Dinagat
,Dinagat is a province located in the Caraga region of the Philippines. It is known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and abundant marine life, making it a popular destination for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts. The province is also home to lush forests, caves, and waterfalls, offering opportunities for eco-tourism and outdoor adventures.
With its rich biodiversity and natural beauty, Dinagat is a hidden gem waiting to be explored by nature lovers and adventurers.
- "Kumusta ka?" - How are you?
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Paalam" - Goodbye
- "Oo" - Yes
- "Hindi" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $10 - $30
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $10
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.25 - $0.50
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $25
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Explore the Beaches
morning
:Start your day with a visit to the stunning Binucot Beach, where you can relax on the soft sands and enjoy the clear blue waters. Try swimming or sunbathing to soak in the tropical atmosphere.
afternoon
:Head to the nearby Suguo Beach for a beachfront lunch featuring local seafood delicacies. Spend the afternoon snorkeling and discovering vibrant marine life just off the shore.
evening
:Wind down your day with a beachside bonfire as you enjoy the sunset. Consider stargazing afterward, as the island's remote location offers a clear view of the night sky.
Adventure in the Mountains
morning
:Embark on a hike to Mount Malindig, where the trails are surrounded by lush forests and stunning views. Pack some snacks and enjoy a quick breakfast amidst nature.
afternoon
:After your hike, visit the nearby waterfalls for a refreshing swim. Take a picnic lunch to enjoy the serene setting while listening to the sound of rushing water.
evening
:End the day with a visit to a local eatery and savor traditional Dinagat cuisine. Share stories with fellow travelers about your adventures in the mountains.
Highlights
Good
- Beautiful natural landscapes including beaches, caves, and mountains.
- Rich biodiversity and excellent opportunities for eco-tourism.
- Warm and welcoming local communities with vibrant cultural traditions.
- Less crowded compared to other tourist destinations in the Philippines.
- Unique and delicious local cuisine that reflects the region's culture.
Bad
- Limited access to modern amenities and services, particularly in remote areas.
- Infrastructure challenges, including transportation and communication.
- Natural disasters such as typhoons can impact safety and accessibility.
- Economic opportunities may be limited compared to more developed regions.
- Healthcare facilities may not be as advanced as in urban centers.
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Island Hopping
Explore the beautiful islands surrounding Dinagat, including the famous Bitaog Beach and the scenic Sitio Bitaog. Enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing.
Hiking Mount Tangguyob
Trek to the summit of Mount Tangguyob for stunning panoramic views of Dinagat and the surrounding ocean. This moderately challenging hike is perfect for nature lovers.
Visit the Bughaw Forest
Discover the rich biodiversity of the Bughaw Forest, perfect for birdwatching and enjoying the lush tropical environment.
Caving in the Sohoton Natural Bridge National Park
Explore the stunning caves and natural bridges in Sohoton, offering thrilling adventures for caving enthusiasts and nature appreciators.
Beach Camping at San Jose Beach
Set up camp on the pristine San Jose Beach, where you can enjoy beachside bonfires, stargazing, and the sound of the waves.
Scuba Diving
Dive into the crystal-clear waters around Dinagat to discover vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life, making it a paradise for scuba diving fans.
Kayaking and Paddleboarding
Rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the serene waters and mangrove forests, allowing for a close-up interaction with nature.
Adventures
Uncover the best of Dinagat with these unforgettable adventures.
Attractions
Visit one of these nice places.
Root Resort
A picturesque resort featuring stunning ocean views, perfect for capturing sunset shots and enjoying the serene atmosphere.
Dihigan Island
An uninhabited island known for its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters, ideal for breathtaking landscape photography.
San Jose Beach
Offering beautiful sandy shores and vibrant sunsets, this beach is a favorite spot for both locals and photographers alike.
Mount Bagarabon
Hike to the summit for panoramic views of the surrounding islands and ocean, a perfect spot for adventure and photography.
Naked Island
A sandbar located between Dinagat and Siargao, this location offers unique photo opportunities with its white sandy beach and clear waters.
Cavite Island
Known for its dramatic cliffs and stunning seascapes, this island provides excellent vantage points for photography.
Cuisine
Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Kinilaw
Kinilaw is a Filipino-style ceviche made with fresh fish or seafood marinated in vinegar, calamansi, and spices. It is often served with onions, peppers, and coconut milk, offering a refreshing and zesty flavor profile.
Must-Try!
Lato Salad
Lato, a type of edible seaweed, is a local delicacy commonly prepared as a simple yet delectable salad. Mixed with vinegar, onions, and tomatoes, it offers a unique texture and briny taste that highlights the island's coastal bounty.
Binalot
A traditional Filipino meal wrapped in banana leaves, binalot typically consists of rice, grilled or stewed meat, and a side of vegetables. It is a convenient and eco-friendly way to enjoy a hearty and flavorful meal.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Dinagat better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
San Jose Public Market
The bustling San Jose Public Market is a vibrant hub of local flavors, offering an array of fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and traditional snacks. Visitors can indulge in grilled seafood, barbecued meats, and native delicacies prepared by the market vendors.
Street Food Stalls in Loreto
Loreto features lively street food stalls where visitors can sample an assortment of grilled skewers, fried snacks, and native desserts. From grilled fish to skewered barbecue, the bustling streets come alive with tempting aromas and flavors.
