Surigao is a paradise waiting to be explored, boasting breathtaking landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and hidden gems that make it a must-visit destination in Mindanao. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a nature lover, or someone looking to unwind in a tropical escape, Surigao has something special for you. From enchanting islands and mystical caves to stunning waterfalls and pristine beaches, this province is a dream come true for travelers. In this blog post, we’ll take you on a journey through the must-see destinations in Surigao that should be on your travel bucket list!
The Enchanted River, also known as the Hinatuan Enchanted River, is situated in Barangay Talisay, Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur, Philippines.
About the Place
Renowned for its mesmerizing blend of sapphire and jade-colored waters, the Enchanted River is a deep spring river that flows into the Philippine Sea and the Pacific Ocean. Surrounded by lush greenery, orchids, and vines, the river’s crystal-clear waters are so transparent that the riverbed is visible even at its deepest points. Local legends attribute its enchanting hues to fairies who added the colors of sapphire and jade to the river, lending it a magical aura. The river is also home to various species of fish, which, according to folklore, cannot be caught by any means.
How to Get There
To reach the Enchanted River from Luzon and Visayas, travelers can fly to either Butuan or Davao City, with Butuan being the nearer hub. From Butuan, one can ride a bus bound for Hinatuan, with a travel time of approximately four hours. Upon reaching Hinatuan, local transportation options such as motorcycles or tricycles are available to take visitors directly to the Enchanted River.
Tinuy-an Falls is a majestic multi-tiered waterfall located in Barangay Burboanan, Bislig City, Surigao del Sur, Philippines. Often referred to as the “Niagara Falls of the Philippines,” it is renowned for its impressive width and captivating beauty.
About the Place
Tinuy-an Falls stands approximately 55 meters (180 feet) high and spans 95 meters (312 feet) wide, making it one of the widest waterfalls in the Philippines. The falls feature three distinct tiers, each offering a unique and picturesque view. Visitors can enjoy a natural water massage by riding a bamboo raft close to the cascading waters. A notable spectacle is the appearance of a rainbow between 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. almost daily, adding to the falls’ enchanting allure.
How to Get There
To reach Tinuy-an Falls, travelers can follow these general directions:
- From Manila or Cebu: Book a flight to either Davao City or Butuan City.
- From Davao City:
- Take a bus or van bound for Mangagoy, the commercial center of Bislig City. The journey typically takes around 5 to 6 hours.
- From Butuan City:
- Board a bus or van heading to Mangagoy, with a travel time of approximately 4 to 5 hours.
- From Mangagoy:
- Hire a habal-habal (motorcycle taxi) or a tricycle to Barangay Burboanan, where Tinuy-an Falls is situated. The ride usually lasts about 45 minutes to an hour.
It’s advisable to coordinate with the local tourism office or your accommodation for assistance in arranging transportation to the falls, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable visit.
Laswitan Falls and Lagoon is situated in the town of Cortes, within the province of Surigao del Sur, on the island of Mindanao, Philippines.
About the Place:
Laswitan is renowned for its unique 20-foot rock formation that creates a natural lagoon adjacent to the shore. During periods of strong waves, typically from October to March, seawater surges over these rock formations, cascading into the lagoon and producing a stunning waterfall effect. This phenomenon has earned it the name “Laswitan,” derived from the Visayan word “laswit,” meaning sea water pounding on the rocks. The area comprises three lagoons, each offering visitors a distinctive swimming experience amidst the backdrop of dramatic ocean sprays.
How to Get There:
- From Manila:
- By Air: Fly to either Butuan City or Davao City.
- From Butuan City:
- Take a bus or van bound for Tandag City, then transfer to a jeepney or habal-habal (motorcycle taxi) to reach Cortes.
- From Davao City:
- Board a bus or van heading to Tandag City, followed by local transportation to Cortes.
- From Cebu:
- By Air: Fly directly to Tandag City if flights are available.
- Alternative: Fly to Surigao City, then take a bus or van to Tandag City, and proceed to Cortes.
Local Transportation:
Upon reaching Cortes, hire a habal-habal or tricycle to take you to Laswitan Falls and Lagoon. The site is accessible via a short trek from the designated parking area.
Best Time to Visit:
The optimal period to experience the full splendor of Laswitan is during the Amihan season, from October to March, when the waves are more robust, enhancing the waterfall-like spectacle.
Tips:
- Safety: Exercise caution when swimming, especially during high tide, as the waves can be powerful.
- Amenities: Facilities are limited; consider bringing your own provisions.
- Local Guidance: Engage local guides or caretakers for assistance and to ensure a safe visit.Evendo
Laswitan Falls and Lagoon offers a unique blend of oceanic and freshwater features, making it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.
