📋
At a Glance

Trip Overview

Detail Info
Travel Dates April 9–13, 2026 (Wednesday–Sunday)
Outbound Flight DG 6901 CEB → Surigao, 2:15 PM – 3:15 PM
Return Flight DG 6902 Surigao → CEB, 3:35 PM – 4:25 PM
Gateway Surigao Airport (SUG) → Surigao Port → San Jose, Dinagat Islands
Season Dry season (April–June) — ideal conditions
Language Cebuano, Surigaonon, Dinagatnon; Tagalog & English understood
Currency Philippine Peso (₱) — bring cash; ATMs are extremely scarce
Mobile Signal Patchy; Smart/TNT slightly better than Globe
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Transit Guide

How to Get There

✈️ Cebu → Surigao Airport

Flight DG 6901 departs CEB at 2:15 PM and lands at Surigao Airport at approximately 3:15 PM.

🚐 Surigao Airport → Surigao Port

Tricycle/Multicab: ₱30–50, approximately 15–20 minutes to Pantalan Dos.

💡 Avoid tricycle drivers right outside the airport who overcharge. Walk 1–2 streets away to flag a regular tricycle.

⛴️ Surigao Port → San Jose, Dinagat Islands (by Ferry)

Operator Travel Time Fare Notes
Montenegro Shipping (RORO/Fastcraft) ~2.5 hrs ₱170–255 Twice daily
Evaristo & Sons (RORO) ~1.5 hrs ₱150–200 Early & late morning
Vince Gabriel Liner ~1 hr ~₱200 Early afternoon
Pumpboats (Lantsa) 1.5–2 hrs ~₱200 First trip ~5:30 AM
⚠️
Important Terminal fee: ₱10. Aim for morning departures. Afternoon sailings are fewer. Last trip back to Surigao is typically around 2:00–3:00 PM.
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Book Online Barkota for Evaristo & Sons reservations.

🚢 From Siargao (Alternative Route)

Nier Shipping Lines operates Del Carmen Port (Siargao) → Cagdianao Port (Dinagat) at 1:00 PM, Monday–Saturday. Travel time: 1 hour 20 minutes.

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Accommodation

Where to Stay

San Jose (Capital — Recommended Base)
Accommodation Rate (est.) Highlights
Jmalls Island Tourist Inn (RedDoorz) WiFi ₱800–1,200/night Near port, popular with backpackers, free WiFi advertised
JK Tourist Inn ₱500–800/night Basic, clean, near town center
Along D Road Homestay ₱1,500/night (AC, 2 pax) Sea view, family-run, loft for groups
Candelaria Bed & Breakfast ₱2,000/night (Standard) Cozy, local charm
Island View Suites WiFi TOP PICK ₱1,000–1,500/night Confirmed WiFi, sea views, AC, 8 rooms across 4 floors. Best option for remote workers.
Camagong Suites ₱1,200–1,800/night Newer property
Vine's Bed & Breakfast Homtel ₱800–1,200/night European-standard amenities, spacious balcony, bay views. Contact via WhatsApp: +63-915-211-7217
Saturn Homestay ₱600–1,000/night Budget option
Basilisa
Accommodation Rate (est.) Highlights
Cape Seaductive Resort & Spa NO WiFi ₱2,500–5,000/night Best resort in Dinagat; ocean-view villas. No WiFi, no grid electricity (generator only). Intentional "unplug" experience.
Park Forest Resort ₱1,500–2,500/night Beachside, relaxing
Cagdianao
Accommodation Rate (est.) Highlights
Blesed-Bradgette Resort ₱800–1,500/night Quiet coastal views
Fluir Frio Beach Resort ₱1,000–2,000/night Beach access
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Pro Tip Book accommodations in advance — options are limited. A 2D1N package tour (₱3,000-3,500/person) from operators like Azonta Travel & Tours or Jmalls includes accommodation, meals, boat tours, guide, and entrance fees.
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Recommended for Our Group of 6 Island View Suites in San Jose is the best fit. It has confirmed working WiFi (guest-verified), air-conditioned rooms, sea views, and only 8 rooms across 4 floors, so the group can book most of the property. Central waterfront location, breakfast included. Some crew members can work remotely at night using the WiFi. Book directly or via Booking.com/Airbnb.
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Complete Directory

