The Philippines have surprising much to offer and discover
The 7641 islands country
A radiant archipelago full of joy and natural beauty! With 7,641 islands, this tropical paradise offers powder-white dream beaches, turquoise lagoons, emerald green rice terraces, and lush rainforests. The warm-hearted Filipinos always greet guests with a cheerful “Mabuhay!” and an incomparable smile.
Their cultural diversity—a lively blend of Asian, Spanish, and American influences—can be seen in colorful festivals, traditional crafts, and delicious cuisine (try the mango heaven!). Whether snorkeling in pristine coral gardens or watching the sunset on a palm-fringed beach, you’ll feel pure zest for life and a magical connection between people, sea, and sky.
Here, every sunset is a celebration. This article focuses on the little-known northeast of Mindanao, the second-largest island in the Philippines.
A visit to Carmen, Consuelo, and Madrid in the Philippines
Carmen and other lovely villages are located in the north of Mindanao, about 100 kilometers south of Surigao del Norte. It presents itself as a rural community, often serving as a stopover on the way to the region’s beaches and islands. The surroundings are characterized by tropical vegetation, vast rice fields, coconut palms, and small villages. The proximity to the coast gives access to simple, uncrowded beaches where locals relax and enjoy fresh seafood.
Still… hardly any tourists come to Carmen
Carmen and its surroundings are known for their peaceful, green landscapes and numerous natural attractions, making them ideal for ecotourism, hiking, and nature exploration. The local economy is based mainly on agriculture—especially rice and coconut cultivation—as well as fishing. Tourism in this area is only just beginning to develop.
The population of Carmen is culturally diverse, made up of various ethnic groups, including indigenous communities such as the Manobo and Mamanwa. Traditional festivals and customs shape local life, with the majority of residents being Catholic, though other faiths are also represented. Religious festivals are celebrated vibrantly and together as a community.
Carmen is well connected by the national highway to Butuan City, Surigao City, and other towns in northern Mindanao; buses and vans run regularly. Local markets offer fresh produce, seafood, and regional specialties such as the marinated dish “Kinilaw.”
Colorful underwater world
A special highlight is the Tagcatong Fish Sanctuary, which attracts snorkelers and nature lovers with its vibrant underwater world. Visitors appreciate the friendly, relaxed atmosphere and the authenticity of rural life. Overall, Carmen is an authentic place off the main tourist routes, offering an unspoiled glimpse into rural Mindanao—with abundant nature, hospitable people, and a lively yet down-to-earth culture. Anyone seeking tranquility, nature, and genuine Filipino everyday life will feel right at home here.
Surigao del Sur: between Carmen and Surigao
The region between Carmen and Surigao on Mindanao impresses with its rich flora and fauna. The coasts are lined with mangrove forests and palms, while the lowlands are dominated by rice, coconut, and banana plantations. Further inland, patches of forest remain with hardwoods, ferns, and orchids.
The Agusan River and its tributaries are bordered by dense riverside vegetation. The wildlife includes a diverse array of birds such as herons, kingfishers, and parrots. There are also bats, wild boars, civet cats, and numerous reptiles, amphibians, and insects. Rivers and coastal waters are home to a rich variety of fish and marine life.
Getting to Carmen
There are buses and vans, for example, from Butuan City or Surigao to Carmen. The cost per person is about 5 to 10 $, depending on the comfort and amenities of the buses/vans. The distance from Butuan City to Carmen is nearly 300 km; from Surigao to Carmen, it’s 110 km.
Malibhu View Resort: An oasis of calm in Carmen
Nestled in the idyllic landscape of Carmen, the Malibhu View Resort reveals itself as a true sanctuary. Here, comfort and nature blend harmoniously to offer you a relaxing escape. The resort impresses with its breathtaking views that invite you to dream and forget everyday stress.
The warm hospitality of the staff ensures that every guest immediately feels welcome and cared for. With a selection of cozy accommodations and a laid-back atmosphere, Malibhu View Resort provides the perfect setting to explore the beauty of the surroundings or simply unwind. It’s a place to recharge and create unforgettable moments.
Price for One Week at Malibhu View Resort
Prices for a double room at Malibhu View Resort in Carmen, Surigao del Sur, start at about $21 per night for two people, according to current booking platforms. This means a week (7 nights) costs from around $147 (about 8,500 PHP, depending on exchange rates). There are also family rooms, which are a bit more expensive. Overall, the resort offers family-friendly prices, making it suitable for budget-conscious travelers as well…