Bao-Bao Falls is situated in Barangay Diatagon, within the municipality of Lianga, Surigao del Sur, in the Caraga region of Mindanao, Philippines.
About the Place
Bao-Bao Falls, a lesser-known gem in Surigao del Sur, offers visitors a serene and picturesque environment. Unlike towering waterfalls, Bao-Bao features a modest cascade flowing over unique rock formations into a clear, turquoise basin, making it ideal for swimming and relaxation. The surrounding lush greenery enhances its tranquil ambiance.
The name “Bao-Bao” originates from the Bisaya word for “tortoise,” inspired by the turtle-like shapes of the rocks around the falls. While the area has basic amenities, such as restrooms, visitors are advised to prepare accordingly, as facilities may be limited.
How to Get There
- From Butuan City: Travelers can take a bus or van bound for Lianga and request to be dropped off at the highway crossing to Barangay Diatagon. From there, hire a habal-habal (motorcycle taxi) to reach Bao-Bao Falls.
- From Davao City: Board a bus heading to Tandag City and alight at the Diatagon junction. Then, take a habal-habal to the falls.
- From Surigao City: Catch a bus to Tandag City, transfer to another bus or van going to Lianga, and get off at the Diatagon crossing. Proceed by habal-habal to the destination.
Upon arrival at the drop-off point, visitors can reach the falls via a short walk along a concrete pathway, making it accessible for most travelers.
Please note that transportation options and road conditions may change, so it’s advisable to check the latest travel information before planning your visit.
Hinayagan Cave is situated in Barangay Kapatagan, Bislig City, within the province of Surigao del Sur, Philippines.
About the Place
Originally known as Suhoton Cave, the name was changed to “Hinayagan,” meaning “lighted” in Cebuano, due to a natural skylight in the cave’s ceiling that allows sunlight to illuminate its interior. Visitors entering the cave are greeted by a spacious chamber adorned with unique geological formations. A notable feature is the 10-meter-wide opening in the mid-ceiling, which permits sunlight to filter through, creating an enchanting ambiance and supporting a habitat for birds and other winged creatures. The cave also boasts an underground river and stalactites resembling elephant trunks and balusters.
How to Get There
To reach Hinayagan Cave from Bislig City proper, travelers can hire a motorcycle (locally known as a “habal-habal”) for a 30-minute ride to Barangay Kapatagan. Upon arrival in Kapatagan, it’s advisable to engage a local guide to navigate the path leading to the cave, as the terrain can be challenging. For those relying on GPS devices, the cave’s coordinates are approximately 8.29952° N latitude and 126.32109° E longitude. Visitors should prepare for a short trek from the barangay to the cave entrance and are encouraged to wear appropriate footwear due to wet and slippery conditions inside the cave.
Sian Falls is situated in Barangay Kahayag, Bislig City, within the province of Surigao del Sur, Philippines.
About the place:
Sian Falls is a cherished local spot, known for its serene ambiance and clear, fresh waters. The waterfall features a gentle cascade leading into a natural plunge pool, making it ideal for relaxation and swimming. The surrounding area is lush with greenery, offering visitors a tranquil environment to unwind. Previously, the site had amenities like cottages, but these were damaged during Typhoon Pablo in 2012 and have not been restored since.
How to get there:
- From Mangagoy (Bislig City proper):
- Take a multicab bound for Palo, with a fare of approximately ₱18.
- Upon reaching Palo, hire a single motorbike (locally known as “habal-habal”) to take you closer to the falls. Negotiate the fare, with ₱100 being a reasonable rate.
- From the drop-off point, expect a 10 to 15-minute trek to reach Sian Falls.
Additional Tips:
- Best Time to Visit: Early mornings are ideal for a more secluded experience, as locals typically arrive around 8 AM onwards.
- Amenities: Be prepared for minimal facilities; bringing your own provisions is advisable.
Sian Falls offers a genuine and peaceful retreat, allowing visitors to connect with nature away from more commercialized tourist spots.
Sohoton Cove is a stunning natural attraction located on Bucas Grande Island in the municipality of Socorro, within the province of Surigao del Norte, Philippines. This enchanting destination is renowned for its turquoise waters, limestone cliffs, hidden lagoons, and diverse marine life, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.
About the Place:
Sohoton Cove National Park encompasses a series of interconnected natural pools, caves, and lagoons. Visitors can explore features such as the Hagukan Cave, known for its luminescent waters that glow when disturbed, and the Magkukuob Cave, which offers an exhilarating cliff jump as the only exit. Another highlight is the Jellyfish Sanctuary, where, during certain months, guests can swim among stingless jellyfish—a truly unique experience.
