Escalante is one of the few prominent cities on the Philippines‘ Negros Island. It is officially part of Negros Occidental, on the northeast shore of the island facing Cebu. Tourism is a secondary industry, and there are only a few nature-based sites of interest to visitors.
A Christian sub-sect from the Netherlands, the Carmelites, arrived in the early 1960s. This sect has been successful on a local basis, opening several new churches as well as Mount Carmel College. Of little interest to tourists, the Carmelite movement remains an important part of the local culture.
The most important sites in Escalante are natural attractions. The secluded coastline boasts diverse ecosystems including large tracts of mangrove forests. Mt Lunay, a semi-dormant volcano, is the major landmark and lures a few trekkers from week to week. Snorkeling and diving are also becoming increasingly popular.
Getting There & Away
The nearest major transport hub is Bacolod, reached in about an hour by jeepney or minibus. Three Filipino airlines connect from Bacolod to Manila (45 minutes) as well as to Cebu City]] (30 minutes).