Tourist Spots

⭐ Must-See — Tier 1
01
Pangabangan Blue Lagoon
📍 Pangabangan Island, Libjo
The crown jewel. A shallow tidal pool of impossibly turquoise water framed by limestone cliffs and mangroves. A subterranean hole creates a deep blue-green gradient. Swimming, kayaking, bamboo raft rides. Entrance: ₱20.
📸 Climb to Pangabangan Peak viewdeck for the iconic aerial shot. Best light: early morning or late afternoon.
02
Lake Bababu & Bababu Beach
📍 Basilisa (~30–45 min trek from BEAP)
One of the few meromictic lakes in the Philippines — freshwater floats above saltwater, never mixing. Connected to the sea by a 650-meter underwater cave, the longest in the Philippines. Make a wish (local tradition).
📸 Emerald-green water under overcast skies looks otherworldly. Wide-angle lens recommended.
03
Hagakhak Rock Formation
📍 Off the coast of Basilisa
Nature's Cathedral. Colossal sedimentary rock formations carved by ocean waves over thousands of years. Jagged limestone cliffs rise dramatically from the sea. Viewing from boat only — no swimming due to strong currents.
📸 Best photographed from the boat at varying distances. Morning light gives warm tones.
04
Miracle Pool
📍 Pangabangan Island, Libjo
The Underground Oasis. A subterranean cave pool with crystal-clear freshwater, sparkling with natural calcite deposits. Cool, dimly lit, and utterly surreal. Life vest rental: ₱50.
📸 Low-light challenge. ISO 3200+, f/2.8 or wider. Calcite deposits sparkle beautifully.
05
Mt. Redondo Natural Bonsai Forest
📍 Loreto (highest mountain in the province)
A 200+ hectare forest of naturally miniature trees — magkuno, lauan, pine, pitcher plants — shaped by wind and weather. Fully-grown trees reach a maximum height of 4 feet. Home to the critically endangered Dinagat Cloud Rat.
📸 Low-angle shots make bonsai trees look full-sized. Panoramic summit views of surrounding islands.
🏖️ Beaches — Tier 2
06
Bitaog Beach
📍 Basilisa
Fine white sand, turquoise water, limestone formations — rivals Palawan. Best spot for snorkeling and underwater photography.
07
Duyos Beach / Duyos Island
📍 Basilisa
A shifting sandbar that rises and sinks with the tides. Drone-worthy minimalist seascape.
08
Sundayo Beach
📍 Hagakhak Island
Long white sand beach with dramatic rock formations. Secluded and pristine. Check availability before going — occasionally closed.
09
Pagkawasan Beach
📍 Near San Jose
Rustic charm, unspoilt shoreline, quiet atmosphere. A favorite for genuine island escape seekers.
10
Cab-Ilan Beach
📍 Basilisa
Creamy white sand fringed with coconut palms. Calm waters for swimming and snorkeling.
11
Hinabyan Beach
📍 Cagdianao (eastern coast)
Long, quiet, powdery sand — practically untouched. True digital detox territory.
12
Campintac Black Beach
📍 Near San Jose
Dark volcanic sand with WWII history — once a Japanese landing site. The contrast of black sand against turquoise water is striking at golden hour.
13
Cabacongan Cove
📍 Basilisa
Secluded, powdery sand, crystal-clear waters. Limestone cliffs frame the cove. Perfect for cliff-jumping shots.
14
Alyssa's Hidden Beach
📍 Secluded (ask local guide)
White sand, crystal-clear waters, coconut trees, dramatic rock formations. Perfect for romantic retreats.
