DiscoverOcampo
Discover the natural beauty, culture and heritage of Ocampo.
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Top 10 Reasons to Visit Ocampo
Reason 01
A Sneak Peak into Ocampo
- When you are planning holidays to Ocampo, Camarines Sur, what immediately catches the eye of the onlooker is the gentle, rolling hills that surround the town at the foot of the mountain called Isarog which gives the whole place a calm almost pastoral appearance that it appears like a warm embrace by nature.
- The town is full of families that are working very small plots of land and which makes the streets look like a living exhibition of fresh produce and bright plant life which makes the town look inviting and brings about a curious and hands-on learning experience to the traveller.
- The rhythmic sound of farmers working with their crops and the cry of the deer that can be heard every now and then at the centre of all the days in Ocampo is the reminder that this is a place to live in as much as it is to see.
- As soon as you get off the highway, you are welcomed with the silence that is hard to find in places with more inter-human communication, and you can enjoy the fresh mountain air and experience a slow passage of the day.
- One can find children playing around the cool springs scattered on the terrain, and the elders are seated on wooden benches, gossiping about traditional Bicolano snacks, which creates an image of the community that is quite comforting and realistic.
- The nearer you are, the more you will find that Ocampo is not only a town but also a sort of a tapestry of cultures, seasons and storeys all crammed within a single, calm environment and that is what makes your holidays to Ocampo, Camarines Sur, a welcome you never thought you needed at all.
- Capital (of the province): Pili
- International airport: No international airport in Ocampo
- Nearest commonly used: Naga Airport (Pili)
- Currency: Philippine Peso (PHP)
- Time zone: UTC+8 (Philippine Standard Time)
- Driving side: Right-hand side
- Main electricity: 220 volts, 60 Hz
- Official / local languages: Bikol, Filipino, English
- Major religion: Predominantly Roman Catholic
Reason 02
Highlights
- The expansive landscapes of Mount Isarog is an ideal place to make a photographic shot, particularly during the sunrise when the mists cover the mountains like a blanket.
- The farms and plant nurseries run by Ocampo, famous all over the province, provide a colour palette, with blooming bougainvillaea and well-organised rows of seedlings of various vegetables.
- The holidays to Ocampo Deer Farm is also an attraction site because of the open pastures of deer which are free to roam and this makes the site a place where the animal lovers can view wildlife in a natural environment.
- The life of a group of people who balance between their traditions and the needs of the modern reality can be seen through rural villages, including narrow streets and small houses, which provides the insight into the strong Filipino spirit.
- The natural pools created by the cold springs which are supplied with the mountain runoff glitter in the sunlight and guests are encouraged to cool down in an environment that is quite mystical yet convenient.
- The silence and relaxed provincial lifestyle of the town is underlined by minor celebrations and community events that will enable the travellers to experience the beat of the culture of Ocampo as it happens.
Reason 03
Seasons to Travel
- The dry months between December and May are the best seasons to visit the farm and make spring trips since the climate is clear, weather is warm, and the fields are in full colour.
- The cool months (January and February) are also suitable when the trekking action is done close to Mount Isarog since the cold provides a pleasant cooling effect to the body and thus hiking becomes more enjoyable to all ages.
- Colour, music and community spirit are also included during the fiesta season in October, when the town celebrates the saint, Bernard, through parades, dancing and joint meals that bring out the local flavours.
- The evenings of winter in December are colder, and you can walk in the streets of the town without the heat that oppresses everyone and just enjoy the streets in good weather with no stress.
- During spring or particularly in March, spring offers the region flowers that paint the fields and roads in some bright colours and thereby form natural gallery to viewers who pass by.
- Holidays to Ocampo summer is also hot but there are still a lot of chances to see the cool springs and the waterfalls so especially in the early-mornings of the summer so that you do not have to be hot during the middle of the day.
Reason 04
Worth A Visit
Ocampo Deer Farm
- The large, open fields of the farm allow the deer to graze in the open which gives the farm a genuine, near cinematic experience to both the visitors and photographers.
- The farm is also educational to families, particularly those who have children because they always have guided tours where they learn more about the deer behaviour, and their conservation.
- The warm reception of the farm workers is willing to give a history of the deer in the area that makes a visit there a storey in itself.
- The deer are well-maintained thus the farm has a good environment that visitors can view the wildlife without affecting their natural cycles.
- When allowed, feeding sessions allow the guests to have a personal attachment to the animals and thus the visit becomes more memorable.
- The quiet nature of the farm provides a serene setting to reflect the nature of the farm even at sunset, which highlights nature and human being in a harmonious environment.
Sabang Falls (Mount Isarog Area)
- It is a little adventure trip that will take you to the waterfall where the falling water leaves a foggy curtain that is like entering an unknown sanctuary.
- The forest around is full of birds and insects which offer a living soundtrack which increases the sense experience of the site.
- The falls have a plunge pool on the bottom which is cool by nature and gives a refreshing dip into the plunge pool which gives a refreshing dip to the body and soul.
