When touring the Philippines, most people head to popular destinations like Boracay or Palawan. However, their less famous counterpart, but an equally breath-taking tourist destination, Mindoro is a gem waiting to be discovered.
With a dramatic view almost everywhere, this must-go place has an array of attractions and activities that would surely make your vacation memorable.
Puerto Galera
Puerto Galera is one of the most famous attractions in Mindoro. Visitors would be awed by its breath-taking beaches, coral reefs, and gardens. Its incredible dive sites take divers to a marvelous world of diverse underwater ecosystem.
Mount Halcon
For those seeking challenge and outdoor adventure, Mount Halcon is the perfect place. It is one of the dream hiking destinations of most outdoor enthusiasts and mountain climbers. When in Mindoro and seeking for a challenging adventure, put Mount Halcon on your list.
Tamaraw Falls
This particular attraction is probably one of the most accessible wonder of natures since this particular waterfall is found along the road. You need to pay a small amount to take a dip on some man-made pools underneath it, but it sure is worth it.
Sabang Beach
If you are into water sports like snorkeling and scuba diving, Sabang beach is perfect for you. If you are a tight-budgeted traveller, getting an accommodation here would be a smart idea. Sabang Beach is actually a part of Puerto Galera, but due to its numerous dive shops and budget-friendly accommodations, it has become a name of its own.
Banana Festival
They say you would know more about a community culture by the festivals they celebrate. So if you would like to truly experience Mindoro’s culture, travel to Baco on March 18 to 19 as they celebrate their bountiful harvest of bananas. Just like any festivals in the Philippines, prepare to watch beauty pageants, street dancing competitions, upbeat music and happy people.
Bahaghari Festival
According to legends, the ancestors of Mindoro used their boats to travel to this island. As they were on the sea, they encountered turbulent weather and got lost. They prayed fervently to God to save them, afterwards a rainbow (bahaghari) appeared on the horizon leading them to Mindoro. Since then, the citizens of Mindoro celebrate this annual thanksgiving festival.
Tukuran Falls
Unlike Tamaraw Falls which is on plain view of the public, Tukuran Falls is a hidden marvel. Even though the falls is not as boastful as others, the aura of calmness and serenity would captivate any visitor who is looking to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature.
Talipanan Beach
Also one of the undiscovered gems of Mindoro, its pristine beaches, wide range of accommodation and fantastic nightlife is a haven for any travellers seeking to have a great time. If you are looking for a less crowded white sand beach, better head here.
Baco-Chico Islets
If you are into island hopping, this is a fantastic destination for you. Located north of Calapan City, you could snorkel or scuba dive around the islets to experience the coral reefs and see different types of marine animals.
Pandan Grande Island
Pandan Grande Island is a tropical island on the west coast of Occidental Mindoro. It is one of the top resorts in the Philippines because of its quality of life and personalized atmosphere.
If you want a view of the sea and islands up high, a Zipline adventure is for you. Located at Sablayan, Parola Park.
It is Asia’s 1st and only motorized back and forth Zipline pulley. With its 70 ft. tall tower, a cable length of 1.7 km and a 1.4 km point to point distance, you will get a breathtaking experience and the thrill of zip lining and a fantastic view of the shore sea. It is also the longest Island to Island Zip line in the world.
Watch the video here from Youtube/ Jefferson Erese
Apo Reef Marine National Park
The second largest reef in the world, this can be reached from Sablayan in two or three hours by motorized banca. It presents good drift-diving opportunities in its crystalline blue water covering area of 35 sq.km. of coral reef teeming with a variety of marine life.
These are the perfect places to enjoy and explore nature with its glorious dive sites. The laid back atmosphere is perfect for those looking to recharge and unwind.
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