How to Get There:
Travelers typically begin their journey from Siargao Island, specifically from the town of General Luna. From General Luna, one can take a tricycle to Dapa Port, approximately a 30-minute ride. At Dapa Port, ferries are available to Socorro on Bucas Grande Island, with the voyage lasting around 2 hours. Upon reaching Socorro, a 30-minute boat ride will bring you directly to Sohoton Cove.
Alternatively, organized full-day tours are available from General Luna, Siargao, which handle all transportation logistics, including boat transfers, making the trip more convenient for visitors.
It’s advisable to plan your trip considering the tides, as some cave entrances are only accessible during low tide. Additionally, booking tours in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure availability and a seamless experience.
Tayangban Cave Pool is situated in the municipality of Pilar on Siargao Island, Philippines. It’s conveniently located along the Siargao Circumferential Road, approximately a 30-minute drive from General Luna, the island’s main tourist hub.
About the Place
Tayangban Cave Pool is a natural attraction that offers visitors a unique caving and swimming experience. The adventure begins with a guided trek through a dimly lit cave, wading through chest-deep waters surrounded by stalactites and rock formations. After navigating the cave’s dark passageways, explorers emerge into a stunning natural pool with crystal-clear water, perfect for swimming and cliff jumping from heights of up to seven meters. The site is managed by local property owners, and the entrance fee typically includes a mandatory guide to ensure safety and enhance the experience.
How to Get There
The most common way to reach Tayangban Cave Pool is by renting a scooter in General Luna, which usually costs around 300-400 PHP per day. The cave is located along the main road, and visitors can easily spot the entrance sign on the right-hand side when approaching from General Luna. Alternatively, some travelers opt for guided tours that include multiple attractions, such as the nearby Magpupungko Rock Pools, which are only a 10-minute drive from Tayangban Cave Pool.
Maasin River is situated on Siargao Island in the Philippines, approximately 18 kilometers northwest of General Luna, the island’s main tourist hub.
About the place:
Maasin River is renowned for its serene, crystal-clear waters meandering through lush tropical landscapes. Visitors can enjoy guided canoe tours that navigate the river, passing through dense palm tree forests and culminating at a spot locals refer to as the “Secret Lagoon.” This tranquil journey offers a unique perspective of Siargao’s natural beauty, away from its popular beaches and surf spots.
Historically, the river featured a famous bent palm tree with a rope swing, attracting many adventure enthusiasts. However, this iconic tree was destroyed by a typhoon and has since been replaced by a wooden jumping platform, providing visitors with an alternative way to experience the river’s charm.
How to get there:
From General Luna, the most common way to reach Maasin River is by renting a scooter or motorbike for a 25-minute ride along the Siargao Circumferential Road. As you approach the area, look for the distinctive red Maasin Bridge, which spans the river. Parking is available near the bridge, and from there, you can access the river and its attractions.
Alternatively, organized land tours are available, often including stops at Maasin River, the Coconut Tree View Deck, and other notable sites on the island.
Entrance fees and activities:
- Entrance Fee: ₱20 for unlimited jumps from the platform.
- Canoe Tour: ₱550 per boat, accommodating up to three people, for a guided tour to the Secret Lagoon.
Visiting Maasin River offers a peaceful escape into nature, showcasing a different side of Siargao’s diverse landscapes.
The Magpupungko Rock Pools are situated on the east coast of Siargao Island, within the municipality of Pilar, Philippines. This natural attraction is approximately 45 kilometers north of General Luna, the island’s main tourist hub.
About the Place
Magpupungko is renowned for its natural tidal pools that emerge during low tide, revealing crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. These pools are encircled by unique rock formations and limestone cliffs, offering visitors a serene environment to explore. The name “Magpupungko” is derived from the Visayan word “pungko,” meaning “to stoop or squat,” possibly referencing the crouching appearance of the rock formations. Activities at the site include cliff jumping, snorkeling to observe vibrant marine life, and relaxing on the nearby beach.
How to Get There
From General Luna, travelers can reach Magpupungko by renting a scooter or motorbike, with daily rental rates ranging from PHP 300 to PHP 400. The journey takes approximately 45 minutes via the Dapa-General Luna Road, passing landmarks such as the Palm Tree Viewpoint and the Maasin River Rope Swing. Alternatively, organized land tours are available, often combining visits to other attractions like Sugba Lagoon. Upon arrival, an entrance fee of PHP 50 per person is charged, along with a parking fee of PHP 20 for motorbikes. It’s essential to plan the visit during low tide to fully experience the rock pools, as they are submerged during high tide.