- Native plants are planted along the road leading to the falls giving tourists a chance to view local plants which would have otherwise been undetected.
- The falls are posed to photographers in the season when there is maximum waterfall creating a gallery of images that can be shared around the world.
- The reflection of the falling water and the fading sky at dusk, makes the waterfall look like a magical atmosphere, and engages the audience in silent moments of reflection.
Plant Nurseries of Ocampo
- The nurseries of Ocampo have a large array of ornamental plants, such as the bright orchids and the tough succulents that can survive in the local climatic conditions.
- The nurseries serve as a living classroom where visitors can find out more about the techniques of plant cultivation which have been perfected through generations.
- Nurse-managers also provide practical training facilities, in which guests are encouraged to take part in the process of planting or pruning to enhance their appreciation of horticulture.
- The sweet fragrances of fresh earth and flowers in blossom make a sense experience soothing and refreshing.
- Local herbs and spices are sold in small shops and the traveller may bring part of the agricultural legacy of Ocampo with him or her.
- The hospitable employees of the nurseries tell about how the agriculture of the town supports the community giving some context to all plants exhibited.
Saint Bernard Parish Church
- The architecture of the church is humble, but still beautiful, and the plain exterior is such that people can enter and meditate in silence.
- The stained glass windows within spread the sunshine inside in a rainbow of colours dancing over the pews, and this gives a cool effect.
- The church provides visitors with an insight into the lives of the people of Ocampo in terms of spirituality through regular prayers and community events held in the church.
- The rhythms of daily life in the town can be traced by the sound of the church bell, which is ringing at the time of prayers.
- The storeys of faith have centuries-old artefacts exhibited in the church, including the hand-made crucifixes and the religious images.
- Tourists are also usually urged to attend the evening Mass, which gives them a cultural experience rather than a sightseeing experience.
Reason 05
Discover More
Cold Springs and Natural Pools
- These springs are on the side of Mount Isarog, and they create clear cool pools that are like liquid crystal that is ideal in having a refreshing swim.
- Stone benches also cover the immediate surrounding area, giving hikers time to relax and enjoy the serene landscape.
- These pools often have a slight waterfall and therefore provide a naturally soothing sound that will ease the mind and calm the soul.
- Local guides usually tell myths regarding the springs and this brings an element of mystery to the visitor.
- Due to natural filtration of the water, which is done by mountain rock, it is pure, crisp and refreshing after a day of hiking.
- During the night, the pools are lit by lantern light and this presents the travellers with a rare chance to view the stars in a serene and close kind of environment.
Rural Farms and Rice Fields
- When seen through a high point the huge rice paddies create a patch of green that extends to the horizon.
- Taking a stroll on the irrigation lines one can hear the sound of the tractor engines somewhere in the distance which reminds of the combination of tradition and progress.
- It is common to have people visit the farmers and get a glimpse of the planting and harvesting process that has been carrying on the community.
- Diverse birds and insects can be found in the fields and make any walk in the field a living, breathing study of the ecosystem.
- The fields are colourful and active in time of harvest, which is the perfect embodiment of life in an agricultural setting, and is both educative and inspirational.
- A brief stop on the banks of the irrigation canals symbolises the expediency with which the local irrigation system, a feat in the adaptation of man to the soil.
Barangay Viewpoints
- Some of the upland barangays like the Barangay Bulalo offer beautiful views that sweep the fertile lowlands and the sheer mountain of Isarog.
- Through these perspectives, tourists will be able to observe the light transforming itself as it casts upon the hills in different shades to make a work of art that comes to life.
- The high views also provide a bird-eye view of the town plan that is rare and shows how the countryside is incorporated into the town.
- Nature also plays a significant role in social cohesion because these areas are mostly used by local residents who convene to hold community meetings.
- A short stroll to these vistas will prompt you to take a breather and admire the cohesion of land, people and sky.
- Even the sunset turns the landscape into a burning piece of oranges and purples and the experience is never forgotten.
Local Eco Picnic Areas and Eco-Spots
- The barangays have small picnic areas along the river, where they have stone tables, mosquito nets, and a slow flow of water, which completes the scene.
- The family is a major area that is favoured by these spots and the children can play in a safe environment as the adults have time to relax.
- These areas are shaded by the forests around, therefore offer the best places to have an afternoon rest particularly during the hot summer seasons.
- Local sellers also offer fresh fruits and grilled snacks so that the visitors have a chance to experience the true flavour of Bicolano in a natural setting.
- Native trees surround the sites and they usually produce a certain perfume, which makes the experience more sensual than the visual.
- The fact that the areas are under the management of the community translates to a sense of responsibility and the guests can feel and appreciate this sense of responsibility.
Reason 06
Culture Traditions
- Catholic undertones are also present in every quarter with prayers and processions through the streets throughout an annual fiesta and the Holy Week which are among the manifestations of such strong devotion that brings residents together.
