APO ISLAND, Negros Oriental

APO ISLAND is situated just off the south coast of Negros. It’s known to be a diver’s paradise as it has a very rich marine life. For the non-divers, snorkelling can equally be as enjoyable. The island has well-preserved sanctuaries and the crystal clear water makes it easier to sight turtles and different kinds of fishes. For the on-foot explorers, the island is surrounded by hills that are not too hard to hike (less than 200 steps). The hike is definitely worth it as the view is simply enigmatic. From the top of the island, the ocean floor breaks into different hues of blue. Although it doesn’t have the long stretch of white powder-like sand along the shore, the life-size rocks and the spread of crushed corals makes up for it. The island has a small village, where around 200-300 locals reside, whom majority of them are farmers and fishermen. A generator powers the whole island, so electricity is scheduled all through out the day. Having no electricity in the Island most times makes you appreciate nature more as there won't be any distractions, it'll keep you focused.






























































































Turtle Sanctuary












Fish Sanctuary











How to get there?

From Dumaguete City, hire a tricycle for 200-300 pesos or a van for 1,500-2,000 pesos to take you to Malatapay Market (drop-off point to Apo Island).The trip is approximately 30-40 minutes. From Malatapay Market, take an out-rigger boat for about 570 pesos(round trip) to Apo Island, travel time is approximately 45 minutes to an hour depending on the weather.

Where to stay?

Liberty Resort
Dorm Type- 300 pesos a night
Standard/Double Room- 1,378 pesos

The rooms are clean and spacious, just what you need in Apo Island, it's nothing fancy but it does its purpose. Take note, they use salt water even in their bathroom wells, so it might be wise to bring with you a liter of water (for brushing your teeth).

The resort has a restaurant, but food isn't that great, it's okay. It's actually better to eat at the 'carenderias' within the village.

To book, email liberty_apoisland@yahoo.com

Another resort in the Island, well there's only two, is Kan Upi Resort. It's beach front and made out of concrete. A bit more expensive than the other but if you're sharing it with friends then it's all good.

What to do?

For the lovers of the underworld, Apo Island is definitely something to be experienced as it offers the best marine life. 'Paul's Dive Shop'offers diving lessons for begginers (up to 50% off for Filipinos according to Liberty, owner of Liberty's resort,rental of gears and equipments both for diving and snorkeling. So don't worry about the hassle of bringing your own gears and equipments as the rates aren't that expensive.

If you're tired of the water, climb up the hills of Apo Island to see the 360 degree view of the whole island. If that's still not enough, the lighthouse of the island is worth the hike as well.

A visit to the small village in the island is something to see as well as they have a few sari-sari stores, carinderia, billiard places and even a karaoke station.

Schedule of Electricity
8-11am
3-5pm
6-9pm

Things to bring:

Flashlight or torch
Aquashoes
Hand fans
Mosquito repellant

More photos to come.

Til then,

The Lost Sputnik