🏝️ Islands & Islets
15
Pangabangan Island
📍 Northwest of Basilisa, Libjo area
Houses both the Blue Lagoon and Miracle Pool. Unique tidal pool and inviting sandbar.
16
Isla Aga
📍 Northwest of Bababu, Basilisa
Cluster of karst cliffs with white sand. Famous for one of the most scenic hanging bridges in the Philippines — crystal-clear water directly under your feet.
📸 Shoot the hanging bridge from multiple angles.
17
Kisses Islet
📍 Near Libjo
Tiny, rounded twin islets rising side by side from the sea. Calm waters for a quick swim.
📸 Best from a distance showing the "kissing" formation.
18
Sayaw Island
📍 Off Cagdianao (eastern coast)
Pristine, rarely included in standard tours. True castaway retreat. Minimal infrastructure, few visitors.
19
Oasis Islet
📍 Libjo area
A perfect anchoring spot to gaze at surrounding limestone islands jutting from every corner of the sea.
🏛️ Cultural & Historical
20
PBMA Divine Master's Shrine
📍 Barangay Aurelio, San Jose
HQ of the Philippine Benevolent Missionaries Association, founded by Ruben Ecleo Sr. in 1965. Sprawling complex with elaborate gardens, ponds, streams, and mausoleum. Dress code required. Males: pants, shirt, closed shoes. Females: skirts, enclosed shoes, no sleeveless. Loaner pants: ₱20.
📸 Architecture blends modern and folk elements. Terraced gardens are photogenic.
21
Islander's Castle (White Castle)
📍 Hilltop, San Jose
A ₱350-million Disney-like palatial residence of the Ecleo family, built in 2007. Visible from the sea when approaching San Jose. Private property — photos only from the gates. Panoramic views of the bay.
📸 Capture it against the hillside from boats. Use telephoto from the gates.
22
Pulang Yuta Viewpoint
📍 Barangay Cuarinta, San Jose
Elevated red-earth viewpoint with panoramic views of the town and sea. Short motorcycle ride from town center.
🌊 Hidden Gems & Secret Spots
23
Tambongon Lagoon
📍 Protected fish sanctuary
Home to endemic aquatic species. Scenic views, swimming, and boating.
24
Paragamac Falls
📍 Mt. Pulhi area
Multi-tier waterfall with naturally-built pools at each cascade. Cliff jumping and swimming. Motorcycle ride (~₱300) then short trek.
25
Punta Buena Suerte Resort
📍 Tip of Libjo
180-degree view of waters below with several picturesque spots. Guided tour: ₱30.
26
Jelmar's Islet Resort
📍 Near Libjo
Iconic bamboo stilt bridges leading to the main resort. Perfect Instagram spot. Often a lunch stop on island-hopping tours.
27
Babas Cove
📍 Basilisa
Lucent aquamarine and turquoise waters revealing corals. Starting point for Lake Bababu trek. Climb the karst cliff for grandstand views.
28
Mount Cambinliw Bonsai Forest
📍 Loreto area (940m elevation)
Second bonsai forest in Dinagat. Key biodiversity site with endemic species. Less visited than Mt. Redondo.
29
Luta's Beach Resort
📍 Near Blue Lagoon area, Libjo
Crystal-clear waters, nice cottages, karaoke spot. Access point for Blue Lagoon via AO Resort.
30
San Jose Mangrove Eco-Park
📍 San Jose
Boardwalk through mangroves, local flora and fauna, peaceful nature walk.
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Hour-by-Hour Itinerary

