Some natural wonders seem to be alive—as if they have a mind of their own. They seem to choose who should see their majesty, decide when they should reveal their secrets, or determine how they should “test” the mortals to be worthy of entering their domain. It just shows that greater powers are at play here—powers that our feeble minds can never comprehend.
One of those wonders is the Sohoton Cove in Bucas Grande, Surigao del Norte.
Bucas Grande may not be as big nor as glamorous as seen in other parts of the country as some may claim, there is a quaint charm about the place especially for one that is not yet fully charted even to this day.
With its lushly vegetated tropical rock islands, crystal clear waters, caves, lakes and school of non-stinging jellyfishes, I certainly agree to those who say that this destination is a must-see in Surigao Del Norte. One can expect to be surrounded with sublime scenery during island hopping. This destination certainly has its unique charm and the scenery is really spectacular.
What to see in Bucas Grande/ Sohoton Cove?
Bucas Grande may not be as big nor as glamorous as seen in other parts of the country as some may claim, there is a quaint charm about the place especially for one that is not yet fully charted even to this day.
What makes Bucas Grande special probably lies in its numerous caves—a good portion of which are still yet to be discovered—its water falls, the inland lakes, mangroves, iron woods, and many fishing grounds, even the underwater life that is only visible through snorkeling like the stingless jellyfishes which are great to be around with.
Yet most interesting of all the places is the Blue Lagoon and the Sohoton Cove, mysterious places within Bucas Grande whose only means of getting into is during low tide season for its vanishing entrance and yet something that may confuse you of its maze-like natural design once there.
Interestingly, here are other places you can visit or landmarks you can see in Bucas Grande:
1. Horse’s Shoe
Horse’s shoe is simply a natural rock formation in the opening of Sohoton Cove that forms to what is to be a giant horse’s foot stuck on a rock – or at least, it looked that way, hence the naming. Guides use this landmark as reference; when they see the rock formation, it means they are near the entrance/exit of the Cove.
2. Daungdong Wall
A flat-faced limestone mountain which is said to be inhabited by enchanted creatures. “Daungdong” in their local dialect means “moan.” Locals say they hear moans coming from supernatural beings in this part of the mountain.
It is believed to be unearthly. It’s popular known as the Church Not Like Ours. The guide added that during Holy Week, mass songs and praises are heard by passersby.
3. Magkukuob Cave
Surely, your adrenalin would rise up at the Magkukuob Cave, so named with the bending position you must have to undergo in entering the cave, as you maneuver up rocky steps utilizing stalactites and stalagmites as handrails towards a skylight leading to a wooden platform right on a cliff located 15 feet above sea level.
We don’t have any choice but to jump. I can feel my knees shake a bit but I regain my composure, summon my courage and some encouraging chant, I finally leap off the platform and landed safely. A self-motivating and rewarding experience I’ve ever done. This is a must-try activities when inside Bucas Grande.
4. Hagukan Cave
literally snoring cave, due to the fact that it makes an ominous snoring sound as the waves of the receding tide lap the cavern’s roof. The air from the cavern rushes out in pulses in sync with the waves, creating the snoring sound. It’s like listening to a sleeping giant. 
We entered Hagukan Cave by swimming inside it. Inside, the cavern was lit with an eerie glow. According to the guides, we were lucky that we were able to listen to Hagukan Cave’s sounds. The snoring sounds are generated only during a specific period of the tide’s recession. In fact, the group that followed us weren’t able to hear the sounds anymore.
5. Bolitas and Crystal Cave
Bolitas and Crystal Cave are actually two separate cave systems within a cave system. Going on one can easily get you to another.
A trail made of carved rock led up the hill for the entrance of the Crystal and Bolitas Cave. Shame on you if you sigh in exasperation on the thought of climbing the steps! It’s good exercise, and the climb will only take a few minutes. hahaha
6. Crystal Cave
A few minutes later, we arrived at the foreboding mouth of Crystal Cave. It was time to switch on our flashlights and headlamps. 
Just a few meters away from the cave’s mouth, Mother Nature immediately introduced us to some of the most spectacular rock formations we have ever seen. Everywhere, we saw stalactites, stalagmites, columns, and flowstones. The ground, by the way, was compact but moist—somewhat like hard mud. Be careful, it’s slipppery!
Crystal Cave’s namesake comes from the fact that many stalactites, stalagmites, flowstones, draperies, and other rock formations sparkle when light shines upon them. The embedded quartz crystals glitter like fireflies dancing in the dark. Beautiful!
It is very important not to touch these young, glittering speleothems because they’re very delicate. The slightest touch can scrape off these crystals.
7. Tiktikan Lake
The Lagoon Lake adds another dimension to the uniqueness of these islands in Bucas Grande. If you want to see the panoramic view of the lake, you can stay on their viewing staff house. It’s like a mini open function hall where you can eat in or just chill out. You also have the option to stay here for the night. They offer cheap rates as low as 150 per head and you can already enjoy nature at its best.
The lake also have lots of activities to offer. They have this kayaking for free to all and also the cliff jumping
8. Marka-A Beach
We docked at Marka-A Beach, a popular but small and remote white-sand beach.
Strolling around Marka-A Island Beach. It’s a small virgin island waiting to be discovered. The pristine water seduces me from taking its photos to plunging into it. And you cannot say no to its invitation. A peaceful, quiet, cool, and relaxing beach indeed! 
Those overhanging cliffs provide a nice shady nook for us to gobble down and relaxed from the heat of the sun. 
