Fun DIY Tour in Zamboanga del Norte’s Dipolog and Dapitan 2024
Fun DIY Tour in Zamboanga del Norte’s Dipolog and Dapitan 2024
In my first few years in Taiwan, when a local knew that I am from the Philippines, they would enthusiastically share that they had been to Manila. It was in that instant that I realized that Manila is pretty popular in Taiwan obviously because it’s the capital of the Philippines.
Understanding that the Taiwanese people know about Manila, I didn’t just stop there. I kept on pitching about Cebu and shared about the wonderful experience they would have if they travel the province and unexpectedly Cebu has become well-known now in Taiwan.
Manila can be considered as a representation of the Luzon Region, Cebu for the Visayas Region but the Philippines has one more region that’s unfamiliar to many and that’s the Mindanao region. Mindanao is considered as the land of the promise because of its rich land and abundant fruits so I am pretty excited to share about my recent DIY trip to Zamboanga del Norte’s famous cities, Dapitan and Dipolog.
Where is Zamboanga del Norte?
Fun DIY Tour in Zamboanga del Norte’s Dipolog and Dapitan 2024
The area where you see the blue pin is Zamboanga del Norte.
Zamboanga del Norte (Cebuano: Amihanang Zamboanga; Subanon: Utara Sembwangan; Filipino: Hilagang Zamboanga), officially the Province of Zamboanga del Norte, is a province in the Philippines situated within the Zamboanga Peninsula region in Mindanao. Its capital is Dipolog and the province borders Zamboanga del Sur and Zamboanga Sibugay to the south, Misamis Occidental to the east, and the Sulu Sea to the west.
Zamboanga del Norte is the largest province of the Zamboanga Peninsula region by land area covering 7,301.00 square kilometres (2,818.93 sq mi). Zamboanga del Norte is the 26th populous province in the Philippines.
Fun DIY Tour in Zamboanga del Norte’s Dipolog and Dapitan 2024
Zamboanga del Norte comprises 25 municipalities and 2 cities. Dipolog, Sindangan and Dapitan are the top most densely populated area in the province These are further subdivided into 691 barangays, and clustered into 3 congressional districts.
Sibuco is the largest municipality by land area, constituting 10.72% (782.54 square kilometers) of the total provincial area. Sibutad is the smallest, with 0.90% (65.57 square kilometers). Reference: Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zamboanga_del_Norte
Fun DIY Tour in Zamboanga del Norte’s Dipolog and Dapitan 2024
Day 1 Samboan Cebu to Dapitan Port
Fun DIY Tour in Zamboanga del Norte’s Dipolog and Dapitan 2024
Lite Ferries Samboan Port in Cebu
It will take 4 to 5 hours from Cebu City to Samboan because it is located at the southernmost part of Cebu Province.
Based on my personal experience, it was difficult to secure a ticket for this Lite Ferries in Samboan Port. They do not offer pre-booking so you have to travel to Samboan, endure the long road trip, and avail a ticket on that very same day you wish to go to Dapitan.
We bought the Tourist Air-conditioned cabin worth 710 Pesos per person. There is a standard deck worth 640 Pesos for Adults. They offer discounts to students, minors and seniors.
This is how a Tourist Air-conditioned deck look like. It’s at the upper floor of the Lite Ferries. They provide a pillow and a bed cover so be sure you have a portable blanket so you won’t feel cold during the trip.
It takes 5 hours from Samboan Port Cebu to Dapitan Port. The Lite ferries leaves in Samboan at 6 pm and arrives at Dapitan at 11pm. There are porters offering a ride but it would be best if you have relatives to pick you up. If not, you can try to inquire from the port about the safest way to reach your hotel.
There’s a restaurant inside the Lite Ferries Samboan Port so you can stay here while waiting for the departure.
Day 2 Tourist Attraction Hopping
Fun DIY Tour in Zamboanga del Norte’s Dipolog and Dapitan 2024
1. Linabo Peak or 3003 Steps Dipolog
The 3003 Steps to Linabo Peak offers a panoramic view of the twin cities of Dipolog and Dapitan. It is also the venue for the annual “Katkat Sakripisyo” of Catholic devotees who perform their penitential rites during the Lenten Season. (Reference: Dipolog https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dipolog)
1st Station for the Katkat Sakripisyo
Shout out to these kind staff of Linabo Peak at Lugdungan, Dipolog City
2. Jose Rizal Shrine and Museum Dapitan
This is the major historical landmark of Dapitan City. It refers to the more or less sixteen (16) hectares estate of Dr. Jose P. Rizal which he purchased in Barangay Talisay and is approximately two (2) kilometers NW from the City Hall.
He spent his lonely but productive and altruistic life for four years in banishment working as a rural physician, farmer, merchant, inventor, painter, sculptor, archaeologist, linguist, grammarian, teacher, architect, poet, biologist, composer, surveyor, environmentalist, aside from being a lover, father, and brother to all Dapitanons. (Reference: City of Dapitan Official Website https://dapitancity.gov.ph/rizal-shrine/ )
Dr. Jose Rizal is the National Hero of the Philippines and considered as a silent freedom fighter and awakened the Filipinos’ patriotism through his mighty pen. Rizal’s most notable contributions include his writings, which advocated for political reforms and social change in the Philippines.