Daily Schedule

Day 1 — Wednesday, April 9

Arrival & San Jose Exploration

Transit, check-in, cultural immersion
Time Activity Details
12:30 PM 🛫 Arrive at Mactan-Cebu International Airport Check in for DG 6901. Bring snacks for the journey.
2:15 PM ✈️ Depart CEB → Surigao Flight DG 6901 (1 hour)
3:15 PM 🛬 Arrive Surigao Airport Collect luggage
3:30 PM 🚐 Tricycle to Surigao Port (Pantalan Dos) ₱30–50, ~20 min. Walk past the airport touts.
3:50 PM 🎫 Buy ferry ticket Head to Pantalan Dos. Check which line has the next departure.
4:00–5:30 PM ⛴️ Ferry to San Jose, Dinagat Islands ~1–1.5 hours depending on vessel. Enjoy coastline views — coconut-fringed beaches and the silhouette of Islander's Castle.
5:30 PM 🏨 Arrive San Jose Port Meet pre-arranged guide/transport. Check in at accommodation.
6:00 PM 🧳 Check-in & freshen up Settle into your room. Charge devices — power can be inconsistent.
6:30 PM 🌅 Sunset walk to San Jose waterfront Houses on stilts, fishing boats, salty sea breeze.
7:00 PM 🍽️ Dinner at local carinderia Try grilled fish, kinilaw (ceviche), sinugba. Budget: ₱80–150/meal.
8:00 PM 📋 Coordinate with guide for Day 2 Confirm island-hopping itinerary, boat rental, departure time. Contact: Kuya Alon (09076102770) or Azonta Travel & Tours or Yaco Travel and Tours (Saira).
9:00 PM 🌙 Rest Early night — big day tomorrow.
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Backup Plan If you miss the last afternoon ferry (usually 2:00–3:00 PM), stay overnight in Surigao City near the port. Options: Boulevard Tourist Inn, Bee Hub Pension, or Gateway Hotel. Take the earliest ferry (5:00–6:00 AM) the next morning.
Day 2 — Thursday, April 10

Libjo Loop: Island Hopping Day 1

Blue Lagoon, Miracle Pool, dramatic rock formations
Time Activity Details
5:00 AM ⏰ Wake up Early start for calm seas and best light.
5:30 AM 🍳 Breakfast At accommodation or nearby eatery. Pack a lunch (buy at carinderia near port).
6:00 AM 🚤 Depart San Jose Port by chartered boat Head north toward Libjo. Boat rental: ~₱3,000–3,500/day for 4–8 pax. Bring: dry bag, reef-safe sunscreen, sturdy sandals, snorkel gear, water, packed lunch.
6:30 AM 📸 Coastal views en route Coastline from San Jose to Libjo is studded with karst formations. Keep your camera ready — comparable to Coron and El Nido.
7:30 AM 🏝️ STOP 1: Hagakhak Rock Formation ~30 min. Photograph from varying distances. No swimming (strong currents). Shoot wide at 28mm for scale, then zoom to 200mm for dramatic compression.
8:15 AM ⛵ Sail to Pangabangan Island ~20 min transit through stunning islet clusters.
8:45 AM 🏊 STOP 2: Pangabangan Blue Lagoon Swim in the crystal-clear tidal pool. Bamboo raft ride. Climb viewdeck for iconic aerial shot. Allow 1.5–2 hours. Morning light (8–10 AM) creates beautiful reflections. Harvest fresh "lato" (seaweed) from the shoreline.
10:45 AM 🕳️ STOP 3: Miracle Pool Cave Short walk from Blue Lagoon. Swim in the surreal underground cave pool. Life vest rental: ₱50. Allow 45 min. ISO 3200+, f/2.8 or wider.
11:30 AM 🏝️ STOP 4: Kisses Islet Quick photo stop at the twin islets. 15 min. Swim in calm waters.
12:00 PM 🍱 Lunch break At Jelmar's Islet Resort (iconic bamboo stilt bridges) or Luta's Beach Resort (cottages, crystal water). ~1 hour.
1:00 PM 🏝️ STOP 5: Oasis Islet Explore the cluster of limestone islands. Snorkeling among coral gardens. 45 min.
1:45 PM 🏖️ STOP 6: Sundayo Beach (if open) Long white sand beach on Hagakhak Island. If closed, explore Cab-Ilan Beach instead. Swim, relax, photograph rock formations. 1 hour.
3:00 PM 🚤 Return voyage to San Jose ~1.5 hours. Enjoy the golden afternoon light on the water.
4:30 PM 🏛️ San Jose Land Tour: PBMA Shrine Habal-habal to the shrine (~₱50). Register, get visitor pass, rent proper attire if needed (₱20). Tour grounds, terraced gardens, mausoleum exterior. Allow 1 hour.
5:30 PM 🏰 Islander's Castle Short ride from PBMA Shrine. View the "White Castle" from the gates. Photograph against sunset sky. Panoramic bay views. 30 min.
6:00 PM 🌅 Sunset from castle viewpoint One of the best sunset vantage points on the island. Bay, islands, and sky create a dramatic composition.
6:30 PM 🍽️ Dinner in San Jose Fresh seafood at a local carinderia. Try: tinolang isda, sinugba, puso (hanging rice).
8:00 PM ⭐ Stargazing Minimal light pollution. Exceptional night sky from the waterfront. 20-sec exposure, ISO 3200, 28mm wide.
9:30 PM 🌙 Rest
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Boat Cost Estimate ₱3,000–3,500 for full-day Libjo Loop (split among group of 4–8 passengers)
Day 3 — Friday, April 11