This is just one of our playgrounds in Bucas Grande—peaceful, quiet, cool, and relaxing.
9. Club Tara
Only a few places exist where you can envelop yourself in a truly stunning environment. Club Tara Resort in Bucas Grande Island, Surigao del Norte, Philippines is one such destination, favored with undisturbed tranquility and soul-delighting comforts. 
The resort complements the setting and picturesque scenery with cottages perched on stilts immersed on the water and excellent facilities. Each accommodation is a sanctuary that lets guests experience unruffled pleasure and comfort. 
Showcasing the natural wonders of Surigao, this is the perfect getaway for souls wandering in search of a stress-free disposition. 
10. Stingless Jellyfish Sanctuary
Bucas Grande is a home to some of the stingless jelly fishes there may be in this planet. The Stingless Jelly Fish Sanctuary is such place within Bucas Grande. 
You have to paddle your way to the Jelly Lagoon along Tojoman Lake which is 20 min away from the tourist center. According to the paddler, Tojoman comes from the word Tojom that means ” Toyom” or sea urchin because the lake is littered with sea urchins way back.
After 30 minutes of paddle at an intensive pace we finally arrived in Toyoman Lagoon where the spotted jellies are found. They are called Spotted Lagoon Jellies which can leave up to 14 months and one of the prettiest and most recognizable species of jellyfish. 
They’re not invasive nor harmful to humans because they have no tentacles but have oral arms and often keep as pets because of their cute appearance and constant energy. However, we spotted only few because of their diminishing numbers. I’m not sure if it’s pollution related but the boatman insist that it is because of the pollution, season and sunscreen lotion. They now prohibits swimming with the jellies. Have few interactions with them including moon jellies.
After more than two hours in the Sohoton Cove National Park, we exited back the way we entered with happy smiles, sparkling eyes, and refreshed spirits as well as a renewed appreciation of Mother Nature.
HOW TO GET TO BUCAS GRANDE ISLANDS:
You can refer to the directions below:
From Butuan City:
At the Butuan City Integrated Transport Terminal, ride a bus bound for Surigao City. Tell the driver to drop you off at the junction in the town of Placer, Surigao del Norte. Fare in an air conditioned bus is around 150 pesos. At the junction, wait for vans or buses bound for Claver proper, Hayanggabon, or Tandag City. Fare is 60 pesos if you’re headed to Claver proper and around 80 pesos if you’re heading straight to Hayanggabon.
From Surigao City:
At the Surigao City Integrated Transport Terminal, ride a van or bus bound for Claver proper, Hayanggabon or Tandag City. Fare is 75-80 pesos to Claver, 100 pesos to Hayanggabon. If you plan to stay in Claver proper for the night, tricycles can take you to Hayanggabon Port the next morning on a special trip for 200 pesos.You can also take a van or bus to Hayanggabon Port for around 35 pesos. 
Once in Hayanggabon, rent a boat for about 2500-3500 pesos (large boat good for 20-25 people). You can also catch a commuter boat bound for Socorro then hire a boat from Socorro to Bucas Grande. You must register first at the Sohoton Bay Visitors Lounge to register your names before entering the cove. 
HERE’S WHAT YOU HAVE TO PAY TO EXPERIENCE SOHOTON COVE:
Boat Rental good for 20-25 persons – 3500 pesos for whole day tour, 2500 pesos for half day tour
Boat docking fee – 100 pesos
Entrance Fee per person (one-time fee for all attractions) – 25 pesos
Environmental Fee per person (one-time fee for all attractions) – 25 pesos
Bife vest (one-time fee for all attractions – 30 pesos
Pumpboat rental and driver’s fee for Sohoton Cove (good for 3 persons) – 500 pesos
Tour guide fee (2 guides per boat, mandatory) – 330 pesos
If you wanted to have a hassle free tour package, I would like to recommend you to:
Sohoton Cove Travelling Agency
Contact Person: Vladimir ilich R. Sangco
Phone Number: 0929-125-0809 (Smart) or 0977-736-3654 (Globe)
Email: info@sohotoncove.ph
Website: http://www.sohotoncove.ph/
Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/SohotonCoveSocorro/
They offer tour packages that is cheaper as 3,600 pesos with free Van Transfer from Davao City or from Cagayan de Oro City and 2,600 pesos if without both inclusive of meals and accommodation for 2 days and 1 night.
JANNE THE LAAGAN: Wrap up!
The waterways and the islands inside the cove are so similar in appearance that once inside the cove, it is virtually impossible for guests to know where the entrance/exit is. Yes, you can definitely become hopelessly lost here! And if, unfortunately, the tide is high while you’re still in the cove, you could be trapped here (cue Blair Witch music).
Fortunately, we have trustworthy and experienced guides who are very familiar with the place.
Here’s a Google Earth satellite photo of Sohoton Cove National Park. As you can see, it’s like a gigantic, natural maze!
It’s also better to start your Sohoton Bay adventure in the morning when the sea around Bucas Grande is calm and smooth. It gets choppy and rough in the afternoon.
Our experience was really awesome! From our 2 days and 1 night stay in Sohoton I can say that the group of islands of Bucas Grande is blessed with numerous caves, some still undiscovered, white sand beaches, waterfalls, mangroves, iron woods, inland lakes, vast fishing grounds, and wonderful corals that are ideal for snorkeling. 
With its unique seascape and landscape, the place promises everyone a truly unforgettable, enchanting and extraordinary experience in this part of Mindanao. Visit Sohoton Cove National Park and be enchanted with its natural beauty.
jannethelaagan
Janne The Laagan 
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