His novels, “Noli Me Tangere” (Touch Me Not) and “El Filibusterismo” (The Reign of Greed), exposed the abuses and injustices committed by the Spanish colonial government and the clergy. (Reference: Google)
Fun DIY Tour in Zamboanga del Norte’s Dipolog and Dapitan 2024
3. Jose Rizal Disembarkation Shrine Dapitan
This is the exact spot where Dr. Jose Rizal disembarked as he was exiled in Dapitan. This is not just a historical spot, the place will also offer you a breathtaking view of the sunset.
4. Glorious Fantasyland Dapitan
This is one of the biggest theme parks in the Philippines and a pride of Mindanao. This is located near the Sunset Boulevard in Dapitan.
During my visit, the locals come here usually at night because they said it’s too hot during day time.
Business hours from Monday to Thursday is from 5pm to 12am. On Fridays until Sundays, it’s open from 5am to 1am.
Read here for the ticket price and more details: https://www.thepinaysolobackpacker.com/glorias-fantasyland-in-dapitan-zamboanga-del-norte/
5. Bianos Pizzadderia Dipolog
Live Band at Bianos Pizzaderia Fun DIY Tour in Zamboanga del Norte’s Dipolog and Dapitan 2024
I and my family enjoyed good music and great food here at Bianos Pizzaderia. Apart from their generous serving and delicious food, the price is also reasonable. This place is good for big groups or family dine out.
Day 3 Tourist Attraction Hopping
Fun DIY Tour in Zamboanga del Norte’s Dipolog and Dapitan 2024
1. Viewpoint Tinindugan
Fun DIY Tour in Zamboanga del Norte’s Dipolog and Dapitan 2024
The Philippines is filled with so many things to be loved! And our people have so much love to give to the world! Feel the love of nature here at Viewpoint at Tinindugan in Sergio Osmeña Sr. in Zamboanga del Norte, Region IX.
Explore more, visit often, and experience the region’s best tourism offerings once again. Love our own. Love the Philippines. (Reference: Viewpoint Facebook Page https://www.facebook.com/viewpointattinindugan)
I’ve asked about this Viewpoint at Tinindugan and the locals told me that you can actually spend a night or two here. I and family did a day time sightseeing and we were never disappointed. The place was relaxing and you will have enough of green-gasm. It’s nice to see a panoramic view of the emerald mountain ranges.
Apart from the soul-calming view, the place has instagram-able spots that’s a great strategy to attract young tourists. Each photo spot will surely challenge your photography and modeling skills on how to put all the elements in one frame.
2. Nikka’s Ridge Tinindugan
Fun DIY Tour in Zamboanga del Norte’s Dipolog and Dapitan 2024
Nikka’s Ridge is just a few drive away from Viewpoint in Tinindugan and I enjoyed our side trip here. It’s a perfect place to enjoy a cup of coffee with your friends or try an authentic Filipino cuisine. There are also photo spots that showcase the beauty of Sergio Osmena Zamboanga del Norte.
Inquire and know more on their services here on their official Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/nikkasridge/
3. Central Public Market Dipolog
Fun DIY Tour in Zamboanga del Norte’s Dipolog and Dapitan 2024
If you visit Dipolog City, it is a must to buy their famous salted dried fish because according to the locals, it’s very special and tasty. It is also great to give to your family and friends as an authentic Dipolog delicacy.
Day 4 Fun in Dipolog City
Fun DIY Tour in Zamboanga del Norte’s Dipolog and Dapitan 2024
1. Royal Farm Dipolog
Fun DIY Tour in Zamboanga del Norte’s Dipolog and Dapitan 2024
This place is a must if you visit Dipolog city. It offers a beautiful spot for a big family gathering and friends too. The facilities are satisfactory and there is a safe swimming pool for the kids. If you are a photo enthusiast, you will surely be exhausted clicking the shutter with the unlimited photo spots at Royal Farm.
This Royal Farm offers more services other than swimming pools although their most popular attraction is the snow machine. I wasn’t able to witness it but locals are talking about this. They have several villas or rooms for rent. I bet this place is also great for team building activities or functions.
2. City Mall Dipolog
Fun DIY Tour in Zamboanga del Norte’s Dipolog and Dapitan 2024
A quick taste of Dipolog City was a side trip at the City Mall. There’s a cinema, a playground for the kids and the place I enjoyed, the grocery. A quick errand achieved here at the City Mall.
3. Dipolog Sunset Boulevard
Fun DIY Tour in Zamboanga del Norte’s Dipolog and Dapitan 2024
This is the most recommended place in Dipolog City, the famous Sunset Boulevard. It’s a public place where one can enjoy a beautiful sight of the sunset. The locals come here for a picnic and relaxation. There are restaurants and street foods nearby so if you don’t want to bring your own food, you can dine in at the Boulevard.
Watch my Fun DIY Tour in Zamboanga del Norte’s Dipolog and Dapitan 2024
Also read: Amazing Places you must visit in Cebu 2024 https://everydaywithgen.com/amazing-places-you-must-visit-in-cebu-2024/
Fun DIY Tour in Zamboanga del Norte’s Dipolog and Dapitan 2024
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