The main draw at this 22-hectare ecotourist spot is the 8.2km long underground river that flows directly into the sea. About 4.3km, or half of the whole route, can be explored aboard a paddle boat that will take you to see intricate cave systems and limestone cliffs.

This largely landscape contains a mountain-to-sea ecosystem that protects Palawan’s rainforests. It also provides critical habitat for a variety of flora and fauna, many of which are endemic to the region.

You’ll likely catch some of the park’s four-legged, furry, or winged residents before you enter the underground river. These include crab-eating monkeys, monitor lizards, bats, and flocks of birds that wander the area.

Just off Puerto Princesa town proper, the park usually only allows a limited number of tourists to enter per day so it’s best to book your visit ahead. Right now it still remains closed due to COVID restrictions.

But when things pick up again, you might want to check out packages online or through your accommodation, which usually start at Php2,000. If you prefer to explore on your own, you’ll need to secure a tour permit from their office in Puerto Princesa’s City Coliseum before you can travel to Sabang Village. You’ll also need to pay a Php500 environmental fee upon arrival at the park.

Travel safely!

All of these tourist destinations have health and safety protocols in place to protect locals and visitors alike. Everyone is expected to comply by wearing face masks, regularly washing their hands, and practicing physical distancing.

To check out up-to-date information regarding local destinations that are open and the safety protocols and requirements needed for each location, visit www.philippines.travel/safetrip or download the Travel Philippines app at app.philippines.travel or the Google Playstore.

The post 6 Heritage Sites and What They Can Offer to the Adventurous appeared first on 7641 Islands of the Philippines.

Whether or not one has been to Palaui Island, the name likely rings a bell. That’s because the island in Sta. Ana, Cagayan—located in the northeastern tip of mainland Luzon—is the site of the reality show, Survivor USA, not just once, but twice. In 2016, CNN Travel even ranked the island 25th in its list of 100 best beaches around the world. The following year, it moved up to 10th place in the same list.

All this attention is well-deserved as Palaui Island’s features—white sand beaches, undisturbed corals, camping site, and even a century-old lighthouse—speak for itself. 

Before the world took notice, though, the few tourists who came by were the first to spread the word about the island’s beauty. 

“It was in 2006 when a number of tourists began visiting the island,” says Edwin Tabucul, a Palaui Island local and a Department of Tourism (DOT)-accredited tour guide. “The good thing about it was when there are two or three visitors here going home to Manila, they would come back here with more guests.” 

In 2010, tourism eventually picked up prompting the DOT, Cagayan Economic Zone Authority (CEZA), the local government of Sta. Ana, Blue Water Consultancy, and Palaui Environmental Protector Association (PEPA)—an organization composed of island locals, including Tabucul—to develop the area as an ecotourism destination while ensuring its protection. Palaui Island, after all, is a declared Protected Seascape and Landscape. 

This included everything from camp site development to trail management training, enabling the local residents in providing services to visitors. 

Today, these services are readily available for tourists to try and ultimately, explore the 8,000-hectare island’s natural attractions. 

Exploring Palaui

The island, which takes about an hour boat ride from Sta. Ana’s Port of San Vicente, is home to pristine white-sand beaches: Engaño Cove, Siwangag Cove, and Punta Verde. In any of these locations, guests can freely swim or simply chill. The island’s coral-rich waters also make it an ideal place to go snorkeling. 

“Palaui is rich in corals, specifically the branching and table corals,” Tabucul says. “You would notice that there are corals at the shore, instead of sand. It’s due to frequent typhoons, which cause the corals to drift ashore.”

The island has a total of four snorkeling sites, all with rich and unspoiled coral reefs: Engaño, Peace Sanctuary in Punta Verde, Siwangag, and Isabelle’s Garden. 

Within the island, there’s a 105-hectare mangrove forest that guests can visit or better yet, help thrive. Tourists can plant seedlings themselves, which can help mangroves do its functions: a shelter for wildlife species, reduction of coastal flooding, and protect water quality. 

Cape Engaño

Nature isn’t the only attraction in Palaui Island. In fact, one is man-made—a lighthouse called Cape Engaño. 

Situated at the summit of a hill, the tower is 110 meters above sea level. 

“The Spaniards built this,” Tabucul shares. “They planned it in 1887, started construction in 1888, and finished it in 1892.” 

