The Caraga Administrative Region is situated at the northeast section of Mindanao in the Philippines. The region is also known as Region XIII consists of the provinces of Agusan del Norte, Agusand del Sur, Surigao del Norte, Surigao del Sur and Dinagat Islands.
The region is mountainous such that mountain ranges divide the Agusan and Surigao provinces. The area along the Agusan River basin is considered the most productive agricultural area.
The Agusan Marsh is a lake at the middle of Agusan del Sur. Heavy rains are experienced in the Caraga Region from the months of November to February.
Butuan city is the only highly urbanized city in the region and serves as the regional administrative center.
Siargao, popular travel destination in Caraga
Siargao Island in the province of Surigao del Norte is the most famous place in the Caraga Region. The teardrop-shaped island is popularly known as the “Surfing Capital of the Philippines “. Annual international surfing events are held in this place due to the existence of continuous huge waves from the Pacific Ocean.
The province is also popular for its white sandy beaches and mangrove forest reserves considered the largest in Mindanao.
The excellent surfing conditions in Siargao happens from August to November. Flights are now available directly from Manila to Siargao and from Cebu to Siargao.
Where to go in Caraga
There are numerous places in the Caraga region which are worth visiting.
The islands and islet of Guyam, Daku, Dinagat, Bucas Grande and the General island in Cantilan has white sand beaches and surrounding waters are full of coral reefs. These places are suitable for swimming and snorkeling.
Naturally carved water channel attractions exist in the mangrove forests in Barangay Manjagao.
Other exciting places to visit are the floating village in Barangay Dayasan, the Buenavista Cave and Sagisi island.
The biking trails in Surigao del Sur, Agusan del Norte and Siargao are a good venue for cross country and downhill races for local and international bikers.
The towns of San Agustin, Bislig, Rosario, Tagbina and Lianga features numerous caves some of which are the longest caves in the Philippines. Most caves have limestone formations as well as naturally formed stalagmites, stalactites and columns.
Get updates on the many travel destinations in the Caraga Region.
Find out what makes Dinagat Islands mysterious.