Basilisa Circuit: Island Hopping Day 2

Lake Bababu, pristine beaches, cliff coves
Time Activity Details
5:00 AM ⏰ Wake up Another early start.
5:30 AM 🍳 Breakfast + pack lunch
6:00 AM 🚤 Depart San Jose → Basilisa circuit Head south. Coron-like seascape en route.
6:45 AM 🏖️ STOP 1: Babas Cove Starting point for Lake Bababu. Lucent aquamarine waters revealing corals. Climb the karst cliff for grandstand panoramic view. 30 min.
7:15 AM 🥾 STOP 2: Trek to Lake Bababu 30–45 min moderate trek through rocky limestone terrain. Register at Bababu Ecotourism Adventure Park (BEAP). Guide will narrate stories about the lake's mysteries.
8:00 AM 🏞️ Lake Bababu Emerge at the enigmatic meromictic lake. Swim, kayak, or absorb the mystical atmosphere. Make a wish (local tradition). Allow 1 hour. Wide-angle with surrounding forest canopy reflected in still water.
9:00 AM 🥾 Trek back to Babas Cove 30 min descent.
9:30 AM 🏖️ STOP 3: Bababu Beach White-sand beach just behind the lake. Quick swim and rest after the trek. 30 min.
10:15 AM ⛵ Sail to nearby islands
10:30 AM 🏝️ STOP 4: Isla Aga Limestone formations and the famous hanging bridge over crystal-clear water. Shoot from the bridge and from the shore. Allow 45 min.
11:15 AM 🏖️ STOP 5: Bitaog Beach The best beach in Dinagat. Crystal turquoise water, powder-fine white sand, steep limestone cliffs. Palawan-level beauty. Swim, snorkel, photograph. Allow 1.5 hours. Underwater shots here are stunning.
12:45 PM 🍱 Lunch on the beach Packed lunch in paradise.
1:30 PM 🏖️ STOP 6: Duyos Beach / Duyos Island The shifting sandbar. Walk the sandbar, photograph the minimalist seascape. 45 min.
2:15 PM 🏖️ STOP 7: Cabacongan Cove Secluded, powdery sand, crystal-clear waters surrounded by limestone. Cliff jumping for the adventurous. 45 min.
3:00 PM 🏖️ STOP 8: Pagkawasan Beach Final beach stop. Rustic, unspoilt shoreline. Rest and recharge. 30 min.
3:30 PM 🚤 Return voyage to San Jose ~45 min. Golden afternoon light for last sea photos.
4:15 PM 🏨 Return to accommodation Shower, rest, recharge.
5:00 PM 🚶 Walk to Campintac Black Beach ~15 min walk/ride. Dark volcanic sand with WWII history. Black sand contrast against turquoise water during golden hour is striking.
6:00 PM 🌅 Sunset at the waterfront
6:30 PM 🍽️ Dinner Celebrate with a seafood feast. Try: grilled curacha (if available), sinuglaw, fresh shrimp.
8:00 PM 🌙 Night photography / rest Another chance for astrophotography if skies are clear.
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Boat Cost Estimate ₱3,000–3,500 for full-day Basilisa Circuit (split among group of 4–8 passengers)
Day 4 — Saturday, April 12

