CEBU Geography and Nature

Submitted by admin on Tue, 2006-11-14 22:33.

Cebu is an elongated island some 250 kilometers from North to South and 45 kilometers across at its widest point. It is central to the Philippine archipelago and some 600 kilometers south of Manila.

This location combined with a sheltered deep water harbor has made Cebu the base for most of the country's domestic shipping and the gateway to the central and southern Philippines.

The island's area of 5,000 square kilometers supports over 3 million people of whom 1.5 million live in Metro Cebu.

The east and west coasts are separated by a mountainous spine which rises to 1,000 meters. The climate is warm, generally 23 to 33 degrees Celsius. Rainfall is evenly distributed throughout the year, except for the summer months from March to May which are dry.

Beaches, coral atolls, islands and rich fishing grounds surround Cebu. /Cebu's central location, proximity to unusually exotic tourist destination, ready access to a diversity of plant, animal and geological wonders within the island, and remoteness from earthquake and typhoon activity are some of the special attributes which help maintain Cebu's track record. /Exposure to nature's wonders allows busy families to recharge their batteries and relax.

Cebu has an abundance of beauty. From the central mountains to the coral sands, the island is a natural wonder. Most of the archipelago's 8,120 species of flowering plants can be found in Cebu. 5,832 are unique to the country. Birds migrating from Russia stop enroute to Australia at the Olanggo Bird Sanctuary.

Mountain streams cascade from misty heights to the sea. Colorful butterflies contrast with flocks of noisy birds. Some of the world's best scuba diving is located around Cebu's shores and there are regular sightings of dolphins and whales in the surrounding seas.

The cool highlands are within 30 minutes drive of Metro Cebu. Roadside clumps of giant hibiscus, fragrant plumeria (frangipanni) and delicate orchids brighten the way.

Gardeners will revel in the flamboyance that is the nature of the Philippine plants.

Rapid growth, abundant water and rich soils make for colorful exuberance. Birds come to roost, fragrances fill the air and the spirit is refreshed after each busy day.