A friend of mine invited me to visit her hometown in Davao Oriental, Baganga for a 3-day trip to celebrate her Father’s birthday, and without second thought, of course I said YES. It was an opportunity I most certainly wouldn’t miss, free accommodation and free food?? Would anyone really say no to that?? Haha lol. It is really nice to have lots of friends.
After filing a VL, I found myself together with my travel buddies wandering along the winding road of Davao Oriental. I’ve been to Davao Oriental a couple of times before, but still feel astonished every time I see the breath taking beach scenery unfolding as we cruise along the road, this, coupled with the most beautiful sunrise and might as well throw the fresh air into the mix. Trust me, it feels like the first time every time.
There was no evidence of Typhoon Pablo that desolated Davao Oriental back in 2012, which only proves the resilience of the province and its people. The story of how they managed to bounce back from devastation is not to be undermined. Turning the calamity-torn province to one of the rising tourist destinations here in Mindanao is nothing short of a miracle.
Here are my 9 reasons why you should visit Davao Oriental.
1.) Easy Access - From the City of Davao, it will take around 4 hrs to reach the City of Mati and additional 3-4 hrs to Baganga/ Cateel, all you need is a tank full of fuel, good music, roll the windows down and go where the roads take you. Davao Oriental roads are well accessible, so no need to worry.
2.) Sunrise - Situated in the easternmost part of Mindanao, Davao Oriental offers the ring-side seats to the most beautiful sunrise in the Philippines; it is where the sun shines first. Sunrise here is estimated 8 minutes earlier than in Manila or 3 minutes earlier than in Davao City.
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| Captivating Sunrise in Dahican Beach.... |
3.) Dahican Beach - Beaches are what Philippines is famous for. With the waves of pacific, make Dahican your sweet escape. Learn to play and ride with waves using skim board with the Amihan Boys. Find the perfect waves and start skimboarding!
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| With the pride of Mati - Bayugyog , the best surfer in town... |
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| Catch the waves in Dahican.... |
4.)Sleeping Dinosaur – Upon entering to Mati City, your road boredom will surely fade not because of the zigzag road but sleeping Dino will welcome you. Don’t forget to make a quick stop over to this strange land formation resembling to a giant sleeping dinosaur with head lying down in the sea and flippers on its side.
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| Sshhhhhh... the Dino is sleeping.. :P :P |
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| Try to learn some history of Davao Oriental here in Subangan Museum |
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| The Giant Skeleton of Sperm Whale will greet you as you enter the museum.. |
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| Get lost in the man made cave inside the museum.. |
6.) Mati Park and Baywalk – Don’t leave Mati City without dropping by Mati park and baywalk. Enjoy the cool breeze and the morning sun overlooking the seawall or the amazing view of the sun as it sets behind the mountain. There are also restaurants which serve mouth-watering dishes lined up in front of the park.
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| Because I so Love Mati.. lets take a selfie! |
7.) Aliwagwag Falls – Almost 3-4 hrs from Mati City, Cateel is the home of Aliwagwag falls. It is a towering waterfall also known as a “stairway to heaven”; entrance fee – Php 50.00. Even Typhoon tried to break this magnificent waterfalls but nature heals it. It’s amazing that after typhoon, this majestic water falls became a must see tourist spot in Davao Oriental.
There are lots of things to do in Aliwagwag Falls, aside from swimming and diving on its clear cold water, you can also try crossing Monkey Bridge and also take the zip line while you’re at it! – Php 50.00 Monkey Bridge and zipline Php 200.00.
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| Try walking the monkey bridge over aliwagwag falls..the splash of the running water will surely give you thrill.. |
Note: Make sure to bring your own food as there is no restaurant in the area.
8.) Balete Hot Spring – After a tiring day of soaking and diving in Aliwagwag Falls,its time to get relaxed with soothing hot spring along the way located at Kinaplangan, Baganga Davao Oriental.
Entrance Fee is only 5.00 pesos.
9.) San Victor Island – who wouldn’t love to stay in a private island? Lying in the pacific coast, this stunning island also called “The island Jewel of Baganga” is definitely a must see spot. You really can’t get enough of its powdery sands and crystal clear water. This 3 hectare island located in San Victor, Baganga really captures my heart. It is a perfect escape place from the hustle and bustle of the daily living.
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| The San Victor Island... |
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| Spectacular Sunset.... breathtaking!! |
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| If you want to really feel the island life.. they also have tents for overnight stay... |
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| Cast away in San Victor Island |
Venturing out has its reward, especially if you’re travelling to a captivating place like Davao Oriental. So what are you waiting for? Visit and explore Davao Oriental on your own.
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| Surely we will come back Davao Oriental!!!! |
Acknowledgment:
Special Thanks to Lenlie Guingue’s Family for accommodating us in Davao Oriental.
