Is Puerto Galera Open for Tourism?

By Alice Nichols

Are you planning a trip to Puerto Galera? With the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, it’s important to know if this popular tourist destination is open for tourism. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the current situation in Puerto Galera and what tourists can expect.

Current Situation in Puerto Galera

Puerto Galera is a beautiful coastal town located in the province of Oriental Mindoro in the Philippines. It’s known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life. However, just like many other tourist destinations around the world, it has been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

As of September 2021, Puerto Galera is open for tourism but with some restrictions. The local government has implemented health and safety protocols to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. These protocols include:

  • Wearing face masks and face shields in public areas
  • Maintaining social distancing of at least 1 meter
  • Frequent hand washing or sanitizing

Travel Requirements

To enter Puerto Galera as a tourist, there are certain travel requirements that you need to comply with. These include:

  • A negative RT-PCR test result taken within 72 hours prior to arrival
  • A valid travel pass or QR code issued by the local government unit (LGU)
  • Booking a stay at an accredited accommodation establishment

It’s important to note that these requirements may change depending on the situation in Puerto Galera and the Philippines.

Accommodation Options in Puerto Galera

When it comes to accommodation options in Puerto Galera, tourists have plenty of choices ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxurious resorts. However, due to the pandemic, only accredited accommodation establishments are allowed to operate.

Here are some accredited accommodation options in Puerto Galera:

  • White Beach Lodge and Restaurant
  • Coco Beach Island Resort
  • Dolphinbay Beachfront and Dive Resort

Activities in Puerto Galera

Puerto Galera is a popular destination for water sports enthusiasts. Tourists can enjoy activities such as scuba diving, snorkeling, kayaking, and island hopping. However, due to the pandemic, some tourist attractions may be closed or have limited capacity.

Scuba Diving

Puerto Galera is known for its incredible diving spots that offer diverse marine life and colorful coral reefs. Some popular diving spots in Puerto Galera include Sabang Wrecks, The Canyons, and Verde Island.

Snorkeling

If you’re not a certified diver but still want to explore the underwater world of Puerto Galera, snorkeling is a great option. You can rent snorkeling gear from your accommodation or from local shops.

Kayaking and Island Hopping

Explore the beautiful coastline of Puerto Galera by kayaking or joining an island hopping tour. You’ll get to visit secluded beaches and coves that are only accessible by boat.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Puerto Galera is open for tourism but with some restrictions due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Tourists need to comply with travel requirements and follow health and safety protocols implemented by the local government. Despite these challenges, Puerto Galera remains a beautiful destination that offers plenty of activities for tourists to enjoy.