Lush greenery, calm water and captivating beauty of Bojo River in Aloguinsan, Cebu
Bojo River Cruise: Sustainable Tourism
The Bojo River Cruise, also called “Aloguinsan River Eco-Cultural Tour”, was initiated in 2009 through the combined efforts of key tourism players such as the local government, community, and other stakeholders.
Quite remarkable, the river destination was named as one of the Top 100 Sustainable Destinations in the World from 2016 to 2018 and was also recognized as the Best Community-Based Tourism in 2017.
Bojo Aloguinsan Ecotourism Association (BAETAS)
In 2009, the Bojo Aloguinsan Ecotourism Association (BAETAS) was founded. Most of its members are trained fishermen, housewives and farmers. The goal of this community-based group is to provide its locals an alternative source of income while preserving the river and its wildlife.
Aside from their traditional livelihood, BAETAS were equipped with the necessary know-how to operate a more sustainable livelihood that is, ecotourism. They were trained to become skilled tour guides. As a result, they become an excellent provider of information about the Bojo River, its rich biodiversity and local culture.
The Bojo River Cruise experience with our local guide from BAETAS
Meaning of Bojo
The word ‘’Bojo’’ is a Spanish word for “coastal sailing”. Before, the river was used by fisherfolks and traders who sailed to trade goods. During the Philippine Revolution and World War II, the inlet also served as a refuge for Cebuano soldiers.
The Bojo River Cruise Experience
When we arrived in Bojo, we had to do a short trek to the river. One of the members of BAETAS welcomed us with colorful handcrafted leis, adorned with flowers and stems.
Seeing this scenery was a calming experience. A walk on the bamboo bridge was also beautiful!
As our trek started, we walked straight to the elevated wooden bridge straight to the reception. Halfway through, the path then continued with the bamboo bridge that is surrounded by an aisle of tropical palms swaying in the breeze. It felt like we’re in an uncharted jungle, filled with different vegetation and life. And also, the fresh air is something you’d never fail to notice.
When we got to the end of the trail, a group of singers and dancers greeted us with their smiles and a lovely Cebuano song—welcoming us to their river. With their performance, some of us even joined in and danced.
Members of BAETAS serenading us with some lovely Cebuano songs – what a warm welcome!
After the serenade, we headed to a native-style gazebo and enjoyed a whole coconut beverage to refresh ourselves. It made me really happy that they used metal straws instead of plastic material – very eco-friendly!
Our fresh coconut juice with re-usable straw and a native flower called Gumamela
Before getting into the native boat called “banka”, we were oriented by a BAETAS member—she briefed us about some historical details of the community and the eco-tourism activity that is operated here. It was emphasized that they only offer day tours so that the environment won’t be overused, and to also allow the river to rest.
The breathtaking view at Bojo River
During the orientation, they also performed “palina”, a local tradition where a white smoke is whirled around the people before going out for a safe journey and good luck. The man in a white shirt walked around us while swaying the clay pot to produce smoke and performed the ritual. Palina is a mixture of twigs and charcoal embers to bathe people in white smoke. In this case, to promote positive energy, and bid people with a safe trip.
The traditional ritual called “palina”
Magnificent, naturally beautiful, and stunning – indeed, Bojo River is a sight to behold. It is a breathing sanctuary of ecosystem covered with mangrove forests, shrubs, and other freshwater plants.
The river is a breeding ground for more than sixty one (61) species of birds and two (2) of which are migratory. As we cruised along the brackish water, Ms. Rose, our tour guide, shared with us how the river system works, the myriad species of mangroves, and the role of animals that inhabit the wetland. It’s pretty astonishing how Ms. Rose familiarized the nomenclatures and genders of every mangrove along with its scientific name and even the Bisaya term.
The river is brackish due to the mixture of seawater and freshwater. There are even some fish from the sea that head to the stream to release their eggs, a method of reproduction known as spawning. Mangroves have breathing organs called tensile roots that cause bubbles to appear during high tide. This means they extract carbon dioxide from the water through their roots, and in return expel oxygen for the animals around the area to breathe.
The river has a very peaceful ambiance, allowing one to hear the sound of nature and birds’ chirping sound. We caught sight of many fallen leaves along the way. The guide said to just let the leaves fall because they are good nourishment for fishes and other marine lives.
As our boat headed farther into the curve, we noticed that the river water became clearer and wider. There was also a sight of colossal rock formation. It is also said that monkeys used to inhabit the mountainside. But a group of hunters bombed the territory to unearth the rumored Yamashita treasure causing these monkeys to seek another shelter.
Our team members at Kapwa Travel, taking a beautiful photo at Bojo River
The view here was breathtaking. We even asked our guide to stop the boat to allow us to capture the beauty that is in front of us. Passing through the narrow inlet was an experience to behold! The open sea, the vast blue sky, and the breeze of air made the cruising experience, a worthwhile adventure. The exit of Bojo River was the highlight of our tour. The Tañon Strait, a gateway where the river meets the sea, is also home to lush coral reefs and marine sanctuary, a treasure trove of marine life underneath the water.
When we reached the river’s mouth, we did not miss to plunge and dive into the clear and cold water. Some of us posed for a few shots for safekeeping memories. Overall, the river cruise experience would last for a 45-minute boat ride, and perhaps longer for those who want to take a dip or enjoy snorkeling.
Our satisfying lunch after the Bojo River Cruising
All in all, the Aloguinsan River Eco-Cultural Tour was full of amazing people and sceneries. It’s also so humbling to see how each and every locale take pride in their river. They sure know how to value their resources and keep them long-term.
Travel, explore, learn, and help the locals at Bojo River, Aloguinsan, Cebu.
Experience Bojo River with Kapwa Travel
If you want to experience the beauty of Bojo River too, then feel free to get in touch with us at Kapwa Travel. Experience a delightful spectacle of nature interwoven with rich local history, only at Bojo River.
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