Let yourself be drawn by the bewitching beauty of the Hinatuan Enchanted River in Surigao Del Sur. Its stunning blue hues attracted many tourists and locals over the years. The river teems with rich marine wildlife and speculative stories of its origin. Its unexplored depths remain a source of mysteries and wonder. The CARAGA region, where the Hinatuan Enchanted River is located, is home to a number of natural and cultural wonders, which are some of the main drivers of its increasing tourism in recent years.
If that is not enough to convince you, here is a list of 12 more reasons you should add the Hinatuan Enchanted River to your Surigao itinerary.
12 Reasons Why You Should Not Miss Out on the Hinatuan Enchanted River
1. Captivating blend of color
One look is all it takes to find out why the Hinatuan Enchanted River keeps going viral from time to time. The water blends a light turquoise by the banks and shallow areas with a vivid cerulean toward the deep end.
It remains a vibrant blue during high and low tide, but when the latter occurs, the Blue Lagoon (deep end) becomes incredibly clearer than usual. Visitors can see deep into the cave beneath, as well as the colorful fish that dwell in the river.
2. Impressive depth remains a mystery
Over the years, many technical divers had tried to reach the floor of the Hinatuan Enchanted River, however, the furthest they could reach was about 87 meters deep. Despite many risky explorations, no one has yet discovered the river’s true depths.
3. Inspired a variety of myths and folk stories
Oral tradition gave life to the legends of the Enchanted Hinatuan River. For example, its captivating blue is said to be painted with jade and sapphire wands owned by diwata or fairies. Fishermen tell stories about large, peculiar fish that cannot be caught by any means. The river itself is said to be the dwelling place of engkanto, spirits and mythical creatures of the Philippines.
4. Named after a poem
The river’s unique beauty was recognized long ago as ‘Libwak’, but its current name was derived from a poem called ‘Rio Encantado’. It was written by Modesto Farolan, a journalist, tourism advocate, and former Philippines consul general to Hawaii. He dedicated it to a special someone, with the river of Hinatuan as a romantic backdrop for lovers.
The poem was combined with music by Francisco Rio and is now played over the river during fish feeding.
5. Dedicated swimming area
In the past, the locals used to allow swimming along the whole stretch of the river, including the deep Blue Lagoon. In 2017, however, the local government of Hinatuan roped off a shallow dedicated swimming spot 10 meters away from the lagoon. They wanted to prevent damage to the limestone walls of the river. Broken limestone descends to the mouth of the underwater cave, blocking off the spring and allowing saltwater to enter. Since creating the swimming area, the Hinatuan Enchanted River has been restored to its freshwater levels and reduced coliform levels, making swimming safer for everyone.
Life vests are required during swimming. Do not worry about renting one, because it is already included in the river’s entrance fee.
6. Delightful fish feeding show
When the clock strikes 12 o’clock noon, swimmers are herded out of the water for a few minutes to give way to the fish feeding show. The poem-song ‘Hymn of Hinatuan’ is played from a speaker while staff aboard a small boat feed the schools of colorful fish below.
This routine becomes a spectacular show where you can witness all sorts of fish swimming to the surface. This activity is also said to appease river spirits. It is recommended to visit before lunchtime to watch the presentation.
7. Complex underwater cave system
Under the Blue Lagoon, a deep underground cave awaits. The farthest local cave divers had reached was about 87 meters, and the rest remains untouched. Tourists are not allowed to participate in recreational cave diving, however.
To this day, the Filipino Cave Divers organization explores and studies the Hinatuan Enchanted River, documenting their findings in partnership with the local government and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR). The consistent monitoring by the group contributed majorly to conservation efforts.
8. Conservation and preservation efforts
In the past years, the local government and communities carried out environmental conservation actions to preserve the beauty of the Hinatuan Enchanted River. To decrease pressure on the underground cave, food and drink vendors, souvenir shops, and parking areas were moved to a new facility about 300 meters away from the river. Visitors are encouraged to take the free shuttle or walk 10 minutes to the river.
Eating was prohibited and swimmers were limited to a smaller area. These efforts successfully improved the river’s condition and made it as fascinating as it is today.
