WOW SURIGAO
Surigao is located at the north-easternmost tip of Mindanao. It is facing the Pacific Ocean so we can expect big waves in the sea. It has a lot to offer when it comes to tourist destinations especially water attractions.
We decided to go around Surigao del Sur or the south of Surigao. Together, let's us explore the one of the hidden gems of Mindanao!
We left Davao particularly outside Abreeza Mall at 12 midnight hiring a van from a friend. We were able to arrive in Bislig city, a 3rd class city in the province of Surigao del Sur roughly 4:00 AM. We waited for the sunrise and took pictures of the sign " I LOVE BISLIG ".
We proceeded to their market to have some breakfast. The food was still fresh and hot. Some of my friends were able to have their fresh seafood cooked.
TINUY AN FALLS
First stop is the famous TInuy an Falls. There were still few people there so I recommend you go there early so you can choose some cottages available. We had fun swimming and rising on a boat for 30 mins and be able to go under the falls itself. It felt so refreshing. It is also allowed to go up the falls but it's kind of difficult to climb for the elderly.
ENCHANTED RIVER
Next stop is the Enchanted River. It is located in Hinatuan. . It flows into the Philippine Sea and the Pacific Ocean at Barangay Talisay, Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur. It is found between the boundaries of Barangays of Talisay and Cambatong.
According to www.islandsofthephilipphines.com, "One of the most unique features of the enchanted river is its unfathomable depth. This is why many tourist swim in the shallow part of the enchanted river area with water’s shade range from aquamarine to blue. The dark blue color in the river simply means the water is very deep. The enchanted river has the most magical moment; at exactly 12 noon the caretaker rings the bell requesting everyone to get out from the water as is “feeding time”. The “hymn of Hinatuan” is played and a massive school of fish pops out from nowhere. The fishes gather near the mouth of the river as the caretaker feeds them some leftovers of shrimp, rice, and other food scraps."
There were stories that people are prohibited to swim in some areas of the river due to mysteries accidents and unexplained drowning which resulted to people missing. It is clearly mystical and beautiful. The water is so clear and the surroundings are clean which are popularly believed that some sort of spirits who take care of the place. Despite that fact, people are left speechless of the captivating sight, clear waters and calm place.
DOLL HOUSE
The doll house in Surigao is famous for it's wide variety of dolls. They came from the different countries in the world. The owner is really fond of collecting such things. They are also expensive.
Other than the doll collection, there you can find a a restaurant outside. It is mainly managed by a Swiss. The food were delish. I tried their schnitzel. It is meat usually thinned by pounding with a meat tenderizer, that is fried in some kind of oil or fat with fries on the side.
BRITANIA ISLAND
It was almost evening and we were on to our last spot, the Britania Island. It's convenient since it offers a free room for drivers so no need to worry about that. We also booked a room good for more than eight people with bunk beds so we were all together. They offer meals and island hopping tours.
In the morning, we proceeded to the island hopping tour after breakfast. A boat waited for us and toured as around the different islands. As expected the waves were extraordinary. The islands and views were exhilarating. Banana boat riding is also an optional fun activity with friends.
Going Home
After that, we were able to go home after lunch. We took the other route going back to Davao so we can buy and bring some delicacies from other places like rice cakes. We also stopped over to places like Mawab, Tagum city, Carmen and Panabo respectively.
Photo credits to:
Mariel Gecale
Anne Ras
