The Enchanted River in Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur, is a magical spot that I've always wanted to see. When I finally had the chance to see it, it felt like stepping into a postcard. This is the personal account of my remarkable visit to this extraordinary location.
The Journey to Hinatuan
Approaching the Enchanted River wasn't so easy as a stroll in the park, but every second spent there truly felt great. I flew from Liloan, Cebu to Surigao City. It was a fairly leisurely, cosy flight and it gave a view like a bird of those islands below. That is, as arrived at the airport I got on a bus en route to Hinatuan. The ride was very tiring but pleasurable, with scenes of green hills and open countryside which framed the scene of natural landscape to come. Landing.at Hinatuan, I took a ride to the river. The bumpy ride on dirt roads provided the ultimate rush. I knew I was getting closer to something special.
When I got close to the doorway I had, I felt, in a manner of speaking, a combination of excitement and anticipatory curiosity. The air felt clean sound of bird song and leaves sounded underneath me. I paid a reasonable entry fee and then just followed the river upstream.
First Glimpse of the Enchanted River
When I got close to the river, I simply could not believe my eyes/. Water was vivid turquoise and emerald blue and clear enough that, say, I could see down to the riverbed beneath. It looked like something out of a fairy tale. Raves, of trees, of Cliffs, of streams, even, they seem, at times, like a virtual Eden. Sunlight in the blade, reflected on its surface, shimmered and intensified the uncanny aspect of the water.
I stood there for a second, absorbing it all. They told me that the green colouration of the water comes from the movement of the water and the calcite film that it accumulates. Besides, they also stated that none of them actually knew what the depth of the sea was. There are also persons who identify it with water through the means of an underground pore. The mystery made it even more enchanting.
Swimming in the Enchanted River
Swimming in the Enchanted River was the highlight of my trip. But I went into the water only very slowly, actually swimmimg in a swim suit. It was quite refreshing and cool, and very nice in hot weather. While I swam, however, it was as though I was in great sapphires. I could not see even small fish swimming nearby as the water was not sufficiently turbid. They weren't scared of the people surrounding them, which made it even more special.
All swimmers are obliged to be in assigned swimming areas and water play items are necessary in order to maintain safety. Current strength of the stream is high, very fast, and thus vests need to be worn. At first I sat on the edge of the edge, but the more I practiced the further out I floated. Every stroke felt like a dream.
The Feeding Ritual
One of the most special activities of the Enchanted River is the fish feeding, takes place every day at noon. An employee blows a whistle and everybody is out of the pool. Turning around the rim, I directed my gaze to the fish, where each scale unfolded from the depths. The locals call these fish “mascots” of the river. They swam gracefully, their scales shimmering in the sunlight. Employees throw the food in water and, in no time, the fish respond with a hurried reaction in an attempt to catch it. It was like watching a natural performance.
Thanks to the established eating timetable it turned out to be a learning opportunity as to the importance of nature in its most beautiful form. The river's protectors maintain it clean and safe. All of these are also build so that they also comply with the visitor's (to) rule (e.g., do not eat within a certain area, do not eat near the water, do not throw trash into the water). It felt good to be part of a community that values this beautiful place.
Exploring the Surrounding Area
Swim and I waited the feeding of fish, I went downstream to the site where the river bank stops. Picnicking tables and shelters are offered as a place to eat and relax. I took a packed lunch and relaxed while listening to the music of the river and the birds. It was a peaceful period, and that taught me to appreciate the simplicity of life.
I also took a boat ride and eventually got brought to a small lagoon. The boatman was a good fellow and told us stories of the river's past and of the river's legends. He explained to us how fairy and spirit folk keep watch on the river. The river's colour, it has been argued, is the work of these defenders. No matter how good a chance that it may seem that by encroaching light you can correct a pinch of salt, one cannot deny that what is included is marvelous.
The lagoon was just as beautiful as the river. The water was calm and surrounded by mangroves. It felt like a hidden sanctuary. The experience of the boat ride was pleasant and I was glad of it all.
Saying Goodbye
When the day ended, I could not resist to get off of the Enchanted River. It was a space that was both magical and real, a remnant of the awe and mystery of nature. I, once and for all, did look over the river and then, very seriously, did attempt to give my hold of the picture a permanent echo in the mind.
By the way back, I found it a beautiful and grateful experience. Visiting Enchanted River was not just sightseeing but also a trip to a different world, like a parallel world, right out of another world. I'd made a promise to return one day and, as a friend or family member, to witness its magic.
Tips for Future Visitors
- Arrive Early. The river gets crowded, especially during weekends and holidays. Early comers allow you to lollyga(p)e and relax in the space.
- Bring Essentials. Acquisition of sunscreen, cap, towel and a clothes set. In addition, the sun is quite powerful and it is just a good idea to be ready.
- Follow the Rules. Respect the rule and bow to the sacred river and its guardians. Keep the area clean and avoid touching the fish.