9. Jump-off point for island hopping tour
Beyond the Hinatuan Enchanted River, there are several islands and rock formations to explore. You can avail of an island hopping tour, where the Enchanted River serves as a jump-off. It costs 500 pesos for 2-3 hours, touring the following islands with their corresponding entrance fees (as of 2024):
- Sibadan Fish Cage – 50 pesos
- Lodestone Shores Resort – 50 pesos
- Rock Island – 30 pesos
10. Seafood dining options nearby
A coastal and river exploration calls for seafood, which you can find at the dining hall, near the reception of the Hinatuan Enchanted River. Fresh seafood is also offered at the island hopping locations: Sibadan Fish Cage Resort, Rock Island, and Lodestone Shores.
11. Hinatuan beach resort for overnight stays
The Enchanted River Rock Island Resort is the closest offshore lodging to the Surigao Del Sur attraction. Boat rides can be booked as part of the island hopping tour or separately, especially if you book a room. Upon arrival at the pier, there is a seafood restaurant where you can get your fill of fresh catches.
Another Hinatuan beach resort worth considering is the Lodestone Shores Resort, located on Bagasin Island, a short boat trip from the Hinatuan Enchanted River. They have activities such as high diving, swimming, kayaking, and dining.
12. Meet Brenda the friendly manta ray
Brenda is a lovely manta ray kept at Sibadan Fish Cage and Resort, one of the favorite stops during the Hinatuan Enchanted River island hopping tour. This popular stopover can be reached via pumpboat and visitors can swim with fish.
Manta rays like Brenda are safe to swim and interact with because their stings were safely removed by the owners. Aside from bathing with friendly fish, they also offer fresh seafood and lodging for a coastal getaway.
Where is the Hinatuan Enchanted River?
The famous Hinatuan Enchanted River borders Barangay Talisay and Cambatong in the municipality of Hinatuan, Surigao Del Sur. It is around 300 meters in length and connects to the ocean, nearby islands, and rocks.
It is remote enough that not a lot of foreign tourists come by, and is more popular to locals arriving from Davao, Agusan Del Norte, and other neighboring provinces.
How to Go to Enchanted Hinatuan River Philippines
From Cebu to Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur via Ferry
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- Book Starlite Ferries going to Surigao at the ticketing booth at Cebu Port Authority. Check the Cebu to Surigao or Surigao to Cebu ferry schedule here.
- Arrive at the Port of Surigao.
- Take a multicab to Surigao City Integrated Land Transport Terminal.
- Go to Hinatuan through bus or van:
- Drive or rent a van – Hire a van in advance, especially if traveling in a group. Let them know you would like to be dropped off at Hinatuan Enchanted River. Travel time is 5 hours and 30 minutes via Butuan and 6 hours and 50 minutes via Surigao-Davao Coastal Road.
- Take the bus – Book a ride for buses bound to Mangagoy. Inform the conductor that you will get off at Hinatuan Terminal.
You can also board a bus going to Butuan City, then take another bus going to Mangagoy and alight at Hinatuan Terminal. Hire a motorcycle to Hinatuan Enchanted River.
Entrance Fee and Other Amenities at Hinatuan Enchanted River
Entrance Fee (inclusive of parking, life vest, tables and chairs, unlimited swimming)
- For Residents and Locals of Hinatuan
- Adults – 30 pesos
- Seniors – 20 pesos
- Children below 4 feet – 15 pesos
- For Non-Residents
- Adults – 100 pesos
- Seniors and PWD – 80 pesos
- Children below 4 feet – 30 pesos
Amenities at Hinatuan Enchanted River
- Ticket office
- Shuttle (free of charge)
- Storage area
- Comfort room
- Changing area
- Parking area
- Restaurant / Dining hall
The CARAGA region holds many hidden and popular tourist destinations, and the Hinatuan Enchanted River is only one of them. A few hours is not enough to bask in the full Enchanted River experience, so make sure to dedicate morning to afternoon for the whole excursion. Nature lovers and adventurers will surely appreciate its spellbinding charm, the lushness of flora and fauna in the area, and the vast expanse of ocean beyond the mouth of the river.
ALSO READ: Top Surigao Del Sur Attractions You Need to Include On Your 2025 Travel Plans
Travel to Surigao via Starlite Ferries, the most trusted name in Philippine sea travel. We offer regular trips from Cebu to Surigao on our reliable RoPax vessels. Check our schedule and rates here and book with us for your Surigao trip today.