An eco-tourism adventure in San Agustin, Surigao del Sur: Protecting the environment while having fun
San Agustin is a small town located in the northeastern part of Mindanao, Philippines. San Agustin is bounded by the municipalities of Tagvina to the north, Tandag to the east, Bayabas to the south, and Ringigig to the west. San Agustin's economy is primarily agricultural, with rice and corn being the main crops. Other crops are coconuts, abaca, fruits, and vegetables. Fishing and ranching are also important livelihoods.
According to the 2020 Census, San Agustin's population is 24,939, home to 4,716 households. The majority of the population is Roman Catholic, with minorities of other Christian denominations and Muslims.
San Agustin has several natural attractions such as Tagbuyawan Falls, Togonan Falls, and Mabag Island Beach. The community hosts several festivals and celebrations throughout the year, including Araw ng San Agustin, which takes place on August 28th each year.
The Britania Group of Island
The Britannia Islands are an archipelago off the coast of San Agustin, Surigao del Sur, Philippines. It consists of her three main islands, Hickdop, Taganak, and Boslon, as well as several smaller islands.
These islands are known for their pristine beaches, crystal clear waters, and abundant marine life, making them popular destinations for island hopping, snorkeling, and scuba diving. Hickdore Island is the largest of the group and has a long white sandy beach. Boslon Island, on the other hand, is known for its towering rock formations and caves.
The Britannia Islands are accessible by boat from San Agustin town or from nearby barangays. There are also several resorts and accommodations on the island for visitors who want to stay overnight or for several days.
The Naked Island
Naked Island Beach is a popular destination in San Agustin, Surigao del Sur, Philippines. As the name suggests, it is essentially a small uninhabited island with no trees or vegetation, just a sandbar surrounded by crystal-clear waters. This beach is known for its stunning scenery, crystal clear blue water, and powdery white sand.
Visitors can swim, snorkel, sunbathe, take photos, and enjoy the scenery at the beach. Due to its remote location, visitors are required to bring their own food, drink, and other essentials as the island lacks facilities and amenities. Naked Island Beach is accessible by boat from San Agustin or nearby coastal towns.
Several tour companies offer island hopping tours that include a stop at Naked Island Beach. The islands are usually included in day tours that include nearby attractions such as the Bretanian Archipelago and the Hinatuan Enchanted River.
Exploring the Wonders of Vega Falls
The Vega Falls are a series of waterfalls in San Agustin City, Surigao del Sur, Southern Philippines. The waterfall consists of multiple tiers, each with pools of crystal clear water perfect for swimming and relaxing.
Surrounded by lush greenery and an atmosphere of peace and quiet, the falls are a popular destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Reaching the falls requires hiking a jungle trail that takes about 30-45 minutes, depending on your pace. Along the way, visitors can enjoy the area's natural beauty and spot wildlife.
Once at Vega Falls, visitors can swim in the cool, refreshing water, jump off the falls into the pool below, or simply relax on the rocks and take in the views. Visitors must bring their own food, drinks, and other essentials as there are no facilities or amenities at the falls.
Vega Falls is accessible by private or charter vehicle from the city of San Agustin. It is also often included in guided tours that visit other nearby attractions such as the Hinatuan Enchanted River and Tinuy-an Falls.
Experience Luxury and Relaxation at Villa Rosalina Beach Resort
The resort offers comfortable and modern accommodations including air-conditioned rooms, cottages, and villas. All rooms are equipped with basic amenities such as flat-screen TV, private bathroom, and free WiFi access.
Villa Rosalina Beach Resort also has a restaurant that serves a variety of local and international dishes and a bar that serves a variety of cocktails, beers, and other beverages. The resort can be reached by private or rental car from San Agustin City, or by bus or van from neighboring cities such as Butuan and Davao.
