A good ten-minute walk from the Bagsang base camp, Bagsang Falls will offer worn-out trekkers some cool-down break. It is the tallest waterfall discovered in Mt. Cagua.
After freshening up, nature lovers can delight in the unspoiled beauty of this biodiversity-rich place. Check out the moss-covered rocks, fallen trees, and various plant species and discover existing fauna in the area. Although it may be near the base camp, going to the falls poses a small challenge. You need to rappel down the cliff before enjoying the cool cascades.
Several beach resorts lining the coast of Gonzaga offer a retreat for locals and out-of-towners. Brgy. Amunitan is the preferred summer destination in Gonzaga. The beach resorts also offer amenities like lodging, venues for family occasions, small conferences, and various water recreational activities like banana boat riding, jet skiing. boating, and many more.
Those with a more adventurous spirit can find a secluded and less crowded place where they can enjoy the beach to themselves.
On a clear day, marvel at the panoramic view of Aparri to the west and the island of Palaui at the northeastern tip of Cagayan. Similarly stunning is the lush vegetation of the crater and the view of the steaming caldera emitting a stench of sulfuric gases.
Trekking Mt. Cagua, locally known as the ‘mountain of fire’ or ‘fire mountain’, presents a rare experience for amateur and professional mountaineers alike. Walking through the trees, mossy forests, and grasslands is one for the books. Nature lovers would love the forested trail teeming with biodiversity. Its gentle and shaded route is a tick off the bucket list for mountaineers who never knew of Mt. Cagua.
It is pretty daunting to be walking on top of the caldera. Seeing fumaroles emitting steam and volcanic gases is a unique experience. With safety precautions, trekkers need the help of certified local guides to make this a safe and rewarding adventure. Mount Cagua is an active volcano with recorded explosions in 1860 and 1907. Notable are its two fumaroles (openings on the earth’s surface) in the northern and southern parts of the caldera.
Matara Beach is an emerging sun and beach destination tucked in the coastal town of Gonzaga. Known for its shallow waters, it is great for swimming and kayaking. Apart from the cool breeze and its blue waters, Matara Beach is also a haven for those who love to dive and snorkel.
Be amazed with teeming with coral reefs and fishes that you will find as you explore under the sea. Walk bare feet and feel your soles massaged by the fine white sand. Eat with your bare hands and savor home-cooked seafood feast using local recipes for lunch or dinner. When you get lucky, fireflies may appear to light up the night.
Tallag Beach not only gives you the perfect backdrop for photography. Its black sand glimmers with the setting of the sun. For the adventurer, the rock formations provide rock climbing activities. When the sea is calm, travelers can also explore the small caves and crevices in the area. During low tide, you can delight in secing marine animals like crabs, sea urchins, and shellfish on the shore
Tallag Beach Is easily accessible trom the coast of Barangay Cabanbanan Norte through a three-kilometer road from the national highway. Cottages are available for those who choose to stay longer in the area.