Mountain Trek + Hidden Gems

Bonsai forest, waterfalls, Cagdianao coast, cultural immersion
Time Activity Details
5:00 AM ⏰ Wake up
5:30 AM 🍳 Early breakfast
6:00 AM 🏍️ Habal-habal to Loreto ~1–1.5 hours ride to the base of Mt. Redondo. Arrange motorcycle the night before. Cost: ~₱300–500 one way.
7:30 AM 🥾 Mt. Redondo Bonsai Forest Trek Begin the hike through lush greenery. Trail ascends through progressively more surreal vegetation. Look for wild blueberries along the trail.
9:00 AM 🌳 Bonsai Forest Summit 200+ hectare natural bonsai forest. Fully-grown trees no taller than your waist. Panoramic summit views of surrounding islands. Use low angle to make bonsai trees look like a full-sized forest. Watch for the critically endangered Dinagat Cloud Rat and Tarsier. Allow 1.5 hours.
10:30 AM 🥾 Descend Mt. Redondo ~1 hour down.
11:30 AM 🍱 Lunch in Loreto Local eatery. Simple Filipino fare.
12:30 PM 🏍️ Ride to Cagdianao ~1 hour. Explore the eastern coast.
1:30 PM 🏖️ Hinabyan Beach, Cagdianao Long, quiet, practically untouched. Digital detox at its finest. Swim, relax, enjoy the solitude. 1 hour.
2:30 PM 🏝️ Sayaw Island (if accessible by boat) Off the Cagdianao coast. Pristine, rarely included in tours. True castaway retreat. If not accessible, explore Fluir Frio Beach Resort or Blesed-Bradgette Resort area.
3:30 PM 🏍️ Return to San Jose ~1.5 hours ride.
5:00 PM 🏨 Rest & freshen up
5:30 PM 🚶 San Jose walking tour San Jose Mangrove Eco-Park, public market (buy pasalubong/souvenirs), local shops. Houses on stilts, fishing boats, friendly locals.
6:00 PM 🌅 Final sunset in Dinagat From the waterfront or Pulang Yuta viewpoint (red-earth elevated spot in Brgy. Cuarinta).
6:30 PM 🍽️ Farewell dinner Your best dinner yet. Consider asking your host family to prepare a special seafood meal.
8:00 PM 📷 Photo review & backup Review all photos from the trip. Backup to external storage.
9:00 PM 🧳 Pack for departure Organize gear for tomorrow's early exit.
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Transport Cost Estimate ₱1,000–1,500 for full-day habal-habal charter (Loreto + Cagdianao round trip)
Day 5 — Sunday, April 13

Departure

Final morning, transit back to Cebu
Time Activity Details
5:00 AM ⏰ Wake up Final morning in paradise.
5:30 AM 🌅 Sunrise at waterfront Last chance for golden-hour photography. The San Jose port area with fishing boats at dawn is atmospheric.
6:00 AM 🍳 Breakfast
6:30 AM 🧳 Check out Say goodbye to your hosts.
7:00 AM ⛴️ Early ferry San Jose → Surigao City Take the 7:00 AM or earliest available ferry. Travel time: 1–1.5 hours.
8:30 AM 🏙️ Arrive Surigao City
9:00 AM ☕ Coffee & brunch in Surigao Explore Surigao City briefly. Options near the port area.
10:00 AM 🛍️ Surigao City exploration Visit local market for dried fish, calamansi products, native delicacies as pasalubong.
12:00 PM 🍽️ Lunch in Surigao
1:00 PM 🚐 Head to Surigao Airport Tricycle/van, ~20 min. Be at airport by 1:30 PM for the 3:35 PM flight.
1:30 PM 🛫 Check in at Surigao Airport
3:35 PM ✈️ Depart Surigao → Cebu Flight DG 6902 (~50 min)
4:25 PM 🛬 Arrive Mactan-Cebu International Airport Welcome back home!
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Sony a7C2 + 28-200mm

