Camping @ Apo Reef

The adventure starts the moment you leave Manila. First leg is from MANILA to BATANGAS PIER for a 3 hour drive. Not to mention one must depart as early as 10pm to reach the pier before 1am inorder to get the 2am ferry boat ride by MONTENEGRO LINES bound to ABRA DE ILOG, OCCIDENTAL MINDORO for another 3 hour boring ride so so so early in the morning!

Upon setting foot at ABRA DE ILOG (3rd leg) one must take a van heading south to SABLAYAN, OCCIDENTAL MINDORO for another 3 hour drive...I mean bumpy and dusty 3 hour drive... upon reaching Sablayan one must go straight to the tourism office to register, settle payments and arrange a special boat ride going to APO REEF - inclusive of tour guide and enviromental fees. Actually, its quite expensive for a small group. Here you can rent diving and snorkeling equipments. Take note also that you can only stay on the island for two days only.

OFF TO APO REEF... LAST LEG, 3 hour bangka ride(pumpboats/outrig) conquering the waves. However, you will be welcomed by the high spirited Philippine army, PNP's, DENR Rep's and LGU (Local Gov't. Units) guarding the place upon reaching the Island. Not to mention the dolphins playing along side of your bangka and the grandeur beauty of the Lighthouse standing so proud on the island surrounded by limestone, mangroves and the white sand beach while getting close to it. A spectacular sight indeed...Truly breath-taking.

A total of 12 hour drive excluding some stop-overs.

There are no modern facilities on the island. Just the basic ones inteded for the Guardians of the place.

Must bring with you enough water, sturdy tents,camping equipments (torch light,burners,etc.) food supply, insect repellants and more insect repellants, snorkeling gear, sunblocks, and a nice piece of camera with extra batteries.