- Try the Boat Tour. Don’t miss the chance to explore the nearby lagoon. Really nice chance to see around here," etc.
- Enjoy the Moment. Please have your peace and enjoy the riverside scenery. Mind the present, forget the phone, and so on.
In Hinatuan, the Enchanted River, etc., is not merely a typical sightseeing place, etc. It is a spectacle that makes us deep within ourselves experience the wonder and amazement on the sheer spectacle and surprise of nature. I went to visit, and it was a most unforgettable experience that I shall always hold close to my heart. Seeking a destination that is like a dream, the Enchanted River is waiting for you.
[//]:# ([//]:# (!worldmappin 8.45883 lat 126.35481 long d3scr))
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Thank you so much @worldmappin 😊
Hey @marieyanlab you are welcome.
Thanks for using @worldmappin 😘
thank you so much @qurator I appreciate this so much. I will continue making good works ☺️
Wow, Paradise 🤩
oh, thank you @gelultimate anything with water is truly a paradise ☺️
I love the place😍
me too, like I was deeply attached to it. thank you @kayela ☺️
Actually there is no beauty on the natural beauty this place is looking very amazing
Actually, I think the natural beauty of this place makes it look truly amazing. It’s hard not to appreciate how stunning it is! Thank you @infinitejourney ☺️
Welcome 😊❤️
Wow, those crystal-clear waters😍 This is definitely going on my bucket list! Can't wait to experience it someday!
Right? The waters are absolutely stunning! It’s definitely a must-visit spot, hope you get to experience it soon!
I didn’t know about the legends surrounding the river, so cool!
Same here! It’s so fascinating to learn about the stories tied to the river—it adds so much mystery and charm to the place!
The water is so beautiful and clean, it was a really enjoyable trip.
That sounds amazing! Clean, beautiful water always makes the experience so much better. Glad you enjoy this one.☺️
I saw some really amazing photos ❤️
I’m so glad you liked them! It’s such a beautiful place, and I’m happy the photos captured it well ❤️
A great post, amanzing shots also!!!
!discovery shots
!PIZZA
Thank you so much! Glad you liked the shots—this place was such a gem to capture. ☺️
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Wow, that’s awesome! Huge thanks to the @discovery-it curators and the Visual Shots community for the support. I really appreciate it!☺️
Thank you so much to @jlinaresp and the @visualshots team for curating my post! I truly appreciate the support!☺️
A magical experience of nature’s enchantment at the river. 🌊
I’m so glad you felt the magic through my post! Nature truly has a way of enchanting us, especially by the river. 🌊✨
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thank you @hivebuzz 😊
Keep up the fantastic work @marieyanlab! Your dedication and hard work will pay off when you reach your target.
It’s amazing how nature can be so breathtaking and mysterious at the same time. I hope to visit this place one day too
It really is incredible how nature can leave us in awe! I hope you get the chance to visit, it’s a place that’s truly worth experiencing.
I've been hearing about this place, it's so nice!
I’m glad you’ve heard about it! It really is such a beautiful place, definitely worth seeing for yourself someday!
nature is really one of the best things in this world, I mean that place is magical! It's so pretty and it would be such a great life experience to visit that masterpiece
I couldn’t agree more, nature truly is amazing! This place does feel like something out of a dream, and visiting it is definitely an unforgettable experience. Hope you get to see it someday!
the water is really deep yet captivating
yes at first, I'm afraid to dip in but it's really worth it ☺️
Thanks for visiting our very own enchanted river, I've been here so many times but the first time here is very simple just like a normal river. No entrance at all, no cottages. Medyo scary lng ang behind story ng enchanted na eto kaya extra careful lalo na pg may mga bta.
yeah true the fire hahahaha, ako din medyo natakot sa tubig pero apaka ganda tignan ng mga isda sa tubig kaso pag langoy kakatakot pero worth it naman. Thank you @jeansapphire ☺️
Omg, this is the place that I want to go to. I was in Agusan del Sur last year but I never went to this place. I have so many chances but I never make it there.
I hope you can visit the place Agusan del Sur is near to Surigao del Sur
This place looks magical, it has really lived its name enchanted, thank you for sharing this beautiful spot with us @marieyanlab.💗✨
yeahhh right? it looks enchanted even the stories behind the enchanted river
My family went there, sayang wala jd ko kakuyog!😭
sayanga, pero naa pa next time ☺️
I think I've got some friends there in Surigao. I'm thinking of surprising them with an unannounced visit this year and nudge them to go to this river !BBH
yeah, that sounds as a nice idea. You won't regret visiting this place. ☺️
This place looks beautiful, I’d love to visit there and take lots of photos @marieyanlab 😻
The water is so clear and I want to dive ehehhe, soon I will visit this place.🤍
It truly lives up to its name-- it's enchanting!!
thank you @pizzabot ☺️