Apo Reef is a one of the most important centers of marine biodiversity. It is the world’s second largest contiguous coral reef system (“contiguous”: adjacent or touching; having a common boundary; adjoining; connected without a break - not to be confused with the second largest coral reefs which is the Belize Barrier reef in Mexico). Listed as a UNESCO world heritage site, it is located in the Mindoro strait of the Philippines and is a top destination for divers throughout the world. When I was working for an environmental organization in my earlier years (Haribon Foundation), Sablayan in Occidental Mindoro was one of the foundation’s project sites and I would hear how beautiful Apo Reef was from our marine biologists. It is the crown jewel of our sea and a source of pride on how amazing our country is. Getting here, was definitely a part of my bucket list. The road to Apo reef is not an easy one if you are coming from Manila. Nor is the logistics and accommodation, also an easy one. Being a protected area (and it should stay that way), it will only attract the type of traveler whose interest and priority is in nature and adventure, over their need for comfort. To give you an idea, here is the route and travel time to and from, as well as key logistics information to Apo reef. Manila to Batangas Pier: Bus (2.5 hrs) Batangas Pier to Abra de Ilog: Roro (2.5 to 3 hrs) Abra de Ilog to Sablayan: Van (2.5 hrs) (Alternative is to take the plane from Manila to San Jose, Occidental Mindoro and take a van to Sablayan) Sablayan to Apo Island in Apo reef: (2 hrs) To make the travel easy and enjoyable, I suggest working with a tour operator. I highly recommend Explore Occidental Mindoro (tour operator: Angelita Atienza) which we booked using the app Tripkada but you can also book directly (link to their FB page: https://www.facebook.com/Exploreoccidentalmindoro/). They will take care of all your needs from land/boat transportation, tours, accommodation and food). Things you need to know before heading to Apo Island in Apo reef:
Things to do in Apo reef:
Things to bring:
TIP: Travel outfit to Apo reef/island You will get wet at least knee deep going in and out of the boat when it docks on shore. Board shorts, or hiking shorts/pants that are quick-drying and rubber slippers or aqua shoes are the best clothes and shoes to wear. For valuables like money, cameras and electronic devices, keep them safe in waterproof bags. Enough with the travel info and let’s dive in and see pictures!!! Island PicsUnderwater Pics-End-
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AuthorI'm Anna and I will be sharing with you my Love for Three things - Fashion, Travel and Food. I hope you find this blog enjoyable as I feature Archives
October 2017
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