GENERAL INFORMATION ON CORON, BUSUANGA 
SITES OF INTEREST
SIGHTSEEING ACTIVITIES AND TOURS

GENERAL INFORMATION ON CORON, BUSUANGA 

The Calamian group of islands is in the nothernmost part of Palawan. The main islands in the Calamian Group are Busuanga, Coron, Culion and Linapacan.

Busuanga, the largest in the Calamian group of islands is composed of 63 islands and islets.
The municipality of Busuanga in Salvacion is approximately 212.8 nautical miles from Puerto Princesa and 34.7 miles from the municipality of Coron about an hour and a half ride through verdant and rural scenery. The unspoiled countryside scenery entices the travelers to dream of a life in paradise.

CORON is midway between Manila and Puerto Princesa, the provincial capital of Palawan. It is also the nothernmost municipality and located on the island of Busuanga. It has a land area of 689.10 square kilometers. It is composed of 63 island and islets. And includes Coron island. Politically it comprises 23 barangays. Its topography is characterized by rugged terrain and rolling hills, mountain ranges running in almost all directions and an extensive seashore. The coastline is very irregular and its 14 rivers are small and narrow. Mountain lakes (7), hotsprings (1), and white beaches are also found locally. It has a population of about 45,000.

SITES OF INTEREST

CORON ISLAND: Dramatic limestone walls surround magnificent lagoons. A reef protects the entrance to coves that lead to "hidden lakes". Coron Island is home to 7 lakes but only Cayangan and Barracuda can be visited. The island is undoubtedly the area's primary eco-tour destination for tourists. Coron island is a 15 minute boat ride from the town of Coron.

BANOL BEACH: One of a few beaches on Coron Island, its white sand contrasts with the limestone in the background and provides a lovely vista on approach. It is ideal for daytime swimming and snorkeling. A favorite picnic spot.

CAYANGAN LAKE: Recognized for 5 consecutive years as the cleanest lake in the Philippines, Be amazed by its immensity, experience its cool fresh waters as you swim.

BARRACUDA LAKE: Also on Coron island this lake lies behind an array of limestone walls. Visitors will get off their boat and climb some 15 meters up and over these walls to Barracuda Lake. Divers have the added advantage of experiencing the thermal layers at a depth of 14 meters where water temperatures rise from 28 to 38! The Barracuda are still around.

SIGHTSEEING, ACTIVITIES AND TOURS

ISLAND HOPPING: The best way to explore islands of Coron Bay is from Coron town with a bangka . Tiny Cagbatan island, better known as CYC island is ideal for picnics as is the slightly larger Dimanglet island, both of them are near Coron. Cruise more than 1,000 islands in the Calamians…rates depend upon distance and the number of people. Seadive is always happy to arrange lunch to make the day even better.

SNORKELLING TRIPS: 1 to 3 days island hopping with snorkeling in crystal clear water. Ask Sea Dive to arrange a BBQ on a white sandy beach.

KAYAKING TOUR: Rent a kayak and explore the surrounding islands, enjoy the breathtaking views of the limestone ridges and caves.

MAQUINIT HOT SPRINGS: Water temperature at 40" (104"F) is PEEEERFECT. Best times would be in the morning, late afternoon or evening. Bring food for a nice picnic. Drinks are sold onsite. Reach the hot springs by tricycle for approx. P 200. There is also a P 100.00 entry fee.

MOTORCYCLE TOURS: Rent a motorbike & spend a joyful day touring the countryside. Suggested for semi-experienced riders only. P 650.00 /day/motorbike.

LIKE TO HIKE: Climb Mt. Darala, the highest point in the Calamianes islands. The hike takes about 3 1/2 hours to the top and back with spectacular scenery. Starting point from Mabentangen road. We will be happy to arrange a guide for you. Take plenty of water.

Climb Mt. Tapyas. Hike from town up to the top of this hill overlooking the town, bay & surrounding islands. Thirty minute hike. Be careful as darkness sets in within about 15 minutes of sunset due to the closeness of the equator.

ISLAND SAFARI: Visit Calauit game preserve, located on the northwest corner of Busuanga Island. The preserve has many giraffes, zebra, antelope, deer & of course the endangered mouse deer. About 3 1/2 hours by pumpboat ( P15,000 maximum of 8 person) or 3 hours by car (P6,500) and then a short boat trip. Please be advised that there is also an entry fee. Very basic overnight accommodation can be arranged.

VISIT CORON ISLAND: Currently the fee to visit Kayangan lake is P200.00 person payable to the local indigenous Tagbuana Foundations.. It's required to listen to 15 minute explanation before being allowed to go.

VISIT HISTORIC CULION: Location of the leprosy sanitarium, once the largest colony in the world The sanitarium was constructed by the U.S. in 1906 and in continuous operation ever since. The town is located about 1 1/2 hours west of Coron. Boat fees are about P 4,500 for up to 8 persons. Culion is a scenic trip with a museum detailing the history of the sanitarium, clinic & hospital.