One of the four lighthouses built during the Spanish colonial period, Cape Engaño and its 11-meter octagonal tower made of two foot-thick rocks served as a guide for incoming ships.

Today, even after over a century, light is still visible even in the nearby Camiguin Island, through the 300 LED bulbs placed inside the tower. It’s now helping local fisherfolks. 

Meanwhile, little remains of the housing pavilion around the tower that served as an office and workers quarter. 

Tourists are not allowed to go inside the tower anymore for safety purposes, but the view makes the 30-minute hike up the mountain worth it: the Babuyan Island and the nearby pair of islets, Dos Hermanas Island, on the north, Pacific Ocean on the west, and the Engaño cove on the west. 

It’s for the place’s rich history and stunning sights that Tabucul considers the lighthouse as a must-visit. The National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) has also declared it a National Cultural Treasure—one of five in the whole Cagayan Valley region.

“You’ve never been to Sta. Ana if you did not visit Cape Engaño,” he says. “‘The lighthouse is the landmark of this place.” 

Punta Verde 

Palaui Island’s mountains are also its defining features, which is why trekking is one of its main activities. There are three trails to choose from: Leonardo, Lagunzad, and Siwangag. All these trails begin at Punta Verde, a fifteen-minute boat ride away from Port of San Vicente. 

The Lagunzad trail, which leads to Cape Engaño, is seven kilometers long and offers views of the beach, mangroves, forested areas, and grassland. Leonardo’s trail, meanwhile, passes through Punta Verde’s hidden gem, the Baratubut Falls, a 15 feet high waterfall. Here, guests can relax and cool down before what Tabucul describes as a more challenging, four-kilometer hike that gets steep at certain points. The end of the trail, however, is a rewarding view of the coast. 

The Siwangag trail, as the name implies, leads to the Siwangag cove. 

“This trail divides the island,” Tabucul explains. “The trek lasts for an hour or more, depending on the pace of the visitors.”

For those who wish to stay within the island overnight, camping is possible at Punta Verde. This residential village is where the island’s locals reside. In the middle of the community is the Nature Village, the only tent campsite (Php250/person) for tourists. 

For more spacious accommodations, rooms (Php1,200/four guests) and eco-lodges (Php1,200/four guests) that resemble native huts are available. In the same village, the prop used in the filming of Survivor USA—a tiny shed and torches each contestant owns—are on display.

For breakfast, lunch, and dinner, guests can trust the Palaui Island Women’s Catering: Village Kitchen to cook up meat, vegetable, and seafood dishes (Php150-Php300). 

Completing a relaxing time in the island are affordable spa services from local women of the island: full body (Php300), foot (Php150), hand (Php150), head (Php150), back (Php200)

Tour Packages

Tabucul and fellow guides offer tour packages to visitors. 

Mini Tour North (Php1,500) is a guided half-day trek from Punta Verde to Cape Engaño, inclusive of packed lunch and snack. 

Mini Tour South (Php1,350), meanwhile, is a guided half-day trek at Punta Verde, starting from the Leonardo trail then going to Narrang dawer, Baratubut Falls, Butress Alley, then the mangrove transplantation. This also includes a morning snack and lunch at the Nature Village. 

For a water activity-focused experience of the island, guests can opt for a tour package called Reef Day (Php2,550). Included in the package is whole-day guided snorkeling at up to 2 sites, use of mask, snorkel, fins, and personal floatation device, as well as morning and afternoon snacks and packed lunch. 

For mountaineers, Trek Day (Php2,100) is the best bet. From Punta Verde, a guide will take guests on a whole day trek to Cape Engaño via Lagunzad trail, inclusive of packed lunch and morning and afternoon snacks. 

For a fuller experience of the island, Tabucul recommends what the guides call as 642 (Php4,300). 

“I highly recommend this because every spot on the island can be visited,” he explains. “There are instances where guests are still enjoying the view and we wouldn’t want to rush them and this is why 642 has no time limit unlike other tour packages.” 

The package includes, as the name indicates, six activities for two days: mangrove planting, lighthouse tour,  snorkeling at marine sanctuary, hiking along Lagunzad Trail, weaving with demonstration, and overnight stay at Nature Village with homestay accommodation or tent with beddings. It also comes with meals from lunch of day 1 to snack of day 2, and guides. 

