Lake Mainit (www.skyscrapercity.com)

Described as a “haven of natural beauty,” the province of Agusan del Norte is a scenic masterpiece complemented by rich history.

Year-round rainfall characterizes the destination as it is located just outside the typhoon belt.

The province is surrounded by mountains and flat rolling land which dominates the landscape of the province. Known as “AgNor” by neighboring provinces, its nine interweaving rivers throughout the entire province serve as its geographical and historical highlight.

The sprawling river that passes through various municipalities in the province has been a source of Agusan del Norte’s pride. The province’s name itself came from the Malay word Agasan which means “where water flows”.

Agusan del Norte’s river is a pillar of the province’s rich history. Scientific discoveries show that early settlers of the province have been trading with neighboring countries as early as the 11th century. But aside from the rich history, tourists come to the province for the numerous beaches and breathtaking mountains.

The province’s 102 kilometers of marine coastline has eight prime dive sites. Agusan del Norte’s dive site contains rich marine life with soft and hard corals plus abundant reefs and pelagic fishes. Profile ranges from sloping wall to cliffs with depths from 40 ft. to over a hundred, with generally sandy floors; while the mountains contain an exciting trail for trekkers and mountaineers.

Fast facts

Dialect: Cebuanon and Butuanon

Festivals:

Baoto Festival - The festival pays tribute to the native “baoto” or dug-out canoe and is held every 2nd of September.

Lisagan Festival - A religious celebration showcasing Manobo dances and rituals, which re-enacts a miraculous healing in 1910 of a Manobo while dancing in front of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

Araw ng Agusan del Norte – a celebration of the founding anniversary of the province of Agusan del Norte held every second week of June.

Points of Interest:

Lake Mainit –hailed as the deepest lake in the Philippines and contains rich marine biodiversity making it ideal for snorkeling, diving, or simply swimming.

Kalinawan River -The pristine and picturesque river is Lake Mainit’s only outlet. It holds historical importance as one of the oldest trading missionary routes in the Philippines.

Mt. Hilong-hilong –An adventurous trek in this mountain requires a climb of 4 ½ to 5 days which includes passing by seven waterfalls and seeing endemic flora and fauna.

Mapaso Hot Spring - This geothermal spring is ideal for trekking, camping, and swimming as well.

Sak-a Falls – engulfed with numerous falls cascading over huge boulders, developing into a natural swimming pool deep enough for a safe vertical plunge and wide enough for a satisfying swim.

Sumaliklik Falls - An exotic waterfall serving as a rewarding site for outdoor enthusiasts.

Agusan River - The long and winding river in the province’s capital, Butuan City nicknamed  “The Timber City of the South”.

Historic Magellanes Marker - Erected in 1872 under Governor Maria Caravello, this historic marker commemorates the celebration of the first Catholic Mass in Mindanao.

How to get there:

There are daily flights from Manila going to Agusan del Norte as well as trips by sea daily from Manila.