Weather
How To Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect for Elders
In Dinagat, as in many Filipino cultures, showing respect for elders is paramount. Use polite language and gestures, such as saying 'po' and 'opo,' when interacting with older individuals.
Community Involvement
Dinagat is characterized by a strong sense of community. Participating in local events and helping out during community gatherings emphasizes the importance of bayanihan, or communal unity and cooperation.
Dress Modestly
Dress appropriately and modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or participating in local ceremonies. This shows respect for local customs and beliefs.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Dinagat with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
In Dinagat, tipping is generally not a common practice. Service charges are often included in bills at restaurants and other service establishments, which reduces the expectation for additional gratuity. However, if one receives exceptional service, small tips may be appreciated but are not obligatory.
Payment
Payments in Dinagat can be made using cash, which is the most widely accepted method. In urban areas, some businesses may accept credit or debit cards, but cash remains predominant. Mobile payment options are also emerging, especially among younger consumers, but may not be as widespread. Local markets and small vendors typically require cash transactions.
Best Activities
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Dinagat.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry Season (December to May)
The dry season is considered the best time to visit Dinagat, characterized by warm temperatures and minimal rainfall. Expect sunny days, making it ideal for beach activities, island hopping, and outdoor explorations.
Wet Season (June to November)
During the wet season, Dinagat experiences increased rainfall and occasional typhoons. While the landscape is lush and vibrant, travel may be affected due to weather conditions. However, it can be a good time for fewer crowds and experiencing the island's natural beauty in its unspoiled state.
Peak Season (Holy Week and Summer Months)
Peak tourist season occurs during Holy Week and the summer months (March to May), when many locals and tourists visit. Expect crowded attractions, vibrant festivals, and a lively atmosphere, along with higher accommodation prices.
Off-Peak Season (June to November, except holidays)
The off-peak season generally sees fewer tourists and more affordable rates for lodging and activities. Although it is the wet season, some travelers appreciate the tranquility and unique experiences available, including local festivals and cultural events.
Nightlife
Hiking Spots Nearby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Mount Puhon
A popular hiking destination in Dinagat with breathtaking views and a diverse ecosystem.
Bitaog Beach to Mount Katinglad
A scenic hiking trail that combines beautiful beach scenery with a challenging climb to Mount Katinglad.
Santiago Island Trails
Offers a variety of hiking trails around Santiago Island, showcasing the island's natural beauty and wildlife.
Buhatan River Eco-Park
Explore guided hikes through lush forests and along the river, suitable for all skill levels.
Mount Magsanga
A lesser-known hiking spot that provides a serene environment and panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Dinagat through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports Nearby
How to reach Dinagat by plane.
Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL)
The primary international airport serving Manila, the capital of the Philippines, located approximately 830 kilometers northwest of Dinagat.
Mactan-Cebu International Airport (CEB)
A major international airport located in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu, approximately 600 kilometers west of Dinagat.
Davao International Airport (DVO)
Also known as Francisco Bangoy International Airport, this airport serves Davao City and is located approximately 540 kilometers southwest of Dinagat.
Camiguin Airport (CGM)
A smaller airport serving the island of Camiguin, located approximately 400 kilometers west of Dinagat.
Iloilo International Airport (ILO)
An international airport located near Iloilo City, approximately 300 kilometers northwest of Dinagat.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Bisaya
The Bisaya or Visayan people are the largest ethnolinguistic group in the Philippines, and they predominantly inhabit the eastern and western parts of the Visayas, Mindanao, and certain areas of Luzon.
Lumad
Lumad is a collective term for the indigenous peoples in Mindanao, including various groups such as the Manobo, Subanen, and Talaandig who reside in the region.
Tagalog
Tagalog people are primarily from Luzon and are one of the major ethnolinguistic groups in the Philippines, with some migration leading to their presence in different regions, including Dinagat.
Cebuano
Cebuano refers to the inhabitants of Cebu and surrounding regions, who may also be found in Dinagat due to migration and intermarriage.
Other Ethnic Groups
This category includes people from various other ethnolinguistic backgrounds who may have settled in Dinagat or have heritage from different parts of the Philippines.
The Soul of Dinagat
Discover the essence of Dinagat through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball
Basketball is one of the most popular sports in Dinagat, often played in various towns and communities.
Volleyball
Volleyball is widely played, especially among women, with local tournaments held frequently.
Sepak Takraw
This traditional sport, similar to volleyball but played with a rattan ball and feet, is popular in the region.
Surfing
Dinagat offers various surfing spots, making it a favored activity among locals and tourists.
Running
Running events, including marathons and fun runs, are organized regularly to promote health and fitness.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
While Dinagat's cuisine prominently features seafood and meat, many restaurants and eateries offer vegetarian options such as grilled vegetables, fresh salads, and meat-free rice or noodle dishes. Informing the staff about dietary preferences can help in customizing meals.
Gluten-Free Choices
For those seeking gluten-free options, dishes like grilled seafood, rice-based meals, and local fruit platters are often naturally free of gluten. Communicating dietary requirements to the kitchen staff can ensure suitable dining choices.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Dinagat with these cultural adventures.