An upgraded 642—aptly called 642 Plus (Php7,200)—adds island hopping in the tour package. This means that guests can go on a half day tour to Snake Island, Crocodile Island, locally known as Manidad Island, and the Dos Hermanas Islands. There’s also an additional night of camping at Nature Village or homestay accommodation with beddings, and additional breakfast, lunch, dinner and snack.

Meanwhile, boat rental is not included in any of the packages and rates vary (for instance, Php1,500 for Mini Tour North and Php7,000 for 642) depending on the activities and the duration of the tour.

Protecting Palaui

As a Protected Landscape and Seascape, it is imperative to prevent any destructive human exploitation. 

Even before they were formally trained, PEPA and its member guides have been strictly enforcing dos and don’ts when visiting the island. It’s a practice that exists to this day. 

At the foot of Cape Engano, for instance, guides like Tabucul brief tourists prior to the trek going to the lighthouse. 

“When it’s a protected area, there are rules that need to be followed,” he says . “It’s ‘garbage in, garbage out’ here, and vandalism at the lighthouse and getting any type of plant or corals are prohibited.” 

At Punta Verde’s Nature Village, guests are told to dispose of their trash in designated bins. It is also the only campsite allowed inside Palaui.

“PEPA deliberately set up the camping site there,” Tabucul explains. “This is to monitor those who are staying on the island overnight.” 

How to get there

By land: Ride a Tuguegarao-bound bus along Cubao or Buendia. Take Sta. Rita exit to Nueva Ecija, leading to the Cagayan Valley region. Cagayan’s capital is 485 kilometers away from Metro Manila, so land trips are typically 10-12 hours long. 

By air: From Manila, book a 45-minute flight to Tuguegarao City or Cauayan City for faster travel time. You may check with local carriers for daily flights going to Cagayan Valley.

It’s highly recommended to book tours with DOT-accredited tour operators so that van rides are easily available to get to Sta. Ana, which is three hours away. From there, ride a boat going to Palaui Island.  

Outsource the Planning

For a seamless trip, you may leave the planning to DOT’s accredited tour operators in Cagayan:

• Pink Diamond International Travel and Tours

(078) 305 0339, 0926 324 4702

For Department of Tourism-accredited accommodations, visit the official Cagayan Valley Tourism website, region2fun.ph. 

Travel safely!

All tourist destinations in Cagayan have health and safety protocols in place to protect locals and visitors alike. Everyone is expected to comply by wearing face masks, regularly washing their hands, and practicing physical distancing.

To check out up-to-date information regarding local destinations that are open and the safety protocols and requirements needed for each location, you may visit philippines.travel/safetrip or download the Travel Philippines app at app.philippines.travel, Apple Store, or Google Playstore.

The post When In Cagayan, Explore Palaui Island appeared first on 7641 Islands of the Philippines.

Also known as the Rio Grande de Cagayan, it is the widest river in the Philippines, and the longest at 400 kilometers. 

It flows through Apayao, Aurora, Cagayan, Ifugao, Isabela, Kalinga, Mountain Province, Nueva Vizcaya, and Quirino. The basin is surrounded by the Sierra Madre, the Cordillera Central, the Caraballo-Maparang, and the Babuyan Channel.

Nourishing the earth

The river nourishes the valleys along the bank, where farmers grow produce such as bananas, citrus fruits, coconut, corn, rice, and tobacco. According to a study in 2005, the river provides irrigation for more than 200,000 hectares of rice fields and more than 130,000 hectares of cornfields. 

In 2017, Cagayan was dubbed the grains granary of the Philippines, and Isabela was called the corn capital of the country.

Tourist spot

The river plays another important role in the province: tourist attraction.

Over the years, it has become a favorite of tourists, who do everything from kayaking and river trailing to swimming and ferry touring at different points on its long stretch. Some parts even have bancarera, or boat racing, and a fluvial parade for the Lady of Piat is celebrated every July. 

For those unfamiliar, whitewater rafting is an activity when people navigate rough waters on an inflatable boat. It may look intimidating but it’s open to everyone, including beginners.

Today, there are five companies that offer rafting services at the Cagayan River, with courses ranging from beginner to extreme. All have been certified by the International Rafting Federation, and trained guides will accompany groups.

Any day is a good time to visit the Cagayan River, as there are rapids every 10 to 15 minutes.

Those who’d like a more relaxing ride down the river can try canoeing or river tubing. Tubing is exploring the river on an inflatable donut. River conditions may affect the experience, though. Calm waters mean a carefree ride, while rougher days may be more thrilling.

