THE ENCHANTED RIVER: The Pride of Hinatuan

From Tinuy-an Falls of Bislig City, this blogger explored more the beauty of the Province of Surigao del Sur. Remarkably, it is bursting with great surprises for all outdoor enthusiasts like me. But amongst these surprises, the Enchanted River is the top of my list. Until now, it still amazes me.

The Enchanted River is hidden in Barangay Talisay, 30-45 minutes ride from the town proper of the Municipality of Hinatuan in the province of Surigao Del Sur.

Getting there, we passed through a lengthy narrow trail of thick foliage that led us to area that faces a mountain wall. Below that area, nestles incredibly blue water that at first glance looks like a reflection of the sky. But what’s so interesting is that the River is indeed blue in color.

Getting close to the River facing a mountainside of tropical forest, to the left, there is a tiny cavern with a very low hole where I had the chance to get inside. To the right, waters flow liberally through the abundant mangroves that goes straight to the Pacific Seas on the other side of the mountain – it is for this reason why the Enchanted River possesses a mysterious blue color that no river naturally have.

The Enchanted River is renowned to be so deep that divers have yet to explore what’s underneath and what’s beyond its unfathomable depth. More than anything else, it is the crystal clear waters of the River that seems to be so enchanting. The hue and transparent-like beauty charms one to take a quick dip but once you’re in the cool, clear waters, you don’t want to come out.

When I first heard the name Enchanted River, my first question was, “Why enchanted?”

According to local folks, the River is full of rich marine fishes of different varieties and of huge shapes swimming in the deep blue waters but no one is said to have ever caught one - not by hand or by spear. Hearsay has it; the River is guarded by spirits making it still a beautiful place until now.

The depth of the Enchanted River is said to unfathomable. No one has ever measured the accurate depth of the river that makes it so enchanting and profound to explain. I had the chance to take a glimpse of the underwater using goggle and my jaw dropped in awe as I saw something I’ve never seen in my whole life. I may sound weird but I think I’ve seen the real “ABYSS” in there. So spectacular. So amazing. So enchanting.

Exploring Enchanted River for me was a real new experience. There was a peaceful feeling as I dip myself in those cool waters of the river. I felt good and I felt so close to nature and its Creator. The beauty and the splendor of the Enchanted River are beyond my adjectives. Something I wish to describe more. But one thing for sure I know, it is indeed so enchanting. And I must say I am enchanted by the River.

Indeed, this is one of the places I would certainly go back and will never be tired of savoring its beauty and uniqueness. After all, it is an ENCHANTING RIVER.

HOW TO GET THERE:

The Municipality of Hinatuan can be reached by land from Davao City in an estimated 7 hours and from Bislig City in less than 2 hours.