Though the 280km² that this vast nature reserve encompasses have been officially designated as national parkland, Apo Reef is actually more commonly referred to as Apo Reef Natural Park.
The park, which is currently awaiting decision on World Heritage status by UNESCO, is the world’s second largest contiguous coral reef and certainly the largest to be found anywhere within the Philippines. The area is comprised of three islands, of which Apo Island is the biggest.
The three islands and the waters surrounding them are home to rich collections of flora and fauna, making them ideal destinations for anyone with a love of nature and natural beauty. Fish, invertebrates and marine mammals are among the many sea creatures residing in the reef, while countless tropical bird species are also frequent visitors.
If ornithology is your thing, then you’ll be happy to know that depending on the time of year, the islands can be home to at least 46 species of birds from both resident and migratory categories. Among the most rewarding sights that you might be lucky to catch is the famous Nicobar pigeon, a species that makes appearances on all three islands.
Getting There & Away
Manila’s Ninoy Aquino International Airport provides international access to the country and from here visitors can transfer by land to Quezon City (1 hour) and then onto the pier at Batangas, from where ferries to Abra de Ilog are available. From Abra de Ilog, buses travel to Sablayan, from where boat tours to the reef can be arranged. Alternatively flights go from Manila to San Jose]] (45 minutes), from where land transport will take you to Sablayan (2 hours).