Exploring the Beauty of Libuacan Cold Spring
The cool crystal clear water is perfect for a refreshing swim on a hot day. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities such as swimming, diving, and cliff jumping. There are also picnic areas and cabins available for rent if you want to spend a relaxing day with family and friends. You can also explore nearby caves and waterfalls that offer stunning views and are perfect for the adventurous.
The History and Folklore of Hinayagan Cave: Tales from the Locals
It is a cave system with unique rock formations, stalactites, and stalagmites formed over thousands of years. The cave system is on the side of a mountain and requires a short hike to reach the entrance. Inside, visitors can explore the various rooms and tunnels that make up the cave system. Visitors are advised to wear suitable footwear and bring a flashlight as it is dark inside the cave. The cave system is home to various species of bats and other wildlife, making it a great place for nature lovers. It is also an ideal location for adventure seekers who enjoy exploring and exploring caves.
Hinayagan Cave is not only a natural wonder located in San Agustin, Surigao del Sur, Philippines, but also has a rich history and folklore that has been passed down by locals for generations.
According to locals, Hinayagan Cave was used as a hideout for Japanese troops during World War II. Reportedly, they used the caves to store supplies and ammunition to hide from the American invasion.
Another local legend tells of a beautiful princess who was kidnapped by an evil sorceress and taken to a cave. It is said that the princess was locked in a cave and guarded by a sorcerer's minions. One day a brave warrior came and defeated the sorceress, freed the princess, and saved the day.
The caves are also believed to be home to supernatural beings such as duende (dwarfs) and encantos (ghosts). Locals believe these creatures guard the cave and surrounding forest, and should be respected and pacified to avoid offending them.
Despite the many legends and stories surrounding Hinayagan Cave, it remains an important cultural and natural landmark in San Agustin. The caves and surroundings continue to attract visitors and tourists who wish to explore their beauty and learn more about their fascinating history and folklore.
Wildlife Watching
San Agustin is home to a wide variety of wildlife and is an ideal place for wildlife viewing. Here are some of the animals visitors can see in the area.
- Philippine Tarsier - The Philippine tarsier is a small primate that lives in the San Agustin Forest. Visitors can take guided tours to see these cute and charming creatures up close.
- Cercopithecus - San Agustin is home to several groups of Cercopithecus, which can often be seen playing and foraging in the forests and riversides.
- Birds - San Agustin's forests and wetlands are home to a variety of birds, including Philippine eagles, hornbills, and kingfishers. Reptiles - Visitors to San Agustin may be able to see a wide variety of reptiles, including reticulated pythons, monitor lizards, and several species of gecko.
- Butterflies - San Agustin is home to a wide variety of butterflies, including beautiful swallowtails and blue pansies.
All in all, San Agustin, Surigao del Sur offers a variety of ecotourism adventures that allow visitors to have fun while protecting the environment. By supporting sustainable tourism practices and respecting local ecosystems, visitors can help ensure that this beautiful region remains a vibrant and healthy ecosystem for generations to come.
HOW TO GET THERE
From Manila
- Take a direct flight from Manila to Butuan City.
- Take a bus or van from Butuan City to San Agustin.
- It takes about 5-6 hours.
- Take a bus from Manila to San Francisco Agusan del Sur Terminal
- Take another bus or van to San Agustin.
- Journey time is approximately 16 to 18 hours.
From Cebu:
- Take a direct flight from Cebu to Butuan City.
- Take a bus or van from Butuan City to San Agustin.
- It takes about 5-6 hours.
- Take a bus or van from Cebu to Surigao City.
- Take a Bus or Van from Surigao to Davao City
- Get of at San Francisco, Agusan Del Sur Terminal
- Take a bus or van from San Francisco to San Agustin.
- Travel time is approximately 12 to 14 hours.
From Davao:
- Take a direct flight from Davao City to Butuan City.
- Get of at San Francisco, Agusan Del Sur Bus Terminal
- Take another bus or van going to San Agustin.
- It takes about 5-6 hours.
