The Hinatuan River is a river on the island of Mindanao in the Philippines. It flows into the Pacific Ocean at Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur. The River is also referred to as the "Enchanted River" by many locals and tourists. No expedition of divers have ever been able to reach the bottom of this river. |
Legend has it that one firefly-lit night, fairies floated above the enchanted river of Hinatuan, while elves watched from cliffs and banks. With their wands, the fairies stirred the water, toyed with sapphire and jade, and made the tones fade and meld to achieve a shade of bluish green that now paints the riverbed. |
|
Twelve kilometers from the highway junction, the Enchanted River shapes the boundary of Barangays Talisay and Cambatong in Hinatuan. Though some portions of the well-maintained dirt road are undulating. |
|
What lends credence to the river’s name? Fishermen swear to seeing various fish but couldn’t catch any no matter how they tried—not by hand, spear or net. Fishwives lay their fish traps at dusk only to find them hanging on a branch the day after. |
|
More myths include a foreigner plunges into the visible riverbed and finds it unfathomable. A father and son see two long-haired, alabaster-skinned women bathing under a plump moon then vanishing in a swirl of fireflies. Boatmen gape at sunken boulders of twisted images that are there one day and gone the next. |
|
An added attraction when visiting the Enchanted River happens at noon when the bell is rung and bathers are requested to get out of the water for about an hour. As the Hinatuan Hymn begins to play, groups of fish come out from nowhere like on cue and feed on food scraps the caretaker and tourists throw into the river. This feeding frenzy makes spinning scales and tails catch light, turning the natural pool into a liquid canvas of the magical and the fabulous. |
|
Farolan’s Enchanted River has changed over time. While the turquoise bed remains unchanging beneath a cool water sparkling like quicksilver, the environs have given way to some structures others may find incongruous with the thematic concept of nature. Where cliffs used to be, the local government has built concrete staircases to make it easy for tourists to bathe and swim. |
|
A few meters away from the bank that overlooks the river are some cottages that tourists can rent for P100. A wooden footbridge on stilts leads to a terminal of outrigger boats that ferry tourists to the nearby Vanishing Island and beach resort for P150 an hour. |
|
For nonswimmers, there are kiddie and adult pools. Stalls offer various seafood at reasonable prices outside the cordoned area, just across the main gate. |
|
Lifeguards are employed for safety precautions and life jackets are rented out at P100 each for a whole day’s use. Entrance fee is P20. |
|
Enjoy your enchanted river experience! |
Submitted by: Laura A.
A Photographer's Dream: Photos of Lauterbrunnental Valley
A Photo Series of Lauterbrunnental Valley in Switzerland as well as a video by the photographer.
This Photographer Has Captured the Beauty of Icy Landscape
An incredible photo series that takes us to landscapes time has forgotten.
Have You Ever Seen the Five Colored River?
The Cano Cristales river offers travelers an amazing site: 5 different colors all mixing in one place. A traveler happening upon the crystal river may find five different colors in its waters: yellow, blue, green, black and red.
The Magical Beauty of Iceland Discovered in Full Grace
You're invited to see 15 of his most stunning photos of the beauty of Iceland.
Our World is a Place of Wonder & Curiosity - 18 Photos
These photos have one common thread running through them - each one depicts poignant and fascinating moments that you wouldn’t want to miss!
These Photos Have Amazed the World...
From the epic majesty of our galaxy to the pure, simple beauty of a tortoise interacting with a butterfly, these photos are wonderful.
Take the Perfect Route to the Grand Canyon with Our Guide
Everything to see and do from the Four Corners to the North Rim
Quirky Structures That Define Belgium's Uniqueness
Discover the eccentric side of Belgian architecture with these weird and hilarious buildings you won't believe actually exist.
These Photos of Machu Picchu Are Simply Stunning
Machu Picchu is one of the few places everybody wished to visit, and these gob-smacking pictures show just why.
The Isle of Sky: Fly Above the Emerald Beauty of Scotland
This video takes us, by 4k drone, to a beautiful tour over Scotland.
10 Wonderful Places to Go Whale Watching
If you wish to encounter whales, here are the top 10 destinations to do so
Welcome to One of the Most Beautiful French Cities...
Prepare to immerse yourself in all that Montpellier has to offer - discover what sights are truly worth seeing and experiences worth having.
The Architectural Wonders of Europe Never Looked Better...
Watch as some of the most stunning structures of Europe come alive in beautiful detail.
The Most Exclusive and Extraordinary Hotels in the World
Behold a collection of the most unparalleled and exceptional hotels on Earth, like an underwater hotel, or a hotel made completely out of ice
The Tyrol Cow Festival - Celebrating With 100,000 Cows!
The Tyrol Cow Festival is an incredible occasion with 100,000 cows!
