Crocodile Sanctuary in San Mariano
San Mariano offers a remarkable gallery of natural spectacles, from its rich flora and fauna to its diverse river systems and stunning waterfall formations.
The Philippine Crocodile, a critically endangered species, inhabits many of the rivers and creeks that flow through San Mariano. The Mabuwaya Foundation actively supports the renowned San Mariano Crocodile Sanctuary, a vital refuge for this rare reptile.
Dibulo Fall
Dibulo Falls is one of the most notable waterfalls in the Sierra Madre mountain range. It is one of the main attractions of the Sierra Madre Nature Park.
Dictocotan Beach
Dicotcotan Beach boasts of a three-kilometer long beach with coral reefs, sea grass beds and sandy shoreline that is fringed with a coastal forest and a village. There are regular sightings here of pointed nosed dolphins and hump back whales aside from the various species of fish and shellfish, and marine turtles that can be seen from the surface.
Fuyot Springs National Park
Situated in the suburbs of Sta. Victoria, City of Ilagan, Fuyot Springs National Park offers a multitude of attractions guaranteed to satisfy adventurers.
The park is home to the Sta. Victoria Caves, which feature more than 12 caverns open to the public for spelunking. These caves showcase natural lattices, stalactites, and stalagmites. Some formations contain mineral deposits that glimmer and shine when struck by light.
Also located within the park is Pinzal Falls, accessible via a short trek from the park proper. Following the creek that flows from the falls, visitors will discover a trail of rocks and waterholes that are sure to excite any avid adventurer.
Abuan River
Supported by local government, private sectors, NGOs, and the community, it is gaining popularity as a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts. Once regarded by the Department of the Interior and Local Government as the “cleanest river” in Cagayan Valley in the 1990s, the river has been a favorite spot for villagers and tourists who enjoy whitewater rafting, rappelling, waterfall trekking, kayaking, and other water activities.
Dimasilong
Bird Watching at Malasi Lake
Malasi Lake in Brgy. San Antonio, Cabagan, Isabela, is officially designated as a municipal bird sanctuary, crucial for migratory birds and renowned for its population of endemic Philippine Ducks (Anas luzonica). The sanctuary is celebrated among birdwatchers for its diverse avian species and is set to develop into a key environmental education and ecotourism destination.
The sanctuary consists of two natural lakes situated in open grassland west of the Cagayan River. One lake is used for irrigation, while the other, with its reed-filled areas, provides essential breeding grounds for waterbirds. Local ordinances protect the site by banning hunting and egg collection and limiting agricultural development around the lakes.
Administrative Order No. 2012-01, issued by former DENR Secretary Ramon Paje, designates Malasi Tree Park and Wildlife Sanctuary as a critical habitat. This designation ensures that any development activities are subject to thorough assessment to preserve the area’s ecological integrity. It aligns with Republic Act 9147, the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act, and addresses the decline of the Philippine duck, which is classified as “vulnerable” by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
Marannao SWIP Dam
Marannao SWIP Dam, a water-impounding project, collects rainwater during the wet season, providing vital irrigation for crops and supporting fish farming during the dry months. Visitors can enjoy serene boating on the tranquil waters and relax with family and friends in this picturesque setting, making it an ideal spot for peaceful picnics and outdoor recreation.