Pure adventure and nature: a portrait of the beautiful City of Surigao

Surigao City is located at the northern tip of Mindanao and is considered the gateway to the Visayas. The city impresses with its picturesque coastal location, friendly people and lively city centre. Visitors can expect a combination of modern amenities and authentic Filipino culture. With a population of more than 170,000, the metropolis is also very mountainous and still has plenty of greenery to offer.

The surrounding area is ideal for excursions to dream beaches, fascinating rock formations such as Mabua Pebble Beach and exciting island hopping tours. Fresh fish and seafood characterise the local cuisine. Surigao City is increasingly becoming a holiday destination for locals and international guests looking for nature, adventure and relaxation in a tropical atmosphere.

Surigao City’s Ecological Orientation: Mangrove Conservation

Surigao City is located in a region known for its extensive and ecologically valuable mangrove forests. The city and surrounding municipalities together have more than 2,700 hectares of mangrove areas, including in the barangays of Cagniog, Balibayon, Day-asan and Orok. These mangroves are not only a natural coastal and flood defence, but also a habitat for numerous fish species and other marine life.

Marvellous mangroves of Surigao City: the guide of an excursion boat shows a giant clam (Tridacna gigas). These mussels are the largest living mussels in the world and are found in the warm waters of the Indian and Pacific Oceans, especially in coral reefs. They can reach an age of over 100 years and grow to enormous sizes.

Island hopping from Surigao City

Surigao City is an ideal starting point for trips to numerous islands in the surrounding area. The city is therefore often referred to as the ‘City of Island Adventures’ and offers both holidaymakers and adventurers a wide range of excursions to nearby island gems. Travellers from Cebu City (a major international airport) can travel quite comfortably to Surigao on various ferries. The city is well worth a few days’ stay, with plenty to see, discover and marvel at.

Sights of Surigao City

Surigao City is home to numerous attractions, including Mabua Pebble Beach with its unique pebbles, Basul Island with its white sandy beach and several caves… Like Buenavista Cave, for example, for anyone who wants to try their hand at caving.

But most impressive are the numerous mangrove forests in the area, which have spread over 2700 hectares and are protected. The historic Surigao City Hall and the lively Luneta Park in the city centre are also a good reason to spend a relaxing time here.

The Mapawa Cave in Surigao City is an exciting natural attraction located in Barangay Mapawa. Visitors can reach it by pedicab or habal-habal and register in the barangay. For a small fee, it is possible to hire a cave guide and rent the necessary equipment such as helmets and headlamps. The cave offers an authentic speleological experience and fascinating rock formations.

Where is a good place to stay in Surigao City?

We can recommend Le Chard Place Tourist Inn in Surigao City with a clear conscience. It is a charming business class accommodation in the heart of the city. The Business Class Le Chard is ideal for travellers seeking comfort and convenience. It offers well-appointed rooms with air-conditioning, hot and cold showers, flat-screen TVs and Wi-Fi access.

 A smooth stay is ensured thanks to the 24-hour reception and a standby generator. Its central location allows easy access to transport, the airport and the harbour, making it a peaceful and accessible base for exploring Surigao City.

Le Chard Place Surigao City

Who visited Surigao City in July 2025?