Meghalaya: An Indian State Blessed With Endless Beauty
Meghalaya is a beautiful state in the northeast corner of India, which is filled with numerous natural wonders and cultural excitements.
Take a Tour of Fenghuang, China's Ancient County!
Fenghuang County is one of the most amazing places in China - take a look!
15 Fantastic Attractions in Annecy, France
In this article, we'll share 15 must-visit attractions in Annecy, France that you won't want to miss.
16 Places You Are NOT Allowed to Visit!
This video lists 16 places you are never allowed to go to and why that is.
8 Island Cities that Are Wonderful Places to Visit
These densely-populated islands are intriguing, and each boasts a unique history.
18 of the Coolest Little Towns in the Good Ol' US of A
The US is more than Chicago, LA, and New York. For a true taste of Americana, visit these 18 cool towns.
12 Towns in Germany That Bring Old Magic to Life
Germany has a reputation for being a cold country, which may be true about its big cities, but not to these 12 small old towns surrounding them ...
21 Oddly Beautiful Street Scenes Caught on Camera
Here are some wacky and amusing photos from the "Street Photographers" Instagram page.
Set Your Eyes on Burano, an Island Bursting with Color
Every corner of Italy has some hidden beauty. Venetian Lagoon island Burano is a gem of an island bursting with colorful houses and tranquil scenery.
28 Places of Humbling Beauty You Can Find In Asia
Asia is a stunning and highly diverse continent with countless locations to explore. It's time for you to see 28 of the most humbling, beautiful places there.
10 Awesome Travel Destinations in England’s Lake District
Not everyone is familiar with England's beautiful Lake District, that's why we've gathered for you the 10 most treasured destination on site!
12 Stunning Spots That’ll Change the Way You See Poland
12 beautiful and eye popping places in Poland that anyone and everyone should visit, from picturesque little towns with huge and ancient castles to sky-breaking mountains with snowy peaks - there is so much beauty to enjoy.
17 of the World's Most Delightful Roads
If you love driving, you probably have your favorite road or roads, but these 17 spectacular roads will definitely trump your personal favorites. Check them out!
How I'd Love to Visit the Remarkable Mount Fuji...
Get to know the fantastic visuals and the rich history of this astounding mountain.
This Timelapse of Alaska Will Take Your Breath Away
Witness the incredible beauty of Alaska in this short, timelapse film
Garden Envy: Stunning Photos from Fellow Plant Lovers
Soothe your soul with these beautiful gardening pictures shared by people from all over the world.
I Watched this Video and Now I’m Planning a Trip to Ghent
Sweet trappist beer, golden Belgian fries and this gorgeous skyline- what else could you ask for?
Discover the Island of Capri in This Crisp 4K Video
Shot in 4K Ultra HD, this video will show you some of the most stunning sights Capri has to offer. Enjoy!
This Isn't Just a Mountain, It's Also An Incredible Temple
This may be the only mountain with so many religious structures on it. Together with the natural beauty of the place, it becomes the sight of a lifetime.
21 Things About Australia that Would Scare Me to Death
These 22 pictures are proof that Australia is a terrifying place to visit
Hidden Pearls of Japan: 12 Gorgeous, Little-Known Sights
If you plan to visit Japan, consider visiting 12 of the most charming and peaceful Japanese villages and towns.
Hard to Think of a Place More Lovely Than These Temples...
The island of the gods it is called, and it does seem blessed...
Poland's Castles Are Full of Medieval Mystery & Splendor
Poland, lying in the middle of Europe, has some of the most spectacular castles you've ever seen.
Take a Walk Along the Most Amazing Cliff Paths in the World
Come with us on a walk through some of the world's most spectacular cliff paths!
Sights to Behold: The Stunning Temples of Southeast Asia
Southeast Asia is a fascinating region of the world, and its religious structures play a big part in giving it its mystique. View its temples in HD here.
Indonesia: Is This Asia's Most Beautiful Country?
Indonesia is the best place in Asia to visit - and here is the photographic evidence!
The Dominican Republic is a Truly Epic Caribbean Paradise
If a stunning Caribbean destination sounds like a perfect holiday retreat to you, then take a look at this list of places to visit in the Dominican Republic.
This Video of the Norwegian Fjords Will Leave You In Awe
This stunning time-lapse video will take you over three of Norway's mightiest fjords. What's more, it's in full HD!
In the Lap of Nature: 8 Historic National Park Hotels
From lovely cabins to sprawling ranch resorts, these national park hotels and lodges are the perfect way to enjoy nature.
These Murals Change the Way People Look at Hospitals
Italian artist Silvio Irilli adds color to hospitals with his delightful murals.
The Spectacular Story Behind the Creation of Lady Liberty
One of the most iconic creation in all of history, the Statue of Liberty has an interesting story behind it.
Harmony, Discipline, Power! What a Drumming Performance!
Watch this mesmerizing drumming performance by a Japanese drumming troupe.