Located in the Caraga region in Mindanao, Surigao Del Norte boasts one-of-a-kind eco-tourism attractions. The islands that make up the province are famous for its long stretches of sugar-fine sand beaches, perfect surf, vast mangrove forests, and deep clear waters teeming with marine life. The province is also widely known for the many wildlife sanctuaries that can be found throughout the islands.
• Mangrove is the major theme in the coastal areas of the province. The salt-water loving trees form interminable marine forests covering 14,162 hectares along the coasts of the mainland and the islands of Siargao and Bucas Grande. There are still marine ecosystems like the lush sea grass beds and coral reefs which are relatively healthy and intact, supporting a rich diversity of marine flora and fauna.
• Del Carmen Mangrove Swamps is a sanctuary of large species of saltwater crocodiles. One can take a closer look into the tall marine jungles of vast mangroves and other endemic swamp creatures. A river cruise along the narrow passageway leading to Sugba Lagoon is a thrilling experience one will always cherish.
• Just 20 minutes by light boat from the municipality of Dapa, Corregidor Marine Sanctuary in Casulian Island Sanctuary is a living ocean park and a perfect haven for diving enthusiasts. Schools of various species of fish, squid, octopus, marvelous corals and rare marine turtles thrive in their natural setting.
How to get there
By air: From Manila, there are daily flights to Cebu. There are also daily flights direct from Manila to Surigao via PAL EXPRESS. Cebu Pacific likewise flies from Cebu to Surigao daily except on Mondays and Fridays. One can also take direct flights from Cebu to Sayak Airport in Del Carmen, Siargao Island via Cebu Pacific every Monday and Friday. There are also daily flights from Manila and Cebu to nearby Butuan City via PAL and Cebu Pacific. Butuan City is 2.5 hours by bus ride to Surigao City.
By sea: Direct voyage from Manila to Surigao are extended by WG & A and Sulpicio Lines every Tuesday and from Surigao to Manila every Thursday. Voyages from Cebu are available daily except Monday via Cokaliong Shipping Lines and Cebu Ferries. Upon reaching Surigao City, there are fast craft transfers going to Dapa in Siargao Island. Commercial and cargo inter-island vessels travel daily to various municipalities of the island via a 2-3 hours trip from Surigao City. Motorized pumpboats and non-motorized bancas also ply the water routes.
By Land: There are regular bus trips via the “RORO” ferry boat from Manila to Mindanao using Surigao City as the gateway passing through Bicol, Samar, Leyte and Tacloban. Buses, jeepney vehicles and air-conditioned shuttle vans ply the routes to the different municipalities in Siargao Island and the mainland regularly. The most popular and convenient mode of transportation within the municipalities going to far-flung areas is the “Habal-habal” or the single motorcycle ride.
Hotels in General Luna, Siargao Island, Surigao Del Norte
• Buntog Lodge & Cottages
• Cheri Nicole Beach Resort
• Drop Inn Beach Resort
• Jade Star Beach Resort
• Villa Ernesto Beach Resort