- The spirit of bayanihan is also practised in agricultural heritage as they hold farm days when the locals assemble to plant, tend, and harvest together.
- Traditional clothing and music are demonstrated through folk dances performed during local festivals to retain the storeys and values, which have been passed by several generations.
- The holidays to Ocampo fiesta of Saint Bernard is the colourful tapestry of street dances, music and feasting in which the locals invite the visitor to take part in the festivities on the 26th day of each year in the town.
- The gatherings of the community are frequently based on the food, and the aroma of roasted fish and simmersed vegetables permeate the air, cementing the relationships that are not connected to the nuclear family.
- Pulong or community meetings are held in open spaces where the elders and the youth deliberate on various issues such as agriculture to planning of the town, which reflect a collective process of decision-making.
Reason 07
Food Fun Fashion
Food
- The local food is a wonderful fusion of Bicolano and countryside, such as Laing, where taro leaves are cooked in coconut milk in a soothing stew.
- Bicol Express is spicy chicken prepared with coconut sauce, which is a very colourful dish that feeds the appetite of locals and those who enjoy their food and adventure at the same time.
- Newly roasted fish, caught in the local rivers, is usually put on charcoal grill, which introduces a smoky flavour to it, and it is hard to resist it.
- Native chicken is grown in open fields and has a soft, nutritious taste especially in adobo or just sauted garlic chicken.
- Farm produce such as vegetables, rice and root crops are raised in time and hence the meals are always fresh, tasting and devoid of additives.
- Local food is usually accompanied by tea, which is why traditional snacks such as kakanin, sweet rice cake, are usually eaten as a sweet ending after a heavy dose of savoury and spicy dishes.
Fun
- The Deer Farm is a family-friendly adventure that involves children to see deer and learn and interact safely in an open environment.
- The walk to Sabang Falls is an adventurous experience as one can walk through a forest with a trail leading to a cool waterfall that will welcome one to take a dip.
- Touring plant nurseries provide the guests an opportunity to collect special ornamental plants and understand the cultivation methods of the experienced growers who share their experience.
- Riding in the countryside and wheat fields is a fine means of getting caught up in the rural farm beats and the soft whirring of the bike tyres provides some extra background to the calm setting.
- By attending fiesta in the town, the travellers get an opportunity to take part in cultural dances and music which creates a memory that they will remember throughout their life.
- When making world pinoy flights, one can easily get to the closest airport and start your trip with a pleasant beginning, where the process of journey is a part of the adventure.
Fashion
- During the hot and humid months, light and breathable clothes are needed since they will keep you comfortable as you sightsee the towns and the natural attractions.
- Good shoes are also required, comfortable ones that are also tough to walk around in, preferably in trekking or walking through rocky rural areas where a good grip would prevent falls.
- One must always keep a reusable water bottle, sunscreen, and insect repellant since the sun is very hot and mosquitoes may be present around the springs.
- When visiting the church or attending local festivals, modest clothes are welcome since the community values decent dressing.
- Tourist facilities are not numerous, so it is prudent to carry simple things such as a small first-aid kit, cash, and a travel guide so that you could navigate yourself.
- Always verify the local weather before heading out since an unexpected rain can change the conditions of the trail, and also influence your safety, in particular, during the wet season.
Reason 08
Nature Safari
- The wooded slopes of Mount Isarog boast of a rich variety of birds, the brightly-coloured kingfishers, as well as the rare and sought-after Philippine eagle, and give bird-lovers inexhaustible chances.
- The Ocampo Deer Farm has deer which graze freely and their peaceful presence gives a heartening reminder of the wildlife that exists unobtrusively in the human settlements.
- Whether it is colourful butterflies or industrious bees, insects are far too numerous and Ocampo can serve as a living laboratory to those who are interested in the study of insects.
- The little waterfalls and cold springs contribute to the ecological blanket, sustaining aquatic organisms, establishing micro-habitats, which flourish in the cool waters rich in minerals.
- Seasonal migration also introduces seasonal migration birds to the region making the skies a living canvas that varies with the seasons.
- The general landscape is very pristine and the traveller is thus able to connect with nature in both a natural and a relaxing manner.
Reason 09
Events Fiestas
- The fiesta of the town, which is celebrated on October, in remembrance of Saint Bernard, includes colourful processions, dances along the streets, and a feast of the best food available in the town.
- Community life is also experienced through Barangay fiestas, which are conducted all year round and give people intimate insights into the way of life of the community as people come to celebrate common traditions.
- The Holy Week celebrations include the grave processions and the pious marches, as the inhabitants of Ocampo have a very spiritual life.
- The horticultural accomplishments of the county are displayed in the agricultural events, which include farm fairs and plant exhibitions, and provide educational workshops.
- During festivals, there are music festivals with local bands and traditional music instruments, which allow the travellers to experience the active cultural life of the region.
- Holidays to Ocampo Festivals like rice-paddy festivals that are associated with harvests also provide an opportunity to the visitors to join the community festivals that celebrate the bounty of the land.