Tags: Environment, Natural Wonders, Vacation
By Edzelle Peña
PEÑABLANCA, CAGAYAN — After exploring the seven-chambered Callao Cave, we scaled down to the Pinacanauan river just below it. The river, stretching to 185 miles, is an awesome green hue which blends perfectly with the lush green trees and rock cliffs. It is one of the tributaries of Cagayan River or Rio Grande de Cagayan – the longest river in the country traversing the entire length of Cagayan Valley.
Some Aeta children, selling native orchids at a very cheap price, greeted us on the way. They were also very game to pose for pictures. A boat, big enough to sit eight to ten people, was provided for us. We weren’t given life vests so I was a teeny bit scared – I have yet to learn how to swim. The boatman paddled and we were taken to a wonderful cruise.
Along the way, we saw a number of locals fishing and some kids enjoying an afternoon dip. We couldn’t help but be amazed with the scenery. The river is bounded by limestone cliffs and crystal clear waters. We occasionally spotted fishes swimming along, seemingly welcoming us into their wonderful playground.
Towering over the river is a cave where thousands of circadian bats thrive. Some time during the day – usually just before dusk – these bats take flight in their hunt for food. Those who were lucky enough to witness it, like this blogger who captured some amazing pictures, speak of it as a spectacular sight.
We travelled downstream for about 20 minutes. At the end, we saw a resting place, an old nipa hut used by tourists for picnics. We stopped for a while to take some pictures and also, enjoy a refreshing dip. Water there was pretty shallow, just perfect for swimming.
But aside from swimming and picnics along the riverbank, the Pinacanauan river is also perfect for kayaking. In fact, it was host to a lot of boat races and kayaking competitions. This could be attributed to the calm, smooth flowing waters of the river.
Blogger, Izah Morales, was able to explore the river in a kayak. She spoke of it as a refreshing experience, perfect for people who wish to relax and reflect.
Another blogger, Rhandz, also enjoyed boating in the area. He recalled that they had to pay P250 to rent a boat, much cheaper than those in Pagudpud, Ilocos norte.
Travelling along the Pinacanauan River in a boat or kayak gives people a beautiful perspective of the wilderness that surrounds it. If you happen to visit Cagayan, I highly recommend you visit this place.
Here’s how to get there from Lakwatsero.com:
By Land
From Manila, Victory Liner, Baliwag (Contact No: 524-7111, 525-1067, 525-3064, 525-6769, 525-2338, 525-2294), EMC Bus Company, Auto Bus Company (Contact No: 7358096) and Florida Liner have daily trips to Cagayan Capitol everyday almost every hour. It is around 485 kilometers north of Metro Manila; travel time is about 10 hours and the fare is approximately P600.
If you are coming from Tabuk, jeepneys are available in Kalabaw Intersection (in front of St. William Cathedral), fare is P55. From Ilocos and Abra, GMW Liner and Florida Liner have trips to Tuguegarao.
By Air
Air Philippines flies to Tuguegarao from Manila, travel time is an hour more or less.
Also, check this Cagayan tour package from DOT Region 2 website.
Attractions Beaches and Water Activities Churches and Places of Worship Environment Festivals and Fiestas Historical Places Hotels and Resorts Indigenous Culture Museums Natural Wonders Travel Concerns and Advisories Travel Tales and Tips Vacation Zoos and Animal Sanctuaries
WP Cumulus Flash tag cloud by Roy Tanck and Luke Morton requires Flash Player 9 or better.