Photography Guide

Best Photography Spots Ranked

Rank Location Type Best Time Lens Range
#1 Pangabangan Blue Lagoon Viewdeck Landscape 8–10 AM 28mm wide
#2 Hagakhak Rock Formation Seascape Morning 28–200mm
#3 Lake Bababu Landscape/Mood Overcast or early AM 28–50mm
#4 Bitaog Beach Beach/Underwater 10 AM–2 PM 28–70mm
#5 Mt. Redondo Bonsai Forest Nature/Surreal Morning 28–70mm
#6 Miracle Pool Cave Low-light Anytime 28mm, high ISO
#7 Isla Aga Hanging Bridge Adventure Midday 28–50mm
#8 Duyos Sandbar Minimalist Low tide 28mm / drone
#9 Islander's Castle Architecture Sunset 70–200mm
#10 San Jose Port at Dawn Street/Documentary 5:30–6:30 AM 28–70mm

Camera Settings Tips

Seascapes

f/8–11, ISO 100–400. Use polarizing filter to cut water glare.

Cave / Miracle Pool

f/2.8, ISO 3200–6400. Stabilize against rocks.

Bonsai Forest

f/5.6–8, ISO 200–800. Use low angles for surreal perspective.

Astrophotography

f/2.8, ISO 3200, 20-sec exposure. Manual focus on stars.

Underwater

f/5.6, ISO 400–800. White balance set to underwater preset. Waterproof housing required.

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Estimated Costs

Budget Breakdown

Item Cost (₱) Notes
Flights (CEB-SUG roundtrip) Already booked DG 6901 / DG 6902
Ferry (Surigao-Dinagat roundtrip) ₱400–500 Includes terminal fees
Accommodation (4 nights) ₱3,000–6,000 Depending on choice
Island hopping Day 1 (Libjo Loop) ₱3,000–3,500 Split among group
Island hopping Day 2 (Basilisa) ₱3,000–3,500 Split among group
Day 4 transport (habal-habal) ₱1,000–1,500 Full day charter
Local transport (tricycles, habal-habal) ₱500–800 Throughout trip
Entrance fees ₱200–300 Various sites
Food (5 days) ₱2,000–3,000 Local eateries
Guide tips & miscellaneous ₱500–1,000
TOTAL ESTIMATE ₱13,600–20,100 ~$240–355 USD
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What to Bring

Packing List

Essentials
  • Cash — ₱15,000–20,000 for entire trip. No reliable ATMs.
  • Dry bag — Essential for boat transfers and beach hopping
  • Reef-safe sunscreen — Protect the coral reefs
  • Sturdy sandals/water shoes — Rocky terrain, coral, limestone treks
  • Insect repellent — Evenings can be mosquito-heavy
  • Flashlight/headlamp — Power outages possible
  • Power bank — Multiple, fully charged
  • Water bottles — Refillable; buy large jugs in San Jose
  • Towels — Quick-dry microfiber
Camera Gear
  • Sony a7C2 + 28-200mm lens
  • Extra batteries (3–4 recommended)
  • Memory cards (multiple)
  • Waterproof housing or underwater case
  • Lens cleaning cloth & kit
  • Mini tripod/gorillapod for astrophotography
  • Polarizing filter
Clothing
  • Rash guard / swim shirt (UV protection)
  • Board shorts / quick-dry shorts
  • Light long pants (for PBMA Shrine visit & habal-habal rides)
  • Closed shoes (for shrine visit & mountain trek)
  • Hat / cap
  • Light rain jacket (April showers possible)
Health & Safety
  • First aid kit
  • Seasickness medicine (Bonamine)
  • Personal medication
  • Waterproof phone case
📶
WiFi, Signal & Power

Connectivity & Remote Work

⚠️
Set Expectations Dinagat Islands is remote. Internet is limited, power is not 24/7, and video calls may not be reliable. Plan your work around these constraints. Inform clients/teams about limited connectivity April 9-13.

