Naujan Lake forms the core area of Naujan Lake National Park and is the largest freshwater lake in Oriental Mindoro. The lake and adjoining areas were declared a national park on March 27, 1956, through Proclamation No. 282. As a Ramsar Wetland, it is also of international importance. The combination of protected area, lake and lakeside landscape provides a distinctive starting point for exploring Oriental Mindoro’s natural side.
Naujan Lake and the Mangrove Landscapes
Naujan Lake is home to native and migratory fish, as well as waterbirds. Those who want to experience the lake not only as a landscape but also as a place to get active can find a promenade and bicycle path in Batong Dalig, on its edge. Walking, cycling and jogging are possible there.
The Silonay Mangrove Conservation and Ecopark in Calapan City offers another perspective on water and nature. The area covers 42 hectares. Its 350-meter-long boardwalk leads to a six-meter-high observation tower with panoramic views of the Silonay River and the adjacent sea. Its biodiversity has also been documented in figures: a flora and fauna survey in 2014 recorded 15 mangrove species, 29 bird species—including seven endemic to the Philippines—two bat species, and five reptile and amphibian species.
Harka Piloto Island in Calapan City is a fish sanctuary actively protected by the community and local government. The island lies about 1.5 kilometers from the main island, off the coast of Barangay Lazareto. Buloc-Buloc Cove also combines a coastal landscape with marine protection: it is known as the 72-hectare BuCoMaPA Marine Protected Area. A cave in the cove can be reached and entered by boat.
Waterfalls, Trails and Nature Park
In Puerto Galera, the landscape takes many forms. Aninuan Falls is four meters high and lies at the foot of Mt. Malasimbo in Aninuan. A 20- to 30-minute trekking trail leads to the falls—a specific time estimate that can help with your own planning. Tamaraw Falls is located along the highway in Barangay Villaflor and is considered Oriental Mindoro’s most easily accessible waterfall. For visitors heading to other attractions in Puerto Galera, it is a common stop.
At Calapan Nature Park, centuries-old trees stand alongside recreation areas, picnic and camping sites, a mini-zoo, and facilities for wall climbing. The park is also the starting point for the one-hour Bulusan Eco-Trail, which ends on the coast in Barangay Parang. White Beach in Barangay San Isidro, also in Puerto Galera, is characterized by fine white sand and clear blue water.
Museums, Crafts and Local Discoveries
The Oriental Mindoro Heritage Museum is located at the Old Provincial Capitol in Barangay Ibaba East, Calapan City. The abandoned Spanish fort of Cal-kuta is also located there. The museum displays historical documents, cultural artifacts, evidence of biodiversity, and memorabilia from different parts of the province. The Bansud Museum serves a different purpose in the town of Bansud: it is a repository for the town’s artifacts and historical relics.
At Dao Water Lily Mini Park, you can enjoy a ride or spend time in a floating cottage. The park also displays handicrafts and souvenirs made from dried water lilies. Those interested in how pottery is made can learn about the craft and production process at M. Adriatico Pottery. Confirm visiting arrangements there before your trip.
Mimaropa in Regional Context
Mimaropa is reputed to set the gold standard for environmental protection. The region’s Blue Parks Awardees include Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park and Siete Pecados Marine Park in Palawan, as well as Apo Reef Natural Park in Occidental Mindoro. Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park protects almost 100,000 hectares of marine habitats, with three atolls and a large deep-sea area. These examples provide a regional context; the parks described are not in Oriental Mindoro.
Getting to Puerto Galera
Regular ferries and fast boats connect Batangas Pier with ports in Puerto Galera, including Muelle Pier, Sabang and White Beach. Check the operators’ information before departure. Discover more destinations: Occidental Mindoro, Palawan, Romblon.
For the main travel overview: Mimaropa.