Cagayan River

Budget: A Siitan River tour package at Quirino is PHP 699 (USD 13.88) per person. This includes boat rental, river tubing, lunch, and a guide as company.

Contact: Provincial Tourism Office at Cabarroguis / +63 9174165945 / tourismquirino@yahoo.com

How to get there: Tuguegarao City is accessible by plane from Manila and other local airports.

Travel Safely!

Tourist destinations in Cagayan are ready for local travelers! Guests are required to wear a face mask and shield, practice social distancing, and regularly wash hands before dining in. These places have sanitary and contact tracing procedures such as registration and temperature check at the reception and using alcohol to sanitize hands before entering the premises. To know more about Cagayan, visit http://www.cagayan.gov.ph/.

To check out up-to-date information regarding local destinations that are open and the safety protocols and requirements needed for each location, you may visit philippines.travel/safetrip or download the Travel Philippines app at app.philippines.travel or the Google Playstore.

The post Cagayan River: Lifeblood, Light Giver, Tourist Spot, and Home appeared first on 7641 Islands of the Philippines.

Amidst the hills and forests of Aglipay, Quirino lies a network of caves that seem to transport you to a foreign land. 

It’s a must-visit for anyone headed to Quirino. Here, you’ll find an underground spring, well-preserved stalagmites and stalactites, a miniature version of the Banaue Rice Terraces, and more otherworldly rock formations. 

The caves and campsite cover 101 hectares and have been open since 1983. It is the ideal place for spelunking since there are 37 interlinked chambers in eight limestone caves, six of which are open to tourists and run to a depth of 20 meters.

A big cathedral-like chamber opens up as soon as you enter the caves, revealing its collection of stalagmite, stalactite, and other limestone formations. 

Some of the interesting formations are a calcite structure that looks like the Banaue Rice Terraces, and a three-stalagmite tableau that resembles a wedding with a bride, a groom, and an officiating priest. 

As you continue your journey within the caves, you’ll see more curious patterns, including rock formations that look like giant snakes and rollercoasters. Another noteworthy sight is the underground spring.

Exploring becomes even more difficult as you enter the heart of the caves. Because of this, all guests need a tour guide when spelunking. The caves get smaller the further you go in, forcing you to duck walk, crawl, and climb through muddy paths, gaps, and other tight spaces. 

After exploring the caves, you will soon reach the exit. Aglipay will surely make its mark on you, as even leaving is challenging. You will have to climb up a slippery 26-rung ladder in dim light.

The Aglipay Caves and Campsite may be a tough adventure filled with challenges at almost every turn, but those who have the stamina will find this experience rewarding.

If you want to skip the challenging caves, you may opt to relax in the garden. The area is filled with lush greenery, and the tour guides added more flowers, such as African tulips, during the pandemic.

A campsite is also available for those who want the full experience and stay the night over. 

If you want to do an overnight stay, you must bring your own provisions, including your tent and cooking set. Nothing beats having breakfast and a freshly-brewed cup of coffee surrounded by trees and caves.

Contact information:

Aglipay Caves and Campsite
Villa Ventura, Aglipay, Quirino

• Opening hours: Morning – 5PM
• Facebook: facebook.com/aglipaycaves
• Entrance fee: PHP 25 (USD 0.50) / PHP 200 (USD 3.92) for an overnight stay

How to get there: From Santiago, take a van to Maddela and alight at the road leading to the caves. Travel time should be one hour.

Travel Safely!

Tourist destinations in Quirino are ready for local travelers! Guests are required to wear a face mask and shield, practice social distancing, and regularly wash hands before dining in. These places have sanitary and contact tracing procedures such as registration and temperature check at the reception and using alcohol to sanitize hands before entering the premises. To know more about Quirino, visit https://quirinoprovince.online/.

To check out up-to-date information regarding local destinations that are open and the safety protocols and requirements needed for each location, you may visit philippines.travel/safetrip or download the Travel Philippines app at app.philippines.travel or the Google Playstore.

The post Explore Aglipay Caves Mini ‘Banaue Rice Terraces’ appeared first on 7641 Islands of the Philippines.

Many might know Isabela as the “corn capital” of the country thanks to its expansive farmlands, but the second largest province in the Philippines in terms of land area is also home to a portion of the mountainous and heavily-forested Sierra Madre.

