Imagine traversing through rugged terrains, coastal views, and untamed wilderness. That’s what the Mototesto Overland Equipment Philippines team, along with The Lost Boys PH, braved as they ventured into Catanduanes. This island, nestled in the eastern part of the Philippines, offers an unmatched overlanding experience that leaves travelers in awe. One of the highlights of their journey was the stunning Binurong Point, a scenic gem that took their adventure to new heights.
What is Overlanding?
Overlanding isn’t your typical road trip. It’s all about the journey, not just the destination. Overlanding involves self-reliant, off-grid travel that typically requires specialized vehicles equipped to handle harsh terrains. It’s a perfect mix of adventure, survival skills, and pure immersion into nature. In the Philippines, overlanding has gained popularity as travelers seek more authentic, unspoiled locations.
Catanduanes: The Gem of Eastern Philippines
Catanduanes, often referred to as the “Happy Island,” is located on the eastern side of Luzon. Surrounded by the Pacific Ocean, this island province is known for its breathtaking landscapes, from mountain ranges to serene beaches. For overlanders, Catanduanes offers everything—rugged roads, lush forests, and captivating views. The island is a hidden treasure, waiting to be explored.
Binurong Point: A Stunning Highlight
Binurong Point is one of the crown jewels of Catanduanes. The cliffs provide panoramic views of the vast ocean, rolling hills, and rocky coastlines. Hikers are rewarded with a mesmerizing view after a short trek through grasslands. It’s no wonder The Lost Boys PH and the Mototesto team were spellbound by this place. It’s not just a destination but an experience, especially for those willing to take the path less traveled.
The Mototesto Overland Equipment Team
Mototesto Overland Equipment Philippines is a company known for providing high-quality overland gear. They cater to adventure seekers and off-road enthusiasts, offering everything from rooftop tents to vehicle modifications. On this trip, they teamed up with The Lost Boys PH, a group of passionate travelers dedicated to discovering and documenting the best overland spots in the Philippines.
The Lost Boys PH: Adventure Enthusiasts
The Lost Boys PH are more than just travelers—they are adventurers at heart. Their goal is to redefine exploration by finding lesser-known, off-the-beaten-path locations. Their trip to Catanduanes is a testament to their dedication to showcasing the Philippines’ most beautiful yet rugged destinations.
The Overland Experience: From Start to Finish
Planning an overland trip is no walk in the park. It takes careful preparation, from mapping out the route to ensuring the vehicles are equipped to handle unpredictable terrains. The Mototesto team had to prepare for rough roads, potential weather challenges, and the necessary camping gear.
The Challenges Faced on the Road
Overland travel is never without its challenges. The rough terrains of Catanduanes tested the skills of the drivers and the endurance of the vehicles. Unpaved roads, sudden weather changes, and steep cliffs added a layer of thrill and difficulty to the journey. But, as they say, the tougher the road, the greater the adventure.
Setting Up Camp at Binurong Point
After a long day of navigating the tough roads, the team set up camp at Binurong Point. Overland camping is an essential part of the experience—cooking meals over a campfire, setting up tents, and falling asleep under the stars. The tranquility and solitude of the location made the hard work worthwhile.
The Beauty of Overlanding: A Unique Perspective
What makes overlanding special is the way it connects people to nature. There’s a raw, unfiltered experience that comes with exploring remote areas by vehicle. Unlike commercialized travel spots, overlanding takes you to places where nature is untouched, and the journey is as significant as the destination.
The Role of Sustainable Travel
One of the core principles of overlanding is sustainability. Travelers are encouraged to leave no trace, ensuring that the environment remains pristine for future generations. Mototesto and The Lost Boys PH emphasize responsible travel, respecting the natural beauty of Catanduanes and its local communities.
The Best Overlanding Spot According to The Lost Boys PH
In the words of The Lost Boys PH, Binurong Point is “probably the best overlanding spot we’ve been to so far.” The combination of dramatic coastal views, remote location, and challenging terrains make it a standout destination. They were also grateful to Sir Teng Sorreta for introducing them to this hidden paradise, enhancing the overall experience.
Equipment Used in the Overland Journey
Overlanding requires specialized equipment, and the Mototesto team had it all covered. From durable tents and cooking gear to vehicle modifications, they ensured that their journey was safe, comfortable, and enjoyable.
Vehicles and Modifications
The overland vehicles used by Mototesto were not ordinary 4x4s. These were heavily modified to handle the demanding terrain. With lifted suspensions, roof racks, and specialized tires, the vehicles were equipped to tackle Catanduanes’ rugged roads without a hitch.
Why You Should Overland in Catanduanes
Catanduanes offers something for every adventurer. Its combination of natural beauty, diverse terrain, and peaceful isolation makes it a perfect overlanding destination. If you’re seeking an experience that’s off the grid and away from the tourist crowds, Catanduanes should be on your travel list.
Overlanding with a Cause
The Mototesto Binurong Catanduanes overland trip was nothing short of epic. They have visited Binurong Point in Catanduanes and generously gifted the tour guides with 30 handheld radios and one base radio. This donation aims to improve communication and enhance safety during tours, ensuring a better experience for both guides and visitors.
It’s a journey that combined adventure, stunning scenery, and the camaraderie of a great team with a cause. For those looking to dive into the world of overlanding, Catanduanes should be a top choice.
