Diving in Mindanao
In the south of the Philippines you will find the second largest region of islands of this country, Mindanao. Most diving in Davao is made in the northern area of the region. A range of dive resorts and centres can be found in Davao city and neighboring islands of Samal and Talikud. As a result of the few tourists that visit this place, you will be able to admire pristine reefs, and an abundance of beautiful marine life, as well as some interesting wrecks. If you are looking for great dive sites make sure you visit Misamis Oriental and the nearby Island of Camiguin, which is located in Northern Mindanao and is renowned for its beautiful reefs and sunken cemetery. Both beginners and the more experienced divers are welcome in Mindanao, a region with varied diving. One must-visit dive destination is the Agutayan Marine Sanctuary, located off the coast of Jasaan (Misamis Oriental), which has crystal clear waters, a rich and abundant in marine life and houses endangered giant clams. A famous WWII wreck, as well as a number of wrecks can be explored in the waters of Davao. The best way to reach the dive sites of Misamis Oriental is by arriving at Cagayan De Oro’s airport or at Davao International airport which has many domestic regular connections.
Featured places to go in Mindanao
Davao and Samal
Aquatic Life in Mindanao
Beautiful black corals, barracudas, jacks, frogfish, ghost pipefish and even small pigmy seahorses and some sea snakes are part of the marine life around Camiguin. If you dive at dusk, you might also spot shy mandarin fish that come out to play. Depending on the season, you might encounter many Manta rays. Beautiful Nudibranchs, Angelfish, groupers, parrotfish, the occasional Napolean wrasse and hammerhead sharks can be seen by divers around Agutayan marine park and Misamis Oriental. Diving around Davao you can explore caves with sharks, and see schools of mackerel and tuna and hawksbill turtles.