At the foothills of this mountain range in the province’s capital, Ilagan City, is a retreat that can easily be a go-to for tourists seeking nature and adventure in one trip—ILAGAN Sanctuary. 

Part of the 819-hectare Fuyot Springs National Park, a protected area, the 200-hectare reserve park made accessible to the public has always been, as its name implies, a sanctuary even for locals. 

“Noong bata ako, talagang virgin forest ang lugar na ‘to,” shares Raquel Cepeda, an Ilagan local and a tour guide of seven years. “Sinimulang i-develop ang area bilang atraksyon noong 2004. Eventually, sa dami ng naging projects, gumanda ang lugar at dumami ang mga turistang pumupunta noong 2009.” 

Immersive experiences 

Almost 20 years after the first development efforts, ILAGAN Sanctuary now offers almost every ecotourism activity imaginable. As Cepeda likes to put it, “all in one dito.”

As guests enter the place, they can immediately try wall climbing and rappelling (Php100) on a 50-feet constructed wall. That’s as high as a three-story building. 

Further up, a cable car (Php100) takes up to 4 guests to a nearby high hill with a viewing deck. Going back, they can choose to stay in the cable car or try one of ILAGAN Sanctuary’s star attractions—zipline (Php100).

This 350-meter long, 700-feet high zipline is currently the fastest in the Philippines, according to Cepeda. The ride, complete with a harness and helmet, takes less than a minute and ends just a few meters above the ground. 

After a thrilling start, guests can go on a tree top adventure. Here, they can walk on a hanging bridge with seven stations featuring endemic tree species. This leads to the Main Cave of the Santa Victoria Caves. The nearby Adventure Cave, Moon Cave, and Altar Cave, as well as an aviary full of different species of birds, are also open for exploration. 

Deeper into the sanctuary is a zoo aptly called Animal Kingdom where guests can see a variety of animals like tiger, wild boar, monkeys, and crocodiles. There’s even a 120-kilogram reticulated python that can be caressed or carried along with 10 or more people.

Horseback riding is also available, whether for picture taking (Php10/person), or riding within the horse trail (Php20/round), within the sanctuary (Php150/round), and going to the falls (Php250).

At the edge of the park, there’s a clearing for visitors who want to try driving an ATV (Php250/30 minutes) or riding a bike (Php100/hour). 

A trail is also open for guests to go on a 1.5-kilometer or half an hour hike with the assistance of a tour guide to Pinzal Falls. According to Cepeda, hikers can spend the rest of the day here to picnic or simply enjoy being surrounded by nature’s beauty. 

While there are concrete steps and handrails along the way, a stream must be crossed at one point so it’s recommended to wear appropriate footwear. 

After that, guests can cool down in a pool and swim for as long as they want. 

“Ang pool dito is running water kasi galing sa loob ng cave yung tubig,” Cepeda explains. “Walang chlorine. Natural talaga. Safe ang mga bisita kahit mainom nila ang tubig.”

Visitors can also try kayaking (Php100/30 minutes), and riding a bumper boat (Php100/10 minutes) and swan boat (Php200/30 minutes) in a man-made lake nearby. For kids, a paddle boat (Php50/30 minutes) can be rented.

Tour packages

With an entrance fee of Php100—for Ilagan locals, Php75—visitors can already enjoy most activities in the sanctuary. 

For those who have specific activity preferences, though, affordable packages are available. 

Package A (Php800) allows access to all rides, while Package B’s (Php450) inclusions are for the thrill-seekers: cable car, zipline, rappelling, wall climbing, and treetop adventure. 

Meanwhile, Package C (Php300) grants access to the sanctuary’s water activities: bumper boat, kayaking, kid-friendly paddle boat, swan boat, water ball, and zord ball. 

Other outdoor adventures like biking, horseback riding, and all terrain vehicles are part of Package D (Php300). 

There’s no need to worry about getting from one point to another within the sanctuary.  An adorable red train can take guests to and from wherever they want to go. 

Accommodations

When guests get tired of activities, they can choose to take breaks in any of the cottages available. 

For families or groups on a budget, a Native Kubo (Php1,000/night) should suffice. It’s a small space, which explains the use of a common comfort room. Nevertheless, it can accommodate up to four people. 

