DANJUGAN ISLAND. BRGY. BULATA, CAUAYAN . NEGROS OCCIDENTAL.

 DANJUGAN ISLAND

Danjugan was once a threatened and over-fished area, now a sanctuary with a dazzling array of marine and terrestrial life. It is a 43-hectare island, 1.5 kilometers long and .5 kilometers wide. It has 5 lagoons, bat caves, lush limestone and mangrove forests, vast seagrass beds and fringing coral reefs. The island is refuge for many wild species that struggle to exist in the mainland.

Danjugan Island was never meant to be a resort. It was saved first and foremost for conservation and second, to become nature’s classroom. For many years, the island was open for educational camps and research activities. Tourism came much later and the founders made sure that the island would remain as natural as possible. Less than 10% of the island is developed, the rest is left for wildlife. Today, Danjugan is considered one of the top eco-tourism destinations, observing a low-impact, low-volume, high-quality and high-value tourism model.

Danjugan Sanctuary, we now call it. It has not just been a sanctuary to wildlife, but it has been sanctuary to so many people who have visited it. Danjugan will always be a place for people to connect with nature and learn from her, hoping to be the place where love for the environment will be planted in the hearts of everyone who visits.

HOW TO GET TO DANJUGAN ISLAND?

1. At the South Ceres Bus Terminal, board the bus going to Hinoba-an. There’s one almost every hour. Travel time: 4-5 hours. Fare: 209 (non-aircon bus).

2. Tell the driver to drop you off at Crossing Remollos-Quadro de King in Purok 3, Barangay Bulata (in Cauayan, Negros Occidental). You need to ask the driver because it is almost impossible to spot if you’re not familiar with the place. It’s an inconspicuous corner with no easily recognizable landmark.

3. The best marker would be the Quadro de King store, but their signage is parallel to the road, which makes it difficult to see if you’re looking ahead. Walk from the Crossing Remollos to the beach, where the boat is docked. Often, the boatmen will be waiting for you at the crossing. Sometimes, they are on the beach. Make sure you clarify with them when you call.

4. Take the boat to Danjugan Island. Travel time: 30 minutes. Fare: included in the package.