Agusan del Sur, also called as the “Land of Golden Opportunities," is one of the largest provinces in the Philippines.
It is rich in natural resources, showcasing vast agricultural land, scenic forests, stunning waterfalls, and panoramic views of mountains and pristine marshland. Tourism in the Philippines is a major economic contributor to the Philippine economy. The province is also home to ethnic tribes with a variety of cultures and traditions. The province is dominated by four tribal groups who are said to be the first settlers in the province: the Banwaon, Talaandig, Manobo and Higaonon tribes.
Top Tourist Spots in Agusan del Sur
1. Agusan Marsh
Agusan Marsh is one of the most significant ecological wetlands and finest eco-tourism destinations in the Philippines. The Agusan Marsh is the largest in the Philippines found at the center of the Agusan Basin in Mindanao. During summer season, numerous migratory birds came from Russia, China and Japan are coming to escape the chilly winter winds in northern hemisphere. Overall, there are 200 distinct species of migratory birds and wild animals species every year, making it a transient point for visiting species living from the other side of the globe.
Photo Courtesy of Panlalawigang Tanggapan ng Turismo Agusan del Sur
Sources: Caraga Rising Paradise and Vigattin Tourism
2. Century-old Toog tree
Measuring 56 meters in height, 255 centimeters in diameter and estimated to be 300 years old, this hardwood tree stands proudly along the National Highway of Alegria, San Francisco and is regarded as the world’s third highest. Scientifically known as Petersianthus quadrialatus under the family of lecythidaceae, toog tree thrives abundantly in Agusan del Sur and some parts of Mindanao because of its rich soil.
Photo Courtesy of Panlalawigang Tanggapan ng Turismo Agusan del Sur
3. Mt. Magdiwata
Towering over San Francisco and other adjoining municipalities of Agusan del Sur, this 558-meters above sea level mountain boasts an old growth forest with a series of 7 major waterfalls. This legendary peak also abounds in 113 listed fauna and 228 flora dominated with Red Lauan of dipterocarps family, Tanguile species considered as the biggest tree in the country nowadays, and Bagrass, Known to be the most colorful tree.
This 1,658-hectare tropical rainforest also serves as a watershed of San Francisco, and sanctuary to deer, monkeys, wild boars, snakes, birds, squirrels, eagles, lizards and tarsiers. From its summit, one can get an unhampered view of the natural wonders such as the Agusan River and Marsh, and the Agusan Peatland.
Photo Courtesy of Panlalawigang Tanggapan ng Turismo Agusan del Sur
4. Bega Falls
An enchanting waterfall in the hinterlands of Prosperidad which legend says was a haven of beautiful women during the ancient days. Situated in a 290-hectare locally declared protected area in the bosom of the 178-hectare Ugnop Cave landscape forest reserve in upland Brgy. Mabuhay, it is the centerpiece of the Bega River System comprising of 4 major waterfalls and 12 miniature falls, most of which have been identified for biodiversity research. Bega Falls can be reached by descending a 302-step staircase and negotiating a challenging trail. Its massive curtain of water created by tall drops against the limestone rocks create a mesmerizing vista and a huge natural pool where hikers can dip and get a hydro massage to rejuvenate their tired muscles. The tropical resort has a tourism center and wooden cottage for overnight campers.
Photo Courtesy of Panlalawigang Tanggapan ng Turismo Agusan del Sur
5. Gibong River
Prosperidad’s scenic river and potable water source which is ideal for cruising and boating activities. From the river banks, visitors can cruise along the river and be enthralled by the untouched vegetation and limestone cliffs enroute to Gibong Recreation Center, a camping and bird watching site in the woods. Adjacent it is Binaba Falls, a cascade of clear water emanating from the watershed.
Photo Courtesy of Panlalawigang Tanggapan ng Turismo Agusan del Sur