Visitors can also choose accommodations based on their chosen tour packages. The Couple’s Cottage – Duplex Type (Php2,500/night per room), for instance, is situated near the adventure activity areas. Each airconditioned room comes with its own living room and bathroom and can accommodate a pair or up to eight people 

The Family Cottage-Duplex Dorm Type (Php3,500/night per room), meanwhile, works for families or groups who come to Ilagan Sanctuary specifically for the water activities. Here, the air conditioned rooms have a living room, bathroom, wash area, and kitchen. It’s spacious enough to house 15 people, too.

For even larger groups, however, the Administration Building (Php5,000/day) which has two air conditioned rooms, each with living room, toilet, and bathroom, can accommodate up to 50 people. 

Regular check-in is 8 AM to 12 NN, while check out is 12 NN the next day. Extended stays (Php100/ additional hour) are allowed, along with bringing cooking utensils, beddings, and toiletries. 

Prayer Mountain

ILAGAN Sanctuary, with its serene views and peaceful surroundings, makes it a fitting location for places of worship, hence, the presence of a church for Catholics, a mosque for Muslims, and a temple for Chinese Buddhists in what is called the Prayer Mountain.

Recognizing diversity because “iba-iba ang mga residente ng Ilagan,” according to Cepeda, gave way to the construction of such structures.

Pre-pandemic, the tour guide adds that the place is frequented during Holy Week, where visitors go through all 14 Stations of the Cross and remember the passion of Jesus Christ, from being condemned to his entombment.

At the top of the hill, meanwhile, a giant cross awaits visitors, along with a panoramic view of the province’s famous corn fields and distant mountains. 

Keeping it clean

As an Ilagan local, Cepeda, the leader of ILAGAN Sanctuary’s tour guides, takes pride in their city’s ecotourism attraction, so much so that they assist tourists as volunteers. 

“Ang nangyayari ay kaming mga tour guides ang bahala sa guests pagdating nila at pagkatapos ng lahat, ‘yung mga guests naman ang bahala sa amin. Ang bayad sa amin ay kung magkano ang tip ng mga turista,” she says. “Bokasyon ito para sa akin, kahit wala kaming fixed na sahod. Masaya na ako kapag napapasaya ko ang mga bisita.”

The 41-year-old Department of Tourism-accredited guide is also particular about briefing visitors not only about the fun activities that await them, but also about cleanliness. All of the sanctuary’s 54 employees share the responsibility of maintaining the area’s best possible natural state, from the Prayer Mountain to the cottages. 

“Sinasabihan po namin sila na bawal po magkalat, especially plastic waste na pinagkainan,” she says. “Strictly ‘garbage in, garbage out’ dito.” 

How to get there

To get to ILAGAN Sanctuary, ride a Cauayan City-bound bus along Cubao or Buendia. Isabela’s capital is 400 kilometers away from Metro Manila, so land trips are typically 9-10 hours long. For faster travel time, book a one-hour flight to Cauayan airport.

From there, Cepeda suggests renting a car to go to Ilagan City in Isabela, which is an hour away. ILAGAN Sanctuary is another 20-minute drive away from the city proper’s famous Big Butaka, the current holder of the Guinness Book of World Record for the biggest armchair in the world. As an alternative, tricycle drivers agree to take visitors from the city center to the sanctuary for Php150-300. 

Make sure to contact and book a visit via the City of Ilagan Tourist Information and Assistance Center ahead of time before heading to ILAGAN Sanctuary. 

Download the Traze app and bring a vaccination card, too, as these are requirements in any airport terminal and when entering Isabela, respectively.

Outsource the Planning

For a seamless trip, you may leave the planning to DOT’s accredited tour operator in Isabela:

• Pink Diamond International Travel and Tours

pinkdiamondinternational@yahoo.com; http://pinkdiamondinternational.weebly.com/

For Department of Tourism-accredited accommodations, visit the official Cagayan Valley Tourism website, region2fun.ph. 

Travel safely!

All tourist destinations in Isabela have health and safety protocols in place to protect locals and visitors alike. Everyone is expected to comply by wearing face masks, regularly washing their hands, and practicing physical distancing.

To check out up-to-date information regarding local destinations that are open and the safety protocols and requirements needed for each location, you may visit www.philippines.travel/safetrip or download the Travel Philippines app at app.philippines.travel or the Google Playstore.

The post ILAGAN Sanctuary’s Ecotourism Activities Make Every Nature Lover’s Dream Trip Come True appeared first on 7641 Islands of the Philippines.