Wednesday, October 5, 2016

Things to do in Compostela Valley

What to See
Compostela Valley province is blessed when it comes to natural wonders. Each of its municipalities is a treasure trove of natural attractions that will entice tourists to commune with nature.
 
Natural Attractions
The cool climate of the town of Maragusan makes it the ideal place in Mindanao to cool off, especially during summer. Not only does this rustic town boast of chilly weather, it also has amazing landscape filled with lush greeneries and various flora and fauna. Maragusan's abundant nature sceneries is best appreciated with a hike up Mt. Candalaga. Get to see many species of plants and flowers, including the rafflesia mira—the world's biggest flower and known for its pungent smell. The Marangig and Tagbibinta Waterfalls are also must-see attractions in Maragusan.
 
The Awao Waterfalls of the Monkayo town should also be included in your itinerary. This series of three cascading waterfalls can be reached after a bit of a trek so make sure to don the proper clothing and footwear.
 
One of the Philippines' active stratovolcanoes can be found in the town of Maco. Mt. Leonard Kniaseff stands almost 4,000 ft. above sea level. It has a freshwater crater lake named Lake Leonard. The Mainit Sulfuric Hot Spring is another attraction in Maco. Because of its proximity to a volcano, this natural spring has cascading warm waters ideal for a soothing hot shower.
 
The capital town of Nabunsuran is the perfect destination for adventurers. In Barangay San Vicente alone, there are four caves tourists can explore. These wonders house stunning limestone rock formations and some species of bats.
 
If you have something more extreme in mind, try conquering Mt. Pandadagsaan in New Bataan. It is one of the hardest mountains to climb in the country, which is why it is not open to neophyte climbers. It is also considered as the highest peak in Compostela Valley.
 
Meanwhile, the town of Mabini boasts a tropical paradise where tourists can relax and unwind from the city's hustle and bustle. The unspoiled Kopiat Island has stunning white sand shores and clear waters. This 87-hectare paradise is part of the Mabini Protected Landscape and Seascape which also serves as a sanctuary for some local species of turtles. Because of its bustling marine life, the island is also a great place for snorkeling and diving.
 
Man-Made Attractions
While you're in Maragusan, make it a point to visit the Mansaka village. The Mansakas are just one of the many ethnic groups in Mindanao and are said to be one of the oldest tribes. Get to know their culture and way of life when you pay them a visit.
 
Events and Festivals
Bulawan Festival, also known as the Festival of Gold, is a province-wide thanksgiving celebration for the bountiful harvest. It is held every March to coincide with the province's foundation anniversary. For this festival, street dancing participants don colorful costumes for their performances.
 
There are other notable town festivals, such as Maragusan's P'yagsawitan Festival held every November and Nabunturan's Simballay Festival held every December.

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