Anilao

Macro universe of the Philippines

Underwater Experience in Anilao

A destination with a great biodiversity of invertebrates, which fascinates divers from all over the world, crazy about macro photography

Locating more than 100 species of nudibranchs in less than a week of diving seems like an impossible challenge, but it's easily achieved in Anilao. Add to this variety dozens of crustaceans, cephalopods, and a long list of fish, which, when complemented by blackwater dives, makes this a more than tempting destination.

The ocean ecosystem is made up of thousands of living beings. Among all these species, the large vertebrates are the best known, from cetaceans to sharks, including a long list of colorful fish; but the reality is that the vast majority of inhabitants of the planet's seabed are small animals , many of them invertebrates, which can be truly surprising, with shapes and appearances unimaginable to most humans.

Divers , fortunately, have the opportunity to delve into this vast universe and observe all these living beings. One of the most outstanding biotopes for locating these unique creatures is the Philippines , which , with more than 7.000 islands, boasts truly special characteristics, with a tremendous variety of dive sites and destinations, but also—and most importantly—a truly remarkable biodiversity.

Of all the places where we can dive in the Philippines, which are many, the coastal seabeds of the Calumpan Peninsula and Maricaban Island are among the most interesting; this whole area is known by the name of one of the small towns in the region – Anilao – which can be reached after a road transfer of just over two and a half hours from Manila, the country's capital.

Anilao has gone from being an overlooked, or simply little-known, destination to joining the list of the most sought-after spots for divers, making it a global benchmark for underwater photographers. It's a true paradise for macro and blackwater enthusiasts , and this becomes perfectly clear after the first few minutes underwater, as the guides won't give you a moment's rest with a constant parade of intriguing fish, highly sought-after cephalopods, unique crustaceans, and unimaginable nudibranchs. Anilao guarantees days of diving filled with excitement and delightful surprises.

The most outstanding

The accommodations

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More Information About Anilao

When to travel?

Fortunately, the type of diving we'll be doing in Anilao can be practiced year-round, although the driest season is from November to June . July and August, while it does rain a bit, are the peak season. The water temperature ranges from 26°C to 29°C, while the air temperature varies between 24°C and 32°C, always with high humidity.

How much does it cost?

The program structure can be very flexible, and therefore, the price can be as well. If we start with the simplest option of seven nights, full board, and 12 dives, the starting price will be 1.125 €, while a program of the same length, with 18 dives and 2:1 private diving, will cost €2.250. Of course, there are multiple options in between.
It's usually not necessary to spend the night in Manila, so the above prices only include international flights and travel insurance if desired. More flight information.

What do I need to know?

Anilao is a destination that easily offers two weeks of diving, but the temptation is great since nearby are other amazing spots to combine it with , such as Romblon , Malapascua , or Puerto Galera . The following information can be largely shared with these destinations:

  • Diving: while staying at a resort it is possible to do so. three day dives and one night dive. If you choose the traditional diving option, the trips will be by boat with other divers; if you choose private diving, we will be the only ones on the boat (1 to 4 divers) with our guide or guides, as a 1:1 private guide is also available. The typical dives blackwater They usually have a separate price and treatment. A full suit of 3 mm, with a hood and an optional heat vest, since there are occasional days when the water temperature drops.
  • Documentation: valid passport with a minimum validity of 6 monthsA visa is not required for stays of less than 22 days.
  • Currency: Philippine peso.
  • Language: The official language of the Philippines is Tagalog. The second language of the country is English.
  • Electricity: 210 volts with flat plug type A. More Information.
  • Health: No vaccinations are required. If you plan to visit other areas of the Philippines outside of tourist destinations, find out whether or not you need malaria prophylaxis.

For any further information about this trip, we recommend contacting our reservations department, where a team of professionals will assist you personally. And if you wish, we can arrange a multimedia video conference session to help you plan the best possible experience visiting any destination in the Philippines—such as Tubbataha —drawing on our personal experience in the area.

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