Amidst the civil conflicts in MINDANAO, the second largest island region of The Philippines has its fair share of wonders that are just recently being discovered. Come down South and discover what the country’s “Land of Promise” has in store.
13 Beautiful Spots Around Mindanao You Might Not Know About Yet
Cape of San Agustin
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You know what they say: good things come to those who wait. Well, you’re definitely going to need the patience for the bumpy roads ahead to the Southern tip of Mati, Davao Oriental. Once you’ve reached your destination, head up to the top of the lighthouse and have the best vantage point to enjoy the breathtaking view of vivid blue ocean waters.
Asik-Asik Falls
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Have an ethereal moment with the falls springing out of rocks and vegetation as your backdrop here in Alamada, North Cotabato. Mind you, it’s no easy journey but the hour-long bumpy motorbike ride and 376 stone-steps are all worth it.
Balut Island
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This Sultan Kudarat beauty is probably the only ‘balut’ you’ll never say no to and end up wanting more. The overnight journey from General Santos City to the 862-metre tall Balut Volcano will be a tiny struggle, but it’ll definitely be a sight for sore eyes.
The Sunken Cemetery
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Make sure your camera angles are on point for the perfect shot of this Camiguin Island go-to! Fun fact: this was built in honor of the capital city sinking below sea level back in the 1870s.
Dako Island
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Make way for Siargao’s very own Boracay! Join an island hopping tour at around P1500 to P6200 (depending on the package that you choose). Be sure to visit its neighboring islands: Naked and Guyam for an extended island hop adventure.
Kiokong White Rock Wall
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If risk-taking is in your blood, this Quezon adventure in Bukidnon is sure to test all adventure-seekers and adrenaline-rushers alike. Set aside a couple of days, channel your Ethan Hunt, complete the mission, and take a shot at Vertical Bivouac.
Exclusive to When In Manila readers only, use the code wheninmanila to receive $15 off your first booking on wandersnap.co, valid until Sept 1. Happy adventuring!
Lapsay Lagoon
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Make it a family event at Tinago Island’s ‘Next Big Thing’ located in Tagana-an, Surigao del Norte. After a 30-minute multicab ride from Surigao City, catch a 10-minute motorboat ride to Tinago Holiday Resort. Side note: an overnight stay is not allowed in the resort, but accommodations are available in the city.
Magellan’s Landing Site
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Brush up on your Philippine history and retrace Ferdinand Magellan, Portuguese explorer’s steps only in Masao, Butuan, Agusan del Norte. In just 30 minutes (by car), you’ll be greeted with stunning picturesque mountain views. In fact, you’ll be greeted by them even before reaching your destination.
Malamawi Island
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Check out “The Hidden Paradise of Basilan” for your dose of turquoise waters and clear blue skies. After landing in Zamboanga City, take a 45-minute to an hour craft boat ride to Basilan. Side note: these craft rides are scheduled so better prepare ahead of time maximize your stay.
Mount Apo
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Capture The Philippines’ highest mountain in all its glory and even join The Mount Apo Summit for an adventure of a lifetime! To join, just take a van to Kidapawan from the terminal in Davao and register at the tourism office.
Panampangan Island
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Get a taste of this virgin island and be one of the first to take on its pristine beauty. Don’t worry, this is no difficult journey. After flying from Zamboanga City to Sanga-Sanga Airport in Bongao, this Sapa-Sapa beauty is only an hour and 15 minutes away. Be sure to coordinate with the local enforcement for escort and security for a smooth journey ahead.
Quezon Beach
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Make sure to include this treasure just waiting to be found on your Mindanao wanderlist! This Patikul gem in Sulu is not hard to find either by air or sea. In less than an hour, you too could reach paradise.
Tinuy-an Falls
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This multi-tiered gift from nature only at Bislig, Surigao del Sur will surely take your breath away and make you fall in love with it instantly. Hop on a ‘habal-habal’ at Bislig City. In just 45 minutes, you get to witness the beauty that is dubbed as the ‘Philippine Niagra’.
Exclusive to When In Manila readers only, use the code wheninmanila to receive $15 off your first booking on wandersnap.co, valid until Sept 1. Happy adventuring!