Mobile Carrier Signal

Carrier Signal on Dinagat Verdict
Smart / TNT Poor to fair in San Jose and resort areas BEST OPTION
DITO Highest quality scores in Caraga region, no Dinagat-specific data BACKUP
Globe / TM Essentially non-existent across most of the island AVOID

What's Realistic

Task Feasibility
Email, Slack, messaging Usually works from San Jose accommodations with WiFi
Light web browsing Usually works expect slower speeds
Google Docs, collaborative tools Possible but expect lag and disconnections
Video calls (Zoom, Meet) Unreliable. May work sporadically, not guaranteed
Large uploads/downloads Very difficult. Plan around this

Power Situation

🔌
Electricity is Not 24/7 Dinagat Islands Electric Cooperative (DIELCO) runs on diesel generators and power barges. Brownouts and unscheduled power interruptions happen regularly. Always keep devices charged and bring power banks.

What to Bring for Remote Work

📱
Before the Ferry Buy a Smart/TNT prepaid SIM with a large data package in Surigao City. Get a DITO SIM as backup. Do NOT rely on Globe. Download offline maps (Google Maps, Maps.me) and all documents you need.
🔋
Essential Gear Power banks (20,000mAh+, ideally two per person). Extension cord to charge multiple devices when power is available. Pocket WiFi loaded with Smart data as group hotspot. Laptop with long battery life.
💡
Piso-WiFi Backup Coin-operated Piso-WiFi machines are scattered around San Jose town center. They cost as little as ₱1 for 10-15 minutes. Not ideal for sustained work, but useful in a pinch.
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Read Before You Go

Important Tips & Reminders

  1. Cash is king. ATMs are almost nonexistent. Digital payments are rarely accepted. Bring more than you think you'll need.
  2. Book your guide and boat in advance. Contact local tour operators before arrival: Kuya Alon (09076102770), Azonta Travel & Tours (San Jose based), Yaco Travel and Tours (Saira) — local, personalized, and Jmalls Island Tourist Inn — offers package tours.
  3. Ferry schedules change. Always confirm the day before. Weather can cancel trips. Have a backup plan.
  4. Respect the PBMA Shrine dress code. Pants/shirt for males, skirt/closed shoes for females. No sleeveless tops.
  5. Don't get scammed at the port. Avoid tricycle drivers immediately outside Surigao Port and San Jose Port. Walk a block away to get fair fares.
  6. Mobile signal is unreliable. Download offline maps before you go. Smart/TNT network has slightly better coverage than Globe.
  7. April is peak dry season — perfect weather, calm seas, clear skies. Best time for island hopping and photography.
  8. Bring a positive attitude. Dinagat is remote, undeveloped, and beautifully raw. Embrace the slow pace. The roads are unpaved, the infrastructure is basic — but that's exactly the charm.
  9. Be environmentally responsible. This is an emerging ecotourism destination. Take nothing but photos, leave nothing but footprints. Use reef-safe sunscreen. Don't touch coral.
  10. Support local. Eat at local carinderias, hire local guides, stay at locally-owned homestays. Your tourism supports one of the Philippines' poorest provinces.
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Route Overview

Tour Circuits at a Glance

Day 2 — Thursday, April 10

Libjo Loop

San Jose → Hagakhak Rock Formation → Pangabangan Blue Lagoon → Miracle Pool → Kisses Islet → Jelmar's Resort → Oasis Islet → Sundayo Beach → San Jose
Day 3 — Friday, April 11

Basilisa Circuit

San Jose → Babas Cove → Lake Bababu Trek → Bababu Beach → Isla Aga → Bitaog Beach → Duyos Beach → Cabacongan Cove → Pagkawasan Beach → San Jose
Day 4 — Saturday, April 12

Mountain & East Coast

San Jose → Loreto → Mt. Redondo Bonsai Forest → Cagdianao → Hinabyan Beach → Sayaw Island → San Jose
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On the Ground

Useful Contacts

Contact Details
Provincial Tourism Office Dinagat Islands Tourism and Culture Office
Tour Guide — Kuya Alon 09076102770
Azonta Travel & Tours San Jose, Dinagat Islands
Yaco Travel and Tours (Saira) Local operator, personalized experiences
Evaristo & Sons Sea Transport booking.barkota.com
Montenegro Shipping Lines Check at Surigao Port (Pantalan Dos)
Philippine Coast Guard — Surigao For sea condition updates before departures