November 15, 2012

TRAVEL GUIDE: Calaguas

After several months of waiting, we were finally on our way to Calaguas. I've read a lot of great reviews about it and I just can't wait to get soaked! I'm not into travel packages so we opted for a DIY adventure and made sure everything was ready before embarking on the trip.
Paracale Port
How to get to Calaguas by plane :

 There are no direct flights.Cebu Pacific, Philippine Airlines, Air Philippines and Zest Air have flights going to Naga Airport. It is the airport of choice since it is more proximal to Paracale and Vinzons, the jump off point to Calaguas.

 There are several vans within the vicinity of the airport that would offer their services to bring you to Naga Van Terminal. Fare depends on your haggling skills.It can range from Php150 to Php300. The terminal is in front of SM Naga where Daet bound vans are available. Fare is less than Php200 and travel time is 2-3 hours. From the  Daet Van Terminal, Paracale bound vans will be seen lined up. Travel time is 1 hour and fare is about Php70.

El Capitan
How to get to Calaguas by land :

 If you are coming from Manila, Superlines in Cubao have trips that go straight to Paracale. Fare is Php500-600 and travel time is around 8-9 hours. Alternatively, there are some bus companies that ply the Manila Naga route. Amihan, Penafrancia, Philtranco and Raymond bus lines are just some of them. Fare is usually around Php600- 700.

If you are coming from Naga :

 Daet bound vans are available in Naga Van Terminal. Fare is less than Php200 and travel time is 2-3 hours. From Daet, Paracale is about an hour away and fare is approximately Php70. The market, where supplies are bought, is just about 5-10 minutes walk from the Paracale terminal. The  pier where the boats dock is 5 minutes away by foot.
The boat ride to Mahabang Buhangin is will take approximately 2 hours.Waves could be rough though. The 3 days 2 nights rate for the boat rental was Php3000. Kuya Nelson owns several boats and hires the local fishermen to bring visitors to Calaguas. He was very accommodating and even let us borrow cooking utensils and a big water container free of charge. Highly recommended.:))
Drenched tent, gas lamp and a pot of cooked rice :))

 Travel Tips: 
  • According to the locals, there is a regular trip to Mangcawayan Village at around noon. Fare is Php100 per head. Mahabang Buhangin is a short 15 min trek from the village.
  • Bring your own supplies that would be enough for the whole duration of the trip. When we were there, since it was off season and it was a weekday, the stores were closed.We did not worry about going to the village because we had everything we need.
  • There is a nearby water pump but I'm not sure if its potable. There are also toilets in the island so no need to worry.
  • Aside from small huts, there are no other accommodations in the island. It will be best to bring your own tent.Some of the caretakers would have tents for rent for a minimal fee(Php300 I think).
  • I have not seen so many stars in my life. Don't forget to bring an extra blanket or sarong. It will come handy for sunset watching and star gazing.
Dramatic sunset 
  • Please dispose your trash properly.
  •  Best views are seen on a hill at the left side of the island. 
I can sit here all day.

  • For me the farthest right would be best camping site since it is more secluded. Besides, Kuya Ramon's initiative to always serve hot water for our morning coffee made me feel at home. At night, he slept in a nearby hut with his wife to accompany us. Made me miss my 'rents. 
All ours


At one point I never really wanted to share my story. I want to keep it as a secret. But on the other hand, I just can't stop raving about it!

 Sometimes you just have to get away from it all.

 Oh Calaguas! I miss you and I'll see you soon!


*Boat rent: Kuya Nelson





Posted by

4 comments:

Subscribe to: Post Comments (Atom)