Aside from the beautiful island of Puerto Galera, Mindoro has a lot of equally exciting and lovely places that are worth visiting, and one of them is the capital city of Calapan. It was just a small village that became the capital city when Mindoro became an independent province in 1902.
The beaches of Calapan has fine-sand, but instead of the usual white, the city has black. It also has shallow water that is perfect for swimming, and the surrounding trees will make you feel closer to nature.
Aside from the beaches, there are other must-see spots in Calapan, which will make your visit truly memorable and enjoyable.
The landmark of Calapan City – On Top is the Mangyan (aborigine) and Tamaraw which can only be found in Mindoro: Isolatedpawn [CC BY-SA 3.0], via Wikimedia Commons
Silonay Mangrove Conservation and Eco-Park
The mangrove trees in the village of Silonay do not only serve as protection or natural barrier against storm surges, but it also became a part of a conservation and eco-tourism park. Guests enjoy walking along the 350-meter boardwalk and which has a 6-meter high tower at the end, where they can enjoy birdwatching.
Baco Infinity Farm
If you imagine hectares of a green, grass field, well, we hate to disappoint. The Baco Infinity Farm is more of a cascading body of water where people get to dine while enjoying dipping their feet in the shallow, running water.
Mangyan Heritage Center
Get to know more about the history and culture of the Mangyans, the indigenous people of Mindoro. Crafts made by the Mangyan people are available for sale in this heritage center, and the proceeds help fund the studies of Mangyan students.
Sto. Niño Cathedral
Located at the heart of the city is the center of religious activities, the Sto. Niño Cathedral. A simple and elegant church with an impressive altar, masses are held in the cathedral every 6:00 a.m.
Isolatedpawn [CC BY-SA 3.0], via Wikimedia Commons
Calapan City Zoological and Recreational Park
Aside from seeing the animals, this park also has a playground, a fountain, and some benches to sit on to take a short rest from all the walking. Visitors also get to enjoy activities such as horseback riding, wall climbing, and zip lining. Though each activity requires a payment, the entrance to the park is free of charge.
Caluangan Lake
Probably the hidden gem of Calapan City, the Caluangan Lake may be enjoyed by guests by riding a boat to get around it. Visitors will also get to see dozens of white birds resting in the trees before making their way to the mountains.