photo courtesy of BuBoi CostasOlango [o-lang-go] is an island located few kilometers east of Mactan which lies between Bohol Strait and Camotes Sea; it’s also close to the Hilutungan Channel. The island diverse coastal ecosystem like the mangroves, coral reefs, sand flats and seagrass beds makes it attractive to different species of migratory bird thus making it perfect for nature lover, bird watching, marine ecosystem research and of course for backpackers too.
How to get there:
There lots of ways to get there, either on your own or thru an organized transfer. If you’re outside of the Philippines a direct flight to Cebu is the most convenient way or thru a connecting flight to Manila and take a domestic flight to Cebu. Should you want a direct or organized transfer to the island you can contact Polaris at these phone numbers +63 (0)38 505 41 18 Mobile +63 (0)918 903 7187 Fax +63 (0)38 505 41 18 or if you want to go there on your own take a taxi from Cebu City to the Pier of the Hilton Hotel or the one of Angasil, both located in Mactan Island. You can also take a jeepny at whitegold or sm terminal area going to Lapulapu, and then ride a tricycle to Angasil and get off at Mar Y Cielo Beach Resort. The boats leave every 30 minutes to the pier of Santa Rosa, the fare cost is P15-P20.
Island Hopping:
Outrigger boats are available at Angasil Pier for just P2, 500-P3, 000 good for 20 people which covers Hilutungan Island, Sulpa Island, and Olango Island Bird Sanctuary. If you're hungry doing the hop you can check out some stilt restaurants at Brgy Caw-oy in Olango that serves fresh catch from the sea for a very reasonable price. After you're done island hopping some private beach cottages* offers an overnight stay for P1T-P2T only that's good for 30-50 people. Or you might go camping in some public beach areas just be aware of high-tides though.
*this is not a room just a beachside open-air cottage
photo courtesy of BuBoi Costas