South East Asian Trips

In the southern region of the Philippines is the island of Cebu-the oldest city in the country. This is the island where Ferdinand Magellan landed in 1521, hence the discovery of the Philippines. Cebu has so much to offer, like the Olango Wildlife Sanctuary.

Located 5 Km east of Mactan Island, Olango Island lies between the Bohol Strait to the south and the Camotes Sea to the north. Supports the largest concentration of migratory birds found so far in the country. Migration starts from the breeding places of birds in Siberia, Northern China and Japan. Anticipating the scarcity of food and winter cold, these birds fly as far as Australia and New Zealand from late July until late November. This is usually referred to as the Southward Migration. By late February until May, these birds return to their breeding grounds in the reverse Northward Migration. Based on data gathered so far, the birds use Olango as am.jor refueling station as well as a wintering ground.

In the south shore of the island is where the Olango Wildlife Sanctuary is located. There are 97 bird species and 54 water-bird species. Out of the 97 species, 48 are migratory. The best time to go to the Sanctuary is when the tide is low. You'll see the birds looking for foods in the flats.

To avoid getting a cut from sharp corals and other things, make sure to watch your steps when walking around the area. Wearing tennis shoes is highly recommended.

This is an internationally protected area, so be sure to help keep the habitat clean and eco-friendly.

All bird enthusiasts will have a field day here. Happy bird watching!

Olango Island, a hidden paradise in Philippines situated in the island of Mactan, Visayas region - supports the largest concentration of migratory birds found so far in the country.

Migration starts from the breeding places of birds in Siberia, Northern China and Japan. Anticipating the scarcity of food and winter cold, these birds fly as far as Australia and New Zealand from late July until late November.

This is usually referred to as the Southward Migration. By late February until May, these birds return to their breeding grounds in the reverse Northward Migration. Based on data gathered so far, the birds use Olango as am.jor refueling station as well as a wintering ground.

At Olango, the birds can replenish their fat reverses by feeding on rich supply of invertebrates in the intertidal mudflats. These fat reserves must fuel the birds on the next lap of their journey which may cover from 3,000 to 15,000 Km. of non-stop flight. Land Area - 1,022.6228 has.

Diving at Olanggo

Olango Island is across the Hilutangan Channel from Mactan Island. There are three sites here that are worth the effort to see.

Santa Rosa

Baring

Mabini Point

At the southern part is Santa Rosa. The dive starts with a sandy bottom covered in soft corals, leading to a drop-off at 15m, descending to 50m. There are good varieties of reef fish in the shallows here, while further down you'll see fusiliers, catfish, jacks, snappers and sweetlips, among others.

Baring - off the northwestern coast. Descend to 35m and see tuna, whitetip and grey reef sharks, snappers, barracuda and jacks. At 35m you will find several number of caves - you never know what you'll find inside.

At northern tip of the island is Mabini Point, diving to the depths will give you the best chance of seeing large pelagics. Currents are strong and unpredictable, so this is a dive for the experienced only. You will am.st certainly encounter sharks, including ham.rheads and the occasional whale shark descending to around 40m at the drop-off.